Cell array structure, battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

A cell array structure according to the present invention comprises a plurality of battery cells; and at least one bus bar electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells, wherein at least a portion of the bus bar is covered by an insulation reinforcing layer that is ceramicized and has enhanced insulation properties when exposed to high temperatures.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cell array structure, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile, and more specifically, to a cell array structure capable of effectively preventing thermal runaway, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product categories, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources.

[0003] These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of being able to drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, but also because they do not generate any by-products from the use of energy.

[0004] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Recently, research and development on battery packs consisting of a single module or cell assembly (hereinafter referred to as a cell array structure) having enhanced structural rigidity by standing multiple cylindrical battery cells upright and densely packed, and a pack frame surrounding it, have been active. In particular, there is a trend toward increasing the size of cell array structures to enhance energy capacity.

[0006] In such a cell array structure, if a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell and high-temperature gas, flame, spark, electrode, etc. are emitted, a short circuit may occur within the cell array structure, which may lead to a thermal runaway phenomenon.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a cell array structure that can effectively prevent thermal runaway by preventing short circuits within the cell array structure, even if a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell. The problem to be solved

[0008] The present invention was conceived in consideration of the technical background described above, and has one objective of providing a cell array structure capable of effectively preventing thermal runaway by preventing a short circuit within the cell array structure even when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0009] 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

[0010] A cell array structure according to the present invention comprises a plurality of battery cells; and at least one bus bar electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells, wherein at least a portion of the bus bar is covered by an insulation reinforcing layer that is ceramicized and has enhanced insulation properties when exposed to high temperatures.

[0011] The above busbar comprises a main body; and a plurality of electrode connection parts disposed on at least one side of the main body and electrically connected to the electrodes of the battery cell, and the main body may be connected in parallel to the plurality of electrode connection parts.

[0012] The above insulation strengthening layer comprises silicon, and at least some of the silicon included in the insulation strengthening layer can be ceramicized by forming at least one of silicon oxide and silicon nitride when exposed to high temperatures.

[0013] The above insulation strengthening layer may further include at least one of titanium oxide and zirconium oxide.

[0014] The electrode connection part and the electrode of the battery cell are welded together, and the insulating reinforcement layer may not be coated on the surface of the electrode connection part facing the electrode of the battery cell.

[0015] All parts of the electrode connection portion, excluding the surface facing the electrode of the battery cell, may be covered with the insulation reinforcing layer.

[0016] The above insulation reinforcement layer can be configured to be coated and covered on the bus bar.

[0017] The above insulation reinforcement layer may be composed of an attachment member that is attached to and covered by the bus bar.

[0018] The above busbar further comprises a plurality of bridge portions connecting the main body portion and the electrode connection portion, and the bridge portion may have a necking portion having a relatively small cross-sectional area compared to the surroundings.

[0019] The above bridge portion is provided with a first groove portion that is recessed in the width direction on at least one side in the width direction, and the necking portion may be formed by the first groove portion.

[0020] The above bridge portion is provided with a second groove portion that is recessed in the thickness direction on at least one surface in the thickness direction, and the necking portion may be formed by the second groove portion.

[0021] The battery cell comprises an electrode including a first electrode having a first polarity and a second electrode having a second polarity, and the first electrode and the second electrode may be disposed together on either side of the battery cell.

[0022] A battery pack according to the present invention comprises at least one cell array structure according to the present invention.

[0023] The automobile according to the present invention includes at least one battery pack according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0024] According to the present invention, a cell array structure capable of preventing a short circuit within the cell array structure when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile can be provided.

[0025] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a cell array structure capable of preventing a short circuit inside the cell array structure when an external shock or vibration is applied, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile can be provided.

[0026] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a cell array structure capable of effectively preventing thermal runaway when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile can be provided.

[0027] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a cell array structure capable of reliably blocking a thermal runaway phenomenon when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile can be provided.

[0028] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] 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 perspective view showing a cell array structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a plurality of busbars separated according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of one bus bar according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of a cell array structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which a part of the busbar corresponding to a specific battery cell is severed when a thermal event occurs in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of a part of a busbar according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing an enlarged view of one of the busbars according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to a modified example of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to another variation of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of one of the busbars according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to a modified example of another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] 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, but 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. Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical spirit of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications capable of replacing them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0031] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.

[0032] The statement that two subjects of comparison are identical means that they are 'substantially identical.' Therefore, substantial identity may include deviations considered low in the industry, for example, deviations within 5%. Additionally, the statement that a parameter is uniform in a given area may mean that it is uniform from an average perspective.

[0033] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0034] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0035] The fact that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0036] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0037] Throughout the specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0038] The present invention may be implemented in the following embodiments, each independently. Furthermore, the present invention may be implemented in combination of two or more of the following embodiments. Each of the following embodiments may not only be implemented independently but may also be freely combined with one another.

[0039] Meanwhile, contents common to parts described in any one embodiment of the present invention may also be applied to other embodiments. For example, contents common to parts described in the first embodiment of the second embodiment may be replaced by the description of the first embodiment described above, and such common contents may also be applied to the second embodiment. Furthermore, contents described in the second embodiment that are applicable to the first embodiment may also be applied to the first embodiment. The same applies to other embodiments.

[0040] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the X-axis and Y-axis directions may be forward, backward, left, and right directions, respectively, and the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the XY plane may be up and down direction (vertical direction).

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cell array structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a plurality of busbars separated according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view showing a part of the cell array structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which a part of the busbar corresponding to the occurrence of a thermal event in a specific battery cell in FIG. 4 is severed.

[0043] Hereinafter, a cell array structure (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. A cell array structure (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery cells (110) and at least one bus bar (120).

[0044] The battery cell (110) may be a secondary battery. The battery cell (110) may be, for example, a cylindrical secondary battery. In the following description, the battery cell (110) is mainly described as being a cylindrical secondary battery, but the battery cell (110) applied to the present invention may be a prismatic secondary battery or a pouch-type secondary battery, rather than a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0045] A plurality of battery cells (110) may be provided. A plurality of battery cells (110) may form a cell array structure (100). A cell array structure (100) may be understood as a single assembly or structure in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are arranged. The battery pack (10) described below, which includes the cell array structure (100), may be provided in a so-called Cell to Pack structure without including a separate module case, thereby increasing space efficiency and improving energy density. The cell array structure (100) may be provided to be large in area by increasing the number of arranged battery cells (110).

[0046] The cell array structure (100) may have a predetermined width, length, and height. For example, the cell array structure (100) may be a three-dimensional structure having a predetermined width, a predetermined length, and a predetermined height in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, respectively.

[0047] Multiple battery cells (110) can form a column of battery cells (110). For example, multiple battery cells (110) can form a column of battery cells (110) in a direction parallel to the length direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the cell array structure (100). Multiple battery cells (110) can be formed into a column of multiple battery cells (110). A column of multiple battery cells (110) can be arranged along the X-axis direction.

[0048] The busbar (120) may be configured to electrically connect multiple battery cells (110). Specifically, the busbar (120) may be configured to electrically connect multiple battery cells (110) in series and parallel.

[0049] The busbar (120) may include a conductive conductor to electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the busbar (120) may include at least one of metals such as aluminum, copper, gold, and silver. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0050] The busbar (120) may be provided in multiple numbers. The busbar (120) may be configured in a shape and number different from the shape and number shown in the drawing.

[0051] At least a portion of the busbar (120) may be covered by an insulation reinforcing layer (IR). The insulation reinforcing layer (IR) may have insulating properties. Here, insulating properties mean electrical insulating properties.

[0052] The insulation strengthening layer (IR) can be configured to become ceramic when exposed to high temperatures. Here, high temperatures may mean, for example, temperatures of approximately 300 degrees Celsius or higher. When the insulation strengthening layer (IR) becomes ceramic, the insulation properties of the insulation strengthening layer (IR) can be enhanced.

[0053] In other words, the insulation strengthening layer (IR) has insulating properties even when not exposed to high temperatures, and its insulating properties can be further enhanced when exposed to a high-temperature environment.

[0054] When a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (110) inside a cell array structure (100), high-temperature gas, flame, spark, electrode, etc. may be emitted from the battery cell (110). In this case, the busbar (120) may be exposed to high temperatures.

[0055] In the case of conventional cell array structures, if a thermal event occurred in a specific battery cell, there was a very high probability that a short circuit would occur inside the cell array structure.

[0056] For example, if a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell, the busbar adjacent to that battery cell may be damaged, such as by deformation or breakage, and the damaged busbar may unintentionally come into contact with other parts of the cell array structure. Alternatively, even if the busbar is not damaged, other parts of the cell array structure may unintentionally come into contact with the busbar. As described above, if the busbar and other parts of the cell array structure come into unintentional contact, a short circuit may occur within the cell array structure, thereby increasing the likelihood of thermal runaway.

[0057] However, in the case of a cell array structure (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a thermal runaway phenomenon can be effectively prevented by preventing a short circuit inside the cell array structure (100). Specifically, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (110) and a high-temperature environment is created, the insulation of the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) of the busbar (120) exposed to the high-temperature environment is reinforced. Since the electrical insulation between the busbar (120) and other parts of the cell array structure (100) is highly secured even if they come into unintended contact, the occurrence of a short circuit inside the cell array structure (100) can be effectively prevented. As a result, a thermal runaway phenomenon can also be effectively prevented.

[0058] In addition, since the insulation reinforcement layer (IR) has insulating properties even when not exposed to high temperatures, even if external shock or vibration is applied to the cell array structure (100) under normal or normal conditions, a short circuit inside the cell array structure (100) is prevented, and the thermal runaway phenomenon can be effectively prevented.

[0059] Additionally, if the busbar (120) bends due to a thermal event occurring in a specific battery cell (110), the insulation reinforcement layer (IR) may become thin, and if the busbar (120) breaks, the inner metal portion of the insulation reinforcement layer (IR) constituting the busbar (120) may be exposed to the outside. However, since the busbar (120) according to the present invention is ceramicized in a high-temperature environment to enhance insulation, even if the busbar (120) bends or breaks, higher insulation can be secured, thereby reliably blocking the thermal runaway phenomenon.

[0061] Meanwhile, the busbar (120) may include a unidirectional busbar (120) and a bidirectional busbar (120). The unidirectional busbar (120) may be a busbar (120) in which a battery cell (110) is connected only to one side, and, for example, may be placed on both sides at the outermost edge in the X-axis direction. The bidirectional busbar (120) may be a busbar (120) in which a battery cell (110) is connected to each side in both directions, and may be placed on the inner side in the X-axis direction of the unidirectional busbar (120) placed on both sides at the outermost edge.

[0063] The busbar (120) may be equipped with a main body (121) and a plurality of electrode connection parts (122).

[0064] The main body (121) can be extended along the direction of the battery cell (110), for example. For example, the main body (121) can be extended along the Y-axis direction.

[0065] The electrode connection portion (122) may be disposed on at least one side of the main body portion (121). For example, in the case of a unidirectional bus bar (120), the electrode connection portion (122) may be disposed on only one side in the X-axis direction. For example, in the case of a bidirectional bus bar (120), the electrode connection portion (122) may be disposed on both sides in the X-axis direction. The electrode connection portion (122) may be electrically connected to the electrode of the battery cell (110).

[0066] The main body (121) can be connected in parallel with a plurality of electrode connection parts (122). As a result, a high current can be formed under the same voltage conditions.

[0067] Meanwhile, in this case, if an internal short circuit occurs as in the aforementioned conventional cell array structure, the electrical energy of multiple battery cells connected in parallel may be concentrated at the part where the short circuit occurred, which can lead to a more severe thermal runaway phenomenon. However, in the cell array structure (100) according to the present invention, an insulation reinforcing layer (IR) is coated on the busbar (120), so that such internal short circuits and thermal runaway phenomena can be effectively prevented.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of a part of a busbar according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Hereinafter, a busbar (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6. For reference, FIG. 6 shows a busbar (120) composed of a metal material as a conductive conductor and an insulating reinforcing layer (IR) surrounding the busbar (120). FIG. 6 is a schematic drawing for explaining a busbar (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the actual shape of the busbar (120) may be modified from FIG. 6.

[0071] The insulation strengthening layer (IR) may include silicon (Si). At least some of the silicon included in the insulation strengthening layer (IR) may become ceramicized when exposed to high temperatures. Specifically, at least some of the silicon included in the insulation strengthening layer (IR) may become ceramicized by forming at least one of silicon oxide and silicon nitride when exposed to high temperatures.

[0072] Chemical Formula 1: Si + O 2 → SiO2

[0073] For example, silicon can be ceramicized by reacting with oxygen (O2) in the air at a high temperature (e.g., a temperature of about 300 degrees or higher) to form silicon oxides such as silicon dioxide (SiO2) through a chemical reaction such as Chemical Formula 1.

[0074] Chemical Formula 2: 3Si + 2N 2 → Si3N4

[0075] For example, silicon can be ceramicized by reacting with nitrogen (N2) in the air at a high temperature (e.g., a temperature of about 700 degrees or higher) to form silicon nitrides such as silicon nitride (Si3N4) through a chemical reaction such as Chemical Formula 2.

[0076] The above silicon dioxide and silicon nitride are each ceramic materials that possess excellent electrical insulation properties.

[0078] The insulating layer (IR) may further include at least one of titanium oxide (TiO2) and zirconium oxide (ZrO2).

[0079] In the insulation strengthening layer (IR), titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide can be distributed within the silicon matrix. Titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide can improve the thermal stability, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance of the silicon matrix. In a high-temperature environment, titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide can serve as a framework for the formation or growth of silicon oxide and / or silicon nitride, and can promote the growth of silicon oxide and / or silicon nitride. That is, titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide can be used as a silicon composite or reinforcing material in the insulation strengthening layer (IR).

[0080] When the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) is configured as described above, the thermal safety, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance of the busbar (120) can be improved. Additionally, when the busbar (120) is exposed to high temperatures, the ceramicization of the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) can be promoted, thereby further enhancing the insulation properties of the busbar (120).

[0081] Meanwhile, for example, even if the bus bar (120) is broken and the internal metal part is exposed to the outside due to a thermal event of the battery cell (110), silicon oxide and / or silicon nitride can be rapidly grown in the insulating layer (IR) surrounding the metal part and quickly cover at least a portion of the exposed metal part, so that the possibility of an internal short circuit of the cell array structure (100) can be significantly reduced.

[0083] FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing an enlarged view of one of the busbars according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Hereinafter, a busbar (120) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0085] The electrode connection part (122) of the bus bar (120) and the electrode of the battery cell (110) can be welded together.

[0086] The surface of the electrode connection part (122) facing the electrode of the battery cell (110) may not be coated with an insulation reinforcing layer (IR). For example, the bottom surface of the electrode connection part (122) may be welded to the top surface of the electrode of the battery cell (110), and the bottom surface of the electrode connection part (122) may not be coated with an insulation reinforcing layer (IR).

[0087] If an insulating reinforcement layer (IR) is applied to the portion of the electrode connection part (122) that faces the electrode of the battery cell (110), welding between the electrode connection part (122) and the electrode may not be properly performed, and an electrical connection between the electrode connection part (122) and the electrode may not be formed. Therefore, when the busbar (120) is configured as described above, welding between the electrode connection part (122) and the electrode can be properly performed, and an electrical connection between the electrode connection part (122) and the electrode can be guaranteed.

[0089] In addition, all other parts of the electrode connection part (122), excluding the surface facing the electrode of the battery cell (110), may be coated with an insulating layer (IR). When the bus bar (120) is configured in this way, there is an advantage that electrical connection between the electrode connection part (122) and the electrode is ensured, while short circuits inside the cell array structure (100) can be prevented.

[0091] FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to a modified example of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 8, a bus bar (120) according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. In the bus bar (120) according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention, the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) may be configured to be coated and covered on the bus bar (120). That is, the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) may be composed of a coating layer (C). The coating layer (C) may include silicon as described above, and may further include titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide.

[0093] In this case, there is an advantage that the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) can be easily and effectively coated on the bus bar (120) of a complex shape.

[0095] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing one of the busbars according to another variation of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 9, a busbar (120) according to another variation of an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. In the busbar (120) according to another variation of an embodiment of the present invention, the insulation reinforcing layer (IR) may be composed of an attachment member (T) that is attached to and covered by the busbar (120). The attachment member (T) may be composed of, for example, any one of a tape, a sheet, and a film. The attachment member (T) may include silicon as described above and may further include titanium oxide and / or zirconium oxide.

[0097] In this case, there is an advantage in that it is easy to adjust the thickness of the attachment member (T) or to configure different materials.

[0099] Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 5, a bus bar (120) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further comprise a bridge portion (123). The bridge portion (123) may be configured to connect a main body portion (121) and an electrode connection portion (122). The bridge portion (123) may be located between the main body portion (121) and the electrode connection portion (122).

[0101] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a bus bar according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of a bus bar according to a modified example of another embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Hereinafter, a bus bar (120) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. A bus bar (120) according to another embodiment of the present invention has a plurality of bridge portions (123), and the bridge portions (123) may have a necking portion (N). The necking portion (N) may be a part having a relatively small cross-sectional area compared to the surrounding area. For example, in the bridge portion (123), the cross-sectional area of ​​the necking portion (N) may be formed smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the part close to the electrode connection portion (122) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the part close to the main body portion (121) with respect to the necking portion (N). That is, the necking portion (N) may be a part formed with a relatively narrow cross-sectional area in the bridge portion (123).

[0103] The necking portion (N) may be more vulnerable to high temperatures than the surrounding portion. Therefore, when the bridge portion (123) is exposed to high temperatures, the necking portion (N) may melt and break due to the high temperatures before the surrounding portion.

[0104] When a high-temperature electrode (or electrode assembly) is discharged from a specific battery cell (110), only a metal can or the like that accommodates the electrode may exist in that location. Since the electrical resistance of such a can is much lower than the electrical resistance of the battery cell (110), the electrical energy of the remaining other battery cells (110) electrically connected by the busbar (120) can be rapidly concentrated into the can, and as a result, the possibility of a thermal runaway phenomenon occurring may increase.

[0105] However, when the busbar (120) is configured as described above, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (110), the necking portion (N) of the busbar (120) connected to the specific battery cell (110) can be easily severed, thereby electrically insulating the specific battery cell (110) from the busbar (120) and preventing thermal runaway. In addition, as described above, the busbar (120) is equipped with an insulation reinforcing layer (IR), so high insulation performance can be secured even when severed.

[0106] In particular, referring to FIG. 10, the bridge portion (123) may be provided with a first groove portion (124). The first groove portion (124) may be a portion that is recessed in the width direction on at least one side of the bridge portion (123). For example, the first groove portion (124) may be formed by being recessed on at least one side of the bridge portion (123) in the Y-axis direction. And, the necking portion (N) may be formed by the first groove portion (124).

[0107] In particular, referring to FIG. 11, the bridge portion (123) may be provided with a second groove portion (125). The second groove portion (125) may be a portion that is recessed in the thickness direction on at least one surface of the bridge portion (123). For example, the second groove portion (125) may be formed by being recessed on at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the bridge portion (123). And, the necking portion (N) may be formed by the second groove portion (125).

[0108] Of course, the bridge portion (123) may be configured in a combined form of FIG. 10 and FIG. 11. That is, the bridge portion (123) may have both the first groove portion (124) and the second groove portion (125). Alternatively, when the bus bar (120) has a plurality of bridge portions (123), it may be configured such that one of the two bridges has the first groove portion (124) and the other has the second groove portion (125).

[0110] Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 5, the electrodes of the battery cell (110) may include a first electrode (111) and a second electrode (112). The first electrode (111) may have a first polarity, and the second electrode (112) may have a second polarity. The first polarity and the second polarity may have opposite polarities. For example, the first polarity may be positive and the second polarity may be negative.

[0111] The electrode connection part (122) may include a first electrode connection part (122-1) and a second electrode connection part (122-2). The first electrode connection part (122-1) may be a part electrically connected to the first electrode (111). The second electrode connection part (122-2) may be a part electrically connected to the second electrode (112).

[0112] The bridge portion (123) may include a first bridge portion (123-1) and a second bridge portion (123-2). The first bridge portion (123-1) may be a part connecting the main body portion (121) and the first electrode connection portion (122-1). The second bridge portion (123-2) may be a part connecting the main body portion (121) and the second electrode connection portion (122-2).

[0113] The first electrode connection part (122-1) and the first bridge part (123-1) may be positioned, for example, on the +X direction side of the main body part (121), and the second electrode connection part (122-2) and the second bridge part (123-2) may be positioned, for example, on the -X direction side of the main body part (121).

[0114] When the busbar (120) is configured as described above, the electrical connection of a plurality of battery cells (110) having a first electrode (111) and a second electrode (112) can be efficiently and effectively achieved at the same time.

[0115] The first bridge section (123-1) may be configured in an inclined shape. For example, the first bridge section (123-1) may have an inclined shape such that it moves further away from the battery cell (110) as it moves from the first electrode connection section (122-1) toward the main body section (121).

[0116] In the battery cell (110), the first electrode (111) may have a shape that protrudes outwardly more than the second electrode (112), and when the first bridge portion (123-1) is configured as above, the bus bar (120) can be securely attached to the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0118] In the battery cell (110), the first electrode (111) and the second electrode (112) may be placed together on either side of the battery cell (110). For example, both the first electrode (111) and the second electrode (112) may be placed together on the upper side of the battery cell (110).

[0119] When the battery cell (110) is configured in this way, when multiple battery cells (110) are electrically connected, an electrical connection structure only needs to be provided on one side of the battery cell (110), so efficient and easy electrical connection can be implemented.

[0121] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 1, the cell array structure (100) may further include a side frame. The side frame may be configured to accommodate and support a plurality of battery cells (110). The side frame may include at least one of a side structure (130) and a side wall (140). The side frame may include either the side structure (130) or the side wall (140), or it may include both the side structure (130) and the side wall (140). The side structure (130) and the side wall (140) may be configured separately from each other. Alternatively, the side structure (130) and the side wall (140) may be configured integrally with each other.

[0122] The side structure (130) is extended and can accommodate and support multiple battery cells (110) on both sides. For example, the side structure (130) is extended in the Y-axis direction and can accommodate and support multiple battery cells (110) on both sides in the X-axis direction.

[0123] The side wall (140) is extended and can accommodate and support multiple battery cells (110) on one side. For example, the side wall (140) is extended in the Y-axis direction and can accommodate and support multiple battery cells (110) on the -X side or the +X side. The side wall (140) can be positioned at least one of the outermost sides in the X-axis direction of the cell array structure (100).

[0124] Meanwhile, the cell array structure (100) may be equipped with a cooling unit. The cooling unit may be configured to cool the battery cell (110). The cooling unit may be configured, for example, to cool the side of the battery cell (110). The cooling unit may be placed between two adjacent rows of battery cells (110).

[0126] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may include at least one cell array structure (100) according to the present invention. The battery pack (10) according to the present invention may include a plurality of cell array structures (100). For example, the battery pack (10) may include two cell array structures (100) as shown in FIG. 11.

[0128] The battery pack (10) may further include a pack case (200). The pack case (200) may have a receiving space formed therein for accommodating at least one cell array structure (100). The pack case (200) may further include a bottom plate, a side wall, and a pack lid. The bottom plate may form the bottom of the pack case (200). The side wall may surround the bottom plate and, together with the bottom plate, form a receiving space in which at least one cell array structure (100) can be accommodated. The pack lid may be configured to cover the receiving space. The pack case (200) may further include a cross beam configured to partition the receiving space.

[0129] Meanwhile, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may further include various other components other than the above components, such as the aforementioned BMS (B), busbar, relay, current sensor, etc., components of the battery pack (10) known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0131] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 13 below, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle (V), such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include the battery pack (10) according to the present invention. The battery pack (10) may be installed in the vehicle body frame or trunk space under the vehicle seat. Furthermore, the vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery pack (10). For example, the vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include, in addition to the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0133] In addition, it is obvious that the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may also be provided in other devices, mechanisms, and facilities, such as an energy storage system using a secondary battery, in addition to a vehicle (V).

[0135] Meanwhile, although terms indicating direction such as up and down have been used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to a person skilled in the art that they may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0136] Although the present invention has been described above by means of limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims set forth below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed above should be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. That is, the scope of the true technical spirit of the present invention is indicated in the claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope thereof should be interpreted as being included in the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0137] 10: Battery pack 100 : Cell array structure 110: Battery cell 111 : First electrode 112 : Second electrode 120 : Busbar 121 : Main body 122 : Electrode connection part 122-1 : First electrode connection part 122-2 : Second electrode connection part 123 : Bridge section 123-1 : 1st Bridge Section 123-2 : 2nd Bridge Section 124 : 1st Home 125 : 2nd Home 130 : Side structure 140 : Side wall 200 : Pack case IR: Insulation reinforcement layer C: Coating layer T : Attachment member N : Necking part V : Car

Claims

Claim 1 A cell array structure comprising a plurality of battery cells; and at least one bus bar electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells, wherein at least a portion of the bus bar is covered by an insulating reinforcing layer that is ceramicized and has enhanced insulation properties when exposed to high temperatures. Claim 2 A cell array structure according to claim 1, wherein the busbar comprises: a main body; and a plurality of electrode connection parts disposed on at least one side of the main body and electrically connected to the electrodes of the battery cells, and wherein the main body is connected in parallel to the plurality of electrode connection parts. Claim 3 A cell array structure according to claim 1, wherein the insulation reinforcing layer comprises silicon, and at least some of the silicon included in the insulation reinforcing layer forms at least one of silicon oxide and silicon nitride and becomes ceramicized when exposed to high temperature. Claim 4 A cell array structure according to claim 3, wherein the insulation strengthening layer further comprises at least one of titanium oxide and zirconium oxide. Claim 5 A cell array structure according to paragraph 2, wherein the electrode connection part and the electrode of the battery cell are welded together, and the insulating reinforcement layer is not coated on the surface of the electrode connection part facing the electrode of the battery cell. Claim 6 A cell array structure according to claim 5, characterized in that all remaining parts of the electrode connection portion, excluding the surface facing the electrode of the battery cell, are covered with the insulation reinforcing layer. Claim 7 A cell array structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the insulation reinforcing layer is configured to be coated and covered on the bus bar. Claim 8 A cell array structure according to claim 1, wherein the insulation reinforcing layer is composed of an attachment member attached to and covered by the bus bar. Claim 9 A cell array structure according to paragraph 2, wherein the busbar further comprises a plurality of bridge portions connecting the main body portion and the electrode connection portion, and the bridge portion comprises a necking portion having a relatively small cross-sectional area compared to the surroundings. Claim 10 A cell array structure according to claim 9, wherein the bridge portion has a first groove portion recessed in the width direction on at least one side in the width direction, and the necking portion is formed by the first groove portion. Claim 11 A cell array structure according to claim 9, wherein the bridge portion has a second groove portion recessed in the thickness direction on at least one surface in the thickness direction, and the necking portion is formed by the second groove portion. Claim 12 A cell array structure according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell comprises an electrode including a first electrode having a first polarity and a second electrode having a second polarity, and the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed together on either side of the battery cell. Claim 13 A battery pack characterized by including at least one cell array structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12. Claim 14 An automobile characterized by including at least one battery pack according to Clause 13.

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