Battery sub module

Abstract

A battery submodule is disclosed. A battery submodule according to one aspect of the present invention may include: a plurality of battery cells stacked in a left-right direction, each having at least one electrode lead protruding toward the front side; an upper case comprising a front plate covering the front side of the plurality of battery cells and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering the upper side of the plurality of battery cells; and a lower case coupled to the upper case and accommodating the plurality of battery cells together with the upper case.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery submodule. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones, and the full-scale commercialization of robots and electric vehicles, research on high-performance secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging is actively underway.

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

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

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

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

[0007] However, when multiple secondary batteries (battery cells) or battery modules are densely packed in a confined space as described above, they may be vulnerable to thermal events. In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery cell, high-temperature gases, flames, or heat may be generated. If these gases, flames, or heat are transferred to other battery cells within the same battery module, an explosive chain reaction situation, such as thermal propagation, may occur. Furthermore, such a chain reaction can not only cause accidents such as fire or explosion in the affected battery module but also trigger fires or explosions in other battery modules.

[0008] Furthermore, in the case of medium to large battery packs, such as those found in electric vehicles, the risk of thermal chain reactions can be even greater because they contain a large number of battery cells and modules to increase output and / or capacity. In addition, users, such as drivers, may be present in the vicinity of battery packs installed in electric vehicles. Therefore, if a thermal event originating in a specific battery module is not properly controlled and triggers a chain reaction, it can result in significant property damage as well as loss of life. The problem to be solved

[0009] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery submodule capable of suppressing heat propagation.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery submodule with reduced size or weight.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery submodule with a simplified structure.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery submodule with improved assemblability or productivity.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery submodule having a sealed interior. means of solving the problem

[0015] A battery submodule according to one aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a plurality of battery cells stacked in the left-right direction, each having at least one electrode lead protruding toward the front side; an upper case comprising a front plate covering the front side of the plurality of battery cells and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering the upper side of the plurality of battery cells; and a lower case coupled to the upper case and accommodating the plurality of battery cells together with the upper case.

[0016] In addition, the front plate and the top plate can be formed integrally.

[0017] In addition, the upper case may further include a rear plate that extends from the top plate and covers the rear side of the plurality of battery cells.

[0018] In addition, the front plate, the top plate, and the rear plate may be formed integrally.

[0019] In addition, at least one of the upper case and the lower case may further include a plurality of metal materials.

[0020] In addition, it may further include an adhesive member disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0021] Additionally, the upper case may further include: a hole formed in the front plate; and a bus bar located in the hole and electrically connected to the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

[0022] Additionally, it may further include a gasket located between the hole and the busbar, which electrically insulates the busbar and the front plate.

[0023] In addition, the gasket extends along the circumference of the busbar and can seal the space between the hole and the busbar.

[0024] Additionally, the busbar further includes a side extending toward the plurality of battery cells, and the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells can be connected to the side.

[0025] In addition, it may further include a sensor located outside the upper case and electrically connected to the busbar.

[0026] In addition, a battery module according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose comprises two or more battery sub-modules according to the present invention.

[0027] In addition, a battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose comprises two or more battery submodules according to the present invention.

[0028] In addition, an automobile according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose comprises two or more battery submodules according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule capable of suppressing heat propagation can be provided.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule with reduced size or weight can be provided.

[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule with a simplified structure can be provided.

[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule with improved assemblability or productivity can be provided.

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule having a sealed interior can be provided.

[0034] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0035] 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 the configuration of a battery submodule according to one embodiment of the present invention in disassembled form. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a battery submodule according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a plurality of battery cells according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the combination of a busbar, a gasket, and an upper case according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a drawing showing a part of the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Figure 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the combination of a busbar and a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 7 to 9 are drawings showing the connection portion between the busbar and the battery cell in the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 6. FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings showing the combination of an upper case and a lower case according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a plurality of battery submodules provided and interconnected according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a battery module having a plurality of battery submodules according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a battery pack having a plurality of battery submodules according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a vehicle having a plurality of battery submodules according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0036] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0037] 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 aspects of the technical concept 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.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a battery submodule (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention in separate sections. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a battery submodule (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a battery submodule (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery cells (100, 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d), an upper case (210), and a lower case (240).

[0039] A battery submodule (200) may be referred to as a cell bank (200) or a cell assembly (200). A battery submodule (200) may mean containing fewer battery cells (100) than a conventional battery module. In particular, a battery submodule (200) is a unit smaller than a conventional battery module, and one battery module may contain two or more battery submodules (200). For example, regarding multiple battery cells included in one battery module, they may be grouped at predetermined intervals, and each grouped unit may become a battery submodule (200). Alternatively, a battery submodule (200) may mean having a smaller size or a simpler structure than a conventional battery module.

[0040] The battery cells (100) may be provided in multiple quantities. For example, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be 2 to 4 battery cells (100). Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be provided with at least one electrode lead (103, 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) protruding toward the front. Additionally, each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be provided with another electrode lead (103) protruding toward the rear.

[0041] A plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked in the left-right direction. Alternatively, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked in the y-axis direction. A plurality of battery cells (100) may be pouch-type secondary batteries. Such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured such that an electrode assembly and an electrolyte are housed inside a pouch outer material. The pouch outer material may be configured such that it seals the edges of two pouches while housing the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. A pouch-type secondary battery may be configured such that a housing portion is located in the center and a sealing portion surrounds the periphery. A pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a rectangular shape having four corners, and three or four of the four corners may be sealed.

[0042] The upper case (210) may include a front plate (212). The front plate (212) may cover the front side of a plurality of battery cells (100). The upper case (210) may include a top plate (211). The top plate (211) may extend rearward from the front plate (212). The top plate (211) may be configured to cover the upper side of a plurality of battery cells (100). The top plate (211) and the front plate (212) may form a space, and a plurality of battery cells (100) may be accommodated in the space formed by the top plate (211) and the front plate (212). The upper case (210) may be made of a metal material.

[0043] The lower case (240) can be combined with the upper case (210). The lower case (240) can form a space, and a plurality of battery cells (100) can be accommodated in the space formed by the lower case (240). The upper case (210) and the lower case (240) can accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) together. The lower case (240) can be made of a metal material. The upper case (210) and the lower case (240) can form the exterior of the battery submodule (200).

[0044] According to this configuration of the present invention, thermal safety of the battery can be ensured. In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells are grouped into a battery sub-module (200) which is a unit smaller than a conventional battery module, and such a battery sub-module (200) may include a relatively small number of battery cells (100). Accordingly, by controlling thermal events at the battery sub-module (200) level, damage from thermal events that may occur from the battery cells (100) can be minimized. For example, in the case of a battery module, battery pack, or battery-equipped product that includes a plurality of battery sub-modules (200) of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs from any one battery cell (100), the propagation of the thermal event to the outside of the battery sub-module (200) containing that battery cell (100) can be suppressed.

[0045] Furthermore, the upper case (210) and lower case (240) of the battery submodule (200) can block flames or venting gases generated from the battery cell (100) from leaking out of the battery submodule (200). As a result, the damage range of the thermal event can be limited to the battery submodule (200) containing the battery cell (100) where the thermal event occurred. The battery submodule (200) where no thermal event occurred can be protected from the thermal event, and the overall thermal stability of the battery pack or product can be improved.

[0046] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, in the case of a battery pack or product in which the battery sub-module (200) of the present invention is adopted, the battery cells can be managed in smaller units than in the case where a conventional battery module is adopted. As a result, replacement or maintenance of the battery cells can be easy.

[0047] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the parts constituting the exterior of the battery sub-module (200) consist of an upper case (210) and a lower case (240), so the number of parts of the battery sub-module (200) may be smaller than the number of parts of a conventional battery module. As a result, the structure of the battery sub-module (200) can be simplified, and the assemblability or productivity of the battery sub-module (200) can be improved.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the front plate (212) and the top plate (211) of the battery submodule (200) may be formed integrally. For example, the front plate (212) and the top plate (211) may be formed by bending a single plate.

[0049] According to this configuration of the present invention, the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case (210) can be simplified. As a result, the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved. In addition, the weight of the battery submodule (200) can be reduced. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since there is no gap between the front plate (212) and the top plate (211), leakage of flame or gas through such a gap can be prevented.

[0050] The upper case (210) of the battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a rear plate (213) as shown in FIG. 1. The rear plate (213) may extend from the top plate (211). The rear plate (213) may cover the rear side of a plurality of battery cells (100). The rear plate (213) may extend downward from the rear end of the top plate (211) and may face the front plate (212). The rear plate (213) may be made of a metal material.

[0051] According to this configuration of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells (100) can be accommodated in the space formed by the front plate (212), the top plate (211), and the rear plate (213).

[0052] According to this configuration of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells may not be exposed to the outside due to the upper cover, and thermal events that may occur from the plurality of battery cells may be blocked from propagating to the outside.

[0053] The front plate (212), top plate (211), and rear plate (213) of the battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be formed integrally. For example, the front plate (212), top plate (211), and rear plate (213) may be formed by bending a single plate.

[0054] According to this configuration of the present invention, the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case (210) can be simplified. As a result, the assemblability or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved. In addition, the weight of the battery submodule (200) can be reduced. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since there is no gap between the rear plate (212) and the top plate (211), leakage of flame or gas through such a gap can be prevented.

[0055] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a plurality of battery cells (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive member (120). The adhesive member (120) may be placed between adjacent battery cells (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100). For example, the adhesive member (120) may be double-sided tape. A plurality of battery cells (100) may be fixed to each other by the adhesive member (120).

[0057] According to this configuration of the present invention, by fixing a plurality of battery cells (100) to one another, the plurality of battery cells (100) can be stably maintained in an aligned state and the coupling with other components can be improved.

[0058] A battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a pad (110) as shown in FIG. 3. The pad (110) may be attached to the side (105a) of the outermost battery cell (100a, 100d) among a plurality of battery cells (100). An adhesive member (120) may be disposed between the pad (110) and the side of the battery cell (100a). The pad (110) may have electrical insulation properties. For example, the pad (100) may include a silicone material.

[0059] According to this configuration of the present invention, the pad (110) can electrically insulate a plurality of battery cells (100) from adjacent other configurations and can improve the electrical stability of the battery submodule (200).

[0060] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the combination of a busbar (230), a gasket (220), and an upper case (210) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a part of the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a busbar (230) and a battery cell (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the upper case (210) of a battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a hole (212a) formed in a front plate (212). The hole (212a) may be formed in a rectangular shape. The hole (212a) may penetrate the front plate (212).

[0062] Additionally, the upper case (210) may further include a bus bar (230). The bus bar (230) may be located in a hole (212a) and may be electrically connected to the electrode leads (103) of a plurality of battery cells (100). The bus bar (230) may have a bar shape or a block shape. The bus bar (230) may be referred to as a block (230, block), a busbar block (230, busbar block), or a bus block (230, busblock).

[0063] According to this configuration of the present invention, the busbar (230) can collect the outputs of a plurality of battery cells (100), and the output of the battery submodule (200) can be configured differently depending on the number of battery cells (100). In addition, according to this embodiment, the busbar (230) can be easily mounted on the upper case (210), and the combined state can be stably maintained after the busbar (230) is mounted.

[0064] The upper case (210) of the battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a gasket (220). The gasket (220) may be located between the hole (212a) and the busbar (230). The gasket (220) may electrically insulate the busbar (230) from the front plate (212). For example, the gasket (220) may include a silicone material.

[0065] According to this configuration of the present invention, the gasket (220) can prevent contact between the busbar (230) and the front plate (212) and prevent power output from a plurality of battery cells (100) from leaking. This improves the electrical stability of the battery submodule (200).

[0066] Referring to FIG. 4, a gasket (220) of a battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may extend along the circumference of a busbar (230). For example, if the busbar (230) has a rectangular bar shape and the hole (212a) of the front plate (212) has a rectangular shape, the gasket (220) may have a rectangular shape in which a hole (224) is formed. The gasket (220) may seal the space between the hole (224) and the busbar (230).

[0067] The front plate (212) can be combined with a gasket (220) and a bus bar (230). The gasket (220) can be assembled, fitted, fixed, bonded, or combined into a hole (212a) of the front plate (212). The bus bar (230) can be assembled, fitted, fixed, bonded, or combined into a hole (224) of the gasket (220).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, the gasket (220) may include a first part (221) that contacts, is fixed, or is coupled to the front surface of the front plate (212). The first part (221) may cover the front surface of the front plate (212). The gasket (220) may include a second part (222) that contacts, is fixed, or is coupled to the rear surface of the front plate (212). The second part (222) may cover the rear surface of the front plate (212). The gasket (220) may include a third part (223) that connects the first part (221) and the second part (222). The third part (223) may contact the front plate (212) and the busbar (230).

[0069] According to this configuration of the present invention, the holes in the front plate can be sealed by a gasket (220) and a bus bar. Thus, the inflow and outflow of material between the inside and outside of the battery submodule can be blocked. Furthermore, this prevents the propagation to the outside even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery submodule.

[0070] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, by inserting the bus bar (230) into the hole (224) and combining it with the gasket (220), the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved.

[0071] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, by inserting the gasket (220) into the hole (212a) and joining it with the front plate (212), the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved. Furthermore, in this case, the bonding force and sealing force between the gasket (220) and the front plate (212) can be stably secured.

[0072] FIGS. 7 to 9 are schematic drawings illustrating a portion of a battery submodule according to various embodiments of the present invention. For example, FIGS. 7 to 9 are drawings illustrating various embodiments of the connection portion between the busbar (230) and the battery cell (100) in the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 6.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 6 through 9, a busbar (230) of a battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a side (233, 234) extending toward a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar (230) may include a front surface (231), a rear surface (232) facing the front surface (231), and a side (233, 234) connecting the front surface (231) and the rear surface (232). The side (233, 234) may have a right surface (233) and a left surface (234).

[0074] The electrode leads (103) of a plurality of battery cells (100) can be connected to the sides (233, 234) of the bus bar (230). For example, the electrode leads (103) and the bus bar (230) can be connected via laser welding to form a weld (W1). The laser for welding can be irradiated in the +y-axis or -y-axis direction.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 7, two battery cells (100a, 100b) can be connected to a single bus bar (230). In this case, the electrode lead (103a) of the first battery cell (100a) can be connected in contact with the right side (233) of the bus bar (230), and a weld (W2a) can be formed. The electrode lead (103b) of the second battery cell (100b) can be connected in contact with the left side (234) of the bus bar (230), and a weld (W2b) can be formed.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 8, three battery cells (100a, 100b, 100c) can be connected to a single busbar (230). In this case, the electrode lead (103b) of the second battery cell (100b) can be contact-connected to the right side (233) of the busbar (230), and a weld (W3a) can be formed. The electrode lead (103a) of the first battery cell (100a) can be contact-connected to the electrode lead (103b) of the second battery cell (100b), and a weld (W4a) can be formed. That is, two or more electrode leads can be welded together with the busbar (230) while stacked on one side of the busbar (230). Additionally, the electrode lead (103c) of the third battery cell (100c) can be contacted and connected to the left surface (234) of the bus bar (230), and a weld (W3b) can be formed.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 9, four battery cells (100a, 100b, 100c, 100d) can be connected to a single busbar (230). In this case, the electrode lead (103b) of the second battery cell (100b) can be connected to the right side (233) of the busbar (230), and a weld (W6a) can be formed. The electrode lead (103a) of the first battery cell (100a) can be connected to the electrode lead (103b) of the second battery cell (100b), and a weld (W5a) can be formed. The electrode lead (103c) of the third battery cell (100c) can be connected to the left side (234) of the busbar (230), and a weld (W5b) can be formed. The electrode lead (103d) of the fourth battery cell (100d) can be connected to the electrode lead (103c) of the third battery cell (100c), and a weld (W6a) can be formed. In this embodiment, it can be said that two or more electrode leads are welded to the bus bar (230) while stacked on each side of the bus bar (230).

[0078] According to this configuration of the present invention, weldability between the electrode lead and the bus bar (230) can be significantly improved. In particular, the space (214) provided by the upper case (210) can be opened in the y-axis direction, and a laser for welding can be irradiated in the y-axis direction. For example, a laser irradiated in the -y-axis direction can weld the electrode lead (103) of the battery cell (100) to the right side (233) of the bus bar (230). Additionally, a laser irradiated in the +y-axis direction can weld the electrode lead (103) of the battery cell (100) to the left side (234) of the bus bar (230). As a result, the assemblability or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the combination of an upper case (210) and a lower case (240) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 10, a lower case (240) according to one embodiment of the present invention may form an empty space (244) inside together with an upper case (210). The lower case (240) may include a bottom plate (241), a left plate (243), and a right plate (242). The left plate (243) and the right plate (242) may extend upward from the bottom plate (241). The left plate (243) and the right plate (242) may be parallel, opposite, or facing each other.

[0081] The left plate (243), right plate (242), and bottom plate (241) can be formed integrally. A plurality of battery cells (100) can be accommodated in the space (244) formed by the lower case (240). The space (214) provided by the upper case (210) and the space (244) provided by the lower case (240) can overlap.

[0082] The lower case (240) and the upper case (210) can be configured to cover the entire portion of the cell assembly while combined with each other. In particular, the lower case (240) and the upper case (210) can be configured to cover different sides of the cell assembly. For example, the lower case (240) can be configured in a shape such as a U-shaped frame to cover the lower, left, and right sides of the battery cell (110). And the upper case (210) can be configured in a shape such as an n-shaped frame to cover the upper, front, and rear sides of the battery cell (110). That is, a plurality of battery cells (110) can be housed in an internal space defined and sealed by the combination of the upper case (210) and the lower case (240).

[0083] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the internal space of the battery submodule (200) can be completely isolated from the outside. Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs from a plurality of battery cells (100), the propagation of such thermal event to the outside of the battery submodule (200) can be blocked.

[0084] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the adhesive member (250) may be placed or applied to the upper surface of the bottom plate (241). The adhesive member (250) may secure the battery cell (100) to the lower case (240). The adhesive member (250) may transfer heat generated from the battery cell (100) to the lower case (240). For example, the adhesive member (250) may be a thermal adhesive resin or thermal resin having adhesive or thermal conductivity.

[0085] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the stability of the battery submodule (200) can be improved by fixing a plurality of battery cells (100) to the lower case (240).

[0086] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the configuration of the upper case (210) and the lower case (240).

[0087] Referring to FIG. 11, at least one of the upper case (210) and the lower case (240) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a plurality of metal materials. In particular, the upper case (210) and / or the lower case (240) may be configured with a multilayer structure. For example, the upper case (210) or the lower case (240) may be composed of a clad metal (201) material. In particular, the clad metal (201) may include three layers. The clad metal (201) may be stacked in the order of a first layer (202), a second layer (203), and a third layer (204). The upper case (210) or the lower case (240) may be configured such that the third layer (204) is located on the inside and the first layer (202) is located on the outside. The upper case (210) or the lower case (240) can be manufactured by processing the clad metal (201). For example, the upper case (210) or the lower case (240) can be manufactured by bending or cutting the clad metal (201).

[0088] The first layer (202) may be a metal material that is easy to weld. For example, the first layer (202) may be an aluminum material. The first layer (202) may be formed with a thickness of 1.5t to 1.8t. The second layer (203) may be a metal material that is highly resistant to heat. The second layer (203) may be a metal material that has properties advantageous for blocking heat or flames. For example, the second layer (203) may be stainless steel (SUS). The second layer (203) may be formed with a thickness of 0.2t to 0.5t. The second layer (203) may be bonded onto the first layer (202). The third layer (204) may be a material that is electrically insulating. For example, the third layer (204) may be a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film. The third layer (204) can be attached to the second layer (203).

[0089] According to this configuration of the present invention, the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case (210) or lower case (240) can be simplified. As a result, the assemblability or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved.

[0090] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the weight of the battery submodule (200) can be reduced by including an aluminum material for the upper case (210) or the lower case (240).

[0091] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, since the upper case (210) or lower case (240) includes an aluminum material, the upper case (210) or lower case (240) can be easily welded, and the assembly and productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved.

[0092] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the upper case (210) or lower case (240) is made of stainless steel, so that even if a thermal event occurs from a plurality of battery cells (100), it can be blocked from propagating to the outside of the battery submodule (200).

[0093] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the electrical stability of the battery submodule (200) can be improved by the upper case (210) or lower case (240) including an insulating material.

[0094] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the combination of an upper case (210) and a lower case (240) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 12, the upper case (210) and the lower case (240) of a battery submodule (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be combined. The upper case (210) and the lower case (240) may be composed of clad metal (201), and the outer surface of the upper case (210) and the outer surface of the lower case (240) may be a first layer (202). In particular, the first layer (202) may include an aluminum material. For example, the upper case (210) and the lower case (240) may be combined through laser welding. The welds (W10, W20, W30, W40, W50, W60) may be formed along the perimeter of the front plate (212), top plate (211), and rear plate (213) of the upper case (210). The welds (W10, W20, W30, W40, W50, W60) may be formed along the perimeter of the bottom plate (241), left plate (243), and right plate (244) of the lower case (240).

[0095] According to this configuration of the present invention, the assembly of the upper case (210) and the lower case (240) can be facilitated and the connection can be improved.

[0096] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the interior of the battery submodule (200) can be sealed by performing a welding process along the perimeter of the upper case (210) or the lower case (240), and even if a thermal event occurs from a plurality of battery cells (100), it can be blocked from propagating to the outside of the battery submodule (200).

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper case (210) of the battery submodule (200) may further include a stepped portion (215). The lower case (240) may be in contact with, arranged with, or aligned with the stepped portion (215) of the upper case (210).

[0098] According to this configuration of the present invention, the welding process of the upper case (210) and the lower case (240) can be performed quickly and accurately, and the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule (200) can be improved.

[0099] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a plurality of battery submodules provided and interconnected according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 13, a plurality of battery submodules (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be connected. A plurality of battery submodules (200) may be arranged, aligned, or stacked along a horizontal direction (y-axis direction) and / or a vertical direction (z-axis direction). A terminal busbar (320) may electrically connect adjacent battery submodules (200). A terminal busbar (320) may be electrically connected to a busbar (230) of each battery submodule (200).

[0101] According to this configuration of the present invention, the busbar (230) can collect the outputs of a plurality of battery submodules (200), and the outputs of the plurality of battery submodules (200) can be configured differently depending on the number of the plurality of battery submodules (200).

[0102] A battery submodule (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be electrically connected to an external electronic component. For example, the electronic component may be a sensor, a BMS, or a control unit. The sensor may obtain state information, such as voltage or temperature, of one or more battery submodules (200).

[0103] According to this configuration of the present invention, a sensor for acquiring state information of the battery sub-module (200) is provided outside the battery sub-module (200), so that the size or weight of the battery sub-module (200) can be reduced and the structure of the battery sub-module (200) can be simplified.

[0104] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 14, the battery module (400) according to the present invention may include two or more battery sub-modules (200) according to the present invention as described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, one battery module (400) may include two battery sub-modules (200). At this time, although not shown in the drawing, the busbars of the two battery sub-modules (200) may be electrically connected to each other by a terminal busbar (320), as described in the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0106] According to such an embodiment, a plurality of battery cells are included within a single battery module, and the plurality of battery cells can be subdivided and located within different battery sub-modules. Accordingly, events such as thermal runaway occurring in a specific battery cell are suppressed from propagating to other battery sub-modules, thereby effectively preventing the entire battery module from progressing to thermal runaway.

[0107] In addition, the battery module (400) according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery sub-module (200), such as a busbar assembly, a module case (410), a cooling unit, etc., components of a battery module known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0108] FIG. 15 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 15, the battery pack (500) according to the present invention may include two or more battery sub-modules (200) according to the present invention described above.

[0110] In addition, the battery pack (500) according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery sub-module (200), such as a BMS (510), a busbar, a pack case (520), a relay, a current sensor, etc., components of a battery pack known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0111] FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 16, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include two or more battery sub-modules (200) according to the present invention as described above. The battery sub-modules (200) according to the present invention may be applied to vehicles such as electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include a battery sub-module (200) according to the present invention, a battery module (400) according to the present invention, or a battery pack (500) according to the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle (V) in addition to the battery sub-modules (200), battery modules (400), or battery packs (500). For example, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include, in addition to the battery sub-modules (200) according to the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0113] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back have been used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that they may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0114] As described above, although the present invention has been explained by 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 described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Explanation of the symbols

[0115] 100: Battery cell 200: Battery sub-module 210: Upper case 220: Gasket 230: Busbar 240: Lower case 400: Battery module 500: Battery pack

Claims

Claim 1 A battery submodule comprising: a plurality of battery cells stacked in the left-right direction, each having at least one electrode lead protruding toward the front side; a front plate covering the front side of the plurality of battery cells and having a hole, and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering the upper side of the plurality of battery cells; a lower case coupled to the upper case and accommodating the plurality of battery cells together with the upper case; a bus bar located in the hole and electrically connected to the electrode lead of the plurality of battery cells; and a gasket sealing the space between the hole and the bus bar, wherein the front plate and the top plate are integrally formed. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A battery submodule according to claim 1, wherein the upper case further comprises a rear plate extending from the top plate and covering the rear side of the plurality of battery cells. Claim 4 In claim 3, the front plate, the top plate, and the rear plate are integrally formed in a battery submodule. Claim 5 In claim 1, at least one of the upper case and the lower case further comprises a plurality of metal materials in a battery submodule. Claim 6 A battery submodule according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive member disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells. Claim 7 delete Claim 8 In claim 1, the gasket is a battery submodule that electrically insulates the busbar and the front plate. Claim 9 In claim 8, the gasket is a battery submodule extending along the circumference of the busbar. Claim 10 In claim 1, the busbar further comprises a side extending toward the plurality of battery cells, and the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells are connected to the side, forming a battery submodule. Claim 11 A battery submodule according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor located outside the upper case and electrically connected to the busbar. Claim 12 A battery module comprising two or more battery submodules according to any one of claims 1, 3 through 6 and 8 through 11. Claim 13 A battery pack comprising two or more battery submodules according to any one of claims 1, 3 through 6 and 8 through 11. Claim 14 An automobile comprising two or more battery submodules according to any one of claims 1, 3 through 6 and 8 through 11.

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