Battery packs and automobiles including them

Abstract

The battery pack of the present invention includes a plurality of pouch-type battery cells each having a plurality of electrode leads; a pack case that houses the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in an internal space; a cell cover configured to surround a portion of at least one of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in the internal space of the pack case; a bus bar assembly configured to connect electrode leads of the surrounded pouch-type battery cells; and an end cover coupled to one side of the bus bar assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same, and more particularly to a battery pack with improved stability and the like, and an automobile including the same. This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0070855 filed on June 10, 2022, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0055794 filed on April 27, 2023, and all the contents disclosed in the specifications and drawings of the applications are incorporated herein.

Background Art

[0002] Due to the significant increase in the technological development and demand for various mobile devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems (ESS), the interest and demand for secondary batteries as an energy source have been rapidly increasing.

[0003] Conventionally, nickel-cadmium batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries have been widely used as secondary batteries. Recently, lithium secondary batteries have been widely used because they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, allowing free charging and discharging, having a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0004] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material, respectively. A lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with such positive electrode active material and negative electrode active material are arranged with a separator interposed therebetween, and an exterior material, i.e., a battery case, for sealing and housing the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0005] Generally, secondary batteries are classified into can-type batteries in which the electrode assembly is incorporated into a metal can and pouch-type batteries in which the electrode assembly is incorporated into a pouch of an aluminum laminate sheet according to the shape of the exterior material.

[0006] Recently, battery modules have been widely used in medium- and large-scale devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems for both propulsion and energy storage.

[0007] Conventional battery packs include one or more battery modules and a control unit that controls the charging and discharging of the battery modules, all within a pack case. Here, each battery module is configured to contain multiple battery cells within a module case. In other words, in conventional battery packs, multiple battery cells (secondary batteries) are housed within module cases to form each battery module, and one or more such battery modules are housed within the pack case to form the battery pack. In particular, pouch-type batteries have many advantages, such as being lightweight and having little dead space when stacked, but they have problems such as being vulnerable to external impacts and being somewhat difficult to assemble. Therefore, it is common to manufacture battery packs in a form in which multiple cells are modularized and then housed inside the pack case.

[0008] However, conventional battery packs may be at a disadvantage in terms of energy density, ease of assembly, and cooling due to modularization and other factors. In particular, pouch-type battery cells can experience swelling, and conventional battery packs have difficulty adequately addressing such swelling conditions.

[0009] Furthermore, conventional battery packs may be disadvantageous in terms of energy density, ease of assembly, and cooling due to modularization and other factors.

[0010] Furthermore, conventional battery modules and battery packs can be vulnerable to thermal events. In particular, if a thermal event occurs inside a battery module or battery pack, thermal runaway can occur, leading to flames and, in severe cases, explosions. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack that is superior in many respects, such as its ability to withstand swelling, and an automobile including the same.

[0012] Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack that can ensure excellent safety when a thermal event occurs, and an automobile including the same.

[0013] However, the technical problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and any other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] A battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a plurality of pouch-type battery cells having electrode leads; a pack case housing the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in its internal space; a cell cover configured to surround a portion of at least one of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in the internal space of the pack case; a busbar assembly configured to connect the electrode leads of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell; and an end cover coupled to one side of the busbar assembly.

[0015] The cell cover may be configured to partially surround the pouch-type battery cell such that the portion equipped with the electrode leads is exposed to the outside.

[0016] The busbar assembly may be configured to cover at least a portion of the portion on which the electrode leads are provided.

[0017] The busbar assembly can be inserted into the cell cover, at least in part.

[0018] The bus bar assembly can include a bus bar terminal connected to the electrode lead, and a bus bar frame configured to receive the bus bar terminal, the bus bar frame including a lead accommodation portion for accommodating the electrode lead and a through portion configured to allow gas generated in at least a part of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell to move therethrough.

[0019] The end cover can be coupled to the bus bar assembly.

[0020] The end cover can include a first vent portion communicating with the through portion.

[0021] The battery pack can include an intermediate cover provided between the bus bar assembly and the end cover.

[0022] The intermediate cover can be coupled to the bus bar assembly.

[0023] The intermediate cover can be configured such that the end cover is coupled thereto.

[0024] The intermediate cover can include a communication portion configured to communicate with the through portion.

[0025] The gas can be discharged into the internal space of the pack case through the first vent portion.

[0026] The communication portion can include a mesh member.

[0027] The intermediate cover can include an insulating material to interrupt an electrical connection between the bus bar assembly and the end cover.

[0028] The pack case can include a second vent portion configured to communicate with the first vent portion and discharge the gas to the outside of the battery pack.

[0029] The cell cover can include a first side cover portion covering one side surface of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell, a second side cover portion facing the first side cover portion and covering the other side surface of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell, and an upper cover portion connecting the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion and covering the upper portion of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell.

[0030] The cell cover can be configured to support the pouch-type battery cell in a state where the pouch-type battery cell stands between the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion.

[0031] The cell cover can include an insulating coating layer on at least a part of the inner surface of the first side cover portion and the inner surface of the second side cover portion.

[0032] The cell cover can include an adhesive member on at least a part of the outer surface of the first side cover portion and the outer surface of the second side cover portion.

[0033] The battery pack can further include an intermediate cover provided between the bus bar assembly and the end cover.

[0034] The battery pack can include a portion where the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion further protrude toward the electrode lead side than the upper cover portion.

[0035] The bus bar assembly, the intermediate cover, and the end cover of the battery pack can be inserted and contacted inside the first side cover portion and inside the second side cover portion, respectively.

[0036] The automobile according to the present invention may include the battery pack according to the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] According to one aspect of the present invention, multiple pouch-type battery cells can be stably stored inside a pack case without requiring a stacking frame such as a plastic cartridge or a separate module case.

[0038] Furthermore, a CTP (Cell To Pack) type battery pack using pouch-type battery cells can be realized more efficiently. In other words, instead of housing the pouch-type battery cells inside a separate module case and then housing such a module case inside the pack case, the battery pack can be provided in a form in which the pouch-type battery cells are directly housed inside the pack case.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, the structure in which the busbar assembly is inserted into the cell cover allows for efficient coupling between the cell cover and the busbar assembly. Furthermore, the end cover can provide more stable protection by covering the portion of the pouch-type battery cell not surrounded by the cell cover.

[0040] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, if a pouch-type battery cell generates gas and / or flames due to swelling or thermal runaway, these can be discharged to the outside of the cell unit through the first vent. Therefore, by inducing side vents, it is possible to prevent gas and / or flames from being randomly discharged through the open portion of the cell cover.

[0041] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the flow of flames that may be generated in a pouch-type battery cell can be temporarily blocked by the intermediate cover, thereby reducing the intensity of the flames and preventing the rapid discharge of flames into the first vent. Furthermore, short-circuit phenomena caused by contact between the busbar assembly and the end cover can be prevented.

[0042] Thus, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a battery pack that is superior in many respects, such as its ability to withstand swelling, and an automobile including the same. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a battery pack that ensures excellent safety when a thermal event occurs, and an automobile including the same.

[0043] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further illustrate the technical idea of ​​the invention; therefore, the invention should not be construed as being limited solely to what is shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] A diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention, separated from each other. [Figure 2] A diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention, assembled together. [Figure 3] A diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention, separated from each other. [Figure 4] A perspective view of a pouch-type battery cell included in a battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 5] A perspective view of a cell cover included in a battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 6] A diagram showing a busbar assembly included in the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 7] A diagram showing a partial cross-section of a busbar assembly included in the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 8] A diagram showing an end cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an intermediate cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 10] A diagram showing a partial cross-section of an intermediate cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 11]A diagram showing a partial cross-section of some components of the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 12] A diagram showing a partial cross-section of some components of the battery pack according to the present invention. [Figure 13] A diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention, separated from each other. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an automobile according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same components. Furthermore, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of the components in the drawings are exaggerated for the sake of effective explanation of the technical content.

[0046] Terms and words used in this specification and in the claims are not to be interpreted in their ordinary and dictionary sense, but rather in a sense and concept appropriate to the technical idea of ​​the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventor himself may appropriately define the concept of a term in order to best describe the invention.

[0047] In this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used, but these terms are for convenience of explanation and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that they may change depending on the position of the object in question, the position of the observer, etc.

[0048] Therefore, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the embodiments described herein represent only one of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical concept of the present invention, and that there are various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted therein at the time of filing this application.

[0049] Figure 1 is a diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention separated. Figure 2 is a diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention joined together. Figure 3 is a diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention separated. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a pouch-type battery cell included in the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0050] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may include a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100, a pack case 300, a cell cover 200, a busbar assembly 400, an intermediate cover 500, and an end cover 600.

[0051] Referring to Figure 4, the pouch-type battery cell 100 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a pouch outer casing. The pouch-type battery cell 100 may have a housing 110 for housing the electrode assembly and a sealing portion 120 extending outward from around the housing 110. The pouch-type battery cell 100 may also have electrode leads 111. The electrode leads 111 may be drawn out in both directions from the pouch outer casing, or from only one side. In the illustrated example, the electrode leads 111 are drawn out in both directions from the pouch-type battery cell 100 (X-axis direction). The direction from which the electrode leads 111 are drawn can be defined as the longitudinal direction of the pouch-type battery cell 100; in other words, the electrode leads 111 are drawn out forward and backward along the longitudinal direction of the pouch-type battery cell 100, respectively.

[0052] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, such a pouch-type battery cell 100 can be surrounded by a cell cover 200 to form a cell unit U.

[0053] Referring to Figure 1, the battery pack 10 may contain multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 by including multiple such cell units U. Multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be stacked in at least one direction. Multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be stacked in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). Furthermore, although multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 are arranged in the left-right direction, they can also be arranged in a configuration of multiple rows in the front-back direction (X-axis direction). For example, referring to Figure 1, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 are stacked in the left-right direction to form one cell unit, and two such cell units are arranged in the left-right direction, and two are also arranged in the front-back direction, resulting in a 2x2 arrangement within the pack case 300.

[0054] Referring to Figure 1, the pack case 300 can house pouch-type battery cells 100 by forming a space inside. For example, the pack case 300 may comprise a case body 310 and a top cover 320. The case body 310 is configured in the form of a box with an open top, and can house multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space. The top cover 320 may be configured in the form of a cover that covers the open top portion of the case body 310 (the open portion located in the positive direction of the Z axis). On the other hand, the pack case 300 is not limited to the above structure, and may also be configured as a combination of a bottom frame configured in the form of a box with an open top, which can house multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space, and a top frame configured in the form of a cover that covers the open top portion of the bottom frame. The internal space of the pack case 300 can house multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 along with cell covers 200, which will be described later. The pack case 300 may be made of plastic or metal material. In addition, the pack case 300 can employ various pack case exterior materials known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0055] A closer examination of Figures 2 and 3 reveals that the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 within the internal space of the pack case 300. The cell cover 200 may be configured to surround a portion of at least one pouch-type battery cell 100. The cell cover 200 may be configured to surround a portion of multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 stacked in the left-right direction.

[0056] The cell cover 200 may be configured to partially surround the pouch-type battery cell 100 such that the portion equipped with the electrode leads 111 is exposed to the outside.

[0057] The cell cover 200 can be configured to group and unitize multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 contained in the battery pack 10. One cell cover 200 can constitute one cell unit U. For example, Figure 2 shows one cell unit U, and Figure 1 shows multiple cell units U. The cell cover 200 surrounds at least three sides of the pouch-type battery cell 100, and a busbar assembly 400 may be provided on the side of each cell unit U that is not surrounded by each cell cover 200.

[0058] The battery pack 10 includes multiple cell units U, in which case the battery pack 10 may include multiple cell covers 200. If the cell covers 200 surround two or more pouch-type battery cells 100, the battery pack 10 may include fewer cell covers 200 than the number of pouch-type battery cells 100. The pouch-type battery cells 100 within the cell units U may be electrically connected in series and / or parallel by a busbar assembly 400.

[0059] The cell unit U can also be referred to as a cell bank. According to the present invention, since the cell cover 200 partitions and separates the cell banks, thermal runaway and explosion can be prevented for each cell bank.

[0060] The cell cover 200 can be made of various materials to ensure rigidity. In particular, the cell cover 200 can be made of a metal material. In the case of such a metal material, the stacked state of the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be maintained more stably and the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be protected more safely from external impacts. The cell cover 200 can be made of SUS material. For example, the cell cover 200 can be made entirely of SUS material.

[0061] A thermal barrier (not shown) may be further included between adjacent cell covers 200. The thermal barrier may be in the form of a pad of insulating or flame-suppressing material, and may preferably be made of a compressible material. Preferably, the thermal barrier may be configured to be in close contact with the cell covers 200 between adjacent cell covers 200. This allows the thermal barrier to be configured to suppress the swelling phenomenon that may occur in the pouch-type battery cells 100. Furthermore, the thermal barrier can delay the diffusion of flames due to thermal runaway, block heat propagation, and suppress the swelling phenomenon that may occur in the pouch-type battery cells 100, thereby further ensuring the structural stability of the battery pack 10.

[0062] The cell cover 200 can be made of various materials to ensure rigidity. In particular, the cell cover 200 can be made of a metal material. In the case of such a metal material, the stacked state of the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be maintained more stably and the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be protected more safely from external impacts. The cell cover 200 can be made of SUS material. For example, the cell cover 200 can be made entirely of SUS material.

[0063] Thus, when the cell cover 200 is made of steel, its superior mechanical strength and rigidity allow it to more stably support the stacked state of the pouch-type battery cells 100. In this case, damage or breakage of the pouch-type battery cells 100 due to external impacts, such as needle-like objects, can be more effectively prevented. Furthermore, in this case, the handling of the pouch-type battery cells 100 may be easier. Also, due to its high melting point, the overall structure can be maintained stably even if flames are generated from the battery cells 100. Because its melting point is higher than that of aluminum, it does not melt even when flames are ejected from the battery cells 100, and its shape can be maintained stably. Therefore, excellent flame propagation prevention and delay effects, as well as vent control effects, can be ensured between the battery cells 100.

[0064] Furthermore, surrounding the battery cell 100 with the cell cover 200 makes it easier to create a robust shape for the battery cell 100, and makes it easier to realize a configuration in which the cells are directly stacked inside the pack case 300. Therefore, the assembly ease and mechanical stability of the battery pack 10 can be improved.

[0065] According to this configuration of the present invention, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 can be stably housed inside the pack case 300 without requiring a stacking frame such as a plastic cartridge or a separate module case.

[0066] Furthermore, in the present invention, a CTP (Cell To Pack) type battery pack 10 using pouch-type battery cells 100 can be realized more efficiently. That is, instead of housing the pouch-type battery cells 100 inside a separate module case and housing such a module case inside the pack case 300, the battery pack 10 can be provided in a form in which the pouch-type battery cells 100 are directly housed inside the pack case 300. In this case, at least one side of the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be exposed to the outside of the cell cover 200 and positioned directly opposite the pack case 300.

[0067] Therefore, according to this aspect of the present invention, the battery pack 10 does not need to further include a module case, a stacking frame, fastening members such as bolts for maintaining the stacked state of the cells, etc. Thus, the space occupied by other components such as the module case and stacking frame, and the space required to ensure tolerances therefor, can be eliminated. Consequently, the battery cells 100 can occupy more space by removing the space occupied by other components, and the energy density of the battery pack 10 can be further improved.

[0068] Furthermore, according to this embodiment of the present invention, since there is no module case, stacking frame, bolts, etc., the volume and weight of the battery pack 10 are reduced, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0069] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the present invention, handling of the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be made easier. For example, when storing multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 inside a pack case 300, the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be gripped by a jig or the like. In this case, the jig can grip the cell cover 200 surrounding the pouch-type battery cells 100 without directly gripping the pouch-type battery cells 100. Therefore, damage or breakage of the pouch-type battery cells 100 by the jig can be prevented.

[0070] Furthermore, the cooling efficiency of the battery pack 10 can be further improved. In particular, in one embodiment of the present invention, a portion of each battery cell 100 is directly exposed to the pack case 300, so that the heat from each battery cell 100 can be effectively dissipated to the outside through the pack case 300.

[0071] Referring to Figure 3, the busbar assembly 400 may be configured to connect the electrode leads 111 of the enclosed pouch-type battery cells 100. If the cell cover 200 is configured to surround three pouch-type battery cells 100 as shown, the busbar assembly 400 may be configured to connect the three pouch-type battery cells 100 in parallel. If the cell cover 200 is configured to surround six pouch-type battery cells 100, the busbar assembly 400 may be configured to connect the electrode leads 111 of three of the six battery cells 100 in parallel by one busbar, and then connect the electrode leads 111 of the remaining three battery cells 100 in parallel by other busbars, and then connect them in series.

[0072] The busbar assembly 400 may be configured to cover at least a portion of the portion where the electrode leads 111 are provided. At least a portion of the busbar assembly 400 may be inserted into the cell cover 200. At least a portion of the busbar assembly 400 may face the inner surface of the cell cover 200.

[0073] The busbar assembly 400 may be provided on the side of each cell unit U that is not surrounded by the cell cover 200. In this embodiment, the cell cover 200 surrounds at least three sides of the pouch-type battery cell 100, exposing the front and rear of the pouch-type battery cell 100 where the electrode leads 111 are provided, and the bottom of the pouch-type battery cell 100. Therefore, the busbar assembly 400 may be provided on the front and rear of the cell cover 200, on the portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100 where the electrode leads 111 are provided. At least a portion of the busbar assembly 400 may be inserted inside the cell cover 200.

[0074] Referring to Figure 3, the end cover 600 can be coupled to one side of the busbar assembly 400. The end cover 600 may be configured to cover the side of the busbar assembly 400 and the cell cover 200 of the pouch-type battery cell 100 that is not surrounded by the cell cover 200.

[0075] With this configuration of the present invention, the structure in which the busbar assembly 400 is inserted into the cell cover 200 allows for efficient coupling between the cell cover 200 and the busbar assembly 400. Furthermore, the end cover 600 can provide more stable protection by covering the portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100 that is not surrounded by the cell cover 200.

[0076] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a cell cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0077] Referring to Figure 5, the cell cover 200 may include a first side cover portion 210, a second side cover portion 220, and an upper cover portion 230.

[0078] Referring to Figures 3 and 4 together with Figure 5, the first side cover portion 210 may be configured to cover one side of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The first side cover portion 210 may be configured to cover the left side (the side located in the negative direction of the Y-axis) of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The first side cover portion 210 can cover the storage portion 110 and the sealing portion 120 of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The first side cover portion 210 may be plate-shaped.

[0079] The second side cover portion 220 can face the first side cover portion 210. The second side cover portion 220 can cover the other side of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The second side cover portion 220 may be configured to cover the right side (the side located in the positive direction of the Y-axis) of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The second side cover portion 220 can cover the storage portion 110 and the sealing portion 120 of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The second side cover portion 220 may be plate-shaped.

[0080] The cell cover 200 may be configured to support the pouch-type battery cell 100 in an upright position between the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220. The first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be arranged side by side. This allows for the stable maintenance of a configuration in which the pouch-type battery cells 100 are stacked side by side in the left-right direction in an upright position.

[0081] The upper cover portion 230 can connect the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220. The upper cover portion 230 can cover the upper part (positive Z-axis direction) of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The upper cover portion 230 can cover the upper part of the housing portion 110 of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The upper cover portion 230 may be plate-shaped. The upper cover portion 230 may be equipped with a cover vent portion 240 for discharging gas generated in the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. The cover vent portion 240 may be in the form of a simple hole that penetrates through. The cover vent portion 240 may be configured to have lower rigidity than the surrounding portion so that it ruptures when the pressure in the internal space of the cell cover 200 exceeds a certain pressure due to the gas generated in the surrounded pouch-type battery cell 100. For example, the cover vent portion 240 may be formed to have a thinner thickness than the surrounding portion.

[0082] A busbar assembly 400 can be inserted between the portion of the first side cover portion 210 that covers the seal portion 120 and the portion of the second side cover portion 220 that covers the seal portion 120. The first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may have portions that protrude further toward the electrode lead 111 than the upper cover portion 230. That is, the cell cover 200 may be "n" shaped, surrounding at least three sides of the housing portion 110, with portions of the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 protruding further than the upper cover portion 230, such that only portions of the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 cover the seal portion 120.

[0083] At least a portion of the first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230 may be formed in a shape that is integrated with one another. The first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230 can be formed by bending a single plate. Thus, the configuration of forming the bent portion in a single plate to form the cell cover 200 can be achieved by various methods such as pressing or roll forming. According to such embodiments of the present invention, the cell cover 200 can be manufactured more easily. Alternatively, the first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230 can be manufactured separately and then joined to each other by bonding, fitting, welding, bolting, etc.

[0084] Multiple cell covers 200 may be included in the battery pack 10. In this case, adhesive members can be interposed between the cell covers 200. For example, adhesive members can be interposed between the first side cover portion 210 and / or second side cover portion 220, which are the portions where two cell covers 200 face each other, allowing them to be bonded and fixed together. Through such an adhesive configuration, the connection between multiple cell covers 200 can be made more robust. The adhesive member may be insulating so as to provide insulation between the cell covers 200 made of metal material. The adhesive member may also be thermally conductive. Such bonding allows the cell covers 200 to be firmly bonded to the battery cells 100 and may be useful in dissipating heat generated in the battery cells 100 to the outside of the battery cells 100.

[0085] The cell cover 200 may include an insulating coating layer on its inner surface. The insulating coating layer may be coated on the inner surface of the first side cover portion 210 and / or the inner surface of the second side cover portion 220. The insulating coating layer may be a coating, application, or attachment of an insulating material selected from silicone resin, polyamide, and rubber. The insulating coating layer can maximize the insulating coating effect with a minimum amount of coating. Furthermore, the insulating coating layer can be applied to the inner surface of the cell cover 200 to enhance the insulation between the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200.

[0086] Figure 6 shows a busbar assembly included in the battery pack according to the present invention. Figure 7 shows a partial cross-section of the busbar assembly included in the battery pack according to the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in Figure 6.

[0087] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the busbar assembly 400 may include busbar terminals 410 and a busbar frame 420. The busbar terminals 410 may be connected to the electrode leads 111 of the battery cell 100. The busbar terminals 410 may be connected to the electrode leads 111 housed in the lead housing 421. The busbar terminals 410 may be bent so that the electrode leads 111 housed in the lead housing 421 face the busbar terminals 410 and electrically connected by welding. After welding, the intermediate cover 500 and the end cover 600 can be assembled to the busbar assembly 400 to complete the assembly process of the cell unit U.

[0088] The busbar frame 420 may be configured to accommodate the busbar terminals 410. The busbar terminals 410 can be attached to the outer surface (positive X-axis direction) of the busbar frame 420. The busbar frame 420 may include a lead housing portion 421 for accommodating the electrode leads 111. The lead housing portion 421 may be slit-shaped, configured to allow the electrode leads 111 to pass through. The busbar frame 420 may include a through-hole 422 to allow gas generated in at least a portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100 to move. The through-hole 422 may be slit-shaped or perforated to allow gas to move, and may be the remaining area of ​​the slit-shaped lead housing portion 421 excluding the area where the electrode leads 111 are accommodated.

[0089] As described above, the busbar assembly 400 is provided on the front and rear of the cell cover 200, in the portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100 where the electrode leads 111 are provided. The cell cover 200 may have a shape in which a portion of the first side cover portion 210 and a portion of the second side cover portion 220 protrudes beyond the upper cover portion 230. A portion of the busbar frame 420 protrudes beyond the upper cover portion 230, and the remaining portion may be inserted into and in contact with the inside of the first side cover portion 210 and the inside of the second side cover portion 220 of the portion that protrudes beyond the upper cover portion 230. Through this configuration, efficient coupling between the cell cover 200 and the busbar assembly 400 is possible.

[0090] The busbar assembly 400 may be provided with a groove H2 for coupling with the intermediate cover 500. The groove H2 may be recessed on the outer surface of the busbar assembly 400 located in the positive X-axis direction. The busbar frame 420 may have a multi-stage shape formed such that the side portion of the intermediate cover 500 (see 520 in Figure 9) is sandwiched between an upper groove (H2, a hook located in the positive Z-axis direction) and a lower groove (H2, a hook located in the negative Z-axis direction), both located on the same Y-axis. The multi-stage shape may have a width in the X-axis direction corresponding to the side portion 520.

[0091] Figure 8 shows an end cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0092] The end cover 600 may include a first vent portion 610 that communicates with a through portion 422 of the busbar frame 420. The first vent portion 610 may be configured to discharge gas and / or flames generated in at least a portion of the pouch-type battery cells 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200 into the internal space of the pack case 300.

[0093] The first vent section 610 may be in the form of a simple hole that penetrates the end cover 600. Furthermore, it may not only be completely open, but may also be a specific device that is closed under normal conditions and can be opened in response to changes in pressure, temperature, etc. The first vent section 610 may be, for example, a one-way valve. This description of the first vent section 610 can also be applied to the second vent section of the pack case 300 (see 301 in Figure 13), which will be described later.

[0094] With this configuration of the present invention, if gas and / or flames are generated in the pouch-type battery cell 100 due to swelling or thermal runaway, they can be discharged to the outside of the cell unit U through the first vent portion 610 of the end cover 600. Therefore, by inducing side vents, it is possible to prevent gas and / or flames from being randomly discharged through the open portion of the cell cover 200. In this way, a battery pack 10 with excellent resistance to swelling can be provided.

[0095] Furthermore, since the first vent portion 610 is formed on the end cover 600 which covers the open portion of the cell cover 200, the first vent portion 610 has a smaller area than the open portion of the cell cover 200 or the area covered by the end cover 600. Therefore, compared to the case without the end cover 600, the exhaust angle of the vent gas or flame can be minimized and the propagation of the flame can be minimized when the end cover 600 is provided.

[0096] The end cover 600 may include a guide portion 620. The guide portion 620 may have a shape that protrudes in the negative direction of the X-axis from the end of the inner surface of the end cover 600 located in the negative direction of the X-axis, so as to form a surface having a predetermined width.

[0097] Figure 9 shows an intermediate cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention. Figure 10 shows a partial cross-section of the intermediate cover included in the battery pack according to the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' in Figure 9.

[0098] As shown in Figure 3, the intermediate cover 500 may be provided between the busbar assembly 400 and the end cover 600.

[0099] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the intermediate cover 500 may be provided with a communication portion 510 that communicates with the through portion 422. The communication portion 510 may communicate with the first vent portion 610 of the end cover 600. The communication portion 510 may be provided with a mesh member M. The mesh member M may be provided in the form of a plurality of porous metal plates stacked on top of each other and configured to function as a flame arrester. However, the mesh member M may also be provided in the form of a mesh plate between the intermediate cover 500 and the end cover 600.

[0100] The intermediate cover 500 may be equipped with a hook H1. The hook H1 may have a shape that protrudes from the inner surface of the intermediate cover 500 located in the negative direction of the X axis. The intermediate cover 500 may be equipped with a side portion 520 between the upper hook (H1, a hook located in the positive direction of the Z axis) and the lower hook (H1, a hook located in the negative direction of the Z axis), both located on the same Y axis.

[0101] Furthermore, the intermediate cover 500 may be provided with a fastening portion 530. The fastening portion 530 may be shaped to protrude in the positive X-axis direction from the end of the outer surface of the intermediate cover 500 located in the positive X-axis direction, forming a surface of a predetermined width. The fastening portion 530 may be provided on the upper and / or lower part of the intermediate cover 500 so that the guide portion 620 of the end cover 600 can be easily fastened.

[0102] The intermediate cover 500 may include an insulating material. The insulating material can interrupt the electrical connection between the busbar assembly 400 and the end cover 600.

[0103] With this configuration of the present invention, the flow of flames that may be generated in the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be temporarily blocked by the intermediate cover 500, thereby reducing the intensity of the flames and preventing the rapid discharge of flames into the first vent section 610. In addition, short-circuit phenomena caused by contact between the busbar assembly 400 and the end cover 600 can be prevented.

[0104] Figures 11 and 12 show partial cross-sections of some components of the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0105] Refer to Figures 11 and 12, along with Figures 6 through 10, to examine the coupling relationship between the busbar assembly 400, the intermediate cover 500, and the end cover 600.

[0106] Referring to Figure 11, the busbar assembly 400 may be configured to be coupled with an end cover 600 and / or an intermediate cover 500. Preferably, the intermediate cover 500 can be coupled to the busbar assembly 400, and the end cover 600 can be coupled to the intermediate cover 500 in sequence. That is, the intermediate cover 500 is inserted and coupled to the inside of the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 of the cell cover 200 by inserting and coupling to the outside of the busbar assembly 400, and the end cover 600 is inserted and coupled to the inside of the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 of the cell cover 200 by inserting and coupling to the outside of the intermediate cover 500.

[0107] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the hook H1 of the intermediate cover 500 and the groove H2 of the busbar assembly 400 are formed in corresponding positions to each other, with the hook H1 overlapping or fitting perfectly into the groove H2. Such a coupling structure avoids increasing the overall thickness and excessively occupying the placement space, and is an efficient structure that allows assembly between the busbar assembly 400 and the intermediate cover 500 within the limited space within the cell cover 200.

[0108] As shown in Figure 9, hooks H1 are located at each corner of the intermediate cover 500 and extend toward the busbar assembly 400. As shown in detail in Figure 12, hook H1 includes a body H1a and a projection H1b, the body H1a extending to the engagement portion H2a of the groove H2, and the projection H1b engaging with the engagement portion H2a of the groove H2. Because hooks H1 are relatively short in length, it is possible to avoid the problem of hooks H1 being too long and prone to breakage. Since there is a fastening portion at each corner of the intermediate cover 500, assembly between the intermediate cover 500 and the busbar assembly 400 can be performed more smoothly and securely.

[0109] The attachment portion 530 of the intermediate cover 500 shown in Figures 9 and 10 and the guide portion 620 of the end cover 600 shown in Figure 8 are formed in corresponding positions to each other, and when the intermediate cover 500 and the end cover 600 are assembled together as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the guide portion 620 can be attached to the attachment portion 530. The predetermined width of the attachment portion 530 may be approximately the same as the predetermined width of the guide portion 620. Such a coupling structure creates a certain space between the intermediate cover 500 and the end cover 600, which can reduce the intensity of the flame or the temperature of the gas when the flame and / or gas is discharged. A mesh member may be provided in the certain space.

[0110] The assembly process of the battery pack 10 according to the above embodiment is as follows: After surrounding the battery cells 100 with the cell cover 200, the busbar assembly 400 is inserted into the open portion of the cell cover 200 and assembled. The electrode leads 111 of the battery cells 100 are passed through the lead housing portion 421, then bent, and fixed to the busbar terminals 410 using known joining means such as welding. The intermediate cover 500 is assembled to the busbar assembly 400. The end cover 600 is assembled to the intermediate cover 500. Then the end cover 600 is welded. The unique joining structure of the busbar assembly 400, intermediate cover 500, and end cover 600 allows for easy and efficient joining between them.

[0111] Figure 13 is a diagram showing some of the components of the battery pack according to the present invention in isolation.

[0112] Referring to Figure 13, the pack case 300 can be equipped with a second vent section 301.

[0113] The second vent section 301 communicates with the first vent section 610 of the end cover 600 and may be configured to discharge gas and / or flames generated in at least one of the cell units U housed inside the pack case 300 to the outside of the battery pack 10. A detailed description of the second vent section 301 can be replaced by the description of the first vent section 610.

[0114] Referring again to Figure 1, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include a battery management system (700, Battery Management System, BMS) and a battery disconnect unit (800, Battery Disconnect Unit, BDU). The BMS may be mounted in the internal space of the pack case 300 and configured to comprehensively control the charging and discharging operations and data transmission and reception operations of the pouch-type battery cells 100. The BMS may be provided on a battery pack 10 basis rather than on a battery module basis. More specifically, the BMS may be configured to control the charging and discharging state, power state and performance state of the pouch-type battery cells 100 by pack voltage and pack current. The BMS propagates the state of the battery cells 100 within the battery pack 10 and manages the battery pack 10 using the propagated state information. For example, it propagates and manages state information of the battery pack 10 such as the State of Charge (SOC), State of Health (SOH), maximum input / output power capacity and output voltage of the battery pack 10. Furthermore, this state information can be used to control the charging or discharging of the battery pack 10, and it is also possible to estimate when the battery pack 10 needs to be replaced. The BDU may be configured to control the electrical connections of the battery cells 100 in order to manage the power capacity and function of the battery pack 10. For this purpose, the BDU may include power relays, current sensors, fuses, etc. The BDU is also configured to be provided in units of battery packs 10 rather than in units of battery modules, and various interruption units known at the time of filing of the present invention can be employed.

[0115] In addition, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include various battery pack 10 components known at the time of filing of the present invention. For example, the battery pack 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an MSD (Manual Service Disconnector) that allows an operator to manually disconnect the service plug and shut off the power supply. It may also further include flexible busbars and cables for connecting a plurality of battery cells 100 having an n×n arrangement as described above.

[0116] However, the present invention allows the structure applied to the battery pack 10 described above to be applied to a battery module. That is, the structure of the pack case 300 can be applied to a module case to house a plurality of cell units U in the module case, and the module case can be provided with a vent to form a battery module. Such a battery module is a battery module that is housed in the internal space of the pack case 300, and includes a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100 and cell covers 200 as described above, and may include a module case that houses the pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space (the pack case 300 structure of the battery pack 10 according to the present invention described above can be used as is).

[0117] The battery pack 10 or battery module described herein can be applied to a variety of devices. Typical examples of such devices include means of transport such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, but the present invention is not limited to these. In particular, the battery pack 10 is suitable for use as a battery pack 10 for electric vehicles. It can also be used as an energy source for an ESS (Energy Storage System).

[0118] Figure 14 shows an automobile according to the present invention.

[0119] Referring to Figure 14, the automobile 1 can include the battery pack 10 according to the present invention as described above. Furthermore, the automobile 1 according to the present invention can further include various other components in addition to such a battery pack 10. For example, the automobile 1 according to the present invention can further include a vehicle body, a motor, an ECU (electronic control unit) and other control devices in addition to the battery pack 10 according to the present invention.

[0120] The battery pack 10 can be installed in a predetermined location within the automobile 1. The battery pack 10 can be used as an electrical energy source to drive the motor of the electric vehicle 1. In this case, the battery pack 10 has a high nominal voltage of 100V or more.

[0121] The battery pack 10 can be charged and discharged by an inverter in accordance with the drive of the motor and / or internal combustion engine. The battery pack 10 can be charged by a regenerative charging device coupled with the brake. The battery pack 10 can be electrically connected to the motor of the automobile 1 by an inverter.

[0122] Thus, the battery pack 10 installed in the automobile 1 can provide the electrical energy necessary for various operations of the automobile 1. Furthermore, since the battery pack 10 has the various effects described above, the automobile 1 that includes it can similarly have such effects.

[0123] As a concrete example, the battery pack 10 can have a high energy density because it includes a cell cover 200, eliminating the need for a module case. Energy density refers to the amount of energy stored per unit weight. As the energy density of the battery pack 10 increases, more energy is stored in the battery pack 10 even at the same weight. Therefore, in the case of a car 1 that includes such a battery pack 10, it is possible to further increase the driving range on a single charge, further increase acceleration, carry more batteries, and expand the interior space, among other diverse uses. Furthermore, as the energy density of the battery pack 10 increases, it becomes lighter even at the same energy level. When the battery pack 10 becomes lighter, and the car 1 that includes it becomes lighter, it offers many advantages, such as improved acceleration, improved energy efficiency, and improved durability.

[0124] As another specific example, the battery pack 10 can offer high safety. Since the automobile 1 is directly related to human life, safety is absolutely non-negotiable. Pouch-type battery cells 100 always pose a fire risk due to the physical properties of lithium. However, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention includes a cell cover 200, which prevents thermal events that occur in the pouch-type battery cells 100 from propagating to other parts. Therefore, the automobile 1, including the battery pack 10, is safe against fire.

[0125] As described above, the present invention has been described primarily with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it will be clear to those skilled in the art that many obvious modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be interpreted as being defined by the claims, which include such many modifications. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0126] 1: Automobile 10: Battery Pack U: Cell Unit 100: Battery cell 111: Electrode Leads 110: Storage compartment 120: Seal part 200: Cell cover 210: First side cover section 220: Second side cover section 230: Upper cover section 300: Pack Case 301: Second Bend Section 310: Case body 320: Top cover 400: Busbar Assembly 410: Busbar terminal 420: Busbar Frame 421: Lead storage section 422: Penetration 500: Intermediate cover 510: Communication part 520: Side section 530: Safe Placement Department 600: End cover 610: First Bend Section 620: Guide Section 700: Battery Management System 800: Battery cutoff unit M: Mesh material H1: Hook H1a: Main body H1b:Protrusion H2: Groove H2a: Hanging part

Claims

1. Multiple pouch-type battery cells equipped with electrode leads, A pack case that houses the aforementioned multiple pouch-type battery cells in its internal space, A cell cover is configured to surround a portion of at least one of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells within the internal space of the pack case, A busbar assembly configured to connect the electrode leads of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, An end cover that is coupled to one side of the busbar assembly, Includes an intermediate cover provided between the busbar assembly and the end cover, A certain space is formed between the intermediate cover and the end cover. The cell cover is A first side cover portion that covers one side of the surrounded pouch-type battery cell, A second side cover portion facing the first side cover portion, the second side cover portion covering the other side of the pouch-type battery cell that is surrounded, An upper cover portion connecting the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion, the upper cover portion covering the upper part of the pouch-type battery cell surrounded, Equipped with, The first side cover portion and the second side cover portion include portions that protrude further toward the electrode lead than the upper cover portion, A battery pack in which the busbar assembly, the intermediate cover, and the end cover are inserted into and in contact with the inside of the first side cover portion and the inside of the second side cover portion, respectively.

2. The cell cover is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured to partially surround the pouch-type battery cell such that the portion provided with the electrode leads is exposed to the outside.

3. The aforementioned busbar assembly is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured to cover at least a portion of the portion provided with the electrode leads.

4. The aforementioned busbar assembly is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of it is inserted into the cell cover.

5. The aforementioned busbar assembly is A busbar terminal connected to the electrode lead, A busbar frame configured to securely attach the busbar terminals, comprising a lead housing portion for housing the electrode leads, and a through portion configured to allow gas generated in at least a portion of the surrounding pouch-type battery cells to move, The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized by including the following:

6. The end cover is, The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that it is coupled to the busbar assembly.

7. The end cover is, The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized by comprising a first vent portion communicating with the aforementioned through portion.

8. The aforementioned intermediate cover is The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized in that it is coupled to the busbar assembly.

9. The aforementioned intermediate cover is The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized in that the end cover is configured to be connected.

10. The aforementioned intermediate cover is The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized by comprising a communication portion configured to communicate with the aforementioned through portion.

11. The aforementioned gas is The battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that it is discharged into the internal space of the pack case via the first vent portion.

12. The aforementioned communication portion is, The battery pack according to claim 10, characterized by comprising a mesh member.

13. The aforementioned intermediate cover is The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized in that it includes an insulating material to interrupt the electrical connection between the busbar assembly and the end cover.

14. The aforementioned pack case is The battery pack according to claim 11, further comprising a second vent portion configured to communicate with the first vent portion and to discharge the gas to the outside of the battery pack.

15. The cell cover is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the pouch-type battery cell is supported in an upright position between the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion.

16. The cell cover is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that an insulating coating layer is included on at least a portion of the inner surface of the first side cover portion and the inner surface of the second side cover portion.

17. The cell cover is The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that an adhesive member is included on at least a portion of the outer surface of the first side cover portion and the outer surface of the second side cover portion.

18. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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