Battery pack housing and battery pack including the same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments, a battery pack housing is provided. The battery pack housing may include a base plate; and first and second cross beams on the base plate. The first and second cross beams may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction and each may extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first cross beam may include first and second vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and first and second horizontal ribs connecting the first and second vertical ribs. The second cross beam may include third and fourth vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and third and fourth horizontal ribs connecting the third and fourth vertical ribs. The first cross beam may include first slots formed in the first horizontal rib and the second vertical rib. The second cross beam may include second slots formed in the third horizontal rib and the third vertical rib. The first slots and the second slots may be staggered in the first direction.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack housing and a battery pack including the same. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. Secondary batteries are widely used as energy sources for various wireless devices such as handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, as the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has decreased dramatically due to improved energy density and economies of scale, and as the driving range of BEVs (battery electric vehicles) has increased to a level equivalent to that of fuel vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] The technological development trend for rechargeable batteries in mobility is the improvement of energy density and safety. Here, the energy density of a rechargeable battery is defined as the maximum electrical energy that can be stored by the battery's mass. As high energy density is directly linked to driving efficiency and range in mobility applications, various studies are being conducted to improve this energy density. Prior art literature

[0006] Chinese Registered Patent No. 221978110 The problem to be solved

[0007] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack housing with improved efficiency of the loading process of a battery cell assembly, and a battery pack including the same. means of solving the problem

[0009] According to exemplary embodiments for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack housing is provided. The battery pack housing may include a base plate; and first and second cross beams on the base plate. The first and second cross beams may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction and each may extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first cross beam may include first and second vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and first and second horizontal ribs connecting the first and second vertical ribs. The second cross beam may include third and fourth vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and third and fourth horizontal ribs connecting the third and fourth vertical ribs. The first cross beam may include first slots formed in the first horizontal rib and the second vertical rib. The second cross beam may include second slots formed in the third horizontal rib and the third vertical rib. The first slots and the second slots may be staggered in the first direction.

[0010] The first horizontal rib may be further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the second horizontal rib. The third horizontal rib may be further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the fourth horizontal rib. The second vertical rib and the third vertical rib may face each other.

[0011] The first slots and the second slots can alternate in the second direction.

[0012] The first slots above may be spaced apart from the first vertical rib.

[0013] The first slots above may be spaced apart from the second horizontal rib.

[0014] The second slots above may be spaced apart from the fourth vertical rib.

[0015] The second slots above may be spaced apart from the fourth horizontal rib.

[0016] The second cross beam may further include third slots formed in the third horizontal rib and the fourth vertical rib.

[0017] The third slots may be spaced apart from each of the third vertical rib and the fourth horizontal rib.

[0018] The second slots and the third slots may be staggered in the first direction.

[0019] The above second slots and the above third slots can be done in the above second direction.

[0020] Each of the above first slots can be aligned in the first direction with a corresponding one of the above third slots.

[0021] It may further include a third cross beam extending in the second direction, spaced apart from the first cross beam in the first direction with the second cross beam in between. The third cross beam may include fifth and sixth vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and fifth and sixth horizontal ribs connecting the fifth and sixth vertical ribs. The fifth horizontal rib is further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the sixth horizontal rib, and the fifth vertical rib may face the fourth vertical rib. The third cross beam may further include fourth slots formed in the fifth horizontal rib and the fifth vertical rib. The third slots and the fourth slots may be staggered in the first direction.

[0022] Each of the above-mentioned fourth slots can be aligned in the first direction with a corresponding one of the above-mentioned second slots.

[0023] According to exemplary embodiments for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack may include a battery pack housing according to claim 1; and a battery cell assembly between the first and second cross beams. The battery cell assembly may include battery cells arranged in the first direction; and first and second side beams spaced apart from the first direction with respect to the battery cells. The first side beam may include a first plate portion that overlaps the battery cells in the first direction; and a first coupling portion connected to the first plate portion and including first holes that overlap each of the first slots in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, respectively. The second side beam may include a second plate portion that overlaps the battery cells in the first direction; and a second coupling portion connected to the second plate portion and including second holes that overlap each of the second slots in the third direction, respectively. Effects of the invention

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, slots corresponding to grippers of a loading device for transporting a battery cell assembly can be formed in the cross beams of a battery pack housing. This increases the gripping area of ​​the battery cell assembly by the grippers while simultaneously preventing interference between the grippers and the cross beams. Accordingly, stable transport of the battery cell assembly into the pack housing is possible.

[0026] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the following description. That is, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0028] FIG. 1 is a top view of a pack housing according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a pack housing according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of a pack housing according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a pack housing according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a pack housing according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a loading process of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the loading process of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the loading process of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0029] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings. Instead, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best describe his invention, they should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0030] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0031] In addition, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions may obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0032] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the size or proportion of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size or proportion.

[0034] (1st embodiment)

[0035] FIG. 1 is a top view showing a pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0036] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are perspective views showing a pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2 shows an enlarged view of a portion of a cross beam (130) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of a portion of a cross beam (140) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0037] FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 are cross-sectional views illustrating a pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section along A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-section along B-B' of FIG. 1.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the battery pack housing (100) may include a base plate (110), a center beam (120), cross beams (130, 140, 150) and side walls (160).

[0040] The base plate (110) may have a flat plate shape. Two directions substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) is defined as the Z direction. The X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0041] The center beam (120) and cross beams (130, 140, 150) can divide the space defined by the pack housing (100). The center beam (120) and cross beams (130, 140, 150) can partition the space where the battery cell assembly (170 in FIGS. 6 to 8) is mounted. The center beam (120) and cross beams (130, 140, 150) can be surrounded by side walls (160).

[0042] In this example, the center beam (120) and the cross beams (130, 140, 150) isolate the receiving space of the pack housing (100) in a matrix of 2 rows and 2 columns, but this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the technical concept of the invention in any sense.

[0043] The center beam (120) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (120) may be formed by an extrusion process together with the base plate (110) or welded to the base plate (110). Each of the cross beams (130, 140, 150) may intersect the center beam (120). Each of the cross beams (130, 140, 150) may extend in the Y direction. The cross beams (130, 140, 150) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction.

[0044] The side walls (160) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (110). The side walls (160) may be adjacent to the edge portions of the base plate (110). The side walls (160) may be joined to the edge portions of the base plate (110).

[0045] Battery cell assemblies (170 in FIGS. 6 to 8) may be mounted in the pack housing (100). A center beam (120) may isolate the battery cell assemblies (170) in the Y direction. Cross beams (130, 140, 150) may isolate a plurality of battery cell assemblies (170) in the X direction. Side walls (160) may horizontally surround a plurality of battery cell assemblies (170).

[0047] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, each cross beam (130, 140, 150) may have a hollow structure.

[0048] The cross beam (130) may include vertical ribs (130V1, 130V2) and horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2, 130H3).

[0049] Each of the vertical ribs (130V1, 130V2) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The vertical ribs (130V1, 130V2) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The vertical rib (130V1) may be substantially parallel to the vertical rib (130V2). The vertical rib (130V2) may face the vertical rib (140V1) of the cross beam (140).

[0050] Each of the horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2, 130H3) can connect to the vertical ribs (130V1, 130V2). Each of the horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2, 130H3) can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The horizontal rib (130H3) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (130H2). The horizontal rib (130H1) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (130H3). The horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2, 130H3) can be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. The horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2, 130H3) can be substantially parallel to each other.

[0051] The vertical ribs (130V1, 130V2) and horizontal ribs (130H1, 130H2) can form the internal space of the cross beam (130). The horizontal rib (130H3) may be in the internal space of the cross beam (130). The horizontal rib (130H3) may be a component for the rigidity of the cross beam (130).

[0053] The cross beam (140) may be located between the cross beams (130, 150). The cross beam (140) may include vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2, 140V3) and horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2, 140H3).

[0054] Each of the vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2, 140V3) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2, 140V3) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2, 140V3) may be substantially parallel to each other. The vertical rib (140V1) may face the vertical rib (130V2) of the cross beam (130). The vertical rib (140V2) may face the vertical rib (150V1) of the cross beam (150). The vertical rib (140V3) may be between the vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2). The vertical rib (140V3) can intersect the horizontal rib (140H3).

[0055] Each of the horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2, 140H3) can connect to the vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2, 140V3). Each of the horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2, 140H3) can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The horizontal rib (140H3) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (140H2). The horizontal rib (140H1) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (140H3). The horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2, 140H3) can be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. The horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2, 140H3) can be substantially parallel to each other.

[0056] The vertical ribs (140V1, 140V2) and horizontal ribs (140H1, 140H2) can form the internal space of the cross beam (140). The vertical rib (140V3) and horizontal rib (140H3) may be in the internal space of the cross beam (140). The vertical rib (140V3) and horizontal rib (140H3) may be components for the rigidity of the cross beam (140).

[0057] According to exemplary embodiments, the width of the cross beam (140) in the X direction may be greater than the width of the cross beam (130) in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the width of the cross beam (140) in the X direction may be greater than the width of the cross beam (150) in the X direction.

[0059] The cross beam (150) may include vertical ribs (150V1, 150V2) and horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2, 150H3).

[0060] Each of the vertical ribs (150V1, 150V2) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The vertical ribs (150V1, 150V2) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The vertical rib (150V1) may be substantially parallel to the vertical rib (150V2). The vertical rib (150V1) may face the vertical rib (140V2) of the cross beam (140).

[0061] Each of the horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2, 150H3) can connect to the vertical ribs (150V1, 150V2). Each of the horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2, 150H3) can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The horizontal rib (150H1) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (150H3). The horizontal rib (150H3) can be further from the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110) than the horizontal rib (150H2). The horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2, 150H3) can be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. The horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2, 150H3) can be substantially parallel to each other.

[0062] The vertical ribs (150V1, 150V2) and horizontal ribs (150H1, 150H2) can form the internal space of the cross beam (150). The horizontal rib (150H3) may be in the internal space of the cross beam (150). The horizontal rib (150H3) may be a component for the rigidity of the cross beam (150).

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the cross beam (130) may include slots (131), bolting holes (132) and guide holes (133). The slots (131), bolting holes (132) and guide holes (133) may be arranged in the Y direction.

[0065] The slots (131) may be configured to accommodate grippers (GPA2) of a loading device (LD) that grips the battery cell assembly (170) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8. The loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0066] Each of the slots (131) can be formed in the horizontal rib (130H1) and the vertical rib (130V2). The slots (131) can be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each slot (131) can be spaced apart from the vertical rib (130V1) in the X direction. Each slot (131) can be spaced apart from the horizontal rib (130H2) in the Z direction. Each slot (131) can face the vertical rib (140V1) of the cross beam (140). Each slot (131) can be located, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (132).

[0067] The bolting holes (132) may be configured to be coupled with the side beam (172A) of the battery cell assembly (170) shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. Each of the bolting holes (132) may be formed in a horizontal rib (130H1). The bolting holes (132) may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0068] Guide holes (133 in FIG. 2) may be configured to align the battery cell assembly (170) with respect to the cross beam (130) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) shown in FIG. 6 through 8. A guide pin (133P) may be inserted into each of the guide holes (133). Each of the guide holes (133) may be formed in a horizontal rib (130H1). The guide holes (133) may be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each guide hole (133) may be, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (132) in the Y direction.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 3 through 5, the cross beam (140) may include slots (141, 144), bolting holes (142, 145), and guide holes (143, 146).

[0071] The slots (141), bolting holes (142), and guide holes (143) can be arranged in the Y direction. The slots (144), bolting holes (145), and guide holes (146) can be arranged in the Y direction.

[0072] The slots (141, 144) may be configured to accommodate grippers (GPA2, GPB2) of a loading device (LD) that grips the battery cell assembly (170) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8. The slots (141) may be configured to prevent interference between the cross beam (140) and the grippers (GPB2) during the loading process of the battery cell assembly (170) mounted between the cross beams (130, 140). The slots (144) may be configured to prevent interference between the cross beam (140) and the grippers (GPA2) during the loading process of the battery cell assembly (170) mounted between the cross beams (140, 150).

[0073] Each of the slots (141) can be formed in the horizontal rib (140H1) and the vertical rib (140V1). The slots (141) can be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each slot (141) can be, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (142) in the Y direction. Each slot (141) can be spaced apart from the vertical rib (140V2) in the X direction. Each slot (141) can be spaced apart from the vertical rib (140V3) in the X direction. Each slot (141) can be spaced apart from the horizontal rib (140H2) in the Z direction. Each slot (141) can face the vertical rib (130V2) of the cross beam (130).

[0074] Each of the slots (144) can be formed in the horizontal rib (140H1) and the vertical rib (140V2). The slots (144) can be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each slot (144) can be, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (145) in the Y direction. Each slot (144) can be spaced apart from the vertical rib (140V1) in the X direction. Each slot (144) can be spaced apart from the vertical rib (140V3) in the X direction. Each slot (144) can be spaced apart from the horizontal rib (140H2) in the Z direction. Each slot (144) can face the vertical rib (150V1) of the cross beam (150).

[0076] The bolting holes (142, 145) may be configured to be coupled with the side beams (172A, 172B) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8. The bolting holes (142) may be configured to be coupled with the side beam (172B) of the battery cell assembly (170) between the cross beams (130, 140). The bolting holes (145) may be configured to be coupled with the side beam (172A) of the battery cell assembly (170) between the cross beams (140, 150).

[0077] Each of the bolting holes (142) can be formed in the horizontal rib (140H1). Each of the bolting holes (142) can be located between the vertical ribs (140V1, 140V3). The bolting holes (142) can be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0078] Each of the bolting holes (145) can be formed in the horizontal rib (140H1). Each of the bolting holes (145) can be located between the vertical ribs (140V2, 140V3). The bolting holes (145) can be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0079] The bolting holes (142) and the bolting holes (145) may be spaced apart in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the bolting holes (142) may be aligned in the X direction with a corresponding one of the bolting holes (145).

[0081] Guide holes (143, 146 in FIG. 3) may be configured to align the battery cell assembly (170) with respect to the cross beam (140) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIG. 6 through 8. Guide holes (143) may be configured to align the battery cell assembly (170) between the cross beams (130, 140) with respect to the cross beam (140). Guide holes (146) may be configured to align the battery cell assembly (170) between the cross beams (140, 150) with respect to the cross beam (140).

[0082] Guide pins (143P) can be inserted into each of the guide holes (143). Each of the guide holes (143) can be formed in a horizontal rib (140H1). Each of the guide holes (143) can be located between the vertical ribs (140V1, 140V3). The guide holes (143) can be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each guide hole (143) can be located, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (142) in the Y direction.

[0083] Guide pins (146P) can be inserted into each of the guide holes (146). Each of the guide holes (146) can be formed in a horizontal rib (140H1). Each of the guide holes (146) can be located between the vertical ribs (140V2, 140V3). The guide holes (146) can be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each guide hole (146) can be located, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (145) in the Y direction.

[0084] The guide holes (143) and the guide holes (146) may be spaced apart in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the guide holes (143) may be aligned in the X direction with a corresponding one of the guide holes (146).

[0086] The cross beam (150) may include slots (151), bolting holes (152), and guide holes (153). The slots (151), bolting holes (152), and guide holes (153) may be arranged in the Y direction.

[0087] The slots (151) may be configured to accommodate grippers (GPB2) of a loading device (LD) that grasps the battery cell assembly (170) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8. Each of the slots (151) may be formed in the horizontal rib (150H1) and the vertical rib (150V1). The slots (151) may be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each slot (151) may be, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (152) in the Y direction. Each slot (151) may be spaced apart from the vertical rib (150V2) in the X direction. Each slot (151) may be spaced apart from the horizontal rib (150H2) in the Z direction. Each slot (151) can face the vertical rib (140V2) of the cross beam (140).

[0088] The bolting holes (152) may be configured to be coupled with the side beam (172B) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8. Each of the bolting holes (152) may be formed in a horizontal rib (150H1). The bolting holes (152) may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the bolting holes (132) of the cross beam (130), the bolting holes (142, 145) of the cross beam (140), and the bolting holes (152) of the cross beam (150) may be aligned in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the bolting holes (132) of the cross beam (130), the bolting holes (142, 145) of the cross beam (140), and the bolting holes (152) of the cross beam (150) may not be aligned in the X direction.

[0090] Guide holes (153 in FIG. 1) may be configured to align the battery cell assembly (170) with respect to the cross beam (150) during the loading process into the pack housing (100) of the battery cell assembly (170) illustrated in FIG. 6 through 8. A guide pin (153P in FIG. 1) may be inserted into each of the guide holes (153). Each of the guide holes (153) may be formed in a horizontal rib (150H1). The guide holes (153) may be spaced apart in the Y direction. Each guide hole (153) may be, for example, between two adjacent bolting holes (152) in the Y direction.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the guide holes (133) of the cross beam (130), the guide holes (143, 146) of the cross beam (140), and the guide holes (153) of the cross beam (150) may be aligned in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the guide holes (133) of the cross beam (130), the guide holes (143, 146) of the cross beam (140), and the guide holes (153) of the cross beam (150) may not be aligned in the X direction.

[0093] Each of the slots (131) may be offset from each of the slots (141) in the X direction. That is, each of the slots (131) may not be aligned with each of the slots (141) in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the slots (131) and the slots (141) may alternate in the Y direction. Each of the slots (131) may be aligned with a corresponding one of the slots (144) in the X direction.

[0094] Each of the slots (131) may be offset from each of the slots (151) in the X direction. That is, each of the slots (131) may not be aligned with each of the slots (151) in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the slots (131) and slots (151) may alternate in the Y direction.

[0095] Each of the slots (141) may be offset from each of the slots (144) in the X direction. That is, the slots (141) may not be aligned with the slots (144) in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the slots (141) and the slots (144) may alternate in the Y direction. Each of the slots (141) may be aligned with a corresponding one of the slots (151) in the X direction.

[0096] Each of the slots (144) may be offset from each of the slots (151) in the X direction. That is, the slots (144) may not be aligned with the slots (151) in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the slots (144) and slots (151) may alternate in the Y direction.

[0097] That is, the slots (131) may be staggered with the slots (141) in the X direction, the slots (141) may be staggered with the slots (144) in the X direction, and the slots (144) may be staggered with the slots (151) in the X direction. With the staggered arrangement of the slots (131, 141, 144, 151) of the cross beams (130, 140, 150), the reduction in rigidity of the cross beams (130, 140, 150) and the pack housing (100) can be prevented or minimized.

[0099] (2nd and 3rd embodiments)

[0100] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the loading process of a battery cell assembly (170) into a pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0101] FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8 are cross-sectional views illustrating the loading process of a battery cell assembly (170) into a pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-section along C-C' of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section along D-D' of FIG. 6.

[0102] In FIGS. 6 to 8, the configurations having the same drawing numbers as in FIGS. 1 to 5 may be described as described above in the first embodiment, and such descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, the configurations of the second and third embodiments, which differ from the first embodiment, will be described focusing on them.

[0104] A battery pack (200) may include a pack housing (100) and battery cell assemblies (170) mounted in the pack housing (100). The battery pack (200) may be manufactured by transferring each of the battery cell assemblies (170) into a receiving space of the pack housing (100).

[0105] Battery cell assemblies (170) can be grasped by grippers (GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2) of a loading device (LD) and transported into a receiving space of a pack housing (100). The loading device (LD) can be configured to secure the battery cell assembly (170) for transporting the battery cell assembly (170). By lifting, moving, and lowering the battery cell assembly (170) secured to the loading device (LD), the battery cell assembly (170) can be transported into a receiving space of the pack housing (100).

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the loading device (LD) may include a plate (PL), an adsorption unit (AD), and grippers (GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2). The adsorption unit (AD) and the grippers (GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2) may be fixed to the plate (PL).

[0107] The adsorption unit (AD) may be configured to apply vacuum pressure to the battery cell assembly (170) to secure the battery cell assembly (170) to the loading device (LD). The adsorption unit (AD) may secure the battery cell assembly (170) from the top in the Z direction. The grippers (GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2) may be configured to apply a compressive force to the battery cell assembly (170) in a direction in which the side beams (172A, 172B) move closer to each other in the X direction.

[0108] Each of the grippers (GPA1, GPA2) can be coupled to a side beam (172A). Each of the grippers (GPB1, GPB2) can be coupled to a side beam (172B). The side beam (172A) may include holes (172AH) for coupling with the grippers (GPA1, GPA2). The side beam (172B) may include holes (172BH) for coupling with the grippers (GPB1, GPB2).

[0109] Referring to FIG. 6, grippers (GPA1, GPA2) coupled to the side beam (172A) may be arranged in the Y direction, and grippers (GPB1, GPB2) coupled to the side beam (172B) may be arranged in the Y direction. According to exemplary embodiments, grippers (GPA1) and grippers (GPA2) may alternate in the Y direction. According to exemplary embodiments, grippers (GPB1) and grippers (GPB2) may alternate in the Y direction. Grippers (GPA1, GPA2) may be spaced apart from grippers (GPB1, GPB2) in the X direction. Each gripper (GPA1) may be aligned with each gripper (GPB2) in the X direction. Each gripper (GPA2) may be aligned with each gripper (GPB1) in the X direction.

[0110] The length along the Z direction of each gripper (GPA1) may differ from the length along the X direction of each gripper (GPA2). The length along the Z direction of each gripper (GPA1) may be smaller than the length along the Z direction of the grippers (GPA2). The length along the Z direction of each gripper (GPB1) may differ from the length along the X direction of each gripper (GPB2). The length along the Z direction of each gripper (GPB1) may be smaller than the length along the Z direction of the grippers (GPB2). The area of ​​the side beams (172A, 172B) that grippers (GPA2, GPB2) press may be larger than the area of ​​the side beams (172A, 172B) that grippers (GPA1, GPB1) press.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, when the battery cell assembly (170) is seated into the receiving space of the pack housing (100), grippers (GPA1, GPB1) having a relatively short length may not interfere with the cross beams (130, 140). Grippers (GPA2, GPB2) may have a relatively long length compared to grippers (GPA1, GPB1). However, since grippers (GPA2) are each received in the slots (131) of the cross beam (130) and grippers (GPB2) are each received in the slots (141) of the cross beam (140), interference between grippers (GPA2) and the cross beam (130) and interference between grippers (GPB2) and the cross beam (140) can be prevented. That is, as the gripping area of ​​the battery cell assembly (170) by the grippers (GPA2, GPB2) increases, the battery cell assembly (170) can be transported stably while preventing interference with the pack housing (100).

[0112] The slots (131) of the cross beam (130) can be formed at positions corresponding to each gripper (GPA2). The slots (141) of the cross beam (140) can be formed at positions corresponding to each gripper (GPB2).

[0113] After the battery cell assembly (170) is placed inside the pack housing (100), the loading device (LD) can release the vacuum pressure of the adsorption part (AD) and the grippers (GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2) can release the compression force. By doing so, the battery cell assembly (170) can be mounted in the pack housing (100).

[0115] Hereinafter, a battery cell assembly (170) will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0116] A battery cell assembly (170) may include a plurality of battery cells (171), side beams (172A, 172B), and integrated circuit assemblies (173). The battery cell assembly (170) may not include a module frame. That is, the battery pack (200) may be of a modular type. However, this is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical concept of the invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a plurality of battery cell assemblies including a module frame and a modular type battery pack including the same based on what is described herein.

[0117] A plurality of battery cells (171) may be arranged in the X direction. Each of the plurality of battery cells (171) may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a case. Each of the plurality of battery cells (171) may be any one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is embedded in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is embedded in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is embedded in a pouch case containing an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0118] An electrode assembly includes an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode. A jelly roll type electrode assembly is formed by winding an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between them. A stack type electrode assembly includes a plurality of anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and a plurality of separators interposed between them, which are stacked sequentially.

[0119] According to exemplary embodiments, a plurality of battery cells (171) may form a plurality of banks. A plurality of banks may include one or more parallel-connected battery cells (171). A plurality of banks may be connected in series with each other. The number of battery cells (171) included in each of the plurality of banks and the number of banks connected in series with each other may be determined according to the voltage and current to be output through each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (170).

[0120] Each of the battery cell assemblies (170) may further include a plurality of separators. The plurality of separators may be interposed between the plurality of battery cells (171). The plurality of separators may include a flexible material and may absorb swelling of the plurality of battery cells. According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of separators may be thermal barriers. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of separators may have a high melting temperature and low thermal conductivity. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of separators may include a flame-retardant material, such as ceramic and coated glass material. According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of separators may be configured to release a fire retarding material and a fire extinguishing agent in the event of a thermal runaway event. The battery cells (171) and separators may form a cell stack.

[0122] Side beams (172A, 172B) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction with a plurality of battery cells (171) in between. Side beams (172A, 172B) may support the cell stack in the X direction. Side beams (172A, 172B) may comprise aluminum. Side beams (172A, 172B) may be provided by an extrusion process. Side beams (172A, 172B) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the cell stack. Each of the side beams (172A, 172B) may have a shape approximately like the Greek letter 'Γ'. Side beam (172A) may be connected to a cross beam (130). Side beam (172B) may be connected to a cross beam (140).

[0123] The side beam (172A) may include a plate portion (172AP) and a coupling portion (172AC). The plate portion (172AP) may overlap with the battery cells (171) in the X direction. The plate portion (172AP) may be substantially parallel to each battery cell (171). The plate portion (172AP) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110).

[0124] The connecting portion (172AC) can be connected to the plate portion (172AP). The connecting portion (172AC) can be substantially perpendicular to the plate portion (172AP). The connecting portion (172AC) can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The connecting portion (172AC) can be fastened to the cross beam (130) by mechanical means such as bolts.

[0125] The coupling portion (172AC) may include holes (172AH). The holes (172AH) may be configurations for coupling with grippers (GPA1, GPA2). Each gripper (GPA1, GPA2) may pass through the holes (172AH). Each gripper (GPA1, GPA2) may come into contact with the plate portion (172AP). Each of the holes (172AH) coupling with the grippers (GPA2) may overlap with each of the slots (131) of the cross beam (130) in the Z direction. Each of the slots (131) of the cross beam (130) may accommodate each gripper (GPA2).

[0127] The side beam (172B) may include a plate portion (172BP) and a coupling portion (172BC). The plate portion (172BP) may overlap with the battery cells (171) in the X direction. The plate portion (172BP) may be substantially parallel to each battery cell (171). The plate portion (172BP) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110).

[0128] The connecting portion (172BC) can be connected to the plate portion (172BP). The connecting portion (172BC) can be substantially perpendicular to the plate portion (172BP). The connecting portion (172BC) can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface (110M) of the base plate (110). The connecting portion (172BC) can be fastened to the cross beam (140) by mechanical means such as bolts.

[0129] The coupling portion (172BC) may include holes (172BH). The holes (172BH) may be configurations for coupling with grippers (GPB1, GPB2). Each gripper (GPB1, GPB2) may pass through the holes (172BH). Each gripper (GPB1, GPB2) may come into contact with the plate portion (172BP). Each of the holes (172BH) coupling with the grippers (GPB2) may overlap with each of the slots (141) of the cross beam (140) in the Z direction. The slots (141) of the cross beam (140) may accommodate each gripper (GPB2).

[0131] Each of the integrated circuit assemblies (173) may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, busbars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover. The integrated circuit assemblies (173) may include physical and functional configurations for providing electrical connections between a plurality of battery cells (171), outputting the resulting voltage of the plurality of battery cells (171), and measuring the voltage (or current) of nodes within a circuit composed of the plurality of battery cells (171).

[0132] The insulating frame may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame may cover the front of a plurality of battery cells (171). The insulating frame may support an integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, and wiring.

[0133] The bus bars can be short-circuited to the positive leads of the battery cells (171) of the first bank and to the negative leads of one or more battery cells (171) of the last bank. The bus bars can be welded to the positive leads of the battery cells (171) of the first bank and to the negative leads of one or more battery cells (171) of the last bank. The resulting voltage of a plurality of battery cells (171) of the battery cell assembly (170) can be output through the bus bars. The bus bars can be fixed to an insulating frame.

[0134] The integrated circuit can be mounted on an insulating frame. Positive leads and negative leads welded to each other can form nodes inside the battery cell assembly (170). The integrated circuit can be configured to measure the voltage of the nodes through sensing plates and sensing bars.

[0135] The sensing bars may include a conductive material. The sensing bars may have a rod shape. The sensing bars may be short-circuited to the bus bars. The sensing bars may be coupled to the bus bars. Through the sensing bars, the voltage of the bus bars can be measured.

[0136] Each of the plurality of sensing plates may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The plurality of sensing plates may include a conductive material. The plurality of sensing plates may be short-circuited to corresponding positive leads and negative leads of the plurality of battery cells (171).

[0137] Each of the multiple sensing plates can be connected to an integrated circuit. Through the multiple sensing plates, the voltage of multiple nodes inside the battery cell assembly (170) can be measured.

[0138] Temperature sensors may be configured to measure the temperature at multiple points of the battery cell assembly (170). The temperature sensors may be spatially arranged so that the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly (170) can be measured.

[0139] The insulating cover may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted into an insulating frame. The insulating cover may cover an integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, and temperature sensors, and accordingly, the electrical elements of the integrated circuit assemblies (173) may be protected.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the battery pack (200) may further include a resin layer between the base plate (110) and each battery cell assembly (170).

[0142] The resin layer may comprise a resin composition. The resin layer may be provided by a thermal resin application process. The resin composition may be a room temperature curable composition. That is, the curing reaction of the resin composition may begin and proceed at room temperature. The curing reaction of the resin composition may be accelerated at a temperature higher than room temperature. The rate of the curing reaction of the resin composition at a temperature higher than room temperature may be faster than the rate of the curing reaction of the resin composition at room temperature. As a non-limiting example, the main component of the resin composition may be any one of silicone resin, polyol resin, epoxy resin, and acrylic resin.

[0143] The curing agent of the resin composition can be selected according to the main component of the resin composition. For example, if the main component of the resin composition is a silicone resin, a siloxane compound may be used as the curing agent. For example, if the main component of the resin composition is a polyol resin, an isocyanate compound may be used as the curing agent. For example, if the main component of the resin composition is an epoxy resin, an amine compound may be used as the curing agent. For example, if the main component of the resin composition is an acrylic resin, an isocyanate compound may be used as the curing agent.

[0144] The inorganic filler of the resin composition may have relatively high thermal conductivity. According to exemplary embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler of the resin composition may be about 1 W / m·K or higher. According to exemplary embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler of the resin composition may be 5 W / m·K or higher. According to exemplary embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler of the resin composition may be 10 W / m·K or higher. According to exemplary embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler of the resin composition may be about 15 W / m·K or higher.

[0145] According to exemplary embodiments, the inorganic filler of the resin composition may include ceramic. For example, the inorganic filler of the resin composition may include any one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), aluminum nitride (AlN), boron nitride (BN), silicon nitride (Si3N4), silicon carbide (SiC), beryllium oxide (BeO), zinc oxide (ZnO), aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), and boehmite. The resin composition may also include a carbon filler. The resin composition may include, for example, any one of fumed silica, clay, and calcium carbonate.

[0147] The present invention has been described in more detail above through drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all technical concepts of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application. Explanation of the symbols

[0149] 100: Battery pack housing 110: Base Plate 120: Center beam 130, 140, 150: Cross Beam 131, 141, 144, 151: Slots 160: Sidewalls 170: Battery cell assembly 200: Battery pack LD: Loading device GPA1, GPA2, GPB1, GPB2: Grippers

Claims

Claim 1 A battery pack housing comprising: a base plate; and first and second cross beams on the base plate, wherein the first and second cross beams are spaced apart from each other in a first direction and each extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first cross beam comprises first and second vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate and first and second horizontal ribs connecting the first and second vertical ribs, wherein the second cross beam comprises third and fourth vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate and third and fourth horizontal ribs connecting the third and fourth vertical ribs, wherein the first cross beam comprises first slots formed in the first horizontal rib and the second vertical rib, and the second cross beam comprises second slots formed in the third horizontal rib and the third vertical rib, and wherein the first slots and the second slots are staggered in the first direction. Claim 2 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the first horizontal rib is further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the second horizontal rib, the third horizontal rib is further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the fourth horizontal rib, and the second vertical rib and the third vertical rib face each other. Claim 3 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the first slots and the second slots alternate in the second direction. Claim 4 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the first slots are spaced apart from the first vertical rib. Claim 5 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the first slots are spaced apart from the second horizontal rib. Claim 6 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the second slots are spaced apart from the fourth vertical rib. Claim 7 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the second slots are spaced apart from the fourth horizontal rib. Claim 8 A battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein the second cross beam further comprises third slots formed in the third horizontal rib and the fourth vertical rib. Claim 9 A battery pack housing according to claim 8, wherein the third slots are spaced apart from each of the third vertical rib and the fourth horizontal rib. Claim 10 A battery pack housing according to claim 8, characterized in that the second slots and the third slots are staggered in the first direction. Claim 11 A battery pack housing according to claim 8, wherein the second slots and the third slots alternate in the second direction. Claim 12 A battery pack housing according to claim 8, characterized in that each of the first slots is aligned in the first direction with a corresponding one of the third slots. Claim 13 A battery pack housing according to claim 8, further comprising a third cross beam extending in the second direction, spaced apart from the first cross beam in the first direction with the second cross beam in between, wherein the third cross beam comprises fifth and sixth vertical ribs perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate, and fifth and sixth horizontal ribs connecting the fifth and sixth vertical ribs, wherein the fifth horizontal rib is further from the mounting surface of the base plate than the sixth horizontal rib, and the fifth vertical rib faces the fourth vertical rib, wherein the third cross beam further comprises fourth slots formed in the fifth horizontal rib and the fifth vertical rib, and wherein the third slots and the fourth slots are staggered in the first direction. Claim 14 A battery pack housing according to claim 13, wherein each of the above-mentioned fourth slots is aligned in the first direction with a corresponding of the above-mentioned second slots. Claim 15 A battery pack comprising: a battery pack housing according to claim 1; and a battery cell assembly between the first and second cross beams, wherein the battery cell assembly comprises: battery cells arranged in the first direction; and first and second side beams spaced apart from the first direction with respect to the battery cells, wherein the first side beam comprises: a first plate portion that overlaps the battery cells in the first direction; and a first coupling portion connected to the first plate portion and comprising first holes that overlap each of the first slots in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, respectively; and the second side beam comprises: a second plate portion that overlaps the battery cells in the first direction; and a second coupling portion connected to the second plate portion and comprising second holes that overlap each of the second slots in the third direction, respectively.

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