Battery module and battery cell replacement method

Abstract

A battery module and a battery cell replacement method are disclosed. The battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a bus bar assembly for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells, wherein the bus bar assembly includes a bus bar plate, a front wing portion, and a rear wing portion, and the bus bar assembly can include a cutting plate. The battery cell replacement method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a bus bar cutting step, a battery cell replacement step and a bus bar connection step.

Description

How to replace battery modules and battery cells

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module and a method for replacing battery cells. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a battery module including a plurality of battery cells and a method for replacing a target battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

[0002] Secondary batteries, which can be repeatedly charged and discharged, are widely used as power sources for portable electronic communication devices such as camcorders, mobile phones, and laptops, thanks to the advancements in the information and communication and display industries. Furthermore, battery packs containing secondary batteries are being developed and applied as power sources for eco-friendly vehicles such as hybrid vehicles.

[0003] A secondary battery can be configured as a single battery module, electrically connecting multiple battery cells. If a defective cell is found among the multiple battery cells, the defective cell can be replaced to extend the life of the battery module.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a busbar and busbar assembly for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells can be provided.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module that is easy to maintain can be provided.

[0006] The battery module of the present disclosure can be widely applied in green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and solar and wind power generation using batteries.

[0007] The battery module of the present disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc. to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0008] A busbar assembly according to the present disclosure comprises a busbar, the busbar comprising a busbar plate formed to extend from a front end to a rear end and having first and second edges positioned opposite to each other in a left-right direction; and a front wing portion and a rear wing portion extending from the busbar plate and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a front-back direction, wherein the busbar plate may include a front coupling groove and a rear coupling groove formed to be recessed into the first edge and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a front-back direction.

[0009] A battery module according to the present disclosure comprises a plurality of battery cells, each including a first battery cell and a second battery cell disposed behind the first battery; and a busbar assembly electrically connecting the first battery cell and the second battery cell, wherein the busbar assembly comprises a busbar, the busbar plate having a first edge and a second edge that extend from a front end to a rear end and are positioned opposite to each other in a left-right direction; a front wing portion that extends from a front side of the busbar plate and is coupled to the first battery cell; and a rear wing portion that extends from a rear side of the busbar plate and is coupled to the second battery cell, wherein the busbar plate may include a front coupling groove and a rear coupling groove that are formed to be recessed into the first edge and are disposed to be spaced apart from each other in a front-to-back direction.

[0010] A battery cell replacement method according to the present disclosure is a battery cell replacement method for replacing a target battery cell among a plurality of battery cells that are connected to each other through at least one bus bar, and may include a bus bar cutting step for cutting a target bus bar that electrically connects an adjacent battery cell disposed adjacent to the target battery cell and the target battery cell, thereby separating the bus bar into a front bus bar coupled to the target battery cell and a rear bus bar coupled to the adjacent battery cell; a battery cell replacement step for replacing the target battery cell among the plurality of battery cells; and a bus bar connecting step for connecting the front bus bar and the rear bus bar.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a busbar or busbar assembly can electrically connect a plurality of battery cells.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, maintenance of a battery module can be facilitated.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module (10) illustrated in Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 3 is a drawing showing the bus bar (200) illustrated in Figure 2.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing cutting lines (L1, L2) on the battery module (10) illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the battery module (10) shown in FIG. 4 taken along line A1-A2.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the separation of a faulty second battery cell (100B) from the battery module (10) illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0019] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the installation of a connecting plate (300) after installing a repaired second battery cell (100B) in a battery module (10).

[0020] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the completed connection of the connecting plate (300) of Figure 7.

[0021] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the battery module (10) shown in Fig. 8 taken along line B1-B2.

[0022] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a method (S10) for replacing a battery cell of the battery module (10) illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0023] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the busbar cutting step (S100) of Fig. 10.

[0024] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the battery cell replacement step (S200) of Fig. 10.

[0025] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the bus bar connection step (S300) of Fig. 10.

[0026] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. However, these are merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described as examples.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module (10) shown in FIG. 1.

[0028] In this specification, the coordinate system may be a Cartesian coordinate system. In this specification, the up-down direction and the front-back direction may be set based on Fig. 1.

[0029] For example, the forward / backward direction can be parallel to the X-axis. For example, the positive X-direction can mean forward. For example, the negative X-direction can mean rearward.

[0030] For example, the up-down direction can be parallel to the Z-axis. For example, the positive Z-direction can mean upward. For example, the negative Z-direction can mean downward.

[0031] For example, the left-right direction can be parallel to the Y-axis. For example, the positive Y-axis direction can mean the left side (port side). For example, the negative Y-axis direction can mean the right side (starboard side). The Y-axis can be perpendicular to the X-axis and the Z-axis, respectively.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery module (10) may be formed by extending from one end (11) to the other end (12). For example, one end (11) of the battery module (10) may refer to the front end of the battery module (10). For example, the other end (12) of the battery module (10) may refer to the rear end of the battery module (10).

[0033] The battery module (10) may include a battery cell (100). The battery module (10) may include a plurality of battery cells (100). The plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged or stacked in one direction.

[0034] For example, the direction in which a plurality of battery cells (100) are arranged or stacked may be the longitudinal direction or length direction of the battery module (10). The longitudinal direction of the battery module (10) may be the front-back direction.

[0035] For example, the battery module (10) may include a first battery cell (100A), a second battery cell (100B), and a third battery cell (100C).

[0036] The first battery cell (100A) may be placed at the front of the battery module (10). The second battery cell (100B) may be placed behind the first battery cell (100A). For example, the rear surface of the first battery cell (100A) may be in contact with the front surface of the second battery cell (100B).

[0037] The third battery cell (100C) may be positioned behind the second battery cell (100B). For example, the rear surface of the second battery cell (100B) may be in contact with the front surface of the third battery cell (100C).

[0038] The first battery cell (100A), the second battery cell (100B), and the third battery cell (100C) can be arranged sequentially in the front-rear direction.

[0039] Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may include a battery cell body (110). The battery cell body (110) may be formed to extend in the width direction or the transverse direction of the battery module (10). In other words, the longitudinal direction or length direction of the battery cell body (110) may be the width direction or the transverse direction of the battery module (10).

[0040] Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode lead (120). The electrode lead (120) may be formed to extend from the battery cell body (110).

[0041] For example, the electrode lead (120) may be formed to protrude from the battery cell body (110). For example, the electrode lead (120) may be formed to protrude from the top of the battery cell body (110).

[0042] The electrode leads (120) may be formed in plurality. Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may include a positive electrode lead (121) and a negative electrode lead (122). The positive electrode lead (121) may be arranged on one side of the upper portion of the battery cell body (110). The negative electrode lead (122) may be arranged on the other side of the upper portion of the battery cell body (110).

[0043] For example, the positive lead (121) may be placed on the left side of the top of the battery cell body (110), and the negative lead (122) may be placed on the right side of the top of the battery cell body (110). For example, the positive lead (121) may be placed on the right side of the top of the battery cell body (110), and the negative lead (122) may be placed on the left side of the top of the battery cell body (110).

[0044] For example, the first battery cell (100A) may include a first positive electrode lead (121A) disposed on the left side of the first battery cell body (110A) and a first negative electrode lead (122A) disposed on the right side of the first battery cell body (110A). For example, the second battery cell (100B) may include a second negative electrode lead (122B) disposed on the left side of the second battery cell body (110B) and a second positive electrode lead (121B) disposed on the right side of the second battery cell body (110B). For example, the third battery cell (100C) may include a third positive electrode lead (121C) disposed on the left side of the third battery cell body (110C) and a third negative electrode lead (122C) disposed on the right side of the third battery cell body (110C).

[0045] The battery module (10) may include a case (not shown). The case (not shown) may be referred to as a battery case. The case (not shown) may accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0046] The battery module (10) may include a bus bar (200). The bus bar (200) may be electrically connected to a battery cell (100). The bus bar (200) may electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0047] The battery module (10) may include a plurality of bus bars (200). For example, the battery module (10) may include a first bus bar (200A) and a second bus bar (200B).

[0048] The first bus bar (200A) can electrically connect the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B). For example, the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B) can be connected in series. For example, the first bus bar (200A) can electrically connect the first negative lead (122A) of the first battery cell (100A) and the second positive lead (121B) of the second battery cell (100B).

[0049] The second bus bar (200B) can electrically connect the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C). For example, the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C) can be connected in series. For example, the second bus bar (200B) can electrically connect the second negative lead (122B) of the second battery cell (100B) and the third positive lead (121C) of the third battery cell (100C).

[0050] Fig. 3 is a drawing showing the bus bar (200) illustrated in Fig. 2. The left-right direction, front-back direction, and up-down direction of the bus bar (200) illustrated in Fig. 3 may be identical to the left-right direction, front-back direction, and up-down direction of the second bus bar (200B) illustrated in Fig. 2. The first bus bar (200A) may be formed to be symmetrical in the left-right direction with respect to the second bus bar (200B).

[0051] The busbar (200) may include a busbar plate (210). For example, the busbar plate (210) may be formed to extend in the front-rear direction. The busbar plate (210) may be arranged across a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2). For example, the busbar plate (210) may be arranged across a first battery cell (100A, see FIG. 2) to a second battery cell (100B, see FIG. 2).

[0052] The busbar plate (210) may include a first edge (218) and a second edge (219). The first edge (218) and the second edge (219) may be positioned opposite each other in the width direction of the busbar plate (210). For example, the first edge (218) of the busbar plate (210) may be positioned at the right end of the busbar plate (210), and the second edge (219) of the busbar plate (210) may be positioned at the left end of the busbar plate (210).

[0053] The busbar plate (210) may be positioned upwardly spaced apart from a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2). For example, the busbar plate (210) may be positioned upwardly spaced apart from a first battery cell (100A, see FIG. 2) and a second battery cell (100B, see FIG. 2).

[0054] The busbar plate (210) may include a one-sided busbar plate (211). The one-sided busbar plate (211) may be arranged on one side of the busbar plate (210). For example, one side of the busbar plate (210) may be the front side of the busbar plate (210). The one-sided busbar plate (211) may be referred to as a front-side busbar plate.

[0055] The one-sided busbar plate (211) may be in the shape of a flat plate. The one-sided busbar plate (211) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction and the front-back direction. The thickness direction of the one-sided busbar plate (211) may be parallel to the vertical direction.

[0056] The busbar plate (210) may include a second busbar plate (212). The second busbar plate (212) may be arranged on the second side of the busbar plate (210). For example, the second side of the busbar plate (210) may be the rear side of the busbar plate (210). The second busbar plate (212) may be referred to as a rear busbar plate.

[0057] The other side bus bar plate (212) may be in the shape of a flat plate. The other side bus bar plate (212) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction and the front-back direction. The thickness direction of the other side bus bar plate (212) may be parallel to the vertical direction.

[0058] The busbar plate (210) may include a cutting plate (213). The cutting plate (213) may be placed between one side busbar plate (211) and the other side busbar plate (212). The cutting plate (213) may connect the one side busbar plate (211) and the other side busbar plate (212).

[0059] The cutting plate (213) may be placed over a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2). For example, the cutting plate (213) may be placed from over a first battery cell (100A, see FIG. 2) to over a second battery cell (100B, see FIG. 2).

[0060] One end of the cutting plate (213) can be connected to the other end of the one-sided bus bar plate (211). For example, one end of the cutting plate (213) can be the front end of the cutting plate (213), and the other end of the one-sided bus bar plate (211) can be the rear end of the one-sided bus bar plate (211).

[0061] The other end of the cutting plate (213) can be connected to one end of the other bus bar plate (212). For example, the other end of the cutting plate (213) can be the rear end of the cutting plate (213), and one end of the other bus bar plate (212) can be the front end of the other bus bar plate (212).

[0062] The cutting plate (213) may be formed in an upwardly convex shape. The cutting plate (213) may be positioned above the one-side busbar plate (211) and the other-side busbar plate (212). For example, the cutting plate (213) may extend upward from the other end of the one-side busbar plate (211) and then extend rearward. Then, it may extend downward and be connected to the front end of the other-side busbar plate (212).

[0063] The busbar plate (210) may include a lower space (214) formed below the cutting plate (213). The lower space (214) may be opened downward. The lower space (214) may be opened left and right. The lower space (214) may be formed between the cutting plate (213) and a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2).

[0064] The busbar plate (210) may include a cutting groove (215) formed in the cutting plate (213). For example, the cutting groove (215) may be positioned at the center of the cutting plate (213).

[0065] For example, the cutting groove (215) may be formed concavely on the upper surface of the cutting plate (213). For example, the cutting groove (215) may be positioned on the upper side of the cutting plate (213).

[0066] The cutting groove (215) may be formed to extend from the first edge (218) to the second edge (219). For example, the cutting groove (215) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction. The cutting groove (215) may be opened in the upward direction. The cutting groove (215) may be opened in the left-right direction.

[0067] Alternatively, for example, the cutting groove (215) may be formed concavely on the lower surface of the cutting plate (213). The cutting groove (215) may be formed to extend from the first edge (218) to the second edge (219). The cutting groove (215) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction. The cutting groove (215) may be opened downward. The cutting groove (215) may be opened in the left-right direction.

[0068] The cutting groove (215) may be formed to extend in the front-back direction. For example, the cutting groove (215) may be positioned above a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2). For example, the cutting groove (215) may be formed from above the first battery cell (100A, see FIG. 2) to above the second battery cell (100B, see FIG. 2).

[0069] Alternatively, for example, when a pad or the like is interposed between two adjacent battery cells (100, see FIG. 2) among a plurality of battery cells (100, see FIG. 2), the cutting groove (215) may be placed between the two adjacent battery cells (100, see FIG. 2).

[0070] The thickness of the portion where the cutting groove (215) is formed in the cutting plate (213) may be smaller than the thickness of other portions of the cutting plate (213). Therefore, when cutting the cutting plate (213), the portion where the cutting groove (215) is formed can be cut, making it easy to cut the cutting plate (213).

[0071] The busbar plate (210) may include a one-sided joining groove (216) formed on one-sided busbar plate (211). The one-sided joining groove (216) may be referred to as a front-sided joining groove.

[0072] The one-sided joining groove (216) may be formed concavely on the side of the one-sided busbar plate (211). For example, the one-sided joining groove (216) may be formed by being recessed at the first edge (218). The one-sided joining groove (216) may be opened in the right direction. The one-sided joining groove (216) may be opened in the up-down direction.

[0073] The busbar plate (210) may include a side coupling groove (217) formed on the other side busbar plate (212). The side coupling groove (217) may be referred to as a rear coupling groove (217).

[0074] The other side joining groove (217) may be formed concavely on the side of the other side bus bar plate (212). For example, the other side joining groove (217) may be formed by being recessed at the second edge (219). The other side joining groove (217) may be opened in the right direction. The other side joining groove (217) may be opened in the up-down direction.

[0075] The one-sided joining groove (216) and the other-sided joining groove (217) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction with the cutting groove (215) interposed therebetween. In other words, the cutting groove (215) can be arranged between the one-sided joining groove (216) and the other-sided joining groove (217).

[0076] The busbar (200) may include a one-sided wing portion (220). The one-sided wing portion (220) may be formed by extending from one side of the busbar plate (210). For example, the one-sided wing portion (220) may be formed by extending from the front side of the busbar plate (210). The one-sided wing portion (220) may be referred to as a front wing portion.

[0077] One wing portion (220) can be connected to one bus bar plate (211). One wing portion (220) can be coupled to one electrode lead (120, see FIG. 2).

[0078] The one-sided wing portion (220) may include a one-sided extension plate (221). The one-sided extension plate (221) may be referred to as a front extension plate. The one-sided extension plate (221) may be connected to the one-sided busbar plate (211). For example, the one-sided extension plate (221) may be formed to extend downward from the second edge (219) of the one-sided busbar plate (211).

[0079] The one-sided wing portion (220) may include a one-sided coupling plate (222). The one-sided coupling plate (222) may be referred to as a front coupling plate. The one-sided coupling plate (222) may be connected to a one-sided extension plate (221). The one-sided coupling plate (222) may be formed to extend away from the one-sided coupling groove (216) from the lower end of the one-sided extension plate (221). For example, the one-sided coupling plate (222) may be formed to extend to the left from the lower end of the one-sided extension plate (221). The one-sided coupling plate (222) may have a flat plate shape. The one-sided coupling plate (222) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction and the front-back direction.

[0080] In other words, the one-sided wing portion (220) may be positioned lower than the one-sided bus bar plate (211). The one-sided wing portion (220) may be formed by extending downward from the left end of the one-sided bus bar plate (211) and then extending to the left.

[0081] A single-sided coupling plate (222) can be placed on top of one electrode lead (120, see FIG. 2). The single-sided coupling plate (222) can be coupled to one electrode lead (120, see FIG. 2).

[0082] The busbar (200) may include a second wing portion (230). The second wing portion (230) may be formed to extend from the second side of the busbar plate (210). For example, the second wing portion (230) may be formed to extend from the rear side of the busbar plate (210). The second wing portion (230) may be referred to as a rear wing portion.

[0083] The other wing portion (230) may be connected to the other bus bar plate (212). For example, the other wing portion (230) may be formed by extending from the second edge (219) of the other bus bar plate (212).

[0084] The other wing part (230) can be coupled to one electrode lead (120, see Fig. 2). The other wing part (230) can be formed to be symmetrical in the front-back direction with respect to the one wing part (220).

[0085] The other wing portion (230) may be positioned lower than the other bus bar plate (212). The other wing portion (230) may be formed by extending downward from the left end of the other bus bar plate (212) and then extending to the left.

[0086] One wing part (220) and the other wing part (230) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction.

[0087] One wing part (220) and the other wing part (230) may each be positioned below the bus bar plate (210). One wing part (220) and the other wing part (230) may each be connected to the bus bar plate (210). One wing part (220) and the other wing part (230) may be electrically connected through the bus bar plate (210).

[0088] One side coupling groove (216) and the other side coupling groove (217) may be formed at the same corner. For example, one side coupling groove (216) and the other side coupling groove (217) may be formed at the first corner (218). For example, one side coupling groove (216) and the other side coupling groove (217) may be formed at the second corner (219).

[0089] One side engaging groove (216) and the other side engaging groove (217) can be opened in the same direction. For example, one side engaging groove (216) and the other side engaging groove (217) can be opened in the right direction. For example, one side engaging groove (216) and the other side engaging groove (217) can be opened in the left direction.

[0090] One wing portion (220) may be formed on the opposite side of one coupling groove (216), and the other wing portion (230) may be formed on the opposite side of the other coupling groove (217). For example, one coupling groove (216) and the other coupling groove (217) may be formed at a first edge (218), and one wing portion (220) and the other wing portion (230) may be formed at a second edge (219). For example, one coupling groove (216) and the other coupling groove (217) may be formed at a second edge (219), and one wing portion (220) and the other wing portion (230) may be formed at a first edge (218).

[0091] One wing portion (220) may extend in a direction away from one coupling groove (216), and the other wing portion (230) may extend in a direction away from the other coupling groove (217). For example, one coupling groove (216) and the other coupling groove (217) may be formed at a first edge (218), and one wing portion (220) and the other wing portion (230) may be formed to extend in a direction from the first edge (218) toward a second edge (219). For example, one coupling groove (216) and the other coupling groove (217) may be formed at a second edge (219), and one wing portion (220) and the other wing portion (230) may be formed to extend in a direction from the second edge (219) toward the first edge (218).

[0092] Taking the second bus bar (200B) illustrated in FIG. 2 as an example, one wing portion (220) of the second bus bar (200B) can be coupled to the second negative lead (122B) of the second battery cell (100B). The other wing portion (230) of the second bus bar (200B) can be coupled to the third positive lead (121C) of the third battery cell (100C). The one wing portion (220) of the second bus bar (200B) can be referred to as the second one-side wing portion. The other wing portion (230) of the second bus bar (200B) can be referred to as the second other-side wing portion.

[0093] If a target battery cell (100) is present among the plurality of battery cells (100) illustrated in FIG. 1, the target battery cell (100) can be removed by cutting the bus bar (200) and then repaired. Hereinafter, a case in which a second battery cell (100B) among the plurality of battery cells (100) is faulty will be described as an example.

[0094] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing cutting lines (L1, L2) on the battery module (10) illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0095] The second battery cell (100B) can be coupled to the first bus bar (200A) and the second bus bar (200B). The first bus bar (200A) can be coupled to the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B). The second bus bar (200B) can be coupled to the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C).

[0096] To remove the second battery cell (100B), the first bus bar (200A) and the second bus bar (200B) can be cut. The line for cutting the first bus bar (200A) can be referred to as the first cutting line (L1). The line for cutting the second bus bar (200B) can be referred to as the second cutting line (L2).

[0097] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the battery module (10) illustrated in Fig. 4 taken along line A1-A2. Hereinafter, the position of the second cutting line (L2) will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5.

[0098] The second cutting line (L2) may be located on the second cutting plate (213B). The second cutting line (L2) may refer to a line that cuts the second cutting plate (213B) in a direction parallel to the left-right direction.

[0099] The second cutting line (L2) may be located in the second cutting groove (215B). The second cutting line (L2) may refer to a line that cuts the portion where the second cutting groove (215B) is formed in a direction parallel to the left and right directions.

[0100] The second cutting groove (215B) may be positioned at the center of the second cutting plate (213B). The second cutting groove (215B) may be formed to extend from the top of the second battery cell (100B) to the top of the third battery cell (100C).

[0101] For example, the second battery cell (100B) may be referred to as a target battery cell. A battery cell (100) positioned adjacent to the target battery cell may be referred to as an adjacent battery cell. For example, the third battery cell (100C) may be referred to as an adjacent battery cell. A bus bar (200) connecting the target battery cell and the adjacent battery cell may be referred to as a target bus bar.

[0102] The line crossing between the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C) may be referred to as a center line (CL). In other words, the line crossing the target battery cell and the adjacent battery cell may be referred to as a center line (CL).

[0103] For example, the second cutting line (L2) may be identical to the center line (CL). By cutting the second bus bar (200B) along the second cutting line (L2), the second battery cell (100B) can be removed. To remove the second battery cell (100B), the second battery cell (100B) can be lifted upward. In other words, the target bus bar can be cut along the center line (CL) to remove the target battery cell.

[0104] For example, the second cutting line (L2') may be arranged to be biased toward the third battery cell (100C) with respect to the center line (CL). In other words, the second cutting line (L2') may be formed above the third battery cell (100C). By cutting the second bus bar (200B) along the second cutting line (L2'), the second battery cell (100B) may be removed. To remove the second battery cell (100B), the second battery cell (100B) may be lifted upward. In other words, the target bus bar may be cut along a line biased toward an adjacent battery cell with respect to the center line (CL), and the target battery cell may be removed.

[0105] Since the second cutting line (L2') is arranged to be biased toward the third battery cell (100C), when lifting the second battery cell (100B), interference between the second bus bar (200B) coupled to the third battery cell (100C) and the second battery cell (100B) can be minimized. In other words, when lifting the target battery cell, interference between the target bus bar coupled to an adjacent battery cell and the target battery cell can be minimized.

[0106] When cutting the second bus bar (200B) along the second cutting line (L2), a jig may be inserted into the second lower space (214B). The second cutting line (L2) may be laser-cut while the jig is inserted into the second lower space (214B). This minimizes damage to the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C) when cutting the second bus bar (200B).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 4, for example, the first cutting line (L1) may be a center line crossing the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B). For example, the first cutting line (L1) may be positioned to be biased toward the first battery cell (100A) with respect to the center line crossing the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B).

[0108] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the separation of a faulty second battery cell (100B) from the battery module (10) illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0109] As illustrated in Fig. 4, when the first bus bar (200A) is cut along the first cutting line (L1), the first bus bar (200A) can be divided into a first front bus bar (200A1) and a first rear bus bar (200A2), as illustrated in Fig. 6. The first front bus bar (200A1) can be coupled to the first battery cell (100A), and the first rear bus bar (200A2) can be coupled to the second battery cell (100B).

[0110] As illustrated in Fig. 4, when the second bus bar (200B) is cut along the second cutting line (L2), the second bus bar (200B) can be divided into a second front bus bar (200B1) and a second rear bus bar (200B2), as illustrated in Fig. 6. The second front bus bar (200B1) can be coupled to the second battery cell (100B), and the second rear bus bar (200B2) can be coupled to the third battery cell (100C).

[0111] When the second battery cell (100B) is separated from the battery module (10), the first rear bus bar (200A2) can be separated from the first front bus bar (200A1), and the second front bus bar (200B1) can be separated from the second rear bus bar (200B2).

[0112] The separated second battery cell (100B) can be repaired or replaced outside the battery module (10). For example, when the second battery cell (100B) is replaced with a new battery cell (100), the first rear bus bar (200A2) and the second front bus bar (200B1) can be separated from the second battery cell (100B) and connected to the new battery cell (100). Alternatively, for example, the new first rear bus bar (200A2) and the second front bus bar (200B1) can be connected to the new battery cell (100). The new battery cell (100) can be referred to as the repaired second battery cell (100B).

[0113] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing the appearance of installing the repaired second battery cell (100B) into the battery module (10) and then attaching the connecting plate (300). Fig. 8 is a drawing showing the appearance of the connecting plate (300) of Fig. 7 after it has been completed.

[0114] Below, the second front bus bar (200B1) and the second rear bus bar (200B) will be described as examples.

[0115] The connecting plate (300) may be in the shape of a flat plate. The connecting plate (300) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction and the front-back direction. The connecting plate (300) may include a conductive material.

[0116] A joining member (400) can be joined to a connecting plate (300). The joining member (400) can include a first bolt (410) and a second bolt (420).

[0117] The first bolt (410) can be coupled to one side of the connecting plate (300). For example, the first bolt (410) can be coupled to the front side of the connecting plate (300). For example, the connecting plate (300) can include a hole (not shown) through which the first bolt (410) passes.

[0118] The second bolt (420) can be coupled to the other side of the connecting plate (300). For example, the second bolt (420) can be coupled to the rear side of the connecting plate (300). For example, the connecting plate (300) can include a hole (not shown) through which the second bolt (420) passes.

[0119] The first bolt (410) can be inserted into the second one-side coupling groove (216B) of the second front bus bar (200B1). In other words, the first bolt (410) can be coupled to the second front bus bar (200B1).

[0120] The second bolt (420) can be inserted into the second other side joining groove (217B) of the second rear bus bar (200B2). In other words, the second bolt (420) can be joined to the second rear bus bar (200B2).

[0121] The second front bus bar (200B1) and the second rear bus bar (200B2) can be electrically connected by a connecting plate (300) and a connecting member (400).

[0122] The second busbar assembly may include a second front busbar (200B1), a second rear busbar (200B2), a connecting plate (300), and a joining member (400). The second busbar assembly may mean at least one of the second front busbar (200B1), the second rear busbar (200B2), the connecting plate (300), and the joining member (400).

[0123] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the battery module (10) shown in Fig. 8 taken along line B1-B2.

[0124] The second front busbar (200B1) may include the second one-side busbar plate (211B) and the front side of the second cutting plate (213B). The second rear busbar (200B2) may include the second other-side busbar plate (212B) and the rear side of the second cutting plate (213B).

[0125] The connecting plate (300) may be positioned below the second busbar plate (210B). One side of the connecting plate (300) may be positioned below the second one-side busbar plate (211B). One side of the connecting plate (300) may be the front side of the connecting plate (300). The other side of the connecting plate (300) may be positioned below the second other-side busbar plate (212B). The other side of the connecting plate (300) may be the rear side of the connecting plate (300).

[0126] The first bolt (410) may include a first head (411) and a first rod (412) formed by extending from the first head (411). The diameter of the first head (411) may be larger than the diameter of the first rod (412). The first head (411) may not penetrate the connecting plate (300).

[0127] The first head (411) may be positioned below the connection plate (300). The first head (411) may be positioned below one side of the connection plate (300). The first head (411) may be positioned between the connection plate (300) and the second battery cell (100B).

[0128] The first rod (412) can pass through the connecting plate (300) and the second one-sided bus bar plate (211B). The first rod (412) can pass through the one-sided and second one-sided coupling grooves (216B, see FIG. 7) of the connecting plate (300). The first rod (412) can protrude upward from the second one-sided bus bar plate (211B). Screw threads can be formed around the circumference of the first rod (412).

[0129] The coupling member (400) may include a first nut (430) coupled to a first bolt (410). The first nut (430) may be coupled to a first rod (412). The first nut (430) may be positioned on top of the second one-sided bus bar plate (211B).

[0130] One side and the second side bus bar plate (211B) of the connecting plate (300) can be placed between the first head (411) and the first nut (430). For example, one side of the connecting plate (300) can be the front side of the connecting plate (300).

[0131] By fastening the first bolt (410) and the first nut (430), the upper surface of one side of the connecting plate (300) can be in contact with the lower surface of the second one-side bus bar plate (211B). By fastening the first bolt (410) and the first nut (430), one side of the connecting plate (300) and the second one-side bus bar plate (211B) can be electrically connected.

[0132] The second bolt (420) may include a second head (421) and a second rod (422) formed by extending from the second head (421). The diameter of the second head (421) may be larger than the diameter of the second rod (422). The second head (421) may not penetrate the connecting plate (300).

[0133] The second head (421) may be positioned below the connection plate (300). The second head (421) may be positioned below the other side of the connection plate (300). The second head (421) may be positioned between the connection plate (300) and the third battery cell (100C).

[0134] The second rod (422) can pass through the connecting plate (300) and the second other-side bus bar plate (212B). The second rod (422) can pass through the other-side and second other-side coupling grooves (217B, see FIG. 7) of the connecting plate (300). The second rod (422) can protrude upward from the second other-side bus bar plate (212B). Screw threads can be formed around the periphery of the second rod (422).

[0135] The coupling member (400) may include a second nut (440) coupled to a second bolt (420). The second nut (440) may be coupled to a second rod (422). The second nut (440) may be positioned on top of the second other side bus bar plate (212B).

[0136] The other side and the second other side bus bar plate (212B) of the connecting plate (300) can be placed between the second head (421) and the second nut (440). For example, the other side of the connecting plate (300) can be the rear side of the connecting plate (300).

[0137] By fastening the second bolt (420) and the second nut (440), the upper surface of the other side of the connecting plate (300) can be in contact with the lower surface of the second other side bus bar plate (212B). By fastening the second bolt (420) and the second nut (440), the other side of the connecting plate (300) and the second other side bus bar plate (212B) can be electrically connected.

[0138] The first front bus bar (200A1) and the first rear bus bar (200A2) illustrated in FIG. 8 can also be electrically connected by the connecting plate (300) and the connecting member (400) in the same manner as described above.

[0139] The first busbar assembly may include a first front busbar (200A1), a first rear busbar (200A2), a connecting plate (300), and a joining member (400). The first busbar assembly may mean at least one of the first front busbar (200A1), the first rear busbar (200A2), the connecting plate (300), and the joining member (400).

[0140] The busbar assembly may mean at least one of a first busbar assembly and a second busbar assembly.

[0141] Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a battery cell replacement method (S10) of the battery module (10) illustrated in Fig. 1. The battery cell replacement method (S10) may be a method of replacing a target battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100) connected to each other through a plurality of bus bars (200). A battery cell (100) positioned adjacent to a target battery cell (100) may be referred to as an adjacent battery cell (100).

[0142] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the busbar cutting step (S100) of Fig. 10.

[0143] The battery cell replacement method (S10) may include a busbar cutting step (S100). The busbar cutting step (S100) may be a step of cutting a busbar (200) coupled to a target battery cell (100). The busbar cutting step (S100) may be a step of cutting a target busbar (200) that electrically connects a target battery cell (100) to an adjacent battery cell (100). After cutting, the target busbar (200) may be separated into one busbar coupled to the target battery cell (100) and the other busbar coupled to the adjacent battery cell (100).

[0144] For example, the busbar cutting step (S100) may be a step of cutting the first busbar (200A) and the second busbar (200B) coupled to the second battery cell (100B), as illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, the busbar cutting step (S100) may include a step of cutting the first busbar (200A) that electrically connects the second battery cell (100B) and the first battery cell (100A). For example, the busbar cutting step (S100) may include a step of cutting the second busbar (200B) that electrically connects the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C).

[0145] For example, the first bus bar (200A) can be cut along the first cutting line (L1), and the second bus bar (200B) can be cut along the second cutting line (L2). For example, the first bus bar (200A) can be separated into a first front bus bar (200A1) and a first rear bus bar (200A2) after cutting. For example, the second bus bar (200B) can be separated into a second front bus bar (200B1) and a second rear bus bar (200B2) after cutting. The first cutting line (L1) and the second cutting line (L2) can be arranged in a cutting groove (215, see FIGS. 3 and 5).

[0146] For example, the first cutting line (L1) may be formed between the first battery cell (100A) and the second battery cell (100B). For example, the first cutting line (L1) may be formed on the first battery cell (100A). For example, the second cutting line (L2) may be formed between the second battery cell (100B) and the third battery cell (100C). For example, the second cutting line (L2) may be formed on the third battery cell (100C).

[0147] The battery cell replacement method (S10) may include a battery cell replacement step (S200). The battery cell replacement step (S200) may be a step of replacing a target battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0148] The battery cell replacement method (S10) may include a busbar connection step (S300). The busbar connection step (S300) may be a step of connecting one side busbar to the other side busbar. The busbar connection step (S300) may be a step of connecting a busbar (200) connected to a repaired target battery cell (100) and a busbar (200) connected to an adjacent battery cell (100).

[0149] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the busbar cutting step (S100) of Fig. 10.

[0150] The busbar cutting step (S100) may include a jig insertion step (S110). The jig insertion step (S110) may be a step of inserting a jig (not shown) between a cutting plate (213) and a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0151] The busbar cutting step (S100) may include a cutting plate cutting step (S120). For example, the cutting plate (213) may be cut by a laser. In the cutting plate cutting step (S120), the laser may cut a portion where a cutting groove (215) is formed.

[0152] The busbar cutting step (S100) may include a jig separation step (S130). In the jig separation step (S130), a jig (not shown) may be separated from the busbar (200) and the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0153] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the battery cell replacement step (S200) of Fig. 10.

[0154] The battery cell replacement step (S200) may include a battery cell separation step (S210). The battery cell separation step (S210) may be a step of separating the target battery cell (100) from the battery module (10). The battery cell separation step (S210) may be a step of separating the target battery cell (100) from an adjacent battery cell (100) adjacent to the target battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0155] For example, the battery cell separation step (S210) may be a step of separating the second battery cell (100B) from the battery module (10) as illustrated in Fig. 6. For example, the battery cell separation step (S210) may be a step of separating the second battery cell (100B) from the first battery cell (100A) and the third battery cell (100C).

[0156] The battery cell replacement step (S200) may include a battery cell repair step (S220). The battery cell repair step (S220) may be a step for repairing a target battery cell (100) separated from a battery module (10). For example, the battery cell repair step (S220) may be a step for repairing a second battery cell (100B) separated from the battery module (10).

[0157] The battery cell replacement step (S200) may include a battery cell insertion step (S230). The battery cell insertion step (S230) may be a step of inserting a repaired target battery cell (100) into a space from which the target battery cell (100) was removed. For example, the battery cell insertion step (S230) may be a step of inserting a repaired second battery cell (100B) into a space from which the second battery cell (100B) was removed.

[0158] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the bus bar connection step (S300) of Fig. 10.

[0159] The busbar connection step (S300) may include a bolt coupling step (S310). The bolt coupling step (S310) may be a step of coupling a first bolt (410) to one side of the connection plate (300) and coupling a second bolt (420) to the other side of the connection plate (300). Each of the first bolt (410) and the second bolt (420) may be coupled from the bottom to the top of the connection plate (300). As a result, each of the first head (411) and the second head (421) may be disposed below the connection plate (300), and each of the first rod (412) and the second rod (422) may protrude above the connection plate (300).

[0160] The busbar connection step (S300) may include a connection plate sliding step (S320). The connection plate sliding step (S320) may be a step of sliding the connection plate (300) toward one side busbar and the other side busbar. Taking the second front busbar (200B1) and the second rear busbar (200B2) as examples, the connection plate (300) may slide from right to left.

[0161] The busbar connection step (S300) may include a connection plate arrangement step (S330). The connection plate arrangement step (S330) may be a step of arranging the connection plate (300) under the busbar plate (210) of one busbar and the busbar plate (210) of the other busbar. At this time, the first bolt (410) may be inserted into the one-side coupling groove (216) of the one-side busbar, and the second bolt (420) may be inserted into the other-side coupling groove (217) of the other busbar. Each of the one-side coupling groove (216) and the other-side coupling groove (217) may be opened in one direction. For example, each of the one-side coupling groove (216) and the other-side coupling groove (217) may be formed to be opened in the rightward direction and the up-down direction.

[0162] The busbar connecting step (S300) may include a connecting plate connecting step (S340). The connecting plate connecting step (S340) may be a step of bolting a first bolt (410) to one busbar and bolting a second bolt (420) to the other busbar. The first bolt (410) may be fastened to a first nut (430), and the second bolt (420) may be fastened to a second nut (440). The first nut (430) may be positioned on one busbar, and the second nut (440) may be positioned on the other busbar. As a result, one side of the connecting plate (300) may be in contact with the busbar plate (210) of the one busbar, and the other side of the connecting plate (300) may be in contact with the busbar plate (210) of the other busbar.

[0163] For example, the connecting plate joining step (S340) may include a step of connecting a second front bus bar (200B1) joined to a second battery cell (100B) and a second rear bus bar (200B2) joined to a third battery cell (100C), as illustrated in FIG. 8. For example, in the connecting plate joining step (S340), the second front bus bar (200B1) and the second rear bus bar (200B2) may be electrically connected by the connecting plate (300) and the joining member (400).

[0164] For example, the connecting plate joining step (S340) may include a step of connecting the first rear bus bar (200A2) joined to the second battery cell (100B) and the first front bus bar (200A1) joined to the first battery cell (100A). For example, in the connecting plate joining step (S340), the first front bus bar (200A1) and the first rear bus bar (200A2) may be electrically connected by the connecting plate (300) and the joining member (400).

[0165] The above description is merely an example of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be further included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Including busbar, The above bus bar, A busbar plate formed by extending from the front end to the rear end and having first and second corners positioned opposite to each other in the left and right directions; and It includes a front wing portion and a rear wing portion that extend from the above bus bar plate and are spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction, The above busbar plate, Including a front joining groove and a rear joining groove that are formed by being indented in the first corner and are spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction, Busbar assembly.

2. In claim 1, The above busbar plate, Including a cutting groove concavely formed on the upper or lower surface of the above bus bar plate, The above cutting groove is, It is formed by extending from the first corner to the second corner, and is positioned between the front coupling groove and the rear coupling groove. Busbar assembly.

3. In claim 1, The above front wing part, It is positioned below the above bus bar plate and is formed to extend in a direction from the first edge toward the second edge, The above rear wing part, It is positioned below the above bus bar plate and is formed by extending in a direction from the first edge toward the second edge. Busbar assembly.

4. In claim 1, The above busbar plate, A front busbar plate arranged on the front side of the above busbar plate and coupled to the front wing portion; A rear busbar plate arranged on the rear side of the above busbar plate and coupled to the rear wing portion; and Connecting the front busbar plate and the rear busbar plate, and including a cutting plate, The above front joining groove is, Formed on the above front bus bar plate, The above rear joining groove is, Formed on the rear bus bar plate above, Busbar assembly.

5. In claim 4, The above cutting plate, Located above the front busbar plate and the rear busbar plate, Busbar assembly.

6. In claim 4, Further comprising a connecting plate coupled to the above bus bar, The above connecting plate, Attached to the lower surface of the above busbar plate, Busbar assembly.

7. In claim 6, Including a joining member that joins the above connecting plate and the above busbar plate, The above-mentioned joining member is, A first bolt coupled to the front side of the above connecting plate and inserted into the front side connecting groove; and A second bolt, which is coupled to the rear side of the above connecting plate and is inserted into the rear connecting groove, Busbar assembly.

8. In claim 7, The above first bolt, a first head positioned below the front side of the above connecting plate; and A first rod is included that penetrates the front side of the connecting plate and the front side joining groove, The second bolt above, a second head positioned below the rear side of the above connecting plate; and A second rod including a second rod penetrating the rear side of the connecting plate and the rear side joining groove, Busbar assembly.

9. In claim 8, The above-mentioned joining member is, a first nut positioned above the front bus bar plate and coupled to the first load; and A second nut positioned above the rear bus bar plate and coupled to the second load, Busbar assembly.

10. In claim 6, The above bus bar, A front busbar including the front busbar plate and the front side of the cutting plate; and Including a rear busbar plate and a rear side of the cutting plate, The above front busbar and the above rear busbar are separated from each other, The above connecting plate, Each of which is connected to the front bus bar and the rear bus bar, Busbar assembly.

11. A plurality of battery cells, including a first battery cell and a second battery cell arranged behind the first battery; and A busbar assembly electrically connecting the first battery cell and the second battery cell is included, The above busbar assembly, Including busbar, The above bus bar, A busbar plate formed by extending from the front end to the rear end and having first and second edges positioned opposite to each other in the left and right directions; A front wing portion extending from the front side of the busbar plate and coupled to the first battery cell; and A rear wing portion extending from the rear side of the bus bar plate and coupled to the second battery cell, The above busbar plate, Including a front joining groove and a rear joining groove that are formed by being indented in the first corner and are spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction, Battery module.

12. In claim 11, The above busbar plate, Including a cutting groove concavely formed on the upper or lower surface of the above bus bar plate, The above cutting groove is, It is formed by extending from the first corner to the second corner, and is positioned between the front coupling groove and the rear coupling groove. Battery module.

13. In claim 11, Each of the above front wing portion and the above rear wing portion, Located below the above busbar plate, The above busbar plate, arranged above and spaced apart from the above plurality of battery cells, Battery module.

14. In claim 13, The above busbar assembly, including a connecting plate disposed between the bus bar plate and the plurality of battery cells; Battery module.

15. In claim 14, Including a joining member that joins the above connecting plate and the above busbar plate, The above-mentioned joining member is, A first bolt coupled to the front side of the above connecting plate and inserted into the front side connecting groove; and A second bolt, which is coupled to the rear side of the above connecting plate and is inserted into the rear connecting groove, Battery module.

16. A method for replacing a battery cell, wherein a target battery cell is replaced among a plurality of battery cells connected to each other through at least one bus bar. A busbar cutting step of cutting a target busbar that electrically connects an adjacent battery cell positioned adjacent to the target battery cell and the target battery cell, thereby separating the busbar into a front busbar coupled to the target battery cell and a rear busbar coupled to the adjacent battery cell; A battery cell replacement step of replacing the target battery cell among the plurality of battery cells; and Including a busbar connecting step for connecting the front busbar and the rear busbar, How to replace battery cells.

17. In claim 16, The above target bus bar is, A busbar plate arranged spaced apart from each other above the plurality of battery cells; A front wing portion extending from the front side of the busbar plate and coupled to the target battery cell; and A rear wing portion extending from the rear side of the busbar plate and coupled to the adjacent battery cell, The above busbar plate, Including a cutting groove concavely formed on the upper or lower surface of the above bus bar plate, The above cutting groove is, is disposed between the front side of the busbar plate and the rear side of the busbar plate, The above busbar cutting step is: Including a step of cutting a portion in which the cutting groove is formed in the busbar plate. How to replace battery cells.

18. In claim 17, The above cutting groove is, It is formed from above the target battery cell to above the adjacent battery cell, The above busbar cutting step is: Including a step of cutting a portion of the bus bar plate where the cutting groove is formed, which is located above the adjacent battery cell. How to replace battery cells.

19. In claim 17, The above busbar connection step is: A step of connecting a first bolt to the front side of the connecting plate and connecting a second bolt to the rear side of the connecting plate; A step of sliding the connecting plate toward the front bus bar and the rear bus bar; A step of placing the connecting plate below the busbar plate of the front busbar and the busbar plate of the rear busbar; and A step of bolting the first bolt to the front bus bar and bolting the second bolt to the rear bus bar, How to replace battery cells.

20. In claim 19, The above busbar plate, A front joining groove formed on the front side of the bus bar plate, into which the first bolt is inserted; and A rear coupling groove formed on the rear side of the bus bar plate, into which the second bolt is inserted, Each of the above front coupling groove and the above rear coupling groove, Open in one direction, into which the first bolt or the second bolt is inserted, How to replace battery cells.

Images