Battery packs and automobiles containing them

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells; a busbar assembly having a first side and a second side, the second side of the busbar assembly being provided on a first side of the plurality of battery cells and electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a cooling unit disposed on the second side of the busbar assembly and arranged between the plurality of battery cells along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack; and a side structural unit configured to accommodate the cooling unit and the plurality of battery cells and fixing both ends of the cooling unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0135354 filed on October 12, 2021, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0101128 filed on August 12, 2022, and all the contents disclosed in the specifications and drawings of the applications are incorporated into this application.

Background Art

[0003] Secondary batteries with high applicability for each product group and having electrical characteristics such as high energy density are generally applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by an electric drive source. Such secondary batteries are not only environmentally friendly because they have the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels but also have the advantage of generating no by-products due to energy use, and are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving energy efficiency.

[0004] Currently, secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, nickel metal hydride batteries, and nickel zinc batteries are widely used. The operating voltage of such a unit secondary battery cell, that is, a unit battery cell, is about 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, a plurality of battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Also, depending on the charge and discharge capacity required for the battery pack, a plurality of battery cells may be connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be variously set according to the required output voltage or charge and discharge capacity.

[0005] On the other hand, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then add other components to this at least one battery module to form a battery pack or battery rack.

[0006] Conventional battery packs generally consist of multiple battery cells and a cell frame that houses these multiple battery cells. Conventional cell frames generally consist of an assembly of multiple plates, such as a front plate, rear plate, side plates, bottom plate, and top plate, to house multiple battery cells and ensure rigidity.

[0007] However, conventional battery packs, due to the characteristics of their cell frame structure which consists of assemblies of multiple plates, have high manufacturing costs, complex assembly processes, and are at a disadvantage in terms of price competitiveness and manufacturing efficiency.

[0008] Furthermore, conventional battery packs have a cell frame structure composed of an assembly of multiple plates, which increases the overall size of the battery pack and is disadvantageous in terms of energy density. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Therefore, one objective of the present invention is to provide a battery pack and an automobile including the same that can improve energy density while ensuring rigidity.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a battery pack and an automobile including the same that can improve price competitiveness and manufacturing efficiency.

[0011] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack capable of improving cooling performance and an automobile including the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To achieve the above objective, one aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a busbar assembly having a first side and a second side, wherein the second side of the busbar assembly is provided on the first side of the plurality of battery cells and is electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a cooling unit disposed on the second side of the busbar assembly and positioned between the plurality of battery cells along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack; and a side structure unit configured to house the cooling unit and the plurality of battery cells and to fix both ends of the cooling unit.

[0013] Preferably, the cooling unit may include a cooling tube formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack and positioned between a plurality of the battery cells; a cooling channel provided within the cooling tube and configured to circulate a cooling fluid for cooling the battery cells; and a cooling fluid outlet connected to the cooling tube so as to communicate with the cooling channel.

[0014] Preferably, the cooling tube may be formed in a shape corresponding to the outer surfaces of a plurality of opposing battery cells in the width direction of the battery pack.

[0015] Preferably, the cooling tube may be formed such that a plurality of convex and concave portions, which are formed in an uneven manner in the width direction of the battery pack, are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack.

[0016] Preferably, the cooling passage may include at least one upper passage located above the cooling tube so as to be provided near the busbar assembly, at least one lower passage located below the cooling tube at least one space away from the upper passage, and a connecting passage connecting the at least one lower passage and the at least one upper passage.

[0017] Preferably, both ends of the side structure unit may be provided with cooling unit insertion grooves for securing both ends of the cooling unit.

[0018] Preferably, the cooling tubes of the cooling unit may be sandwiched between battery cells arranged in two rows, front and back, along the width direction of the battery pack.

[0019] Preferably, both ends of the cooling unit can be inserted into cooling unit insertion grooves provided at both ends of the side structure unit.

[0020] Preferably, the cooling fluid outlet portion may be positioned to protrude outward from the side structure unit.

[0021] Preferably, at least one end of the side structure unit may be formed to be shorter than one side of the battery cell that is in contact with the cooling tube.

[0022] Preferably, the battery pack may include a filling member that fills the space between the cooling unit and the plurality of battery cells.

[0023] Preferably, the filling member may include potting resin.

[0024] Preferably, the filling member may contain a silicone resin.

[0025] Preferably, the filling member can be filled in the bus bar assembly so as to cover the first side of the bus bar assembly.

[0026] Also, one aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack case structure including at least one of the battery packs described above.

[0027] Also, one aspect of the present invention provides a motor vehicle including the battery pack case structure described above, wherein the longitudinal direction of at least one of the battery packs is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle so as to protect a plurality of the battery cells during a frontal or rear collision of the motor vehicle.

[0028] Preferably, the plurality of battery cells can be compressed in the height direction of each battery can of the plurality of battery cells.

[0029] Also, one aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack including a cooling unit having convex portions and concave portions alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack, a plurality of battery cells arranged in two groups along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack, the first group being arranged on the first side of the cooling unit and the second group being arranged on the second side of the cooling unit, and a side structure unit including a first main plate and a second main plate arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack and spaced apart from each other, wherein the first main plate houses the first group of the plurality of battery cells, the second main plate houses the second group of the plurality of battery cells, and the curvatures of the convex portions and the concave portions correspond to the curvatures of the plurality of battery cells.

[0030] Preferably, the first main plate and the second main plate can be closest to the cooling unit with the corresponding convex portions.

[0031] Preferably, each battery cell may have its first side in contact with only one of the first main plate and the second main plate, and its second side in contact with one of the protrusions of the cooling unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a battery pack and an automobile including the same that can improve energy density while ensuring rigidity.

[0033] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a battery pack and an automobile including the same that can improve price competitiveness and manufacturing efficiency.

[0034] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack capable of improving cooling performance and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0035] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, are intended to further illustrate the technical idea of ​​the invention; therefore, the invention shall not be construed as being limited solely to what is shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0036] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the battery cells included in the battery pack shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of a battery cell. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the upper structure of the battery cell. [Figure 6] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the lower structure of the battery cell in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a bottom view of the battery cell. [Figure 8] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the busbar assembly of the battery pack shown. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the connecting busbar unit of the busbar assembly shown. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the connecting busbar unit. [Figure 11] This is an enlarged view illustrating the main parts of the connecting busbar unit shown in Figure 9. [Figure 12] This diagram illustrates the cooling unit of the battery pack shown in Figure 2. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the cooling unit. [Figure 14] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit. [Figure 15] This diagram illustrates the side structure unit of the battery pack shown in Figure 2. [Figure 16] This diagram illustrates the main plate of the side structure unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 17] This diagram illustrates the coupling structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 18] This diagram illustrates the coupling structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 19] This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 20] This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 21] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the contact structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit. [Figure 22]Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the contact structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit. [Figure 23] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the contact structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit. [Figure 24] Figure 15 shows the bottom surface of the side structure unit when it is connected to the battery cell. [Figure 25] Figure 24 is an enlarged bottom view of the main part of the side structure unit. [Figure 26] Figure 24 is a side view of the main part of the side structure unit. [Figure 27] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the formation of the pack case structure through the injection of filling material into the battery pack. [Figure 28] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the formation of the pack case structure through the injection of filling material into the battery pack. [Figure 29] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the formation of the pack case structure through the injection of filling material into the battery pack. [Figure 30] This figure illustrates a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack. [Figure 32] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the busbar assembly of the battery pack shown. [Figure 33] Figure 32 is a diagram illustrating the high-voltage busbar unit of the busbar assembly shown. [Figure 34] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the side structure unit of the battery pack shown. [Figure 35] This diagram illustrates the main plate of the side structure unit shown in Figure 33. [Figure 36] This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 34. [Figure 37]Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the mounting structure between the side structure unit and the high-voltage busbar unit. [Figure 38] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the mounting structure between the side structure unit and the high-voltage busbar unit. [Figure 39] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the mounting structure between the side structure unit and the high-voltage busbar unit. [Figure 40] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the mounting structure between the side structure unit and the high-voltage busbar unit. [Figure 41] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the injection of filling material into the battery pack. [Figure 42] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the injection of filling material into the battery pack. [Figure 43] This is a diagram illustrating an automobile according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] The present invention will be further clarified by describing preferred embodiments of the invention in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. The embodiments described below are shown illustratively to aid in understanding the invention, and it should be understood that the present invention can be implemented in various ways by modifying the embodiments described below. In addition, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not shown to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated.

[0038] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0039] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the battery pack 1 can be installed as an energy source in an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The battery pack 1 installed in such an electric vehicle will be described in more detail below with reference to the relevant drawings.

[0040] The battery pack 1 may include a plurality of battery cells 100, a busbar assembly 200, a cooling unit 300, a side structure unit 400, and a filling member 500.

[0041] The multiple battery cells 100 are rechargeable batteries, and may be cylindrical rechargeable batteries, pouch-type rechargeable batteries, or prismatic rechargeable batteries. In this embodiment, the description will be limited to the case where the multiple battery cells 100 are cylindrical rechargeable batteries.

[0042] The battery cell 100 will be described in more detail below, with reference to the relevant drawings.

[0043] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the battery cells included in the battery pack shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the battery cell in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the upper structure of the battery cell in Figure 3; Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the lower structure of the battery cell in Figure 3; and Figure 7 is a bottom view of the battery cell in Figure 3.

[0044] Referring to Figures 3 to 7, the battery cell 100 includes an electrode assembly 10, a battery can 20, a cap plate 30, and a first electrode terminal 40. In addition to the components described above, the battery cell 100 may further include an insulating gasket 50 and / or an upper current collector plate 60 and / or an insulating plate 70 and / or a lower current collector plate 80 and / or a sealing gasket 90.

[0045] The electrode assembly 10 includes a first electrode plate having a first polarity, a second electrode plate having a second polarity, and a separation membrane interposed between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate. The first electrode plate is either a positive electrode plate or a negative electrode plate, and the second electrode plate is an electrode plate having the opposite polarity to the first electrode plate.

[0046] The electrode assembly 10 may be, for example, in the form of a jelly-roll. That is, the electrode assembly 10 may be manufactured by winding a laminate formed by stacking a first electrode plate, a separator membrane, and a second electrode plate in order at least once, with the winding center C as the reference. In this case, a separator membrane may be provided on the outer surface of the electrode assembly 10 for insulation from the battery can 20.

[0047] The first electrode plate includes a first electrode current collector and a first electrode active material coated on one or both sides of the first electrode current collector. A blank area is present at one end of the first electrode current collector in the width direction (Z-axis direction) where the first electrode active material is not coated. This blank area functions as a first electrode tab. The first electrode tab 11 is provided at the top of the electrode assembly 10 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) housed in the battery can 20.

[0048] The second electrode plate includes a second electrode current collector and a second electrode active material coated on one or both sides of the second electrode current collector. The other end of the second electrode current collector in the width direction (Z-axis direction) has a blank area where the second electrode active material is not coated. The blank area functions as a second electrode tab 12. The second electrode tab 12 is provided at the bottom of the electrode assembly 10 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) housed in the battery can 20.

[0049] The battery container 20 is a cylindrical housing with an opening formed at the bottom, and is made of a conductive metallic material. The side and top surfaces of the battery container 20 are integrally formed. The top surface of the battery container 20 has a substantially flattened shape. The battery container 20 houses the electrode assembly 10 through the opening formed at the bottom, and also houses the electrolyte together with it.

[0050] The battery can 20 is electrically connected to the second electrode tab 12 of the electrode assembly 10. Therefore, the battery can 20 has the same polarity as the second electrode tab 12.

[0051] The battery can 20 may be provided with a beading portion 21 and a crimping portion 22 formed at its lower end. The beading portion 21 is formed at the lower part of the electrode assembly 10. The beading portion 21 is formed by pressing the outer circumferential surface of the battery can 20. The beading portion 21 prevents the electrode assembly 10, which has a size corresponding to the width of the battery can 20, from coming out of the opening formed at the lower end of the battery can 20, and can function as a support portion on which the cap plate 30 is placed.

[0052] The crimping portion 22 is formed at the lower part of the beading portion 21. The crimping portion 22 has a shape that extends and bends to surround the outer circumferential surface of the cap plate 30, which is positioned below the beading portion 21, and a part of the lower surface of the cap plate 30.

[0053] The cap plate 30 is a component containing a conductive metal material and covers an opening formed at the lower end of the battery can 20. That is, the cap plate 30 constitutes the lower surface of the battery cell 100. The cap plate 30 is placed on a beading portion 21 formed on the battery can 20 and fixed by a crimping portion 22. An airtight gasket 90 may be interposed between the cap plate 30 and the crimping portion 22 of the battery can 20 to ensure the airtightness of the battery can 20.

[0054] The cap plate 30 may further include a vent portion 31 formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure due to gas generated inside the battery can 20. The vent portion 31 corresponds to a thinner area of ​​the cap plate 30 compared to the surrounding area. The vent portion 31 is structurally weaker than the surrounding area. Therefore, if an abnormality occurs in the battery cell 100 and the internal pressure increases above a certain level, the vent portion 31 will rupture, and the gas generated inside the battery can 20 will be released.

[0055] A hole may be pre-formed on the top surface of the battery can 20 before the first electrode terminal 40 and the insulating gasket 50 are placed, but is not limited to this, and the hole may be formed in other ways. For example, the hole may be formed while inserting the first electrode terminal 40, or holes of different diameters may be pre-formed, or the top surface may be cut out, or the first electrode terminal 40 may be inserted into a pre-cut top surface. That is, the hole may be expanded to the desired size, or a small hole may be formed by cutting it out and then expanded to the desired size. Furthermore, it goes without saying that other methods of forming the hole are also available.

[0056] A battery cell 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which both the positive and negative terminals are located at the top, making the upper structure more complex than the lower structure. For this reason, a vent portion 31 may be formed on the cap plate 30 that forms the lower surface of the battery cell 100 in order to smoothly discharge the gas generated inside the battery can 20.

[0057] The vent portion 31 may be formed continuously on the cap plate 30 in a circular pattern. However, it is not limited to this, and the vent portion 31 may be formed discontinuously on the cap plate 30 in a circular pattern, or it may be formed in a linear or other shape.

[0058] The first electrode terminal 40 comprises a conductive metallic material and passes over the top surface of the battery can 20 to be electrically connected to the first electrode tab 11 of the electrode assembly 10. Therefore, the first electrode terminal 40 has a first polarity. The first electrode terminal 40 is electrically insulated from the battery can 20, which has a second polarity.

[0059] The first electrode terminal 40 includes an exposed terminal portion 41 and an inserted terminal portion 42. The exposed terminal portion 41 is exposed to the outside of the battery can 20. The exposed terminal portion 41 is located in the center of the upper surface of the battery can 20. The inserted terminal portion 42 penetrates the center of the upper surface of the battery can 20 and is electrically connected to the first electrode tab 11. The inserted terminal portion 42 can be rivet-bonded to the inner surface of the battery can 20.

[0060] The upper surface of the battery can 20 and the first electrode terminal 40 have opposite polarities and face the same direction. A step may be formed between the first electrode terminal 40 and the upper surface of the battery can 20. Specifically, if the entire upper surface of the battery can 20 has a flat shape or a shape that protrudes upward at its center, the exposed terminal portion 41 of the first electrode terminal 40 may protrude further above the upper surface of the battery can 20. Conversely, if the upper surface of the battery can 20 has a concave shape that is recessed downward at its center, i.e., toward the electrode assembly 10, the upper surface of the battery can 20 may protrude further above the exposed terminal portion 41 of the first electrode terminal 40.

[0061] The insulating gasket 50 is interposed between the battery can 20 and the first electrode terminal 40, preventing the battery can 20 and the first electrode terminal 40, which have opposite polarities, from coming into contact with each other. As a result, the upper surface of the battery can 20, which has a substantially flat shape, can function as the second electrode terminal of the battery cell 100.

[0062] The insulating gasket 50 includes an exposed portion 51 and an inserted portion 52. The exposed portion 51 is interposed between the exposed terminal portion 41 of the first electrode terminal 40 and the battery can 20. The inserted portion 52 is interposed between the inserted terminal portion 42 of the first electrode terminal 40 and the battery can 20. The insulating gasket 50 may include, for example, an insulating resin material.

[0063] If the insulating gasket 50 contains a resin material, the insulating gasket 50 can be bonded to the battery can 20 and the first electrode terminal 40, for example, by heat fusion. In this case, the airtightness at the bonding interface between the insulating gasket 50 and the first electrode terminal 40 and the bonding interface between the insulating gasket 50 and the battery can 20 can be enhanced.

[0064] The entire remaining area of ​​the upper surface of the battery can 20, excluding the area occupied by the first electrode terminal 40 and the insulating gasket 50, corresponds to the second electrode terminal 20a having the opposite polarity to the first electrode terminal 40.

[0065] A battery cell 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a first electrode terminal 40 having a first polarity and a second electrode terminal 20a having a second polarity, which is electrically insulated from the first electrode terminal 40, on one side in its longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction). That is, in a battery cell 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, since the pair of electrode terminals (first electrode terminal 40, second electrode terminal 20a) are located in the same direction, when multiple battery cells 100 are electrically connected, it is possible to place electrical connection components such as the busbar assembly 200 described later on only one side of the battery cell 100. This simplifies the structure of the battery pack 1 and improves the energy density.

[0066] The following describes in more detail the busbar assembly 200 for electrical connection with multiple battery cells 100.

[0067] Referring further to Figure 2, the busbar assembly 200 is provided on one side of the battery cell 100, specifically on the upper side (+Z axis direction) of the battery cell 100, and can be electrically connected to a plurality of the battery cells 100. The electrical connections of the busbar assembly 200 can be in parallel and / or series.

[0068] Such a busbar assembly 200 is electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 40 (see Figure 3) having a first polarity of a plurality of battery cells 100 and to the second electrode terminal 20a (see Figure 3) of a battery can 20 (see Figure 3) having a second polarity, and can be electrically connected to an external charge / discharge line, etc., via connector terminals 290, etc. Here, the first polarity may be the positive electrode and the second polarity may be the negative electrode.

[0069] The configuration of the busbar assembly 200 will be described in more detail below.

[0070] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the busbar assembly of the battery pack shown in Figure 2, Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the connecting busbar unit of the busbar assembly shown in Figure 8, Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the connecting busbar unit of Figure 9, and Figure 11 is an enlarged view illustrating the main parts of the connecting busbar unit of Figure 9.

[0071] Referring further to Figures 8 to 11 and Figure 2, the busbar assembly 200 may include a main busbar unit 210, a connecting busbar unit 230, an interconnection board 260, and connector terminals 290.

[0072] Multiple main busbar units 210 are provided and can be electrically connected to the battery cells 100 located on the outermost periphery in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. Such main busbar units 210 can be electrically connected to connector terminals 290, which will be described later.

[0073] The connecting busbar unit 230 is positioned between the main busbar units 210 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1, is electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells 100, and can cover the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0074] The connecting busbar unit 230 may be provided as a single unit large enough to cover all of the battery cells 100, or multiple units may be provided to cover multiple battery cells 100. In this embodiment, the description will be limited to the case where multiple connecting busbar units 230 are provided.

[0075] Each of these multiple connecting busbar units 230 may include a busbar cover 240 and a sub-busbar 250.

[0076] The busbar cover 240 covers the upper side of the multiple battery cells 100 and may be configured as a substantially flat plate. The shape and size of the busbar cover 240 may vary depending on the number and capacity of the battery cells 100 required by the battery pack 1.

[0077] The busbar cover 240 may include an insulating material. For example, the busbar cover 240 may include a polyimide film. However, it is not limited to this, and the busbar cover 240 may include other insulating members made of insulating materials.

[0078] Such busbar covers 240 are provided in pairs, having corresponding shapes and sizes in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 1, and can be connected to each other. Here, the sub-busbar 250, which will be described later, is a single layer and can be provided inserted between the pair of busbar covers 240.

[0079] Such a busbar cover 240 may include a positive busbar hole 242, a negative busbar hole 244, and a guide hole 246.

[0080] The positive electrode busbar holes 242 have an opening space of a predetermined size and may be provided in multiple locations. A positive electrode connecting portion 254, which will be described later, may be exposed in such a positive electrode busbar hole 242. Here, the positive electrode busbar holes 242 may be formed to have an opening space larger than the size of the positive electrode connecting portion 254, which will be described later, in order to improve process workability and improve the injection efficiency of the filling member 500, which will be described later.

[0081] The positive electrode busbar hole 242 can more efficiently guide the electrical connection between the positive electrode connecting portion 254 (described later) and the first electrode terminal 40 (see Figure 3), which is the positive electrode of the battery cell 100.

[0082] Furthermore, when injecting the filling member 500, described later, through the opening space of the positive electrode busbar hole 242, the injection efficiency of the filling member 500 can be significantly increased. Specifically, since the filling member 500, which is provided as a potting resin, described later, can be directly injected from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 through the opening space of the positive electrode busbar hole 242, the injection efficiency between the battery cells 100 can be significantly improved.

[0083] The negative electrode busbar hole 244 is positioned opposite the positive electrode busbar hole 242, has an opening space of a predetermined size like the positive electrode busbar hole 242, and may be provided in multiple locations. Here, the negative electrode busbar hole 244 may be formed to have an opening space larger than the negative electrode connecting portion 256, which will be described later, in order to improve process workability and improve the injection efficiency of the filling member 500, which will be described later.

[0084] The negative electrode busbar hole 244 can more efficiently guide the electrical connection between the negative electrode connecting portion 256 (described later) and the battery can 20 (see Figure 3), which is the negative electrode of the battery cell 100, specifically the second electrode terminal 20a.

[0085] Furthermore, when injecting the filler member 500, described later, through the opening space of the negative electrode busbar hole 244, the injection efficiency of the filler member 500 can be significantly increased. Specifically, the filler member 500, which is provided as a potting resin, described later, can be injected more directly from the top to the bottom of the battery pack 1 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), thereby significantly improving the injection efficiency between the battery cells 100.

[0086] The guide holes 246 can guide the assembly position of the busbar assembly 200. Specifically, the guide holes 246 can fix the connecting busbar unit 230 to the side structure unit 400 and guide the precise alignment of the connecting busbar unit 230.

[0087] Multiple guide holes 246 may be provided. Busbar guide projections 416 of the side structure unit 400, which will be described later, can be inserted into multiple guide holes 246.

[0088] The sub-busbar 250 is for electrical connection between the first electrode terminal 40, which is the positive electrode, and the second electrode terminal 20a, which is the negative electrode, of the plurality of battery cells 100, and may be provided on the upper side of the busbar cover 240 or inserted into a pair of busbar covers 240. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the description will be limited to the case in which the sub-busbar is inserted into or coupled to the busbar cover 240.

[0089] Such a sub-busbar 250 may include a busbar bridge 252, a positive terminal connector 254, and a negative terminal connector 256.

[0090] The busbar bridge 252 is inserted into the busbar cover 240 and may be formed to a predetermined length along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. Such a busbar bridge 252 may be configured in a shape corresponding to the arrangement structure of the battery cells 100 in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 in order to improve the electrical connection efficiency with the battery cells 100. Thus, in this embodiment, the busbar bridge 252 may be arranged in a zigzag pattern in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0091] Multiple such busbar bridges 252 may be provided. Multiple busbar bridges 252 may be inserted into the busbar cover 240 and arranged at a predetermined distance apart in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0092] The busbar bridge 252 may include a conductive material. For example, the busbar bridge 252 may include aluminum or copper as a metallic material. However, it is not limited to this, and the busbar bridge 252 may include other materials for electrical connection.

[0093] The positive electrode connector 254 may extend integrally from and protrude from the busbar bridge 252 and be positioned within the positive electrode busbar hole 242. Such a positive electrode connector 254 may be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 40 (see Figure 3), which is the positive electrode of the battery cell 100. The electrical connection may be made through welding processes for electrical connections, such as laser welding or ultrasonic welding.

[0094] Since the connection between the positive electrode connection portion 254 and the positive electrode (first electrode terminal 40) of the battery cell 100 is performed in the opening space of the positive electrode busbar hole 242, welding and other processes for the connection can be performed immediately in the opening space without any additional steps.

[0095] The negative electrode connector 256 may extend integrally from the busbar bridge 252, protrude in the opposite direction to the positive electrode connector 254, and be positioned within the negative electrode busbar hole 244. Such a negative electrode connector 256 may be electrically connected to the second electrode terminal 20a (see Figure 3), which is the negative electrode of the battery cell 100. The electrical connection may be made through welding processes for electrical connections, such as laser welding or ultrasonic welding.

[0096] Since the connection between the negative electrode connection portion 256 and the negative electrode (second electrode terminal 20a) of the battery cell 100 is performed in the opening space of the negative electrode busbar hole 244, welding and other processes for the connection can be performed immediately in the opening space without any additional steps.

[0097] The interconnection board 260 is connected to the external sensing line and may be provided at one end (in the Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. The position of the interconnection board 260 may be changed by design or other means, and it may be provided at other positions that can be connected to the external sensing line. Furthermore, multiple interconnection boards 260 may be provided depending on the number and capacity of the battery cells 100 in the battery pack 1.

[0098] Such an interconnection board 260 may be provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the battery pack 1 for connection with the external sensing line. The external sensing line may connect the interconnection board 260 to a battery management system (not shown). The battery management system may determine the charge state of the parallel-connected battery cells based on the voltage of the parallel-connected battery cells.

[0099] The interconnection board 260 may be equipped with a thermistor for checking the temperature state of the battery cell 100. Such a thermistor may be built into the interconnection board 260 or mounted separately outside the interconnection board 260. The connector terminals 290 may be provided in pairs. Such a pair of connector terminals 290 are for connection to an external charge / discharge line and may be configured as high-voltage connector terminals.

[0100] Referring further to Figure 2, the cooling unit 300 is for cooling the battery cells 100 and is located below the busbar assembly 200 (in the -Z axis direction) and may be positioned between a plurality of the battery cells 100 along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0101] Multiple such cooling units 300 may be provided.

[0102] Multiple cooling units 300 may be arranged so as to face multiple battery cells 100 in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. Here, multiple cooling units 300 may be arranged so as to be in contact with opposing battery cells 100 in order to improve cooling performance.

[0103] The following provides a more detailed explanation of this cooling unit 300.

[0104] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the cooling unit of the battery pack shown in Figure 2, Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the cooling unit in Figure 12, and Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit in Figure 12.

[0105] Referring further to Figures 12 to 14 and Figure 2, the cooling unit 300 may include a cooling tube 310, a cooling channel 350, and a cooling fluid outlet 370.

[0106] The cooling tube 310 is formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1, is arranged between a plurality of battery cells 100, and may be provided with a cooling channel 350 for the circulation of a cooling fluid, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the cooling fluid may be water, but may include not only water but also one or more fluids capable of exchanging heat with the surrounding environment.

[0107] The cooling tube 310 may be formed in a shape that corresponds to the outer surfaces of a plurality of opposing battery cells 100 in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0108] Such a cooling tube 310 may be formed such that a plurality of convex portions 312 and concave portions 316, which are formed in an uneven manner in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1, are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0109] The cooling tube 310 may be positioned to contact the outer surfaces of multiple battery cells 100 in order to further enhance the cooling performance of the battery cells 100. Such a cooling tube 310 may be bonded and fixed to multiple battery cells 100 through a filling member 500 or a separate adhesive member, as described later.

[0110] A cooling fluid guide portion 318 may be provided at one end (-Y axis direction) of the cooling tube 310 for guiding the cooling fluid into the cooling channel 350, which will be described later. The cooling fluid guide portion 318 is formed at one end (-Y axis direction) of the cooling tube 310 in the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) and may be provided in a pair. One of the pair of cooling fluid guide portions 318 may communicate with the upper channel 352 of the cooling channel 350, which will be described later, and the other of the pair of cooling fluid guide portions 318 may communicate with the lower channel 354 of the cooling channel 350, which will be described later. Specifically, one of the pair of cooling fluid guide portions 318 may be provided on the upper side (+Z axis direction) in the height direction (Z axis direction) of the cooling tube 310 so as to communicate with the upper channel 352, which will be described later, and the other of the pair of cooling fluid guide portions 318 may be provided on the lower side (-Z axis direction) in the height direction (Z axis direction) of the cooling tube 310 so as to communicate with the lower channel 354, which will be described later.

[0111] The cooling channel 350 circulates a cooling fluid for cooling the battery cell 100 and is provided within the cooling tube 310 and can be connected to a cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370, which will be described later.

[0112] Such a cooling channel 350 may include an upper channel 352, a lower channel 354, and a connecting channel 356.

[0113] The upper channel 352 is positioned above the cooling tube 310 so as to be located near the busbar assembly 200 and may be formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the cooling tube 310. Such an upper channel 352 may be connected to communicate with the cooling fluid supply port 374 of the cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370.

[0114] The upper flow path 352 may be provided as at least one. In this embodiment, in order to ensure cooling performance, the description will be limited to cases where multiple upper flow paths 352 are provided.

[0115] The lower passage 354 is positioned below the cooling tube 310 (in the -Z axis direction) and spaced apart from at least one upper passage 352, and may be formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the cooling tube 310. Such a lower passage 354 may be connected to communicate with the cooling fluid discharge port 376 of the cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370.

[0116] The lower flow path 354 may be provided as at least one. In this embodiment, the description will be limited to cases where multiple lower flow paths 354 are provided in order to ensure cooling performance.

[0117] The connecting channel 356 can connect at least one upper channel, in this embodiment, a plurality of upper channels 352, and at least one lower channel, in this embodiment, a plurality of lower channels 354.

[0118] The connecting channel 356 may be provided at the other end (+Y-axis direction) of the cooling tube 310, opposite the cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370, so as to maximize the cooling channel 350.

[0119] In this embodiment, when the cooling fluid circulates in the cooling channel 350, the cooling fluid supplied from the cooling fluid supply port 374 is first supplied to the upper channel 352 located near the busbar assembly 200, and then flows through the connecting channel 356 and the lower channel 354 towards the cooling fluid discharge port 376.

[0120] As a result, in this embodiment, a cold cooling fluid is preferentially supplied to the region near the busbar assembly 200, which has a relatively high temperature distribution within the battery pack 1, thereby significantly improving the cooling performance of the battery cell 100.

[0121] The cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 can be connected to the cooling tube 310 so as to communicate with the cooling passage 350 of the cooling tube 310. Such a cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 can be connected so as to be exposed to the outside of the side structure unit 400, which will be described later, and to communicate with an external cooling line.

[0122] The cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 may be provided on one side (-Y-axis direction) in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. The cooling tube 310 connected to the cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 may be formed to a predetermined length from the cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 toward the other side (+Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0123] The cooling fluid outlet section 370 may include an outlet section body (supply port body 371, discharge port body 372), a cooling fluid supply port 374, and a cooling fluid discharge port 376.

[0124] The outlet body (supply port body 371, discharge port body 372) can be connected to one end (-Y axis direction) of the cooling tube 310. Such an outlet body may include a supply port body 371 and a discharge port body 372.

[0125] The supply port body 371 covers one end (-Y axis direction) of the cooling tube 310 and can be connected to a discharge port body 372, which will be described later. A supply port through-hole 371a may be formed in such a supply port body 371 through which a cooling fluid supply port 374, which will be described later, passes. The cooling fluid supply port 374, which will be described later, can communicate with the upper flow path 352, which will be described later, via the cooling fluid guide portion 318, which will be described later, by passing through the supply port through-hole 371a. Specifically, the cooling fluid supply port 374, which will be described later, can communicate with the upper flow path 352, which will be described later, via the cooling fluid guide portion 318 located on the upper side (+Z axis direction) of the cooling fluid guide portion 318 of the cooling tube 310.

[0126] The discharge port body 372 is connected to the supply port body 371 on the opposite side of the supply port body 371, with one end of the cooling tube 310 (in the Y-axis direction) in between, and can cover one end of the cooling tube 310 (in the Y-axis direction). Here, the discharge port body 372 and the supply port body 371 can be assembled together by press hemming.

[0127] Such a discharge port body 372 may have a discharge port through-hole 372a through which a cooling fluid discharge port 376, described later, passes. The cooling fluid discharge port 376, described later, can communicate with the lower flow path 354, described later, via the cooling fluid guide portion 318, which will be described later, by passing through the discharge port through-hole 372a. Specifically, the cooling fluid discharge port 376, described later, can communicate with the lower flow path 354, described later, via the cooling fluid guide portion 318 located on the lower side (-Z axis direction) of the cooling fluid guide portion 318 of the cooling tube 310.

[0128] The cooling fluid supply port 374 is provided on the supply port body 371 of the outlet body (supply port body 371, discharge port body 372) and can be connected to communicate with the upper flow path 352. Here, the cooling fluid supply port 374 can be cauking-coupled to the supply port body 371. Such a cooling fluid supply port 374 can be connected to communicate with the external cooling line.

[0129] The cooling fluid discharge port 376 is provided in the discharge port body 372 of the outlet body (supply port body 371, discharge port body 372) and can be connected to communicate with the lower flow path 354. Here, the cooling fluid discharge port 376 can be coking-coupled to the discharge port body 372. Such a cooling fluid discharge port 376 can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the cooling fluid supply port 374 and can be connected to communicate with the external cooling line.

[0130] Referring further to Figure 2, the side structure unit 400 includes a plastic resin material and can support the battery cell 100, ensure the rigidity of the battery cell 100, and form the side appearance of the battery pack 1.

[0131] The side structure unit 400 will be described in more detail below with reference to the relevant drawings.

[0132] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the side structure unit shown in Figure 2, and Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the main plate of the side structure unit in Figure 15.

[0133] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the side structure unit 400 supports the battery cell 100 and ensures the rigidity of the battery cell 100, while also functioning as a pack case that forms the outer surface of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2) and gives it its appearance.

[0134] Such a side structure unit 400 is formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 and can house and support the battery cells 100.

[0135] The side structure unit 400 may include a main plate 410 and an end plate 450.

[0136] The main plate 410 is formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 and can accommodate the battery cells 100 arranged in two rows along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. Multiple such main plates 410 may be provided and arranged at a predetermined distance apart from each other along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1.

[0137] These multiple main plates 410 ensure the rigidity of the battery cells 100 and the cooling unit 300, and at the same time, by occupying a predetermined space within the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2), the amount of filler material 500 to be injected, as described later, can be reduced. In the case of the filler material 500 containing silicone resin, as described later, it is relatively expensive, so by reducing the amount of silicone resin injected through the multiple main plates 410, the price competitiveness of the battery pack 1 during manufacturing can be further ensured.

[0138] Each of the multiple main plates 410 may include a first cell housing 411, a second cell housing 412, an interwing 413, a bottom rib 415, a busbar guide projection 416, a cooling unit insertion groove 417, and a guide step 418.

[0139] The first cell housing section 411 may be provided in front of the main plate 410 (+X axis direction) along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the main plate 410. Such a first cell housing section 411 can accommodate a plurality of the battery cells 100 arranged in the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the battery pack 1. For this reason, a plurality of the first cell housing sections 411 may be provided in front of the main plate 410 (+X axis direction).

[0140] Each of the multiple first cell housings 411 is configured to be concave, corresponding to the outer surface of the battery cell 100, and can at least partially surround the outer surface of the battery cell 100.

[0141] The second cell housing section 412 may be provided behind the main plate 410 (in the -X axis direction) along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the main plate 410. Such a second cell housing section 412 can accommodate a plurality of the battery cells 100 arranged in the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the battery pack 1. For this reason, a plurality of the second cell housing sections 412 may be provided behind the main plate 410 (in the -X axis direction).

[0142] Each of the multiple second cell housings 412 is configured to be concave, corresponding to the outer surface of the battery cell 100, and can at least partially surround the outer surface of the battery cell 100.

[0143] Such a plurality of second cell housings 412 can be arranged alternately with a plurality of first cell housings 411 in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) of the main plate 410 so as to accommodate as many battery cells 100, which are cylindrical secondary batteries, as possible.

[0144] Multiple interwings 413 are provided and can be projected along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the main plate 410 so as to partition the spaces between multiple first cell housings 411 and second cell housings 412. Specifically, multiple interwings 413 can be formed both forward (+X-axis direction) and backward (-X-axis direction) along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the main plate 410. More specifically, among the multiple interwings 413, those projecting forward (+axis direction) of the main plate 410 can partition the multiple first cell housings 411, and among the multiple interwings 413, those projecting backward (-axis direction) of the main plate 410 can partition the multiple second cell housings 412.

[0145] The bottom rib 415 is provided at the bottom of the main plate 410 and can support the bottom of the battery cell 100 when the battery cell 100 is housed in the main plate 410.

[0146] Such a bottom rib 415 may be formed to protrude downward (in the -Z axis direction) from the bottom of the battery cell 100 when the battery cell 100 is housed in the main plate 410.

[0147] The busbar guide projection 416 is for fixing the connecting busbar unit 230 when assembling the busbar assembly 200, and is provided on the upper surface of the main plate 410, and at least one may be provided. Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in which a plurality of busbar guide projections 416 are provided.

[0148] The multiple busbar guide protrusions 416 are inserted into the guide holes 246 of the busbar cover 240 when assembling the busbar assembly 200, and can guide the precise positioning of the connecting busbar unit 230. Since the connecting busbar unit 230 is inserted into or coupled to the multiple busbar guide protrusions 416 and fixed in place, welding processes for the electrical connection of the busbar assembly 200 can be performed more stably, and the welding quality during the welding process can be further improved.

[0149] The cooling unit insertion groove 417 is for accommodating the end of the cooling unit 300 and may be provided at the longitudinal end (Y-axis direction) of the main plate 410. The end of the cooling unit 300 can be positioned within the cooling unit insertion groove 417 when the main plate 410 is joined, allowing for more stable fixing.

[0150] The guide steps 418 can be provided protruding at a predetermined height from both upper ends in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the main plate 410. When the assembly of the side structure unit 400 is completed through the connection of the main plate 410 and the end plate 450 described later, such guide steps 418 can form the periphery of the side structure unit 400 together with the end guide steps 458 of the end plate 450 described later.

[0151] The end plates 450 may be provided in pairs and placed on both sides of the outermost edge in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the side structure unit 400. Such a pair of end plates 450, together with the main plate 410 which is positioned opposite to them, can house and support the battery cell 100.

[0152] The pair of end plates 450 may be provided with terminal holes 456 and end guide steps 458.

[0153] The terminal hole 456 is for accommodating the connector terminal 290 and may be provided at one end of the end plate 450.

[0154] The end guide step 458 is formed along the upper edge of the end plate 450 and may protrude at the same height as the guide step 418. When the assembly of the side structure unit 400 is completed, such an end guide step 458 can form the periphery of the side structure unit 400 together with the guide step 418 of the main plate 410.

[0155] The following will provide a more detailed explanation of the coupling structure between the battery cell 100 and the cooling unit 300 via the side structure unit 400.

[0156] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate the coupling structure between the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15.

[0157] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, first, the cooling tubes 310 of the cooling unit 300 are sandwiched between two rows of battery cells 100, arranged in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2). In this way, the side structure unit 400 can accommodate opposing battery cells 100 in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells 100 with the cooling tubes 310 sandwiched between them.

[0158] Specifically, in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2), the end plate 450, battery cell 100, cooling tube 310, battery cell 100, and main plate 410 are arranged on the outermost perimeter, and then the battery cell 100, cooling tube 310, battery cell 100, and main plate 410 are arranged and joined again in that order. Subsequently, in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2), the end plate 450, which is located on the opposite outermost perimeter, is finally arranged and joined to complete the joining of the side structure unit 400, thereby allowing the battery cell 100 and the cooling unit 300 to be housed within the side structure unit 400.

[0159] Here, when the main plates 410 are joined together and the main plate 410 is joined to the end plate 450, both ends of the cooling unit 300 are inserted into the cooling unit insertion groove 417, preventing interference with the cooling unit 300 and allowing the cooling unit 300 to be fixed more stably.

[0160] On the other hand, the cooling fluid outlet portion 370 provided at one end of the cooling unit 300 may be positioned to protrude outward from the side structure unit 400 in order to connect to an external cooling line or the like.

[0161] In this embodiment, the side structure unit 400 can form the side outer structure of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2) while housing the battery cell 100 and the cooling unit 300 through the connection between the main plate 410 and the end plate 450. In other words, the side structure unit 400 can function as a pack case that forms the exterior of the battery pack 1.

[0162] As a result, the battery pack 1 (see Figure 1) according to this embodiment can omit a separate additional pack case or pack housing structure through the side structure unit 400, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and simultaneously reducing the overall size of the battery pack 1, thereby further increasing energy density.

[0163] Figures 19 and 20 are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of the battery cell and the cooling unit through the side structure unit shown in Figure 15.

[0164] Referring to Figures 19 and 20, the distance A between the center of the battery cell 100 provided in the first cell housing 411 of the main plate 410 and the center of the battery cell 100 provided in the second cell housing 412 is a distance set for close contact with the main plate 410 and can be changed by the thickness of the main plate 410.

[0165] Furthermore, the distance B between the centers of adjacent battery cells 100 that are in contact with one surface of the cooling tube 310 is a distance set to make the contact angle between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310 a predetermined angle, for example, 60°, and can be changed in conjunction with the distance C described later.

[0166] The distance C between the centers of battery cells 100 that are positioned opposite each other with the cooling tube 310 in between is a distance that reflects the thickness of the cooling tube 310 and can be determined in conjunction with the distance B between the centers of adjacent battery cells 100 that are in contact with one surface of the cooling tube 310.

[0167] These distances A, B, and C can be set to the optimal distance for a tighter contact between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310 and the side structure unit 400. Specifically, the optimal distance can be determined by considering the diameter of the battery cell 100, the thickness of the cooling tube 310, and the contact angle θ between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310. For example, in this embodiment, the diameter of the battery cell 100 may be 46 mm, and the thickness of the cooling tube 310 may be 2.5 mm.

[0168] On the other hand, the optimal distance may mean that the contact angle θ between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310 is 60° or close to it. Here, the pitch P1 between the contact portions of the cooling tube 310 may be linked to the spacing of the battery cells 100, and in this embodiment, the pitch P1 may be 49 mm.

[0169] The distance d1 between battery cells 100 that are arranged diagonally opposite each other with the cooling tube 310 in between can be determined according to the ease of assembly between the battery cells 100 and the cooling tube 310, the thickness of the cooling tube 310, and the thickness of the coating agent or glue used for bonding between the cooling tube 310 and the battery cells 100. For example, the distance d1 can be determined by considering the thickness of the cooling tube 310, as well as the thickness of the coating agent and glue applied to both sides of the cooling tube 310. Specifically, when the thickness of the cooling tube 310 is 2.5 mm, the thickness of the coating agent (e.g., epoxy coating) is a maximum of 0.25 mm, and the thickness of the glue is 0.1 mm, the distance d1 can be 3.2 mm, considering the thickness of the cooling tube 310 (2.5 mm), as well as the thickness of the coating agent applied to both sides of the cooling tube 310 (2 * 0.25 mm) and the thickness of the glue (2 * 0.1 mm).

[0170] On the other hand, the end of the interwing 413 provided between the first cell housing 411 and the second cell housing 412 of the main plate 410 may be formed shorter than one side of the battery cell 100 that is in contact with the cooling tube 310 in order to prevent interference with the opposing cooling tube 310.

[0171] For example, the distance P2 between the end of the interwing 413 of the main plate 410 and the center of the battery cell 100 can be determined by considering the diameter of the battery cell 100 and the thickness of the cooling tube 310, so as to be a distance that avoids interference with the cooling tube 310. For example, the distance P2 between the end of the interwing 413 and the center of the battery cell 100 may be 15 mm.

[0172] On the other hand, the thickness of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 of the main plate 410 can be determined considering ease of assembly with the battery cell 100.

[0173] Specifically, the thickness of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 of the main plate 410 is determined considering the distance d2 between the battery cells 100, and the minimum thickness t of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 may be approximately half of the distance d2 between the battery cells 100. For example, in this embodiment, the distance d2 between the battery cells 100 is 1.5 mm, and the minimum thickness t of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 may be approximately 0.75 mm, specifically 0.7 mm.

[0174] As a result, when the battery cell 100 is housed in the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 of the main plate 410, a predetermined gap space g can be formed in the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412.

[0175] The gap space g may be formed in the remaining area excluding the innermost portion of the concave shape of the first cell housing 411 and the second cell housing 412 when the battery cell 100 is housed in each cell housing (first cell housing 411, second cell housing 412). Here, the innermost portion of the concave shape of the first cell housing 411 and the second cell housing 412 may mean the area on the inner surface of the concave shape of the first cell housing 411 and the second cell housing 412 that is located on the opposite side from the protruding portion of the interwing 413.

[0176] As a result, when the battery cell 100 is housed in the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 of the main plate 410, the battery cell 100 may be positioned so that it contacts the inner surfaces of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 only in the innermost portion of the concave shape, and is separated by the gap space g on the other inner surfaces of the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412. On the other hand, an adhesive or the like may be applied to the innermost portion of the concave shape that contacts the battery cell 100 to bond it to the battery cell 100.

[0177] Furthermore, when the battery cell 100 is housed in the first cell housing section 411 and the second cell housing section 412 of the main plate 410, the interwing 413 may also be positioned at a distance of the gap space g from the battery cell 100.

[0178] In this embodiment, when assembling the battery cell 100 and the main plate 410 through such a gap space g, specifically when housing the battery cell 100 in the first cell housing section 411 and the second cell housing section 412, interference and collision between the battery cell 100 and the first cell housing section 411, the second cell housing section 412, and the interwing 413, etc., can be prevented, and the ease of assembly can be significantly improved.

[0179] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the assembly tolerances of the components can be absorbed to a considerable extent through the gap space g, and problems such as incorrect assembly or assembly defects due to assembly tolerances can be significantly reduced.

[0180] Furthermore, the gap space g can be filled with a filling member 500, which will be described later. In this embodiment, since the gap space g is filled with the filling member 500, the amount of filling member 500 between the battery cells 100 can be further secured.

[0181] Therefore, in this embodiment, the battery cell 100 can be more stably supported within the first cell housing portion 411 and the second cell housing portion 412 of the main plate 410 through the filling member 500 that is filled in the gap space g.

[0182] Furthermore, the filling member 500 that fills the gap space g can more effectively prevent the supply of power to adjacent battery cells 100 and prevent thermal runaway in the event of an event such as thermal runaway of the battery cell 100.

[0183] Figures 21 to 23 are diagrams illustrating the contact structure between the battery cell in Figure 20 and the cooling unit.

[0184] Referring to Figures 21 to 23, the outer surface of the battery cell 100 can contact the cooling tube 310 of the cooling unit 300 in the height direction (Z-axis direction). Here, the contact area A2 between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310 can be determined according to the contact angle θ between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310, and the height h2 of the cooling tube 310, taking into consideration ease of assembly and optimal cooling performance.

[0185] In this embodiment, the contact area A2 of the cooling tube 310 of the battery cell 100 may be in the range of approximately 14% to 15% of the total area A1 of the outer surface of the battery cell 100.

[0186] For example, in this embodiment, the radius R of the battery cell 100 may be 23 mm, its height h1 80 mm, the height h2 of the cooling tube 310 70 mm, and the contact angle θ between the battery cell 100 and the cooling tube 310 60°. In this case, the total area A1 of the outer surface of the battery cell 100 can be determined as the product of the circumference (2πR), i.e., the base length (2πR), and the outer edge height h1 of the battery cell 100. Thus, the total area A1 of the outer surface of the battery cell 100 is 0.368π m². 2 Therefore, if we replace π with 3.14, we get approximately 1.16m 2 Furthermore, the contact area A2 of the cooling tube 310 of the battery cell 100 can be determined as the product of the arc length l due to the contact angle θ and the height h2 of the cooling tube 310. Here, the arc length l can be derived from the following equation 1.

[0187]

number

[0188] Therefore, the arc length l is approximately 0.077πm, and if we replace π with 3.14, it becomes approximately 0.242m. Thus, the contact area A2 of the cooling tube 310 of the battery cell 100 is approximately 0.169m, obtained by multiplying the arc length l by the height h2 of the cooling tube 310, which is 70mm. 2 It is possible.

[0189] Thus, in this embodiment, the contact area A2 of the cooling tube 310 of the battery cell 100 can be provided in a range of approximately 14.5% of the total area A1 of the outer surface of the battery cell 100, so as to ensure optimal cooling performance and ease of assembly with the cooling tube 310.

[0190] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the height h1 of the battery cell 100 may be made larger than the height h2 of the cooling tube 310 to avoid contact between the cooling tube 310 and the connecting busbar unit 230, thereby blocking the possibility of a short circuit between the cooling tube 310 and the connecting busbar unit 230.

[0191] Figure 24 shows the bottom view of the side structure unit when it is connected to the battery cell as shown in Figure 15, Figure 25 is an enlarged bottom view of the main part of the side structure unit as shown in Figure 24, and Figure 26 is a side view of the main part of the side structure unit as shown in Figure 24.

[0192] Referring to Figures 24 to 26, the bottom rib 415 of the side structure unit 400 may protrude further downward (in the -Z axis direction) than the bottom of the battery cell 100, and may be provided so as not to interfere with the vent portion 31 of the battery cell 100. This allows for faster gas discharge through the vent portion 31 when the battery cell 100 overheats or the like, without interference from the bottom rib 415.

[0193] Furthermore, the bottom rib 415 is formed to cover one side of the bottom of the battery cell 100, thereby making the fixing of the battery cell 100 within the side structure unit 400 more secure when it is housed in the side structure unit 400.

[0194] As a result, the height h3 of the side structure unit 400 can be configured to be greater than the height of the battery cell 100 so as to completely cover the upper and lower sides of the battery cell 100 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). For example, in this embodiment, since the height of the battery cell 100 is 80 mm, the height h3 of the side structure unit 400 can be formed to be longer than the height h3 of the battery cell 100 on all of the upper and lower sides of the battery cell 100.

[0195] Furthermore, the height h3 of the side structure unit 400 may be set to a height that covers the thickness of the busbar assembly 200 and the filling member 500 that are placed on the battery cell 100. Specifically, the height h3 of the side structure unit 400 may be set in the range of approximately 85 mm to 95 mm, taking all of these into consideration. More specifically, the height h3 of the side structure unit 400 may be 90.3 mm, or approximately 90 mm.

[0196] Referring further to Figure 2, the filling member 500 can fill the space between the cooling unit 300 and the multiple battery cells 100 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 1. On the other hand, in Figure 2, for ease of understanding, the filling member 500 is shown as a rectangular parallelepiped dotted line, but the filling member 500 can fill the entire space between the cooling unit 300 and the multiple battery cells 100.

[0197] By covering the upper and lower sides of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2), such a filling member 500 can, together with the side structure unit 400, form the pack case structure of the battery pack 1.

[0198] Furthermore, the filling member 500 can more stably fix the plurality of battery cells 100, and at the same time, it can improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the plurality of battery cells 100, thereby further enhancing the cooling performance of the battery cells 100.

[0199] The filling member 500 may include a potting resin. The potting resin can be formed by injecting a loose resin substance into the battery cells 100 and allowing it to harden. Here, the injection of the resin substance may be carried out at room temperature of approximately 15°C to 25°C to prevent thermal damage to the battery cells 100.

[0200] Specifically, the filling member 500 may include a silicone resin. However, it is not limited to this, and the filling member 500 may also include other resin substances that can improve the fixing and heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell 100, in addition to the silicone resin.

[0201] More specifically, the filling member 500 covers the portion of the battery cell 100 that is not in contact with the cooling tube 310, thereby guiding the thermal equilibrium of the battery cell 100, preventing variations in the cooling of the battery cell 100, and thus preventing localized deterioration of the battery cell 100. Furthermore, by preventing localized deterioration of the battery cell 100, the safety of the battery cell 100 can be significantly improved.

[0202] Furthermore, the filling member 500 can act as an insulator to prevent current from flowing to adjacent battery cells 100 when damage occurs in at least one specific battery cell 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100 due to an abnormal condition.

[0203] Furthermore, the filling member 500 may include a material having high specific heat performance. This increases the thermal mass of the filling member 500, thereby delaying the temperature rise of the battery cell 100 even in situations such as rapid charging and discharging of the battery cell 100, and thus preventing a rapid temperature rise of the battery cell 100.

[0204] Furthermore, the filling member 500 may contain glass bubbles. The glass bubbles can lower the specific gravity of the filling member 500 and increase the energy density relative to its weight.

[0205] Furthermore, the filling member 500 may include a material with high heat resistance. This allows the filling member 500 to effectively prevent thermal runaway to adjacent battery cells when a thermal event such as overheating occurs in at least one specific battery cell 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0206] Furthermore, the filling member 500 may include a material having high flame retardant properties. This allows the filling member 500 to minimize the risk of fire when a thermal event such as overheating occurs in at least one specific battery cell 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0207] The filling member 500 may fill the busbar assembly 200 in addition to the battery cell 100. Specifically, the filling member 500 may fill the busbar assembly 200 so as to cover the upper side of the busbar assembly 200.

[0208] Here, the filling member 500 can continuously fill the space between the busbar assembly 200 and the battery cell 100 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery cell 100, without any discontinuity or separation space between the busbar assembly 200 and the battery cell 100.

[0209] As described above, the filling member 500 according to this embodiment continuously fills the battery cell 100 and the busbar assembly 200 without interruption, thereby achieving uniform heat distribution without variations in heat distribution in the region between the battery cell 100 and the busbar assembly 200, and significantly improving the cooling performance of the battery pack 1.

[0210] Furthermore, the filling member 500 can also fill the portion of the side structure unit 400 excluding the outer surface. Here, the filling member 500 can continuously fill the battery cell 100, the busbar assembly 200, and the side structure unit 400 without interruption. This can further improve the cooling performance of the battery pack 1.

[0211] The formation of the pack case structure by injecting such a filling material 500 will be explained in more detail below.

[0212] Figures 27 to 29 illustrate the formation of the pack case structure through the injection of filling material into the battery pack shown in Figure 2.

[0213] Referring to Figures 27 to 29, an operator can use a resin injection device I to inject and apply the filling member 500 containing the silicone resin, thereby forming the upper and lower pack case structures of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 2) through the filling member 500 containing the resin substance. Specifically, the filling member 500 can cover the upper part of the busbar assembly 200 on the upper side (+Z axis direction) of the battery pack 1, and cover the bottom of the battery cell 100 on the lower side (-Z axis direction) of the battery pack 1, filling up to the protruding height h4 of the bottom rib 415. Here, the protruding height h4 of the bottom rib 415 can be designed to a predetermined height considering the amount of filling member 500 injected.

[0214] During the injection and coating process of the filler member 500 using the resin injection device I, an injection guide S may be provided at the bottom of the side structure unit 400 to prevent the resin from flowing out downwards (in the -Z axis direction) when the filler member 500 is injected. The injection guide S may be made of a material such as Teflon® for easy attachment and detachment after the filler member 500 has hardened.

[0215] During the injection and coating process of the filling member 500, the side structure unit 400, together with the injection guider S, can act as a mold to prevent resin leakage while supporting the battery cell 100 and the cooling unit 300.

[0216] As a result, in this embodiment, the side structure unit 400 eliminates the need for an additional injection guide jig structure in the lateral direction during the injection and coating process of the filling member 500, thereby significantly improving work efficiency while reducing manufacturing costs.

[0217] Furthermore, the side structure unit 400 guides the precise positioning of the connecting busbar unit 230 through the busbar guide projection 416 inserted into the connecting busbar unit 230, thereby effectively preventing twisting, misalignment, and other issues that may occur in the connecting busbar unit 230 when the filling material 500 is injected.

[0218] Furthermore, the guide steps 418 and end guide steps 458 formed on the upper edge of the side structure unit 400 make it easier to inject the filling member 500 to more reliably cover the busbar assembly 200, thereby increasing the accuracy of the injection of the filling member 500, and effectively preventing the filling member 500 from overflowing.

[0219] Here, the side structure unit 400 exposes components connected to external devices such as the interconnection board 260, connector terminals 290, and cooling fluid inlet / outlet section 370 to the outside, so that no problems such as interference with these components occur when injecting or applying the filling material 500.

[0220] As a result, in this embodiment, the pack case structure of the battery pack 1 (see Figure 1) is formed through the side structure unit 400 and the filling member 500. Therefore, compared to the conventional method of forming the pack case structure as a complex assembly of multiple plates, the assembly process of the battery pack 1 can be simplified, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and ensuring price competitiveness.

[0221] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the overall size of the battery pack 1 can be reduced and the energy density can be significantly increased compared to a conventional pack case structure provided as a cell frame structure including an assembly of multiple plates, through the pack case structure formed by the side structure unit 400 and the filling member 500.

[0222] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 31 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Figure 30.

[0223] Since the battery pack 2 according to this embodiment is similar to the battery pack 1 of the embodiment described above, we will omit the explanation of configurations that are substantially the same as or similar to those of the embodiment described above, and instead focus on the differences from the embodiment described above.

[0224] Referring to Figures 30 and 31, the battery pack 2 may include a plurality of battery cells 100, a busbar assembly 205, a cooling unit 300, a side structure unit 405, and a filling member 500.

[0225] Since the multiple battery cells 100, the cooling unit 300, and the filling member 500 are substantially the same as or similar to those in the embodiments described above, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0226] The busbar assembly 205 will be described in more detail below with reference to the relevant drawings.

[0227] Figure 32 is a diagram illustrating the busbar assembly of the battery pack shown in Figure 30, and Figure 33 is a diagram illustrating the high-voltage busbar unit of the busbar assembly shown in Figure 32.

[0228] Referring further to Figures 32, 33, and 31, the busbar assembly 205 may include a main busbar unit 210, a connecting busbar unit 230, an interconnection board 260, a high-voltage busbar unit (high-voltage line member 270, connector mounting member 280), and connector terminals 290.

[0229] Since the main busbar unit 210, the connecting busbar unit 230, and the interconnection board 260 are substantially identical or similar to those in the embodiments described above, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0230] The high-voltage busbar unit (high-voltage line member 270, connector mounting member 280) is for ensuring the electrical safety of the busbar assembly 200 and may be formed to be thicker than the main busbar unit 210. For example, in this embodiment, the thickness of the main busbar unit 210 is 0.4 mm, and the thickness of the high-voltage busbar unit (high-voltage line member 270, connector mounting member 280) may be 4 mm, which is thicker than the main busbar unit.

[0231] Such a high-voltage busbar unit may include a high-voltage line member 270 and a connector mounting member 280.

[0232] The high-voltage line member 270 is positioned at the bottom of the main busbar unit 210 and may be configured to a predetermined length for stable current flow. Such a high-voltage line member 270 may be attached to both ends of the main plate 410 of the side structure unit 405, which will be described later, in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 2.

[0233] Multiple high-voltage line members 270 may be provided depending on the number and capacity of the battery cells 100 in the battery pack 2. In other words, the number of high-voltage line members 270 may vary depending on the number and capacity of the battery cells 100.

[0234] The following will provide a more detailed explanation of this high-voltage line component 270.

[0235] The high-voltage line member 270 may include a first high-voltage line section (first voltage line section) 271, a second high-voltage line section (second voltage line section) 273, and a connecting line section 275.

[0236] The first high-voltage line section 271 is formed to a predetermined length and can be placed on the main plate 410 so as to be positioned at the bottom of the main busbar unit 210. Here, the first high-voltage line section 271 may be formed to be thicker than the main busbar unit 210, taking into consideration the current capacity. Such a first high-voltage line section 271 can be placed on the first line housing section 419a of the main plate 410, which will be described later.

[0237] The second high-voltage line portion 273 is separated from the first high-voltage line portion 271 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 2 and may be located at the bottom of the main plate 410. Such a second high-voltage line portion 273 is formed with the same thickness as the first high-voltage line portion 271 and may form a current path together with the first high-voltage line portion 271.

[0238] The connecting line portion 275 connects the first high-voltage line portion 271 and the second high-voltage line portion 273 and can be arranged on both sides of the main plate 410 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the main plate 410. Such a connecting line portion 275 can be formed integrally with the first high-voltage line portion 271 and the second high-voltage line portion 273 and can form the current path together with the first high-voltage line portion 271 and the second high-voltage line portion 273.

[0239] In this embodiment, one of the first high-voltage line section 271 and the second high-voltage line section 273 may include a break in the line to ensure that current flows from the first high-voltage line section 271 to the second high-voltage line section 273, or from the second high-voltage line section 273 to the first high-voltage line section 271 via the connecting line section 275.

[0240] Multiple such connecting line portions 275 may be provided. Multiple such connecting line portions 275 may be arranged at a predetermined distance apart from each other in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 2. Furthermore, the connecting line portions 275 may be arranged between the cooling units 300 so as to prevent interference with the cooling units 300 in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 2.

[0241] The connector mounting members 280 may be provided in pairs. The pair of connector mounting members 280 may be positioned between the high-voltage line members 270 and attached to a pair of end plates 450 (see Figure 34) of the side structure unit 405, which will be described later.

[0242] Such a pair of connector mounting members 280 may include a high-voltage line portion 281 and a connector connecting portion 285.

[0243] The high-voltage line portion 281 is formed to a predetermined length and can be mounted on the end plate 450 so as to be positioned at the bottom of the main busbar unit 210. The high-voltage line portion 281 can be mounted on the connector mounting member housing portion 459 of the end plate 450, which will be described later. The upper portion of the high-voltage line portion 281 can be positioned on the same line as the first high-voltage line portion 271 in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 2.

[0244] The connector connection portion 285 extends from the high-voltage line portion 281 and may be positioned on the side surface of the end plate 450 along the height direction (Z-axis direction). Connector terminals 290, which will be described later, may be attached to such a connector connection portion 285.

[0245] The connector terminals 290 are provided in pairs and can be connected to the connector mounting members 280. Specifically, the pair of connector terminals 290 can be attached to the connector connecting portions 285 of each connector mounting member 280. Such a pair of connector terminals 290, while connected to the connector mounting members 280, can be attached to a pair of end plates 450, which will be described later.

[0246] In this embodiment, the high-voltage busbar unit (high-voltage line member 270, connector mounting member 280) guides a stable current flow in the battery pack 2, thereby enhancing the electrical safety of the battery pack 2 and further improving efficiency during charging and discharging.

[0247] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the side structure unit of the battery pack shown in Figure 30, Figure 35 is a diagram illustrating the main plate of the side structure unit shown in Figure 33, Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship between the battery cells and the cooling unit through the side structure unit of Figure 34, and Figures 37 to 40 are diagrams illustrating the mounting structure between the side structure unit of Figure 34 and the high-voltage busbar unit.

[0248] Referring further to Figures 34 to 40 and Figure 31, the side structure unit 405 may include a plurality of main plates 410 and a pair of end plates 450.

[0249] Each of the multiple main plates 410 may include a first cell housing section 411, a second cell housing section 412, an interwing 413, a bottom rib 415, a busbar guide projection 416, a cooling unit insertion groove 417, and a high-voltage line member housing section (first line housing section 419a, second line housing section 419b).

[0250] The first cell housing portion 411, the second cell housing portion 412, the interwing 413, the bottom rib 415, the busbar guide projection 416, and the cooling unit insertion groove 417 are substantially identical or similar to those in the embodiments described above, and therefore, redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0251] The high-voltage line member housing sections (first line housing section 419a, second line housing section 419b) can be formed at both ends of the main plate 410 along its longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). The first high-voltage line section 271 and the second high-voltage line section 273 of the high-voltage line member 270 can be placed on these high-voltage line member housing sections (first line housing section 419a, second line housing section 419b).

[0252] The high-voltage line member housing section may include a first line housing section 419a and a second line housing section 419b.

[0253] The first line housing portion 419a accommodates the first high-voltage line portion 271 and may be formed on the upper edges (+Z axis direction) of both ends along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the main plate 410. Such a first line housing portion 419a may be formed with a step of a predetermined depth so as to prevent the first high-voltage line portion 271 from protruding upward (+Z axis direction) of the battery pack 2 when it is housed therein. Here, the predetermined depth may be at least the same as the thickness of the first high-voltage line portion 271.

[0254] The second line housing portion 419b accommodates the second high-voltage line portion 273 and may be formed on the lower edges (-Z axis direction) of both ends along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the main plate 410. Such a second line housing portion 419b may be formed with a step of a predetermined depth so as to prevent the second high-voltage line portion 273 from protruding downward (-Z axis direction) of the battery pack 2 when it is housed therein. Here, the predetermined depth may be at least the same as the thickness of the second high-voltage line portion 273.

[0255] The pair of end plates 450 may include terminal holes 456, end guide steps 458, and connector mounting member housing portions 459.

[0256] Since the terminal hole 456 and the end guide step 458 are similar to those in the above embodiment, a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0257] The connector mounting member housing portion 459 accommodates the high-voltage line portion 281 and may be formed on the upper edges (+Z-axis direction) of both ends of the end plate 450 along its longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). Such a connector mounting member housing portion 459 may be formed with a step of a predetermined depth to prevent the high-voltage line portion 281 from protruding upward (+Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 2 when it is housed therein. Here, the predetermined depth may be at least the same as the thickness of the high-voltage line portion 281.

[0258] Furthermore, the connector mounting member housing portion 459 can accommodate a portion of the first high-voltage line portion 271 that is placed on the first line housing portion 419a of the main plate 410 adjacent to the end plate 450 on the opposite side from where the connector terminal 290 is located. For this reason, the connector mounting member housing portion 459 can be positioned on the same line as the first line housing portion 419a in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery pack 2.

[0259] Figures 41 and 42 illustrate the injection of the filling material into the battery pack shown in Figure 28.

[0260] Referring to Figures 41 and 42, an operator can form the upper and lower pack case structure of the battery pack 2 (see Figure 30) by injecting and applying the filling member 500, which is provided as the silicone resin, using the resin injection device I and the injection guider S.

[0261] In this embodiment, the filling member 500 can be filled so as to cover a part of the main bus bar unit 210 and the connection bus bar unit 230 of the bus bar assembly 200 above the battery pack 2 (in the +Z-axis direction).

[0262] Here, the filling member 500 can be filled so as to cover only the electrode connection portions of the battery cells 100 that are electrically connected to the main bus bar unit 210 and the connection bus bar unit 230 above the side surface structure unit 400 (in the +Z-axis direction). That is, the filling member 500 can be filled to a height that covers only the electrode connection portions bent downward (in the -Z-axis direction) for electrical connection in the main bus bar unit 210 and the connection bus bar unit 230.

[0263] Specifically, the filling member 500 can be filled to such an extent as to cover only the positive electrode bus bar hole 242 and the negative electrode bus bar hole 244 of the connection bus bar unit 230. More specifically, the filling member 500 can be filled until it is in line with the horizontal portions of the main bus bar unit 210 and the bus bar cover 240. Thereby, after the filling of the filling member 500 is completed, the horizontal portion of the main bus bar unit 210 and the bus bar cover 240 of the connection bus bar unit 230 can be partially exposed on the upper surface (+Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 2.

[0264] As described above, in this embodiment, since the filling member 500 covers only the electrode connection portions of the battery cells 100 that are electrically connected to the main bus bar unit 210 and the connection bus bar unit 230 on the upper surface (+Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 2, it is possible to optimize the application amount of the filling member 500 provided as the silicone resin and effectively ensure the safety of electrical connection.

[0265] FIG. 43 is a diagram for explaining an automobile according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0266] Referring to FIG. 43, the automobile V can be an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, and as an energy source, it may include at least one battery pack 1(2) of the above-described embodiments.

[0267] In the case of this embodiment, since the above-described battery pack 1(2) is provided with a compact structure having a high energy density, when mounted on the automobile V, it is easy to realize a modular structure of a plurality of battery packs 1(2), and a relatively high degree of freedom in mounting can be ensured even in the internal spaces of various shapes of the automobile V. That is, in this embodiment, at least one battery pack 1(2) can be provided as a battery pack case structure that is easy to realize a modular structure and has a high degree of freedom in mounting.

[0268] Also, so that the side structure unit 400 can protect the plurality of battery cells 100 during a collision in the front and rear of the automobile V, the longitudinal direction of at least one of the battery packs 1, 2 can be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the automobile V.

[0269] According to various embodiments as described above, it is possible to provide a battery pack 1(2) capable of improving energy density and ensuring rigidity, and an automobile V including the same.

[0270] Also, according to various embodiments as described above, it is possible to provide battery packs 1, 2 capable of improving price competitiveness and manufacturing efficiency, and an automobile V including the same.

[0271] Furthermore, according to various embodiments as described above, it is possible to provide battery packs 1, 2 capable of improving cooling performance, and an automobile V including the same.

[0272] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made by persons with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospects of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0273] 1, 2 Battery Packs 20 Battery can (negative electrode of battery cell) 40. First electrode terminal (positive electrode of the battery cell) 100 battery cells 200, 205 Busbar Assembly 300 Cooling Unit 400, 405 Side Structure Unit

Claims

1. It is a battery pack, Multiple battery cells, A busbar assembly having a first side and a second side, wherein the second side of the busbar assembly is provided on the first side of a plurality of battery cells and is electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, A cooling unit is located on the second side of the busbar assembly and is positioned between a plurality of battery cells along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack, A side structure unit configured to house the cooling unit and a plurality of the battery cells, and fixing both longitudinal ends of the cooling unit, Includes, The side structure unit secures the busbar assembly so that it can guide the busbar assembly into the correct alignment. A battery pack in which the side structure unit protrudes further below the bottom of the plurality of battery cells, exposing the vents of the plurality of battery cells and including bottom ribs provided so as not to interfere with the vents of the plurality of battery cells.

2. The cooling unit is A cooling tube is formed along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack to a predetermined length and is positioned between a plurality of the battery cells, A cooling channel is provided within the cooling tube and configured to circulate a cooling fluid for cooling the battery cell, A cooling fluid outlet portion connected to the cooling tube so as to communicate with the aforementioned cooling channel, The battery pack according to claim 1, including the following:

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the cooling tube is formed in a shape corresponding to the outer surfaces of a plurality of opposing battery cells in the width direction of the battery pack.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein the cooling tube is formed such that a plurality of convex and concave portions, which are formed in an uneven manner in the width direction of the battery pack, are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack.

5. The aforementioned cooling channel is At least one upper flow path is located above the cooling tube so as to be provided near the busbar assembly, At least one lower flow path is located below the cooling tube, separated from at least one upper flow path, A connecting channel that connects at least one of the lower channels and at least one of the upper channels, A battery pack according to any one of claims 2 to 4, including the battery pack according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein both ends of the side structure unit are provided with cooling unit insertion grooves for fixing both ends of the cooling unit, respectively.

7. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the cooling tube of the cooling unit is sandwiched between battery cells arranged in two rows, front and back, along the width direction of the battery pack.

8. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein both ends of the cooling unit are inserted into cooling unit insertion grooves provided at both ends of the side structure unit.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein the cooling fluid outlet portion is arranged to protrude outward from the side structure unit.

10. At least one end of the side structure unit is formed to be shorter than one side of the battery cell that contacts the cooling tube. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein the side structure unit comprises a main plate, the main plate comprises an interwing, and the end of the interwing is the one end of the side structure unit.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a filling member that fills the space between the cooling unit and the plurality of battery cells.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein the filling member includes a potting resin.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein the filling member includes a silicone resin.

14. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein the filling member fills the busbar assembly so as to cover the first side of the busbar assembly.

15. A battery pack case structure comprising at least one battery pack as described in claim 1.

16. It is a car, Includes the battery pack case structure described in claim 15, An automobile in which the longitudinal direction of at least one of the battery packs is positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the automobile so as to protect a plurality of the battery cells in the event of a frontal or rearward collision of the automobile.

17. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of battery cells are compressed in the height direction of each battery can of the plurality of battery cells.

18. The plurality of battery cells are arranged within the battery pack. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the side structure unit forms the side outer structure of the battery pack.

19. The battery cell comprises a first electrode terminal having a first polarity, and a second electrode terminal electrically insulated from the first electrode terminal, the second electrode terminal having a second polarity. The battery cell comprises a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal on the first side of the battery cell. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the second side of the busbar assembly faces the first electrode terminal side and the second electrode terminal side of the battery cell.

20. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal direction of the battery pack is perpendicular to the height direction in which the electrode terminals of the battery cells face.

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