Battery module, battery pack and vehicle comprising the battery module

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a cartridge assembly having a cooling channel provided therein and a plurality of cartridges stacked along one direction, a plurality of battery cells accommodated between the stacked cartridges, and a busbar assembly for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells, wherein a receiving space is provided inside the cartridge assembly configured to accommodate a connecting member electrically connected to the busbar assembly.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including such a battery module, and an automobile. More specifically, it relates to a battery module in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked using a cartridge, a battery pack including such a battery module, and an automobile. Background Technology

[0002] As the demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches increases significantly and electric vehicles become increasingly widespread, research on batteries installed in them, particularly secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging, is actively underway.

[0003] Currently commercialized rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium, nickel-hydrogen, nickel-zinc, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to charge and discharge freely with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0004] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, each coated with the positive and negative active materials, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, namely a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0005] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified according to the shape of the casing into can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch of aluminum laminate sheet.

[0006] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for driving or energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium-to-large devices such as electric vehicles and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). A single battery module can be formed by housing multiple such secondary batteries together inside a module case while electrically connected. In this case, each secondary battery included in a single battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form a single battery pack.

[0007] A conventional battery module is generally configured to include a plurality of battery cells, a busbar assembly for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells, a module case and case cover for housing the busbar assembly and the battery cells, and a connector for connecting the busbar assembly and external electrical components. Additionally, the battery module further includes a connecting member, such as an FPCB or a cable, for connecting busbars or sensing circuits connected to the front and rear sides of the battery module.

[0008] Conventionally, the aforementioned connecting member is installed to pass mainly over the upper side of the battery module. However, in the case of an air-cooled battery module, the structure allows air entering from the outside to flow through the battery module, and consequently, the connecting member is directly exposed to the airflow, i.e., the cooling air. Consequently, there is a problem in that the connecting member is damaged as it shakes or vibrates due to the cooling air. The problem to be solved

[0009] Accordingly, the objective of the present invention is to provide a battery module with an improved structure so that connecting members such as FPCB or cables are not exposed to cooling air, a battery pack including such a battery module, and an automobile.

[0010] However, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. means of solving the problem

[0011] To solve the above objective, the present invention comprises: a cartridge assembly having a plurality of cartridges stacked along one direction and a cooling channel provided therein; a plurality of battery cells accommodated between the stacked cartridges; a busbar assembly for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells; and a connecting member electrically connected to the busbar assembly and extending from one side to the other side of the cartridge assembly; wherein a receiving space configured to accommodate the connecting member may be provided inside the cartridge assembly.

[0012] Here, the receiving space may be formed to be separated from the cooling channel.

[0013] In addition, the above-mentioned receiving space may be formed between two cartridges stacked adjacently.

[0014] In addition, in the above cartridge, a receiving groove configured to form the receiving space on the surface that is stacked with another cartridge may be provided.

[0015] In addition, when stacking the cartridges, the receiving grooves may be provided on the surfaces in contact with the two cartridges arranged on both sides.

[0016] In addition, the above-mentioned receiving space may be formed by combining receiving grooves formed in each of two cartridges stacked adjacent to each other into one space.

[0017] In addition, the above-mentioned receiving spaces are provided in multiple numbers along the direction in which the cartridges are stacked, and the cartridges may be provided with a connecting hole that links two adjacent receiving spaces.

[0018] In addition, when stacking the cartridges, one of the two different cartridges that come into contact with each other may have a concave portion formed therein, and the other of the two cartridges may have a convex portion that is inserted into the concave portion.

[0019] In addition, at least one of the concave portion and the convex portion may be provided with a sealing portion for sealing between the concave portion and the convex portion.

[0020] In addition, the cartridge may be provided with a blocking protrusion configured to prevent air supplied from the outside from heading toward the point where the busbar assembly and the connecting member are connected.

[0021] In addition, the device comprises an upper frame having a flow hole formed therein for air supplied from the outside to flow in, and a side frame extending from one end of the upper frame to which the busbar assembly is connected, and the blocking protrusion may be formed to protrude from one end of the upper frame.

[0022] In addition, the cartridge assembly may be provided with a fixing part configured to fix a connecting member received in the receiving space.

[0023] In addition, the cartridge is provided with a receiving groove configured to form the receiving space on a surface that is stacked with another cartridge, and the fixing part may be formed to protrude from the surface of the receiving groove.

[0024] In addition, the cartridge assembly is provided with a plurality of cooling channels spaced apart from each other, and at least some of the gaps between the cooling channels may have different gaps.

[0025] And, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by comprising, as a battery pack, at least one battery module according to the embodiments described above.

[0026] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle characterized by comprising at least one battery module according to the above-described embodiment. Effects of the invention

[0027] According to the present invention, by placing the connecting member inside the cartridge assembly, the connecting member can be prevented from being exposed to cooling air.

[0028] Therefore, the problem of the connecting member shaking or vibrating due to the cooling air and consequently being damaged can be prevented.

[0029] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of receiving spaces may be formed along the direction in which cartridges are stacked, and the receiving spaces may be configured to communicate with each other. Furthermore, the receiving spaces may be utilized as passages for connecting members, particularly as placement spaces for thermistors or as passages for wires connecting the thermistors and connecting members.

[0030] In addition, various other additional effects may be achieved by various embodiments of the present invention. These various effects of the present invention are described in detail in each embodiment, or the description of effects that are easily understood by those skilled in the art is omitted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0031] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing some of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 1 separated. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cartridge shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in Figure 3 in the BB' direction. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a partial configuration shown in FIG. 1, which is a perspective view showing a state in which a connecting member is accommodated between stacked cartridges. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view in the AA' direction of FIG. 1, showing a state in which a battery cell is accommodated inside a cartridge assembly. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of a cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the battery module configuration according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a top view of a portion of a battery module according to the embodiment of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic drawing of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0032] 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, and should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0033] 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.

[0034] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer, it is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0035] Additionally, in this specification, terms indicating direction such as internal or external may be used; unless otherwise specifically stated, internal refers to the direction toward the central part of the battery module, and external refers to the opposite direction.

[0036] In addition, this specification includes various embodiments. Detailed descriptions of identical or similar parts regarding other embodiments are omitted, and the description focuses on the parts where each embodiment differs.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a portion of the configuration illustrated in FIG. 1 separated.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cartridge assembly (CA), a battery cell (200), a busbar assembly (300), and a connecting member (400).

[0040] A cartridge assembly (CA) may be intended to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (200) inside. The cartridge assembly (CA) may include a plurality of cartridges (100). The plurality of cartridges (100) may be stacked along one direction, for example, in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) as shown in FIG. 1. The stacking direction of the cartridges is not limited thereto and may also be stacked in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). A cooling channel may be provided in the cartridge assembly (CA). The cooling channel may be a passage through which a refrigerant, for example, air, flows to cool the battery cells (200). The refrigerant is not limited to a gas such as air, and a liquid such as water may be used as a refrigerant. As shown in FIG. 1, a flow hole (111) is formed on the surface of the cartridge (100), and a cooling channel communicating with this flow hole (111) may be provided inside the cartridge assembly (CA). The specific structure of the cooling channel will be explained again when describing the cartridge.

[0041] A plurality of battery cells (200) may be accommodated inside a cartridge assembly (CA). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a battery cell (200) may be accommodated in a space provided in each cartridge (100), that is, in a space formed on the side of the cartridge (100). The battery cell (200) is stacked together with the cartridge while accommodated in the cartridge (100), and through this structure, a plurality of battery cells (200) may be accommodated in the cartridge assembly (CA). Each battery cell (200) is a secondary battery and may be provided as a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery. In particular, the battery cell (200) shown in FIG. 2 may be a pouch-type secondary battery.

[0042] The above busbar assembly (300) is for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells (200) and can be electrically connected to the electrode leads (201) of the plurality of battery cells (200). The above busbar assembly (300) is connected to the plurality of battery cells (200) and can sense the voltage of the plurality of battery cells (200).

[0043] More specifically, the busbar assembly (300) may include a busbar housing (310) and a busbar terminal (320). Here, the busbar terminal (320) may be electrically connected to a battery cell (200). In particular, the busbar terminal (320) may be made of a conductive metal material such as copper and may come into direct contact with the electrode lead (201) of the battery cell (200). The busbar housing (310) may be made of an electrically insulating material such as plastic and may fix the position of the busbar terminal (320) by allowing the busbar terminal (320) to be mounted thereon. To this end, the busbar housing (310) may be provided with a space or structure, etc., in which the busbar terminal (320) can be mounted.

[0044] The connecting member (400) may be for receiving an electrical signal from the busbar assembly (300) or for transmitting an electrical signal. The connecting member (400) may be electrically connected to the busbar assembly (300). Additionally, the connecting member (400) may be connected from one side of the cartridge assembly (CA) to the other side and may transmit a signal between these two points. Specifically, the connecting member (400) may be connected from one side of the cartridge assembly (CA), i.e., the front side, to the other side, i.e., the rear side. The connecting member (400) may electrically connect a busbar terminal (320), a connector, and a sensing circuit, etc., installed on the front or rear of the cartridge assembly (CA). The connecting member (400) may be implemented in the form of an FPCB or a cable.

[0046] In addition, a receiving space may be provided in the cartridge assembly (CA). In particular, the receiving space may be provided inside the cartridge assembly. In addition, at least a portion of the connecting member (400) may be received in the receiving space.

[0047] According to the above embodiment, a protective effect for the connecting member (400) can be secured. In particular, the connecting member (400) can be protected from external air flow or impact by the cartridge assembly (CA).

[0049] The above receiving space (113) can be formed to be separated from the cooling channel of the cartridge assembly (CA).

[0050] Specifically, a receiving space (113) may be formed in the cartridge assembly (CA) separately from the cooling channel (160). The cooling channel (160) may be formed by including a flow hole (111) formed at the top and bottom of the cartridge (100) and a hollow formed between said flow hole (111). That is, the cooling channel (160) may be formed from the top to the bottom of the cartridge (100). The receiving space (113) may be formed inside the cartridge assembly (CA) but may be formed to be separated from the cooling channel (160). And, a connecting member (400) may be received in this receiving space (113).

[0051] According to the above embodiment, the connecting member (400) housed in the housing space (113) may not be affected by the air flowing along the cooling channel (160), i.e., the cooling wind. Therefore, the risk of the connecting member (400) being damaged by the cooling wind can be prevented.

[0053] The above receiving space (113) can be formed between two cartridges (100) that are stacked adjacently. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, when a plurality of cartridges (100) are stacked, two adjacent cartridges (100) can be joined so as to come into contact with each other. And, a receiving space (113) can be formed between the two contacting surfaces.

[0054] According to the above embodiment, when cartridges (100) are stacked together, a receiving space is formed, and thus the receiving space can be easily formed. In particular, the surface where the cartridges come into contact with each other is exposed to the outside. Therefore, processing of the corresponding part, that is, processing to form the receiving space, can be easily performed.

[0055] In addition, it may have advantages in terms of the energy density of the battery module and in terms of preventing interference between the battery cell and the connecting member. Specifically, the cartridge assembly (CA) is configured in a stacked form of multiple cartridges (100), and a battery cell (200) may be accommodated in a receiving space provided on the side of each cartridge (100). At this time, in order to increase the energy density of the battery module, it may be necessary to fill the space where the battery is accommodated, that is, the side space of the cartridge, with as many battery cells as possible. Also, if the connecting member (400) is placed near the battery cell (200), there may be a risk of interference with the battery cell.

[0056] In the above embodiment, the receiving space (113) may be formed between the surfaces that contact the cartridge (100), rather than in the space where the battery cell is received. Accordingly, the energy density of the battery module can be improved, and interference problems between the connecting member (400) and the battery cell (200) can be prevented.

[0058] Hereinafter, a cartridge assembly and a cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 3 in the BB' direction. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a part of the configuration shown in FIG. 1, showing a state in which a connecting member is accommodated between stacked cartridges. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view in the AA' direction of FIG. 1, showing a state in which a battery cell is accommodated inside the cartridge assembly.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a receiving groove (112) may be provided in the cartridge (100). The receiving groove (112) may be a space for forming a receiving space (113). The receiving groove (112) may be formed on the stacking surface of the cartridge. For example, when the cartridges are stacked, the cartridges come into contact with each other, and the receiving groove (112) may be formed on the contacting surface.

[0061] Additionally, the cartridge (100) may have an upper frame (110). The upper frame (110) may be formed to be elongated in one direction. In particular, the extension direction may be formed to be elongated in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the cartridge (100) is stacked (X-axis direction) (Y-axis direction). A flow hole (111) may be formed through the upper frame (110). At this time, the flow hole (111) may be formed penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the upper frame (110). The flow hole (111) may be formed in the center portion based on the width direction (X-axis direction) of the upper frame (110).

[0062] Additionally, a receiving groove (112) may be provided in the upper frame (110). At this time, the receiving groove (112) may be formed on a surface that comes into contact with another cartridge when the cartridges are stacked. The receiving groove (112) may form a receiving space (113). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, a receiving groove (112) formed concavely inwardly may be provided on the side of the upper frame (110). As shown in FIG. 5, when the cartridges (100) are stacked, the side of the upper frame (110) comes into contact with an adjacent cartridge (100), and at this time, the receiving groove (112) may form a receiving space (113) together with the adjacent cartridge.

[0063] And, as shown in FIG. 4, a receiving space, i.e., a receiving portion (150), for receiving a battery cell (200) can be formed on both sides of the cartridge (100).

[0064] By forming the receiving space (113) in this manner, the receiving space (113) can be separated from the receiving portion (150) of the cartridge (100). Accordingly, problems such as the improvement of energy density of the battery module described above and interference between the battery cell (200) and the connecting member (400) can be resolved.

[0065] In addition, when cartridges (100) are stacked together, a receiving space (113) is formed, so the receiving space (113) can be easily formed. In particular, since a receiving groove is formed on the surface of the cartridge exposed to the outside, the receiving groove can be easily processed.

[0067] When stacking cartridges, the receiving grooves may be provided on the surfaces in contact with the two cartridges arranged on both sides. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, when stacking cartridges (100), other cartridges (100) may be stacked on both sides, namely the left and right sides (X-axis direction). The receiving grooves (112) may be formed on the surfaces on both sides where the other cartridges (100) are stacked. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, receiving grooves (112) may be formed on both sides of the upper frame (110).

[0068] And, when the receiving groove (112) is formed in this way, as shown in FIG. 6, when the cartridges (100) are stacked, the receiving grooves (112) formed in each of the two adjacent cartridges are combined to form a receiving space (113).

[0069] According to the above embodiment, the width of the receiving space can be formed wide, and accordingly, the connecting member can be stably accommodated.

[0070] Specifically, the width of each cartridge (100), more specifically the width of the upper frame (110), is determined by the thickness of the battery cell (200) housed inside, and thus the width may be limited. Furthermore, when forming a receiving groove (112) in the upper frame (110), the receiving groove (112) may be formed to a depth such that the flow hole (111) and the receiving groove (112) are not connected to each other. This is because if the receiving groove (112) and the flow hole (111) are connected to each other, cooling air can flow into the receiving space (113). That is, due to this limitation, the width of the receiving groove (112) that can be formed in one cartridge (100) may be narrower than the connecting member (400).

[0071] According to the above embodiment, a receiving space (113) is formed by combining two adjacent receiving grooves (112), and thus the connecting member (400) can be stably received in a wider space.

[0073] The receiving groove (112) can be formed in a long direction in one direction. In particular, the receiving groove (112) can be formed in a long direction (Y-axis direction) connecting the front and rear of the cartridge assembly. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the receiving groove (112) can be formed in a long direction (Y-axis direction) along the length of the upper frame (110). At this time, the receiving groove (112) can be extended to both ends of the upper frame (110), that is, to the front and rear of the upper frame (110), and accordingly, the front and rear of the upper frame (110) can be formed in an open structure. That is, the receiving groove (112) can be extended from the front to the rear of the upper frame (110) to have a slot structure.

[0074] When the receiving groove (112) is formed in this manner, the receiving space (113) can also be formed long along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the upper frame (100). Additionally, the receiving space (113) can have a structure that is open to both sides, namely the front and the rear.

[0075] According to the embodiment of the above configuration, both ends of the connecting member (400) disposed in the receiving space (113) can exit to the outside of the receiving space through the open structure and be connected to the busbar assembly.

[0077] The above cartridge (100) may be provided with a blocking protrusion (116). The blocking protrusion (116) may be configured to prevent air supplied from the outside from heading toward the point where the busbar assembly and the connecting member are connected.

[0078] More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the connecting member (400) is received in a receiving space (113) formed between the upper frames (110), and at this time, a part of the connecting member (400) may be exposed to the outside of the receiving space (113) to be connected to the busbar assembly. And, air entering from the outside, i.e., cooling air, flows into the flow hole (111) formed in the upper frame (110), but some of it may flow along the upper frame (110) and then flow to the connecting member (400) exposed to the outside. The blocking protrusion (116) is intended to prevent the flow of air flowing to the point where the connecting member (400) and the busbar assembly (300) are connected, i.e., the point exposed to the outside.

[0079] Here, prevention may mean blocking the airflow or mitigating the airflow (reducing the air velocity). The blocking protrusion (116) may be formed on the surface of the airflow path, for example, the upper frame (110), to block the airflow.

[0081] Hereinafter, the above-mentioned blocking protrusion (116) will be described in detail, and the specific configuration of the cartridge will also be described.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the cartridge (100) may have an upper frame (110), a side frame (120), and a lower frame (130).

[0083] The upper frame (110) may be formed in a unidirectional manner, for example, in the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction). The upper frame (110) may be provided with the aforementioned receiving groove (112). Additionally, a flow hole (111) may be formed in the upper frame (110). The flow hole (111) may be formed penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the upper frame (110) and may be formed in multiple numbers along the length direction of the upper frame (110). The flow hole (111) may be formed in the center portion based on the width direction (X-axis direction) of the upper frame (110). Furthermore, the flow hole (111) and the receiving groove (112) may be formed so as not to be connected to each other. This may be because if the receiving groove (112) and the flow hole (111) are in communication with each other, cooling air flows into the receiving space (113), and the connecting member (400) placed within the receiving space (113) may be damaged.

[0084] A side frame (120) may be formed to extend from one end of the upper frame (110). In particular, the extension direction may be extended in a direction perpendicular to the upper frame (110) (Z-axis direction). For example, a pair of side frames (120) may be provided, and each side frame (120) may be formed to extend downward from both ends of the upper frame (110). A busbar assembly (300), for example, a busbar housing, may be coupled to the side frame (120).

[0085] The lower frame (130) can be formed to be elongated in the same direction (Y-axis direction) as the upper frame (110). The lower frame (130) can be joined to connect the lower ends of the pair of side frames (120). A flow hole (not shown in the drawing) can be formed through the lower frame (130), and multiple holes can be formed at positions corresponding to (facing positions) the flow hole (111) formed in the upper frame (110).

[0086] The cartridge (100) may further include ribs (140). The ribs (140) may be formed long in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the side frame (120). The upper end of the rib (140) may be connected to the upper frame (110), and the lower end may be connected to the lower frame (130). The ribs (140) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the upper frame (110). At this time, the ribs (140) may be placed between the flow holes (111) so as not to block the flow holes (111).

[0087] The above rib (140) may have a thin thickness compared to the width of the upper frame (110) and the lower frame (130), and may be coupled to the central part of the upper frame (110) and the lower frame (130). As shown in FIG. 4, receiving portions (150) may be provided on both sides with the rib (140) in between. And, as shown in FIG. 6, a battery cell (200) may be received in the receiving portions (150).

[0089] A cooling channel (160) may be formed in the cartridge (100). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, a cooling channel (160) may be formed that includes a flow hole (111) of the upper frame --> the space between the ribs (140) arranged on both sides of the flow hole (111) --> the flow hole of the lower frame (130). The cooling channel (160) may be provided in multiple numbers, as many as the number of flow holes (111) formed in the upper frame (110).

[0090] Meanwhile, the spacing between the cooling channels (160) may differ. In particular, as shown in FIG. 3, the spacing between the cooling channels (160) formed in the central part of the cartridge (100) may be narrower than the spacing between the cooling channels (160) formed on both edges of the cartridge (100). That is, the cooling channels (160) may be more concentrated in the central part of the cartridge (100), which allows the central part of the battery cell (200) to be cooled more intensively when cooling the battery cell.

[0092] The above blocking protrusion (116) may be formed to protrude from one end of the upper frame (110). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the blocking protrusion (116) may be provided at both ends of the upper frame (110). The blocking protrusion (116) may be formed to protrude from the upper surface of the upper frame (110). For example, the blocking protrusion (116) may be formed to protrude in the direction opposite to the direction in which the side frame (120) is extended, that is, in the upward direction (Z-axis direction).

[0093] The blocking protrusion (116) can have the following effects. Some of the air flowing into the cartridge (100) may flow along the surface of the upper frame (110) to both edges. At this time, when the air collides with the blocking protrusion (116), the air flow path may be locally changed at that point. For example, it may flow in a direction other than the downward direction (i.e., -Z-axis direction) toward the exposed connecting member (400), for example, upward (+Z-axis direction). Also, when the air collides with the blocking protrusion (116), local turbulence may occur at that point. When turbulence occurs, the air at that point (i.e., the point where the blocking protrusion is located) does not have a constant flow but flows in all directions, and accordingly, the amount of air flowing toward the connecting member (400) may be reduced. In addition, when turbulence occurs, the air flow velocity at that point may be reduced.

[0094] That is, the blocking protrusion (116) can block air from flowing toward the connecting member (400), or at least reduce the amount or speed of air flowing toward the connecting member (400). As a result, damage to the connecting member (400) by the airflow (cooling wind) can be prevented.

[0096] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 7, the blocking protrusion (116A) protrudes from the end of the upper frame (110B) and may protrude in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the upper frame (110B). That is, the blocking protrusion (116A) may be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the upper frame (110B) and thus be configured to block the top of the connecting member (400) exposed to the outside. When configured in this way, the air flowing along the upper frame (110B) flows downward after passing the connecting member (400), thereby preventing air from flowing into the connecting member (400).

[0098] Meanwhile, a connection hole (115) may be provided in the cartridge. The connection hole may connect two receiving spaces to each other. This will be explained in detail below with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10. FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of a cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a top view looking down at a part of a battery module according to the embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the cartridge (100A) can be stacked along one direction (X-axis direction), and the receiving space (113) can be formed between the cartridges (100A) and provided in multiple numbers along the direction in which the cartridges (100A) are stacked. A connecting hole (115) is formed through the cartridge and can communicate with each other with two receiving spaces (113) formed on both sides of the cartridge.

[0100] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, a receiving groove (112) may be formed on each side of the upper frame (110A). A connecting hole (115) may be formed through the upper frame (110A). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the connecting hole (115) may be formed by penetrating the side where the receiving groove (112) is formed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the receiving groove (X-axis direction). When the connecting hole (115) is formed in this way, the two receiving grooves (112) formed on both sides can be connected to each other. Additionally, two adjacent receiving spaces (113) can be connected to each other by the connecting hole (115).

[0101] Regarding the use of the above-mentioned connection hole (115), further details are provided with reference to FIG. 10. For example, an additional connection member (600) may be provided in the battery module, or a sensor such as a thermistor (600) may be mounted.

[0102] When there are two connecting members, the two connecting members (400, 600) can be accommodated in different receiving spaces. In this case, the two connecting members (400, 600) may need to be electrically connected. In this case, the two connecting members (400, 600) can be electrically connected through the connecting hole (115).

[0103] The thermistor (600) can be installed at various locations within the battery module. For example, the thermistor can be installed in a battery cell located at the center or edge of the battery module. The thermistor can be coupled to the battery cell while being directly mounted on the FPCB. However, if the thermistor is installed at a point away from the FPCB, the thermistor (600) and the FPCB (400) can be connected by a wire (610), etc. In this case, the connection hole (115) and the receiving space (113) can also be utilized as a connection passage for the wire (610).

[0105] Meanwhile, the cartridge (100) can be configured to further block external air from flowing directly into the receiving space. This will be explained with reference to FIG. 11.

[0106] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 11, when stacking cartridges, two different cartridges may come into contact with each other. At this time, one of the two cartridges may have a concave portion (117b) formed therein, and the other cartridge may have a convex portion (117a) that is inserted into the concave portion.

[0108] More specifically, the sides of the upper frame (110C) may come into contact with each other. At this time, a convex portion (117a) may be formed protrudingly on one of the two sides, and a concave portion (117b) may be formed on the other side. In the case of the present embodiment, a concave portion (117b) may be formed on one of the two sides of each upper frame (110C), and a convex portion (117a) may be formed on the other side. Then, when stacking cartridges, the convex portion (117a) is inserted into the concave portion (117b), allowing for more stable stacking. Additionally, air entering from the outside may flow into the receiving space (113) through the gap between the two surfaces in contact with each other; however, if the structure is such that the convex portion (117a) is inserted into the concave portion (117b) as in the present embodiment, the inflow of air into the receiving space (113) can be efficiently prevented.

[0110] Meanwhile, a sealing portion (not shown in the drawing) may be provided in at least one of the concave portion (117b) and the convex portion (117a). The sealing portion may be intended to further prevent air from entering through the gap between the concave portion (117b) and the convex portion (117a). The sealing portion may be composed of materials such as Teflon (PTFE: Polytetrafluoroethylene), polyurethane (PU, Polyurethane), or rubber. The sealing portion may be configured in a form that is applied or coated onto the concave portion (117b) or the convex portion (117a). Furthermore, by providing a sealing portion in this manner, the entry of air into the interior of the receiving space (113) can be prevented more efficiently.

[0112] FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of an upper frame according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 12, the cartridge assembly may further be provided with a fixing part. The fixing part may be for fixing a connecting member (400) placed in a receiving space (113) of the cartridge assembly. As in the embodiments described above, when the connecting member (400) is placed in the receiving space (113), damage to the connecting member (400) due to vibration or shaking caused by the cooling air can be prevented. However, in addition to vibration or shaking caused by the cooling air, there may be a concern that the connecting member (400) may shake within the receiving space (113) due to vibration or shaking occurring during vehicle operation, and there is a need to compensate for this.

[0113] Specifically, a receiving groove (112) may be formed on the surface of the upper frame (110D) that contacts another upper frame. A fixing part (118) may be provided in the receiving groove (112). The fixing part (118) may have a structure of a projection formed protruding from the surface of the receiving groove (112). The fixing part (118) is in close contact with a connecting member (400) disposed inside to support the connecting member (400), thereby allowing the connecting member (400) to be stably fixed in the receiving space (113).

[0114] More specifically, the fixing part (118) may be formed with a curved shape, such a shape can prevent damage to the surface of the connecting member (400) that contacts the fixing part (118). In addition, the fixing part (118) may be formed in multiple numbers, at least one or more. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, two fixing parts (118) may be provided on the upper surface of each connecting groove (112). Alternatively, a fixing part may also be provided on the lower surface of the connecting groove, that is, on the lower side of the connecting member (400). In addition, the shape of the fixing part may be triangular or square, and the corners may be rounded.

[0115] Additionally, the fixing part (118) may be made of an elastic material, such as rubber or foam materials. In this case, when the connecting member (400) is inserted, the fixing part (118) may contract to fit the thickness or shape of the connecting member (400), and subsequently, the connecting member (400) may be stably fixed by the force of the fixing part (118) to restore, i.e., the restoring force.

[0117] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic drawing of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the battery pack (1) may include at least one battery module (10) of the preceding embodiment and a pack case (50) that accommodates the at least one battery module (10).

[0119] The above battery pack (1) may further include electrical components such as a BMS that controls the at least one battery module (10) or a cooling unit such as a heat sink for cooling the at least one battery module (10).

[0120] The above battery pack (1) may be provided in a vehicle (V) as a fuel source for the vehicle. For example, the above battery pack (1) may be provided in a vehicle (V) in an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, and other ways in which the battery pack (1) can be used as a fuel source.

[0121] The battery pack (1) and the vehicle (V) according to the present embodiment are equipped with the battery module (10) of the preceding embodiment, thereby enabling the realization of a battery pack (1) and a vehicle (V) that possess all the advantages of the battery module (10) of the preceding embodiment.

[0122] In addition, it goes without saying that the battery pack (1) may also be equipped in other devices, mechanisms, and facilities, such as an energy storage system using a secondary battery, in addition to the vehicle (V).

[0123] According to various embodiments as described above, a battery module (10) capable of preventing heat diffusion through the vicinity of the connector unit (200) when an abnormal situation occurs within the module case (300), a battery pack (1) including such a battery module (10), and a vehicle (V) can be provided.

[0124] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0125] V: Car 1: Battery pack 10: Battery module 50: Pack case 100: Cartridge 110: Upper frame 111: Floating hole 112: Acceptance Home 113: Reception Space Section 115: Connection hole 116: Blocking protrusion 117a: Convex part 117b: Concave part 118: Fixed part 120: Side frame 130: Lower frame 140: Rib CA: Cartridge Assembly 200: Battery cell 300: Busbar Assembly 320: Busbar terminal 310: Busbar Housing 400: Connecting member 600: Connecting member, thermistor

Claims

Claim 1 A battery module comprising: a cartridge assembly including a plurality of cartridges stacked along one direction and having a cooling channel; a plurality of battery cells accommodated between the stacked cartridges; a busbar assembly for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells; and a connecting member electrically connected to the busbar assembly and extending from one side to the other side of the cartridge assembly; wherein a receiving space configured to accommodate the connecting member is provided inside the cartridge assembly. Claim 2 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the receiving space is formed to be separated from the cooling channel. Claim 3 A battery module according to paragraph 2, characterized in that the receiving space is formed between two adjacently stacked cartridges. Claim 4 A battery module characterized in that, in the third paragraph, a receiving groove is provided in the cartridge to form the receiving space on the surface that is stacked with another cartridge. Claim 5 A battery module according to claim 4, characterized in that, when the cartridges are stacked, the receiving groove is provided on each surface in contact with the two cartridges arranged on both sides. Claim 6 A battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that the receiving space is formed by combining receiving grooves formed in each of two cartridges stacked adjacent to each other into a single space. Claim 7 A battery module according to claim 4, wherein the receiving space portion is provided in multiple numbers along the direction in which the cartridges are stacked, and the cartridge is provided with a connecting hole that connects two adjacent receiving spaces. Claim 8 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that one of two different cartridges that come into contact with each other when the cartridges are stacked has a concave portion formed therein, and the other of the two cartridges has a convex portion that is inserted into the concave portion. Claim 9 A battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that at least one of the concave portion and the convex portion is provided with a sealing portion for sealing between the concave portion and the convex portion. Claim 10 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the cartridge is provided with a blocking protrusion configured to prevent air supplied from the outside from heading toward the point where the busbar assembly and the connecting member are connected. Claim 11 A battery module according to claim 10, wherein the cartridge comprises an upper frame having a flow hole formed therein for air supplied from the outside to flow in, and a side frame extending from one end of the upper frame to which the busbar assembly is coupled, and wherein the blocking protrusion is formed to protrude from one end of the upper frame. Claim 12 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the cartridge assembly is provided with a fixing part configured to fix a connecting member received in the receiving space. Claim 13 A battery module according to claim 12, wherein the cartridge is provided with a receiving groove configured to form the receiving space portion on a surface stacked with another cartridge, and the fixing portion is formed to protrude from the surface of the receiving groove. Claim 14 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge assembly is provided with a plurality of cooling channels spaced apart from each other, and at least some of the gaps between the cooling channels have different gaps. Claim 15 A battery pack characterized by including at least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 14. Claim 16 An automobile characterized by including at least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images