Battery cell assembly AMD battery pack comprising the same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery pack comprises: a pack housing including a base plate; and a battery cell assembly on the pack housing, wherein the battery cell assembly comprises: a plurality of battery cells arranged in the X direction; a first integrated circuit assembly located in the +Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a second integrated circuit assembly located in the -Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a first cell side beam coupled to the pack housing in the X direction forward of the plurality of battery cells; and a sensing connection connecting the first integrated circuit assembly and the second integrated circuit assembly between the first cell side beam and the plurality of battery cells, wherein the first cell side beam comprises a groove on an inner surface facing the plurality of battery cells, and the sensing connection may comprise a connection line disposed within the groove.

Description

Technology Field

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

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

[0004] The trend in the technological development of rechargeable batteries for mobility is the improvement of energy density and safety. The safety of rechargeable batteries is critical as it is directly linked to the lives of passengers. The safety of rechargeable batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, the reliability of electrical insulation, and the delay of heat transfer in the event of a thermal runaway event. The problem to be solved

[0006] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery cell assembly with improved design freedom.

[0007] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery cell assembly with improved performance and reliability.

[0008] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack with improved coupling strength between components.

[0009] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack with improved performance and reliability. means of solving the problem

[0011] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack may be provided. The battery pack comprises: a pack housing including a base plate; and a battery cell assembly on the pack housing, wherein the battery cell assembly comprises: a plurality of battery cells arranged in the X direction; a first integrated circuit assembly located in the +Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a second integrated circuit assembly located in the -Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a first cell side beam coupled to the pack housing in the X direction front of the plurality of battery cells; and a sensing connection connecting the first integrated circuit assembly and the second integrated circuit assembly between the first cell side beam and the plurality of battery cells, wherein the first cell side beam comprises a groove on an inner surface facing the plurality of battery cells, and the sensing connection may comprise a connection line disposed within the groove.

[0012] In one embodiment, the battery cell assembly further includes an insulating sheet between the first cell side beam and the plurality of battery cells, and the connecting line may be disposed between the insulating sheet and the first cell side beam.

[0013] In one embodiment, the connection line may overlap with the plurality of battery cells in the X direction.

[0014] In one embodiment, the groove has a depth in the X direction, and the depth of the groove in the X direction may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the connecting line in the X direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the connection line can be extended in the +Y direction.

[0016] In some embodiments, the connection line may include an FFC (flexible flat cable) or an FPCB (flexible printed circuit board).

[0017] In one embodiment, the sensing connection may further include a first connector that is coupled to the first integrated circuit assembly.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first integrated circuit assembly includes a first connector mounting portion that is directly coupled to the first connector, and the first connector and the first connector mounting portion can be coupled in the X direction.

[0019] In one embodiment, the sensing connection further includes a second connector coupled to the second integrated circuit assembly, the connection line connects the first connector and the second connector, the second integrated circuit assembly includes a second connector mounting portion directly coupled to the second connector, and the second connector and the second connector mounting portion can be coupled in the X direction.

[0020] In one embodiment, the connection line includes a first end to which the first connector is connected, and the first end may overlap with the plurality of battery cells in the +Y direction.

[0021] In one embodiment, the pack housing includes a pack cross beam that overlaps in the Z direction with a first cell side beam of the battery cell assembly, and the first cell side beam, the pack cross beam, and the base plate can be joined by a joining member. Effects of the invention

[0023] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly may include a sensing connection disposed in front (or rear) of a plurality of battery cells. In particular, as the connection line is disposed within a groove, surface pressure imbalance can be eliminated.

[0024] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly with improved design freedom can be provided.

[0025] According to embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention, a battery cell assembly with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0026] According to embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention, a battery pack with improved coupling strength between components can be provided.

[0027] According to embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention, a battery pack with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0028] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the following description. That is, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery cell to illustrate a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a side view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates some components separated to explain a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cell side beam for illustrating a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view illustrating a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a pack housing of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a part of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. FIG. 14 is an enlarged side view of a portion of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings. Instead, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best describe his invention, they should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In addition, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions may obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0034] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the size or proportion of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size or proportion.

[0036] (1st embodiment)

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly (120) viewed from a different direction than FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery cell (121) to explain a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery cell assembly (120) may include a plurality of battery cells (121), a first integrated circuit assembly (123), a second integrated circuit assembly (124), a first cell side beam (125), a second cell side beam (127), and a sensing connection part (130).

[0044] In the embodiments, a plurality of battery cells (121) may be arranged in the X direction. The plurality of battery cells (121) may be joined, for example, by an adhesive.

[0045] Referring together with FIG. 4, the battery cell (121) may include a case (121C), an electrode assembly (121EA), a positive terminal (121P), and a negative terminal (121N). The battery cell (121) may further include an electrolyte.

[0046] In the embodiments, the battery cell (121) may include one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is embedded in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is embedded in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is embedded in a pouch case comprising an aluminum laminate sheet. Hereinafter, the technical concept of the present invention is described based on an example in which the battery cell (121) includes a pouch-type battery cell, but a person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at an example in which the battery cell (121) includes one of a cylindrical battery cell and a prismatic battery cell based on what is described herein.

[0047] The electrode assembly (121EA) may include an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode. The electrode assembly (121EA) may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type. A jelly-roll type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a wound structure of an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between them. A stack type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a plurality of anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and a plurality of separators interposed between them that are sequentially stacked.

[0048] In a stack-type electrode assembly (121EA), a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes may be arranged in the X direction. In a stack-type electrode assembly (121EA), a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes may be stacked in the X direction.

[0049] Each of the plurality of positives of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include a positive tab (not shown). Each positive tab (not shown) of the plurality of positives of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with a positive terminal (121P). Each positive tab (not shown) of the plurality of positives of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with a positive terminal (121P).

[0050] Each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include a cathode tab (121NT). Each of the cathode tabs (121NT) of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with a cathode terminal (121N). Each of the cathode tabs (121NT) of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with a cathode terminal (121N).

[0051] The case (121C) may include an inner resin layer, a metal layer, and an outer resin layer. An adhesive and an anti-corrosion layer may be further provided between the inner resin layer and the metal layer and between the outer resin layer and the metal layer.

[0052] The inner resin layer may have heat-sealability and may be referred to as a sealant layer. The inner resin layer enables sealing of the case (121C). The inner resin layer may include polyolefin-based resins such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), for example. The metal layer may include any one of an alloy of iron, carbon, chromium, and manganese, an alloy of iron, chromium, and nickel, and aluminum. The metal layer may be a gas barrier. The metal layer may block the entry and exit of gas through the case (121C). The outer resin layer may be a surface protection layer. The outer resin layer may include a material having wear resistance and heat resistance, such as nylon resin.

[0053] The case (121C) may be provided by joining the first case (121C1) and the second case (121C2). In this example, the first case (121C1) may be substantially flat. The first case (121C1) may not include a receiving portion. The second case (121C2) may include a receiving portion (121R). The receiving portion (121R) may be formed by a pouch forming process. The receiving portion (121R) is a part of the second case (121C2) formed into a bowl shape for receiving an electrode assembly (121EA).

[0054] The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can surround the receiving portion (121R). The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can be joined to the edge of the first case (121C1), and accordingly, a case (121C) can be provided.

[0055] An insulating tape (121I) may be applied to the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may protrude outside the case (121C). The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may protrude in the Y direction from the case (121C). Accordingly, the resulting voltage and current of the battery cell (121) may be output through the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) may be a positive lead. The negative terminal (121N) may be a negative lead.

[0056] The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may be spaced apart in the Y direction. The Y direction may be substantially parallel to each of the plurality of positives of the electrode assembly (121EA) and each of the plurality of negatives of the electrode assembly (121EA).

[0058] Referring together with FIG. 5, a plurality of battery cells (121) can form a plurality of banks. For example, some (e.g., two) battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK1). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK2). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK3). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK4). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK5). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK6). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK7). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK8). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK9). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK10). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK11). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK12). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK13). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel with each other to form a bank (BNK14). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel with each other to form a bank (BNK15). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel with each other to form a bank (BNK16).For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK17). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK18). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK19). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK20). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK21). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK22). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel to form a bank (BNK23). For example, some battery cells (121) can be connected in parallel with each other to form a bank (BNK24). The banks (BNK1, BNK2, BNK3, BNK4, BNK5, BNK6, BNK7, BNK8, BNK9, BNK10, BNK11, BNK12, BNK13, BNK14, BNK15, BNK16, BNK17, BNK18, BNK19, BNK20, BNK21, BNK22, BNK23, BNK24) can be connected in series.

[0059] The resulting connection form of multiple battery cells (121) may be referred to as 2 parallel-24 series (2P-24S), but this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the technical concept of the present invention in any sense. The number of series-connected banks and the number of battery cells (121) included in the multiple banks may be determined according to the magnitude of the voltage and current to be output from the battery cell assembly (120).

[0061] In the embodiments, the first integrated circuit assembly (123) may be located in the +Y direction of the plurality of battery cells (121). Specifically, the first integrated circuit assembly (123) may overlap with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the Y direction. The first integrated circuit assembly (123) may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, busbars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover. The first integrated circuit assembly (123) may be electrically connected to one side of the plurality of battery cells (121) in the +Y direction. The first integrated circuit assembly (123) may include physical and functional configurations for outputting the resulting voltage of the plurality of battery cells (121) and measuring the voltage (or current) of nodes within a circuit composed of the plurality of battery cells (121).

[0062] In the embodiments, the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may be located in the -Y direction of the plurality of battery cells (121). Specifically, the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may overlap with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the Y direction. In this specification, the +Y direction and the -Y direction may refer to parallel and opposite directions. For example, the +Y direction may form 180° with the -Y direction.

[0063] The second integrated circuit assembly (124) may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, busbars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover. The second integrated circuit assembly (124) may be electrically connected to one side in the -Y direction of a plurality of battery cells (121). The second integrated circuit assembly (124) may include physical and functional configurations for outputting the resulting voltage of the plurality of battery cells (121) and for measuring the voltage (or current) of nodes within a circuit composed of the plurality of battery cells (121).

[0064] In the embodiments, the insulating frame of each of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may comprise an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame may cover the front of a plurality of battery cells (121). The insulating frame may support the integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, and wiring.

[0065] In the embodiments, the bus bars of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124), respectively, may be short-circuited to the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank (BNK1) and the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank (BNK24). The bus bars may be welded to the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank (BNK1) and the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank (BNK24). The resulting voltage of a plurality of battery cells (121) of the battery cell assembly (120) may be output through the bus bars. The bus bars may be fixed to an insulating frame.

[0066] In the embodiments, the integrated circuits of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124), respectively, may be mounted on an insulating frame. Positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded to each other may form nodes within the battery cell assembly (120). The integrated circuit may be configured to measure the voltage of the nodes through sensing plates and sensing bars.

[0067] In the embodiments, the sensing bars of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may each comprise a conductive material. The sensing bars may have a rod shape. The sensing bars may be short-circuited to the bus bars. The sensing bars may be coupled to the bus bars. Through the sensing bars, the voltage of the bus bars may be measured.

[0068] In the embodiments, each of the plurality of sensing plates of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The plurality of sensing plates may include a conductive material. The plurality of sensing plates may be short-circuited to corresponding positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) of the plurality of battery cells (121).

[0069] In the embodiments, each of the plurality of sensing plates of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124) can be connected to the integrated circuit. Through the plurality of sensing plates, the voltage of a plurality of nodes inside the battery cell assembly (120) can be measured.

[0070] In the embodiments, the temperature sensors of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124), respectively, may be configured to measure the temperature of a plurality of points of the battery cell assembly (120). The temperature sensors may be spatially distributed, and accordingly, the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly (120) may be measured.

[0071] In the embodiments, the insulating cover of each of the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may comprise an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted into an insulating frame. The insulating cover may cover the integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, and temperature sensors, and accordingly, the electrical elements of the first and second integrated circuit assemblies may be protected.

[0072] In the embodiments, the first cell side beam (125) may be located in the +X direction in front of a plurality of battery cells (121). Specifically, the first cell side beam (125) may overlap with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. The first cell side beam (125) may include a P-shaped cross-section.

[0073] In the embodiments, the second cell side beam (127) may be located behind the plurality of battery cells (121) in the -X direction. Specifically, the second cell side beam (127) may overlap with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. The second cell side beam (127) may include a P-shaped cross-section. In this specification, the +X direction and the -X direction may refer to parallel and opposite directions. For example, the +X direction may form 180° with the -X direction.

[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates some components separated to explain a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates the first cell side beam (125) and the first insulating sheet (126), etc. of the battery cell assembly (120) separated in a part of FIG. 1.

[0076] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first cell side beam (125) for illustrating a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view for illustrating a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view for illustrating a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view corresponding to a part area of ​​FIG. 1.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view for illustrating a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view corresponding to a part area of ​​FIG. 2.

[0081] Referring together to FIGS. 6 to 10, the battery cell assembly (120) may further include a sensing connection part (130).

[0082] In the embodiments, the sensing connection (130) may be positioned between the first cell side beam (125) and a plurality of battery cells (121). Specifically, an insulating sheet (126) may be further positioned on the inner surface of the first cell side beam (125) facing the plurality of battery cells (121). The insulating sheet (126) may be attached to the inner surface of the first cell side beam (125). The insulating sheet (126) may extend in the Y direction and the Z direction. The sensing connection (130) may be positioned between the first cell side beam (125) and the insulating sheet (126).

[0083] In the embodiments, the sensing connection (130) can connect the first integrated circuit assembly (123) and the second integrated circuit assembly (124). The sensing connection (130) may include a first connector (131), a second connector (132), and a connection line (133).

[0084] In the embodiments, the first connector (131) may be coupled to the first integrated circuit assembly (123). Specifically, the first integrated circuit assembly (123) may include a first connector mounting portion (141) that is directly coupled to the first connector (131). For example, the first connector mounting portion (141) may include an insertion portion (141I) into which the first connector (131) is inserted.

[0085] Specifically, the first connector (131) can be coupled with the insertion part (141I) in the X direction. For example, the opening direction of the insertion part (141I) can face the X direction. The first connector (131) can be inserted into the insertion part (141I) in the X direction.

[0086] In the embodiments, the second connector (132) may be coupled to the second integrated circuit assembly (124). Specifically, the second integrated circuit assembly (124) may include a second connector mounting portion (142) that is directly coupled to the second connector (132). For example, the second connector mounting portion (142) may include an insertion portion (142I) into which the second connector (132) is inserted.

[0087] Specifically, the second connector (132) can be coupled with the second connector mounting portion (142) in the X direction. For example, the opening direction of the insertion portion (142I) can face the X direction. The second connector (132) can be inserted into the insertion portion (142I) in the X direction.

[0088] In the embodiments, the connection line (133) can connect the first connector (131) and the second connector (132). The connection line (133) can overlap with a plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. The connection line (133) can be positioned between the first cell side beam (125) and the plurality of battery cells (121). The connection line (133) can be positioned between the first cell side beam (125) and the insulating sheet (126). The connection line (133) can extend in the Y direction. For example, the connection line (133) may include a flexible flat cable (FFC) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0089] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8, the first cell side beam (125) may include a groove (125G) on the inner surface. The groove (125G) may extend in the Y direction. A sensing connection part (130) may be disposed within the groove (125G). Specifically, a connection line (133) of the sensing connection part (130) may be disposed within the groove (125G).

[0090] In the embodiments, the groove (125G) may have a depth in the X direction. The depth of the groove (125G) in the X direction may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the connecting line (133) in the X direction. The groove (125G) may have a width in the Z direction. In some parts, the groove (125G) may have a width in the Y direction. For example, the groove (125G) may have a shape corresponding to the connecting line (133).

[0091] In the embodiments, the connection line (133) may have a first end (133E1) and a second end (133E2) spaced apart in the Y direction. The first end (133E1) may refer to the end in the +Y direction. For example, the first end (133E1) may be connected to a first connector (131). The second end (133E2) may refer to the end in the -Y direction. For example, the second end (133E2) may be connected to a second connector (132).

[0092] In the embodiments, the first end (133E1) may be a portion of the connection line (133) bent in the +Y direction. Specifically, the first end (133E1) may be bent toward the X direction. The first end (133E1) may overlap with a plurality of battery cells (121) in the Y direction. The first end (133E1) is bent toward the X direction so that the first connector (131) is connected and can be inserted into the first connector mounting portion (141).

[0093] In the embodiments, the second end (133E2) may be a portion of the connection line (133) bent in the -Y direction. Specifically, the second end (133E2) may be bent toward the X direction. The second end (133E2) may overlap with a plurality of battery cells (121) in the Y direction. The second end (133E2) is bent toward the X direction so that the second connector (132) is connected and can be inserted into the second connector mounting portion (142).

[0095] A battery cell assembly (120) according to embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention may include a sensing connection part (130) disposed in the X-direction front (or rear) of a plurality of battery cells (121). By doing so, the degree of freedom to place other parts (e.g., electrical components) on top of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be improved.

[0096] Additionally, as the connection line (133) is positioned within the groove (125G) formed in the first cell side beam (125), the surface pressure imbalance that may be a concern when the connection line (133) is positioned on the first cell side beam (125) can be eliminated.

[0097] According to embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention, a battery cell assembly (120) with improved design freedom may be provided.

[0098] According to embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention, a battery cell assembly (120) with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0100] (2nd Example)

[0101] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0102] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a pack housing (110) of a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0103] FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a part of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0104] FIG. 14 is an enlarged side view of a portion of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the battery pack (100) may include a pack housing (110) and a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The battery pack (100) may be a final product mounted in an application such as a vehicle.

[0107] In the embodiments, the pack housing (110) may provide an internal space (118) for mounting a battery cell assembly (120). The pack housing (110) may include a base plate (111), a side frame (110S), a center beam (116), and a pack cross beam (117).

[0108] Here, the X and Y directions may be substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) (i.e., the surface facing the battery cell assembly (120)), and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate (111).

[0109] In the embodiments, the base plate (111) may be provided by an extrusion process. The side frame (110S) may include side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). Each of the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may be provided by an extrusion process. The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (111). The center beam (116) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) may be interposed between the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). The pack cross beams (117) may extend in the Y direction. The pack cross beams (117) may be interposed between the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115).

[0110] In the embodiments, a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be placed on a base plate (111) of a pack housing (110). Each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be accommodated in an internal space (118) of the pack housing (110). The base plate (111) may support the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). Side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may horizontally surround the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0111] In the embodiments, the battery pack (100) may further include a pack lead (119) coupled to a side frame (110S) of the pack housing (110). The pack lead (119) may cover elements mounted inside the battery pack (100), such as a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and electrical components. The pack lead (119) may be secured to the pack housing (110) by mechanical coupling means, such as bolting.

[0112] In FIG. 11, the arrangement of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) can be described as a 3 * 2 arrangement. The arrangement of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) disclosed in FIG. 11 is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical concept of the present invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) arranged in an M * N arrangement (where M and N are each integers greater than or equal to 2) based on what is described herein.

[0113] In the embodiments, the pack housing (110) may further include a plurality of exhaust devices (140). The plurality of exhaust devices (140) may be coupled to a side frame (110S). For example, a plurality of exhaust devices (140) may be coupled to a side wall (114). For example, the side wall (114) may include a plurality of exhaust holes connected to the plurality of exhaust devices (140). The plurality of exhaust holes may be configured to provide a path for discharging gas and heat inside the battery pack (100).

[0114] In the embodiments, the pack housing (110) may further include a plurality of first burial guides (151) and a plurality of second burial guides (153).

[0115] A plurality of first embedded guides (151) may be disposed on the side frame (110S). A plurality of first embedded guides (151) may be disposed on the corners of the upper surface of the side frame (110S). A plurality of first embedded guides (151) may be partially embedded in the side frame (110S). A plurality of first embedded guides (151) may partially protrude from the side frame (110S).

[0116] A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may be disposed on the side frame (110S). A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may be disposed on the upper surface of the side frame (110S). A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may be interposed between a plurality of first embedded guides (151). A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may be coupled to the upper surface of the side frame (110S). A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may be partially embedded in the side frame (110S). A plurality of second embedded guides (153) may partially protrude from the side frame (110S).

[0117] Each of the plurality of first and second burial guides (151, 153) may include a metallic material. Each of the plurality of first and second burial guides (151, 153) may include, for example, aluminum. Each of the plurality of first and second burial guides (151, 153) may also include steel such as, for example, carbon steel, nickel steel, chrome steel, nickel-chrome steel, and manganese steel.

[0118] In the embodiments, the battery pack (100) may further include a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS may be configured to perform monitoring, balancing, and control of the battery pack (100). Monitoring of the battery pack (100) may include measuring the voltage and current of specific nodes within a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and measuring the temperature of set locations within the battery pack (100). The battery pack (100) may include measuring instruments for measuring the voltage, current, and temperature described above.

[0119] In the embodiments, balancing of the battery pack (100) is an operation that reduces deviation between a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). Control of the battery pack (100) includes preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack (100) can operate under optimal conditions, and accordingly, the shortening of the lifespan of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) can be prevented.

[0120] In the embodiments, the battery pack (100) may further include additional electrical components such as a cooling device, a Power Relay Assembly (PRA), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan can prevent overheating of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) by circulating air inside the battery pack (100). The PRA may be configured to supply or cut off power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor). The PRA can protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) in situations where abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, occurs. Additional electrical components may be interposed between the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the side wall (115). The space between the battery cell assembly (120) and the side wall (115) may be referred to as an electrical component mounting area.

[0121] In the embodiments, the battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of interbusbars configured to electrically connect a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be connected in series by the plurality of interbusbars. Accordingly, the battery pack (100) may be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a motor of a vehicle).

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 13 and FIGS. 14 together, a battery cell assembly (120) can be mounted on a base plate (111). The battery cell assembly (120) can be coupled to a pack housing (110). Specifically, the battery cell assembly (120) can be coupled to a pack cross beam (117) and a base plate (111). For example, the first cell side beam (125) and the second cell side beam (125) of the battery cell assembly (120) can each be coupled to the pack cross beam (117) and the base plate (111) by a coupling member (129).

[0124] In the embodiments, the first cell side beam (125) may overlap with the base plate (111) and the pack cross beam (117) in the Z direction. The coupling member (129) may be screw-coupled to the base plate (111) by passing through the first cell side beam (125) and the pack cross beam (117) that overlaps with it in the Z direction. By this, the battery cell assembly (120) can be secured.

[0125] In the embodiments, the second cell side beam (125) may overlap the base plate (111) and the pack cross beam (117) in the Z direction. The coupling member (129) may be screw-coupled to the base plate (111) by passing through the second cell side beam (125) and the pack cross beam (117) that overlaps it in the Z direction. By this, the battery cell assembly (120) can be secured.

[0127] A battery pack (100) according to embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention may include a battery cell assembly (120) comprising a sensing connection part (130) positioned in the X-direction front (or rear) of a plurality of battery cells (121). The battery cell assembly (120) may be coupled to a pack housing (110) through a coupling between a first cell side beam (125) and a pack cross beam (117). In this case, the connection line (133) of the sensing connection part (130) is positioned within a groove (125G) formed in the first cell side beam (125), thereby preventing a difference in surface area and thus improving the coupling force.

[0128] According to embodiments based on the technical concept of the present invention, a battery pack (100) with improved coupling strength between components may be provided.

[0129] According to embodiments of the technical concept of the present invention, a battery pack (100) with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0131] The present invention has been described in more detail above through drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all technical concepts of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application. Explanation of the symbols

[0133] 100: Battery pack 110: Pack Housing 120: Battery cell assembly 121: Battery cell 123: First Integrated Circuit Assembly 124: Second Integrated Circuit Assembly 125: 1st cell side beam 126: Insulation sheet 127: Second cell side beam 128: Insulation sheet 130: Sensing connection part 131: First connector 132: 2nd connector 133: Connection line 141: First connector mounting part 142: Second connector mounting part

Claims

Claim 1 A battery pack comprising: a pack housing including a base plate; and a battery cell assembly on the pack housing, wherein the battery cell assembly comprises: a plurality of battery cells arranged in the X direction; a first integrated circuit assembly located in the +Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a second integrated circuit assembly located in the -Y direction of the plurality of battery cells; a first cell side beam coupled to the pack housing in the X direction front of the plurality of battery cells; and a sensing connection portion connecting the first integrated circuit assembly and the second integrated circuit assembly between the first cell side beam and the plurality of battery cells, wherein the first cell side beam comprises a groove on an inner surface facing the plurality of battery cells, and the sensing connection portion comprises a connection line disposed within the groove. Claim 2 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell assembly further comprises an insulating sheet between the first cell side beam and the plurality of battery cells, and the connecting line is disposed between the insulating sheet and the first cell side beam. Claim 3 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the connecting line overlaps the plurality of battery cells in the X direction. Claim 4 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the groove has a depth in the X direction, and the depth in the X direction of the groove is equal to or greater than the thickness in the X direction of the connecting line. Claim 5 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting line extends in the +Y direction. Claim 6 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection line includes an FFC (flexible flat cable) or an FPCB (flexible printed circuit board). Claim 7 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the sensing connection further comprises a first connector coupled to the first integrated circuit assembly. Claim 8 A battery cell assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first integrated circuit assembly includes a first connector mounting portion that is directly coupled to the first connector, and the first connector and the first connector mounting portion are coupled in the X direction. Claim 9 A battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the sensing connection part further includes a second connector coupled to the second integrated circuit assembly, the connection line connects the first connector and the second connector, the second integrated circuit assembly includes a second connector mounting part directly coupled to the second connector, and the second connector and the second connector mounting part are coupled in the X direction. Claim 10 A battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the connection line includes a first end to which the first connector is connected, and the first end overlaps with the plurality of battery cells in the +Y direction. Claim 11 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the pack housing includes a pack cross beam that overlaps in the Z direction with a first cell side beam of the battery cell assembly, and the first cell side beam, the pack cross beam, and the base plate are joined by a joining member.

Images