Battery rack and energy storage system including same

Abstract

A battery rack, according to one embodiment of the present invention, accommodates batteries and comprises: a first sub-rack including a first column positioned to stand vertically upright and including a plurality of battery accommodation spaces formed along the first column; and a second sub-rack including a second column positioned to stand vertically upright and including a plurality of battery storage spaces formed along the second column, wherein the first sub-rack and the second sub-rack are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery rack, and the first sub-rack and the second sub-rack have a structure in which the upper ends thereof are open.

Description

Battery rack and energy storage system including same

[0001] Cross-citation with related application(s)

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0123074, filed September 15, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery rack and an energy storage system including the same, and more particularly, to a battery rack having a simplified structure and an energy storage system including the same.

[0004] Recently, with issues like power shortages and eco-friendly energy emerging, Energy Storage Systems (ESS) for storing generated power have been attracting significant attention. For example, utilizing ESS facilitates the establishment of power management systems, such as smart grid systems, allowing for easier power supply and demand adjustments in specific regions and cities. Furthermore, with the commercialization of electric vehicles in full swing, ESS can be applied to electric charging stations.

[0005] ESS can take various forms, but most commonly, it comprises one or more containers. Each container may contain multiple battery modules or battery packs (hereinafter referred to as "batteries") connected in series and / or parallel. The batteries may be housed within the container via a rack frame or a separate fixed structure.

[0006] Meanwhile, the rack frame on which the batteries are mounted has been required to have sufficient rigidity and earthquake resistance to maintain its own structure stably, support the weight of the batteries, and prevent them from being detached. Conventionally, the durability of the rack frame has been enhanced by changing its material properties or increasing the thickness of the frame. Furthermore, as described in prior literature (Korean Patent Publication No. KR 2020-0089538), a method has been devised to supplement the rigidity and earthquake resistance of the rack frame by adding beads to the top plate or base plate within the rack frame. However, the rack frame needs to have a simple structure to reduce the overall weight of the ESS and to ensure heat dissipation and fire prevention of batteries densely packed in a narrow space. Therefore, the aforementioned structure has limitations in not helping to improve the overall performance of the ESS.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a new rack frame structure that guarantees the rigidity and seismic performance of the rack frame while minimizing weight and closure.

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a rack frame having a simplified structure while ensuring rigidity and earthquake resistance, and an energy storage system including the same.

[0009] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the problems described above and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention.

[0010] A battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to store batteries, and includes a first column that is vertically erected and includes a first sub-rack having a plurality of battery storage spaces formed along the first column, and a second sub-rack that is vertically erected and includes a second column that is vertically erected and includes a plurality of battery storage spaces formed along the second column, wherein the first sub-rack and the second sub-rack are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the battery rack, and the first sub-rack and the second sub-rack have an open top structure.

[0011] The battery rack further includes a horizontal frame extending along the length of the battery rack, the horizontal frame being perpendicular to the first column and the second column, and the horizontal frame being capable of being coupled to an end of the first column and an end of the second column.

[0012] The first column and the second column are positioned adjacent to each other, and the first column and the second column can be connected through a connecting block positioned between the first column and the second column.

[0013] One side of the above connecting block can be coupled to the first column, and the other side of the above connecting block can be coupled to the second column.

[0014] The above connecting block has a shape of a square tube, and the connecting block includes a front side located in front of the battery rack and one side extending vertically from two opposing edges of the front side toward the rear of the battery rack and the other side, and the one side can be coupled with the first column, and the other side can be coupled with the second column.

[0015] The above front can be combined with the first column and the second column.

[0016] At least two front fastening holes are formed on the front of the above connecting block, and one of the two front fastening holes located on one side corresponds to the first column, and the other of the two front fastening holes located on the other side corresponds to the second column.

[0017] Four front fastening holes are formed on the front of the above connecting block, and the four front fastening holes are located at each corner of an imaginary square. Two of the four front fastening holes located on one side correspond to the first column, and two of the four front fastening holes located on the other side correspond to the second column.

[0018] Side fastening holes are formed on one side and the other side of the above connecting block, and the side fastening hole formed on the one side corresponds to the first column, and the side fastening hole formed on the other side corresponds to the second column.

[0019] There may be two or more side fastening holes formed on the one side and the other side of the above connecting block.

[0020] The first column and the second column are positioned adjacently, and the axial cross-section of the first column and the axial cross-section of the second column may have mutually symmetrical shapes.

[0021] The first column and the second column are positioned adjacently, the first column includes a first outer bend portion bent toward the outside of the first sub-rack and a first inner bend portion bent toward the inside of the first sub-rack, the second column includes a second outer bend portion bent toward the outside of the second sub-rack and a second inner bend portion bent toward the inside of the second sub-rack, the first outer bend portion and the second outer bend portion are positioned adjacent to each other, and a separation space can be formed between the first inner bend portion and the second inner bend portion.

[0022] A connecting block is positioned in the above-mentioned space, and the first column and the second column can be connected through the connecting block.

[0023] An opening is formed at the rear of the first column and the second column, and the connecting block can enter the separation space through the opening.

[0024] The above opening can be formed by deforming or removing a portion of the first column and the second column.

[0025] The above connecting block may be positioned adjacent to an end of the first column and an end of the second column.

[0026] The above connecting blocks may be two or more, and one of the connecting blocks may be located at one end of the first column and the second column, and the other may be located at the other end of the first column and the second column.

[0027] The first column includes a front column positioned in front of the battery rack and a rear column positioned in rear of the battery rack, the second column includes a front column positioned in front of the battery rack and a rear column positioned in rear of the battery rack, and the number of connecting blocks is two or more, one of the connecting blocks may be positioned between the front column of the first column and the front column of the second column, and another of the connecting blocks may be positioned between the rear column of the first column and the rear column of the second column.

[0028] It may further include a third sub-rack positioned adjacent to the first sub-rack or the second sub-rack.

[0029] An energy storage system according to another embodiment of the present invention includes at least one battery rack as described above.

[0030] According to embodiments, structural simplification of the rack frame can be achieved by omitting plate-shaped members located at the top and bottom of the rack frame.

[0031] Additionally, according to embodiments, the rack frame may have a structure in which at least two sub-rack frames are interconnected, thereby enhancing the overall rigidity and structural stability of the rack frame. Furthermore, since the size of the rack frame can be adjusted to match the size of the container to which the rack frame is secured, the compatibility of the rack frame may be enhanced.

[0032] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0033] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a conventional battery rack.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 3 is an XZ cross-sectional view along the AA cut line of Figure 2.

[0036] Figure 4 is a top view of the battery rack according to Figure 2.

[0037] Figure 5 is an XY cross-sectional view along the BB cut line of Figure 2.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a sub-rack included in the battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a support frame included in a battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the combination of a sub-rack, a support frame, and a connecting block included in a battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a sub-rack and a connecting block positioned on a support frame included in a battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the combination of a connecting block and a column in a battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0043] Fig. 11 is an enlarged drawing of the joint portion of the sub-rack in the battery rack according to Fig. 2.

[0044] Figures 12 to 14 are axial cross-sections of columns of the battery rack according to Figure 2.

[0045] FIGS. 15 to 17 are drawings for explaining the combination of the columns and connecting blocks of the battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0046] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating another form of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms other than those described below, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the embodiments described herein.

[0048] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0049] In addition, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily enlarged or reduced for convenience of explanation, so it is obvious that the content of the present invention is not limited to what is shown. In the drawings below, the thickness of each layer is enlarged to clearly express various layers and regions. In addition, in the drawings below, the thickness of some layers and regions is exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0050] Also, when a part such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is described as being "over" or "on" another part, this should be interpreted to include not only cases where the layer, membrane, region, or plate is "directly over" the other part, but also cases where there are other parts in between. Conversely, when a part such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is described as being "directly over" another part, this can mean that there are no other parts in between. Furthermore, being "over" or "on" a reference part means being located above or below the reference part, and may not necessarily mean being located "over" or "on" the opposite direction of gravity. Meanwhile, just as describing being "over" or "on" another part, describing being "under" or "beneath" another part can also be understood with reference to the above.

[0051] Additionally, throughout the specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0052] Additionally, throughout the specification, when we say "in plan", we mean when the part is viewed from above, and when we say "in cross section", we mean when the part is viewed from the side in a cross-section cut vertically.

[0053]

[0054] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a conventional battery rack.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, a conventional battery rack (20) includes vertically extending columns (21, 22), a bracket (23) extending between two columns (21, 22) to form a receiving space in which a battery is placed, and two plate-shaped members (25) that are joined to the top or bottom of the two columns (21, 22) to maintain the overall shape of the battery rack (20).

[0056] Here, the battery refers to an energy storage unit provided to the battery rack (20), and may be a battery module or a battery pack.

[0057] Here, the plate-shaped member (25) can be made of metal and can be positioned at the top and bottom of the battery rack (20), respectively. The plate-shaped member (25) positioned at the bottom serves to support the load of the battery rack (20), and the plate-shaped member (25) positioned at the top can fix the position of each column (21, 22) so that the structure of the battery rack (20) is stably maintained.

[0058] In this way, the positions of the columns (21, 22) were fixed in the past through the plate-shaped member (25), thereby forming the overall structure of the battery rack (20) and ensuring rigidity. However, the plate-shaped member (25) must be made of a metal with high rigidity, so it is heavy, and since it has a structure that seals the top and bottom of the battery rack (20), there was a problem of hindering heat dissipation of the battery mounted on the battery rack (20).

[0059]

[0060] Below, a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0061] The battery rack of the present embodiment is designed to address the aforementioned issues and can have a simpler structure than a conventional battery rack (20). Therefore, the battery rack of the present embodiment, described below, has the effect of promoting heat dissipation of the battery through its simplified structure, reducing its overall weight, thereby reducing transportation costs, and increasing energy density.

[0062] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is an XZ cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a top view of the battery rack according to Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is an XY cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Fig. 2. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a sub-rack included in the battery rack according to Fig. 2.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment may have a structure in which the top and bottom are open. Compared to the conventional battery rack (20) illustrated in FIG. 1, the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment may not include a plate-shaped member (25) that closes the top or bottom. By having the battery rack (2000) with an open structure in this way, heat dissipation of the batteries mounted on the battery rack (20) can be promoted, and the overall weight of the battery rack (2000) can be reduced.

[0064] The battery rack (2000) can be used in an energy storage system that includes a housing such as a container, and can be used in a fixed form inside the container. When the energy storage system is distributed or sold in container units, it may be desirable to minimize the weight and volume of structures other than the batteries in order to accommodate a large number of batteries inside the container. Furthermore, even when the same number of batteries are loaded, if the volume or weight of structures other than the batteries is reduced, effects such as reduced transportation costs can be achieved. The battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment achieves structural simplification by omitting the conventional plate-shaped member (25), thereby improving the energy density of the energy storage system including the battery rack (2000) and reducing transportation costs.

[0065] The battery rack (2000) may include two sub-racks (2001). The battery rack (2000) may have an integrated structure in which the two sub-racks (2001) are integrated. By interconnecting the two sub-racks (2001), the structural rigidity and seismic performance of the battery rack (2000) may be improved. In this way, the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment omits the conventional plate-shaped member (25) and has an integrated structure including at least two sub-racks (2001), thereby achieving the rigidity and seismic performance required for the battery rack (2000). Meanwhile, as will be described later, the battery rack (2000) may also include three or more sub-racks (2001).

[0066] Meanwhile, before the explanation, the battery rack (2000) can be described as having a length, a depth, and a height.

[0067] Here, the length of the battery rack (2000) may be a size on the X-axis. The depth of the battery rack (2000) may be a size on the Y-axis. The height of the battery rack (2000) may be a size on the Z-axis. Here, the length, depth, and height of the sub-rack (2001) included in the battery rack (2000) may also be described as sizes on the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis as above.

[0068] In addition, the two sides in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery rack (2000) may be referred to as the left side (-X-axis direction) and the right side (+X-axis direction). The two sides in the depth direction of the battery rack (2000) may be referred to as the front side (-Y-axis direction) and the rear side (+Y-axis direction). The two sides in the height direction of the battery rack (2000) may be referred to as the upper side (+Z-axis direction) and the lower side (-Z-axis direction). Here, the left and right, front and back, and top and bottom of the sub rack (2001) may also be described in the same manner.

[0069] The greater the number of sub-racks (2001) included in the battery rack (2000), the greater the length value of the battery rack (2000). In addition, the height value of the battery rack (2000) may correspond to the length of the columns (2100, 2200) included in the sub-rack (2001). The height value of the battery rack (2000) may correspond to the number of batteries that can be loaded on the sub-rack (2001). In addition, the depth value of the battery rack (2000) may correspond to the length of the bracket (2300) included in the sub-rack (2001) or the size of the battery mounted on the battery rack (2000).

[0070]

[0071] Below, the sub rack (2001) included in the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment is described.

[0072] Each sub-rack (2001) may include a column (2100, 2200) extending vertically and a bracket (2300) that is connected to the column (2100, 2200) to form a receiving space in which a battery is installed. In addition, each sub-rack (2001) may further include a fixing post (2400) for stably fixing a battery inserted into the battery rack (2000).

[0073] The columns (2100, 2200) may be frame structures extending in the height direction (Z-axis direction). The columns (2100, 2200) may be frame structures extending in the vertical direction. The columns (2100, 2200) may be vertically arranged to form the overall shape of the sub-rack (2001). The columns (2100, 2200) may also be referred to as vertical frames, vertical beams, etc. In addition, the columns (2100, 2200) may also be referred to as main frames.

[0074] In the sub-rack (2001) of the present embodiment, a plurality of storage spaces may be positioned along the longitudinal direction of the columns (2100, 2200), and a battery may be placed in each storage space. In this way, the sub-rack (2001) that vertically loads the batteries may be referred to as a tower-type structure. Here, the longitudinal direction of the columns (2100, 2200) may be the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001).

[0075] The columns (2100, 2200) may include a front column (2100) located at the front side of the sub rack (2001) and a rear column (2200) located at the rear side of the battery rack (2000). The front column (2100) and the rear column (2200) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) of the sub rack (2001). The front column (2100) and the rear column (2200) may be positioned to correspond to each other.

[0076] There may be two front columns (2100). There may be two rear columns (2200). A pair of front columns (2100) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001). A pair of rear columns (2200) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001). The distance at which the pair of front columns (2100) are spaced apart from each other may be the same as the distance at which the pair of rear columns (2200) are spaced apart from each other. A pair of front columns (2100) and a pair of rear columns (2100) may be positioned to correspond to each other. Accordingly, in the cross-section of the sub-rack (2001) illustrated in FIG. 5, the two front columns (2100) and the two rear columns (2200) may be positioned at each corner of an overall rectangle.

[0077] The bracket (2300) may be a frame structure extending horizontally. The bracket (2300) may be a frame structure extending along the depth direction (Y-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001). The bracket (2300) may extend between the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200).

[0078] The bracket (2300) may be a shelf-shaped structure on which a battery is mounted. The axial cross-section of the bracket (2300) may have an L-shape. The L-shaped bracket (2300) may include a horizontal plane (2310) and a vertical plane (2320) extending vertically from one end of the horizontal plane (2310). The horizontal plane (2310) of the bracket (2300) may support the lower surface of the battery upward. The vertical plane (2320) of the bracket (2300) may be positioned on the side of the battery, thereby preventing the battery from being separated from the bracket (2300). Here, the axial cross-section may refer to a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding structure. The longitudinal direction of the bracket (2300) may be the depth direction (Y-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001).

[0079] A pair of brackets (2300) can form a space for receiving a battery. A battery can be mounted on the pair of brackets (2300), and the pair of brackets (2300) can be positioned on both sides of the battery to support the battery and prevent the battery from being detached. In the pair of symmetrical brackets (2300), each horizontal surface (2310) can support the lower surface of the battery from both sides, and each vertical surface (2320) can prevent the battery from being separated from the side of the battery. Here, the battery mounted on the sub-rack (2001) can be inserted from the front to the rear along the depth direction of the sub-rack (2001) on the bracket (2300).

[0080] A pair of brackets (2300) may extend between a pair of front columns (2100) and a pair of rear columns (2200). A pair of brackets (2300) may be positioned between a pair of front columns (2100) and a pair of rear columns (2200). The pair of brackets (2300) may be positioned on the same plane (XY plane). The pair of brackets (2300) may have a shape that is symmetrical to each other. The pair of brackets (2300) may have a bilaterally symmetrical shape. In other words, the axial cross-section of one of the pair of brackets (2300) may have an L-shape, and the axial cross-section of the other may have an inverted L-shape.

[0081] Specifically, the front column (2100) may include a first front column (2110) and a second front column (2120). The rear column (2200) may include a first rear column (2210) and a second rear column (2220). One of the pair of brackets (2300) may extend between the first front column (2110) and the first rear column (2210), and the other may extend between the second front column (2120) and the second rear column (2220).

[0082] There may be a plurality of brackets (2300) extending between the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200). The plurality of brackets (2300) may be positioned with intervals along the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the columns (2100, 2200). By positioning the plurality of brackets (2300) in a row along the height direction, a plurality of battery accommodating spaces may be formed along the columns (2100, 2200) in the sub-rack (2001). Here, the interval between the plurality of brackets (2300) may be greater than the height value of the battery. The intervals between the plurality of brackets (2300) may be the same.

[0083] Referring to Fig. 6, the bracket (2300) and the columns (2100, 2200) can be connected through a hooking structure. A protrusion (2330) can be provided at a longitudinal end of the bracket (2300). The protrusion (2330) can be formed at both longitudinal ends of the bracket (2300). The protrusion (2330) can be formed on a vertical surface (2320). The protrusion (2330) can be formed to extend from the rear surface of the vertical surface (2320) and protrude downward.

[0084] The front column (2100) or the rear column (2200) may be provided with a groove (2101) corresponding to the above-described protrusion. By combining the protrusion (2330) formed at the end of the bracket (2300) with the groove (2101) formed in the front column (2100) or the rear column (2200), the bracket (2300) can be stably combined with the columns (2100, 2200). Here, the protrusion (2330) can be inserted into the groove (2101) in a downward direction (-Z-axis direction), and accordingly, the protrusion (2330) of the bracket (2300) can be fitted into the groove (2101). Through this structure, the bracket (2300) can be more firmly fixed to the column (2100, 2200) as a downward load is applied. Accordingly, even after the battery is installed on the bracket (2300), the bracket (2300) can be prevented from being detached from the sub-rack (2001) structure.

[0085] The fixed post (2400) may be used to stably fix the battery to the sub-rack (2001). The fixed post (2400) may be located at the rear of the sub-rack (2001). The fixed post (2400) may be located between a pair of rear columns (2200). The fixed post (2400) may correspond to the rear of the battery inserted from the front to the rear. The fixed post (2400) may be fixed to the rear of the battery.

[0086] The fixed post (2400) may be a frame structure extending in the height direction (Z-axis direction). The fixed post (2400) may be a frame structure extending in the vertical direction. The fixed post (2400) may be vertically arranged along the loading direction of the batteries and may correspond to the rear surface of each battery.

[0087] Meanwhile, the fixed post (2400) may be connected to the rear column (2200) via a bridge (2410). Here, the fixed post (2400) may be provided to include a plurality of sub-posts, and each sub-post may be connected to the rear column (2200) via a bridge (2410).

[0088] Although not specifically illustrated, a catch structure positioned at intervals may be formed on the fixed post (2400), and a separate structure corresponding to the catch structure may be positioned on the rear of the battery. By connecting the rear of the battery and the fixed post (2400) through the catch structure, a battery mounted on the battery rack (2000) or sub-rack (2001) can be stably fixed.

[0089] The reinforcing post (2500) may be intended to improve the overall rigidity and seismic performance of the sub-rack (2001) or battery rack (2000).

[0090] The reinforcing post (2500) may be positioned parallel to the columns (2100, 2200). The reinforcing post (2500) may be positioned between the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200). The reinforcing post (2500) may be positioned between the first front column (2110) and the first rear column (2210). The reinforcing post (2500) may be positioned between the second front column (2120) and the second rear column (2220). The reinforcing post (2500) may be a frame structure extending in the height direction (Z-axis direction). The reinforcing post (2500) may be a frame structure extending in the vertical direction.

[0091] A reinforcing post (2500) can be arranged to cross the central portion of a plurality of brackets (2300) and correspond to each bracket (2300). By being combined with the bracket (2300), the reinforcing post (2500) can stably fix the bracket (2300) and prevent the bracket (2300) from being detached or damaged.

[0092] Here, the connection between the reinforcing post (2500) and the bracket (2300) may be similar to that illustrated in FIG. 6. Accordingly, the bracket (2300) may include a protrusion (2330) positioned at the center of the longitudinal direction of the bracket (2300), and a corresponding groove may be formed in the reinforcing post (2500). The protrusion (2330) may have a shape that protrudes downward and may be inserted into the groove of the reinforcing post (2500) in a downward direction (-Z-axis direction). Through this, even if a battery is positioned on the bracket (2300), the protrusion (2330) may be stably coupled to the reinforcing post (2500).

[0093]

[0094] Hereinafter, a structure for connecting two sub-racks (2001) included in a battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment will be described. The battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment can improve the overall rigidity and seismic performance of the battery rack (2000) by mutually connecting the two sub-racks (2001). The battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment has a structure in which the top and bottom are open, but by connecting two or more sub-racks (2001) to support each other, the overall rigidity of the battery rack (2000) can be supplemented and the seismic performance can be improved.

[0095] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a support frame included in a battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0096] The battery rack (2000) may be provided with a support frame (2600). The support frame (2600) may be for maintaining the overall shape of the battery rack (2000).

[0097] The support frame (2600) can be positioned at the top and bottom of the battery rack (2000), respectively. The support frame (2600) is positioned at the top and bottom of the battery rack (2000) and is coupled with the sub-rack (2001), thereby connecting at least two sub-racks (2001).

[0098] For convenience of explanation, the two sub-racks (2001) included in the battery rack (2000) are hereinafter referred to as the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b), respectively. Here, the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) may be arranged along the length direction of the battery rack (2000).

[0099] The support frame (2600) may include a pair of horizontal frames (2610) extending in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery rack (2000), and beams (2620, 2630) extending perpendicular to the pair of horizontal frames (2610) and between the pair of horizontal frames (2610). Here, the beams (2620, 2630) may include a side beam (2620) and a middle beam (2630). The side beam (2620) may correspond to an end of the pair of horizontal frames (2610). The middle beam (2630) may not correspond to an end of the pair of horizontal frames (2610).

[0100] In the past, since the battery rack (2000) included a plate-shaped member (25), the columns (21, 22) were fixed to the plate-shaped member (25) for structural stability. However, in the present embodiment, instead of the plate-shaped member (25), the positions of the columns (2100, 2200) can be fixed through a support frame (2600).

[0101] More specifically, the sub-rack (2001) may include a pair of front columns (2100) and a pair of rear columns (2200), and in order for the pair of front columns (2100) and the pair of rear columns (2200) to be stably fixed, a structure may be required to fix the columns (2100, 2200) in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) and the length direction (X-axis direction). In the present embodiment, the columns (2100, 2200) spaced apart in the length direction (X-axis direction) may be fixed by a horizontal frame (2610), and the columns (2100, 2200) spaced apart in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) may be fixed by beams (2620, 2630). In addition, the beams (2620, 2630) may be supported by a reinforcing frame (2500). In this way, even if the plate-shaped member (25) is omitted, the overall structure of the sub-rack (2001) or battery rack (2000) can be maintained through the reinforcing frame (2500) and the support frame (2600).

[0102]

[0103] The horizontal frame (2610) may be for forming the overall shape of each sub-rack (2001). The horizontal frame (2610) may be a frame structure extending in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001) or the battery rack (2000).

[0104] Columns (2100, 2200) included in the sub-rack (2001) can be coupled to the horizontal frame (2610). The horizontal frame (2610) can be arranged to cross two columns (2100, 2200) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001). The horizontal frame (2610) can extend between a pair of front columns (2100) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). The horizontal frame (2610) can extend between a pair of rear columns (2200) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). By fixing a pair of front columns (2100) or a pair of rear columns (2200) to the horizontal frame (2610), the overall shape of the sub-rack (2001) can be maintained.

[0105] There may be multiple horizontal frames (2610). The horizontal frames (2610) may be provided at the front and rear sides or the top and bottom of the sub-rack (2001), thereby maintaining the overall shape of the sub-rack (2001).

[0106] In the support frame (2600) located at the top of the battery rack (2000), horizontal frames (2610) can be located at the front and rear sides of the sub rack (2001), respectively. One of the pair of horizontal frames (2610) can be coupled to one end of a pair of front columns (2100) of the sub rack (2001), and the other can be coupled to one end of a pair of rear columns (2200) of the sub rack (2001). In addition, in the support frame (2600) located at the bottom, the pair of horizontal frames (2610) can be coupled to the other ends of a pair of front columns (2100) and a pair of rear columns (2200).

[0107] A horizontal frame (2610) can be connected to at least two sub-racks (2001). A first sub-rack (2001a) and a second sub-rack (2001b) can be connected via the horizontal frame (2610). In other words, the horizontal frame (2610) may not be provided for each sub-rack (2001), but may be provided as a unit of the battery rack (2000). The first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) can share the horizontal frame (2610) provided to the battery rack (2000).

[0108] Accordingly, in the support frame (2600) located at the top of the battery rack (2000), one of the pair of horizontal frames (2610) can be coupled to one end of a pair of front columns (2100) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b). The other of the pair of horizontal frames (2610) can be coupled to one end of a pair of rear columns (2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0109] In this way, each horizontal frame (2610) can be coupled to an end of the front column (2100) or an end of the rear column (2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b), thereby coupling the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0110] The beams (2620, 2630) may be perpendicular to a pair of horizontal frames (2610) and may extend between the pair of horizontal frames (2610). The beams (2620, 2630) may include a side beam (2620) corresponding to an end of the horizontal frame (2610) and a middle beam (2630) not corresponding to an end of the horizontal frame (2610).

[0111] The ends of the side beams (2620) may correspond to the ends of the horizontal frame (2610). The side beams (2620) may be provided as a pair. Both ends of one of the pair of side beams (2620) may correspond to one end of the pair of horizontal frames (2610), respectively, and both ends of the other of the pair of side beams (2620) may correspond to the other end of the pair of horizontal frames (2610), respectively. The pair of side beams (2620) and the pair of horizontal frames (2610) may be orthogonal to each other. The pair of side beams (2620) and the pair of horizontal frames (2610) may form a rectangular shape by joining their respective ends. In this way, the overall structure of the support frame (2600) may be formed through the horizontal frame (2610) and the side beams (2620).

[0112] The middle beam (2630) may be positioned between a pair of side beams (2620). The middle beam (2630) may be positioned between sub-racks (2001) connected to the horizontal frame (2610). More specifically, when two sub-racks (2001) are coupled to the horizontal frame (2610), the middle beam (2630) may be positioned at a location where each sub-rack (2001) contacts. The middle beam (2630) may correspond to two sub-racks (2001) that are positioned adjacent to each other simultaneously. In addition, when three sub-racks (2001) are coupled to the horizontal frame (2610), two middle beams (2630) may be provided so as to be positioned between two adjacent sub-racks (2001). Therefore, the thickness value of the middle beam (2630) may be greater than the thickness value of the side beam (2620).

[0113] Meanwhile, in the above description, the middle beam (2630) was described as a separate configuration from the side beam (2620), but depending on the design, the middle beam (2630) may be provided in the form of two side beams (2620) combined.

[0114] At this time, the two side beams (2620) included in the middle beam (2630) may correspond to the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b), respectively. Also, at this time, in the structure in which the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) are combined, it can be described that a total of four side beams (2620) are provided, and two of the four side beams (2620) may correspond to the first sub-rack (2001a), and the other two may correspond to the second sub-rack (2001b). Therefore, in this case, the side beams (2620) may be described as being located at the upper and lower left and right sides of the sub-rack (2001), respectively. In this case, the side beams (2620) may be described as being individually included in the sub-rack (2001).

[0115] The beams (2620, 2630) can maintain the overall shape of the sub-rack (2001) by fixing two columns (2100, 2200) spaced apart in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001). The beams (2620, 2630) can be frame structures extending in the horizontal direction. The beams (2620, 2630) can be frame structures extending in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) of the sub-rack (2001).

[0116] The beams (2620, 2630) can extend between the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200). The ends of the beams (2620, 2630) can be joined to the ends of the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200).

[0117] The beams (2620, 2630) can be parallel to the brackets (2300). The beams (2620, 2630) can fix both ends of the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200) to which the brackets (2300) are connected, thereby preventing distortion of the front column (2100) and the rear column (2200) and detachment of the brackets (2300).

[0118] The beams (2620, 2630) can be combined with the reinforcing posts (2500). The support frames (2600) can be respectively positioned at the top and bottom of the battery rack (2000). The upper support frames (2600) and the lower support frames (2600) can be arranged side by side in the height direction. One end of the reinforcing frame (2500) can be connected to the beams (2620, 2630) included in the upper support frame (2600), and the other end can be connected to the beams (2620, 2630) included in the lower support frame (2600). The support frames (2600) located at the top of the battery rack (2000) and the support frames (2600) located at the bottom can be additionally connected through the reinforcing frame (2500), and the stress applied to the support frames (2600) can be distributed.

[0119] Here, the reinforcing frame (2500) can be coupled to the central portion of the beam (2620, 2630). By coupling the reinforcing frame (2500) to the central portion of the beam (2620, 2630), the force applied to the battery rack (2000) can be uniformly distributed.

[0120] Meanwhile, a reinforcing frame (2500) may be coupled between the upper side beam (2620) and the lower side beam (2620). For example, the side beam (2620) located on the left side of the support frame (2600) may be connected to the reinforcing frame (2500) located between the first front column (2110) and the first rear column (2210) of the first sub-rack (2001a). The side beam (2620) located on the right side may be connected to the reinforcing frame (2500) located between the second front column (2120) and the second rear column (2220) of the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0121] On the other hand, two reinforcing frames (2500) may be combined between the upper middle beam (2630) and the lower middle beam (2630). The middle beam (2630) may be positioned between the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b). The middle beam (2630) may be connected to the reinforcing frame (2500) positioned between the second front column (2120) and the second rear column (2220) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and may be connected to the reinforcing frame (2500) positioned between the first front column (2110) and the first rear column (2210) of the second sub-rack (2001b). This can be more easily explained through the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5. However, in the case where the middle beam (2630) is provided in the form of two side beams (2620) combined as described above, it can be explained that one reinforcing frame (2500) is combined with each side beam (2620) included in the middle beam (2630).

[0122]

[0123] Meanwhile, the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment may include a connecting block (2700) for stable connection of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0124] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the combination of a sub-rack, a support frame, and a connection block included in the battery rack according to FIG. 2. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the positioning of a sub-rack and a connection block on a support frame included in the battery rack according to FIG. 2. FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the combination of a connection block and a column in the battery rack according to FIG. 2. FIG. 11 is an enlarged drawing of a joint portion of a sub-rack in the battery rack according to FIG. 2. FIGS. 12 to 14 are axial cross-sections of columns of the battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 14, the connection block (2700) included in the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment can be positioned between the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0126] The connection block (2700) can be connected to the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b). One side of the connection block (2700) can correspond to the first sub-rack (2001a). The other side of the connection block (2700) can correspond to the second sub-rack (2001b). Here, when the first sub-rack (2001a) is located on the left side of the second sub-rack (2001b), one side can be described as the left side and the other side as the right side. In addition, when the first sub-rack (2001a) is located on the right side of the second sub-rack (2001b), one side can be described as the right side and the other side as the left side.

[0127] The connecting block (2700) can be positioned between the columns (2100, 2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the columns (2100, 2200) of the second sub-rack (2001b). The connecting block (2700) can be coupled to the columns (2100, 2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the columns (2100, 2200) of the second sub-rack (2001b). Here, the columns (2100, 2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) can be referred to as the first column, and the columns (2100, 2200) of the second sub-rack (2001b) can be referred to as the second column.

[0128] The connecting block (2700) can be connected to the first column and the second column. One side of the connecting block (2700) corresponds to the first column, and the other side corresponds to the second column. One side of the connecting block (2700) can be coupled to the first column. The other side of the connecting block (2700) can be coupled to the second column.

[0129] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the first column may be the second front column (2120) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and the second column may be the first front column (2110) of the second sub-rack (2001b). However, it should be noted in advance that the first column and the second column referred to in this specification refer to each column adjacent to each other in the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b), and may also refer to columns (2100, 2200) in different positions than those shown.

[0130] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 8, the connection block (2700) may be provided not only at the connection position of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b), but also at the columns (2100, 2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) located at the outer side of the battery rack (2000). Here, the connection block (2700) may correspond to each of the columns (2100, 2200), and may be half in size compared to the connection block (2700) provided at the connection position.

[0131] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the connecting block (2700) may have an overall rectangular shape. The connecting block (2700) may include a front surface (2710) located at the front side of the battery rack (2000), and two side surfaces (2720) extending perpendicularly to the front surface (2710) from opposite edges of the front surface (2710). Here, the side surfaces (2720) may be two surfaces facing each other in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery rack (2000).

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11, one side of the front (2710) may correspond to the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and the other side may correspond to the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0133] The front (2710) may include a front fastening hole (2712). The front fastening hole (2712) located on one side of the front (2710) may correspond to the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a). The front fastening hole (2712) located on the other side of the front (2710) may correspond to the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b). Holes (2120h and 2110h of FIG. 10) may be formed in the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) at positions corresponding to the front fastening holes (2712). By inserting a fastening member (2800) in a state where the holes (2120h, 2110h) formed in the sub-rack (2001) and the front fastening hole (2712) correspond to each other, the sub-rack (2001) and the connecting block (2700) can be connected.

[0134] More specifically, the number of front fastening holes (2712) may be four, and the four front fastening holes (2712) may be located at each corner of an imaginary square. Among these, two front fastening holes (2712) located on one side may correspond to the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and two front fastening holes (2712) located on the other side may correspond to the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b).

[0135] Meanwhile, unlike the above, there may be two front fastening holes (2712). One of the front fastening holes (2712) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) may correspond to the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and the other may correspond to the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b). However, in order to stably connect the sub-rack (2001) and the connecting block (2700), it may be preferable that at least two or more fastening members are connected, and accordingly, it may be preferable that four or more front fastening holes (2712) are provided.

[0136] The side (2720) may include a side fastening hole (2722). The side (2720) located on one of the two facing sides (2720) may correspond to the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a), and the side (2720) located on the other side may correspond to the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b). One or more side fastening holes (2722) may be formed on each side (2720), and holes (2120h, 2110h) may be formed on each sub-rack (2001) at positions corresponding to the side fastening holes (2722). By inserting a fastening member (2800) into a state where the holes (2120h, 2110h) formed in the sub-rack (2001) and the side fastening holes (2722) correspond to each other, the sub-rack (2001) and the connecting block (2700) can be connected. There is no limitation on the number of side fastening holes (2722), but it may be preferable that two or more are formed on each side (2720) for stable connection with the sub-rack (2001). Here, the fastening member (2800) may be a bolt, a nut, a washer, or the like.

[0137] Meanwhile, in FIG. 10, although there are two side fastening holes (2722), the holes (2120h, 2110h) of the sub-rack (2001) and the fastening member (2800) are each illustrated as three. Here, two of the three holes (2120h, 2110h) correspond to the side fastening holes (2722), and the remaining one can be used for connection with another structure. For a specific example, another hole (2120h, 2110h) and one fastening member (2800) can be used for connection with a beam (2620, 2630).

[0138] The rear surface of the connecting block (2700) may have a shape that protrudes slightly toward the rear, which may be for stable connection with the beams (2620, 2630). The rear surface of the connecting block (2700) may be positioned in contact with the beams (2620, 2630). Two of the three holes (2120h, 2110h) formed in the sub-rack (2001) may correspond to the connecting block (2700), and the remaining one may correspond to the beams (2620, 2630). In this way, the first column (2120 of FIG. 10) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second column (2110 of FIG. 10) of the second sub-rack (2001b) may be coupled with the connecting block (2700) and the beams (2620, 2630).

[0139] In the above, it has been described through FIGS. 8 to 11 that the connection block (2700) is positioned between the second front column (2120) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the first front column (2110) of the second sub-rack (2001b) and that they are connected. However, this description can also be applied to the connection between the second rear column (2220) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the first rear column (2210) of the second sub-rack (2001b). In addition, when the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment further includes a third sub-rack, this description can also be applied to the connection between the first sub-rack (2001a) or the second sub-rack (2001b) and the third sub-rack. Therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0140]

[0141] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 14, the columns (2100, 2200) may be provided in a form in which a plate-shaped material is continuously bent in the front-back (Y-axis direction) or left-right (X-axis direction), and accordingly, the axial cross-section of the columns (2100, 2200) may have a shape including a plurality of bent portions. In this way, by forming the columns (2100, 2200) to include a plurality of corners, the weight per volume occupied by the columns (2100, 2200) can be minimized, and structural rigidity can be secured. The cross-sectional shape of the columns (2100, 2200) may also be referred to as an S-shape or an inverted S-shape.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a pair of front columns (2100) may have a shape that is symmetrical left and right.

[0143] More specifically, the front column (2100) may include a first front column (2110) and a second front column (2120). As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first front column (2110) may include an outer bend (2110a) bent toward the outside of the sub-rack (2001) and an inner bend (2110b) bent toward the inside of the sub-rack (2001). In this case, the outer bend (2110a) may be positioned relatively forward of the inner bend (2110b). As illustrated in FIG. 13, the second front column (2120) may include an outer bend (2120a) bent toward the outside of the sub-rack (2001) and an inner bend (2120b) bent toward the inside of the sub-rack (2001). At this time, the outer bending portion (2120a) may be positioned relatively in front of the inner bending portion (2120b).

[0144] Here, the inner side may be a direction toward the inside of the sub-rack (2001) including the front column (2100), and the outer side may be a direction toward the outside of the sub-rack (2001). The first front column (2110) may be located to the left (in the -X-axis direction) of the second front column (2120). In one sub-rack (2001), the inner side of the first front column (2110) may be in the +X-axis direction, and the inner side of the second front column (2120) may be in the -X-axis direction. In this way, the inner side and the outer side of the first front column (2110) and the second front column (2120) may be opposite to each other, and accordingly, the first front column (2110) and the second front column (2120) may have mutually symmetrical shapes.

[0145] Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated, the rear column (2200) may have a shape that is symmetrical in the front and rear directions with respect to the front column (2100). The first rear column (2210) may have a shape that is symmetrical in the front and rear directions with respect to the first front column (2110). The second rear column (2220) may have a shape that is symmetrical in the front and rear directions with respect to the second front column (2120). Accordingly, in the rear column (2200), the inner bending portion may be positioned relatively in front of the outer bending portion. In addition, a pair of rear columns (2200) may have a shape that is symmetrical in the left and right directions with respect to each other. The cross-sectional shape of the rear column (2200) can be understood through FIGS. 12 and 13, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0146] The column (2100, 2200) of the present embodiment may include multiple faces separated by edges at the bending positions.

[0147] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first front column (2110) may include a first surface (2111) to a fifth surface (2115). The first surface (2111) to the fifth surface (2115) are positioned perpendicular to the adjacent surface, and may be bent in the same direction as or opposite to the bending direction of the adjacent surface. Accordingly, the first surface (2111), the second surface (2112), and the third surface (2113) may form an outer bend portion (2110a) that is bent outward (in the -X-axis direction) and may have an open shape toward the inside (in the +X-axis direction). Additionally, the third side (2113), the fourth side (2114), and the fifth side (2115) can form an inner fold (2110b) that is curved toward the inside (+X-axis direction) and can have an open shape toward the outside (-X-axis direction).

[0148] The first surface (2111) is positioned forward of the battery rack (2000) and can provide a mating surface with the battery. An empty space is formed on the rear side of the first surface (2111) by the outer bending portion (2110a), so that even when the battery and the first surface (2111) are joined using bolts or the like, a worker can easily access the joining location. The first surface (2111) may also be referred to as the front of the first front column (2110).

[0149] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the second front column (2120) may include a first surface (2121) to a fifth surface (2125). The first surface (2121), the second surface (2122), and the third surface (2123) may form an outer folded portion (2120a) that is curved outward (in the +X-axis direction) and may have an open shape toward the inside (in the -X-axis direction). In addition, the third surface (2123), the fourth surface (2124), and the fifth surface (2125) may form an inner folded portion (2120b) that is curved inward (in the -X-axis direction) and may have an open shape toward the outside (in the +X-axis direction). Since the structure of the second front column (2120) can be described through FIG. 13 and the above-described contents, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Also, the structure of the rear column (2200) can be explained through FIGS. 12 and 13, so a detailed description is omitted.

[0150] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 14, the column (2100, 2200) of the present embodiment may include a sixth surface (2116). When the column (2100, 2200) includes the sixth surface (2116), the structural rigidity of the column (2100, 2200) can be further enhanced.

[0151]

[0152] FIGS. 15 to 17 are drawings for explaining the combination of the columns and connecting blocks of the battery rack according to FIG. 2.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 15, a connecting block (2700) may be positioned between the inner bend (2120b) of the second front column (2120) and the inner bend (2110b) of the first front column (2110). Here, the second front column (2120) may be included in the first sub-rack (2001a), and the first front column (2110) may be included in the second sub-rack (2001b). The second front column (2120) may be the first column, and the first front column (2110) may be the second column.

[0154] More specifically, the front surface (2710) of the connecting block (2700) is positioned adjacent to the third surface (2123) of the second front column (2120) and the third surface (2113) of the first front column (2110), and a fastening member (2800) is inserted into the front fastening hole (2712) formed in the front surface (2710), whereby the front surface (2710) of the connecting block (2700), the third surface (2123) of the second front column (2120), and the third surface (2113) of the first front column (2110) can be connected.

[0155] In addition, both side surfaces (2720) of the connecting block are positioned adjacent to the fourth side (2124) of the second front column (2120) and the fourth side (2114) of the first front column (2110), respectively, and a fastening member (2800) is inserted into the side fastening hole (2722) formed in the side surface (2720), so that both side surfaces (2720) of the connecting block and the fourth side (2124) of the second front column (2120) and the fourth side (2114) of the first front column (2110) can be connected.

[0156] In this way, the connecting block (2700) is positioned between the second front column (2120) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the first front column (2110) of the second sub-rack (2001b), and the connecting block (2700) is connected to the second front column (2120) and the first front column (2110), respectively, so that the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) can be connected. In addition, through this, the overall structure of the battery rack (2000) can be stabilized, and the seismic performance can be improved because the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) support each other.

[0157]

[0158] Meanwhile, in FIG. 15, the second front column (2120) and the first front column (2110) are shown to be joined by moving closer to each other with a connecting block (2700) between them. However, moving the columns (2100, 2200) that are heavy and bulky with a connecting block (2700) that is relatively small in size can be a difficult task.

[0159] Therefore, after positioning the second front column (2120) of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the first front column (2110) of the second sub-rack (2001b) at the installation location, it may be easier to insert the connecting block (2700) between the second front column (2120) and the first front column (2110).

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a portion of the front column (2100) may be removed or modified to facilitate insertion of the connecting block (2700).

[0161] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the fifth surface (2115) of the first front column (2110) can be partially removed or deformed. Here, the fifth surface (2115) may also be referred to as the rear surface of the first front column (2110). As illustrated in FIG. 17, by partially removing or deforming the fifth surface (2115), an opening (E1) through which an inner bend (2110b) can be entered can be formed on the rear surface of the first front column (2110). The fifth surface (2125) of the second front column (2120) can also be partially removed or deformed, through which an opening (E2) through which an inner bend (2120b) of the second front column (2120) can be entered can be formed. The connecting block (2700) can be positioned between the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) through openings (E1, E2) formed in the first front column (2110) and the second front column (2120).

[0162] Here, the fifth surface (2115) may have a narrow and long shape extending in one direction. Here, since the connecting block (2700) corresponds to the end of the first front column (2110), the fifth surface (2115) does not need to be entirely deformed or removed, and it may be preferable that only the portion of the fifth surface (2115) corresponding to the connecting block (2700) be partially deformed or removed. Referring to FIG. 10 described above, a protruding structure is confirmed at both ends of the first front column (2110), and this protruding portion may correspond to the fifth surface (2115) deformed in FIGS. 16 and 17. Here, three holes may be formed in the deformed surface, two of which may correspond to the side fastening holes (2722) of the connecting block (2700). In addition, one of the three holes may be used for connection with the beams (2620, 2630).

[0163] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 16 and 17, an opening (E1, E2) into which a connecting block (2700) can be inserted is formed by positioning a part of the fifth surface (2115) on the same plane as the fourth surface (2114), but it is also possible to remove a part of the fifth surface (2115).

[0164] In addition, a plurality of connecting blocks (2700) may be provided on the battery rack (2000). The connecting blocks (2700) may be provided at each end of the front column (2100) and each end of the rear column (2200). By providing the connecting blocks (2700) at the front, rear, upper and lower ends, respectively, at the locations where the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) contact each other, the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) can be stably fixed, and accordingly, the rigidity and seismic performance of the battery rack (2000) can be improved.

[0165]

[0166] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating another form of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 18, the battery rack (2000) of the present embodiment may include a first sub-rack (2001a), a second sub-rack (2001b), and a third sub-rack (2001c). By including three or more sub-racks (2001), the battery rack (2000) may have improved rigidity and seismic performance.

[0168] The third sub-rack (2001c) may be positioned adjacent to the second sub-rack (2001b) along the direction from the first sub-rack (2001a) to the second sub-rack (2001b). The first sub-rack (2001a), the second sub-rack (2001b), and the third sub-rack (2001c) may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery rack (2000).

[0169] The third sub-rack (2001c) may have a structure similar to the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b). The combination of the second sub-rack (2001b) and the third sub-rack (2001c) can be explained through the combination of the first sub-rack (2001a) and the second sub-rack (2001b) described above. In addition, the battery rack (2000) of FIG. 14 can be explained through the contents of the battery rack (2000) of FIG. 2 described above, except that the columns (2100, 2200) of the first sub-rack (2001a), the second sub-rack (2001b), and the third sub-rack (2001c) are combined to each support frame (2600), and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0170]

[0171] Meanwhile, the battery rack of the present embodiment can be applied to an energy storage system. The energy storage system can include a battery rack inside a housing, such as a container, and store batteries in the storage space of the battery rack. As such, the energy storage system can include at least one battery rack of the present embodiment.

[0172] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0173]

[0174] Description of the symbol

[0175] 2000: Battery Rack

[0176] 2100: Front column

[0177] 2110: 1st forward column

[0178] 2120: 2nd front column

[0179] 2200: Rear column

[0180] 2210: 1st rear column

[0181] 2220: Second rear column

[0182] 2300: Bracket

[0183] 2400: Fixed Post

[0184] 2500: Reinforced frame

[0185] 2600: Horizontal frame

[0186] 2700: Connection block

[0187] 2800: Absence of fasteners

Claims

1. In the battery rack that stores the battery, A first sub-rack comprising a first column that is vertically standing and has a plurality of battery storage spaces formed along the first column, and A second sub-rack comprising a second column positioned vertically and including a plurality of battery storage spaces formed along the second column, The first sub-rack and the second sub-rack are arranged along the length direction of the battery rack, The first sub-rack and the second sub-rack are battery racks having an open top structure.

2. In paragraph 1, The above battery rack further includes a horizontal frame extending along the length of the battery rack, The above horizontal frame is perpendicular to the first column and the second column, The above horizontal frame is a battery rack that is connected to the end of the first column and the end of the second column.

3. In paragraph 1, The first column and the second column are positioned adjacently, A battery rack in which the first column and the second column are connected through a connecting block positioned between the first column and the second column.

4. In paragraph 3, One side of the above connecting block is connected to the first column, The other side of the above connecting block is a battery rack that is connected to the second column.

5. In paragraph 3, The above connecting block has the shape of a square tube, The above connecting block includes a front portion positioned in front of the battery rack and one side and the other side extending vertically from two opposing edges of the front portion toward the rear of the battery rack, The above one side is coupled with the first column, The above other side is a battery rack coupled to the second column.

6. In paragraph 5, The above front is a battery rack that is connected to the first column and the second column.

7. In paragraph 6, At least two front fastening holes are formed on the front of the above connecting block, One of the two front fastening holes located on one side corresponds to the first column, The other of the two front fastening holes is a battery rack corresponding to the second column.

8. In paragraph 6, Four front fastening holes are formed on the front of the above connecting block, The above four front fastening holes are located at each corner of an imaginary square, Of the four front fastening holes above, two located on one side correspond to the first column, Of the four front fastening holes, two located on the other side are battery racks corresponding to the second column.

9. In paragraph 5, Side fastening holes are formed on one side and the other side of the above connecting block, The side fastening hole formed on the above one side corresponds to the first column, The side fastening hole formed on the above side corresponds to the battery rack corresponding to the second column.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery rack having two or more side fastening holes formed on one side and the other side of the above connecting block.

11. In paragraph 1, The first column and the second column are positioned adjacently, A battery rack in which the axial cross-section of the first column and the axial cross-section of the second column have mutually symmetrical shapes.

12. In paragraph 1, The first column and the second column are positioned adjacently, The first column includes a first outer bend portion bent toward the outside of the first sub-rack and a first inner bend portion bent toward the inside of the first sub-rack, The second column includes a second outer bend portion bent toward the outside of the second sub-rack and a second inner bend portion bent toward the inside of the second sub-rack, The first outer bend portion and the second outer bend portion are positioned adjacent to each other, A battery rack in which a space is formed between the first inner bend portion and the second inner bend portion.

13. In paragraph 12, A connecting block is located in the above space, A battery rack in which the first column and the second column are connected through the above connecting block.

14. In paragraph 13, A battery rack having an opening formed at the rear of the first column and the second column, through which the connecting block enters the space.

15. In paragraph 14, The above opening is a battery rack formed by deforming or removing a portion of the first column and the second column.

16. In paragraph 2, The above connecting block is a battery rack positioned adjacent to the end of the first column and the end of the second column.

17. In the second paragraph, The above connection blocks are two or more, A battery rack wherein one of the above connecting blocks is located at one end of the first column and the second column, and the other is located at the other end of the first column and the second column.

18. In paragraph 2, The first column includes a front column located in front of the battery rack and a rear column located in the rear of the battery rack, The second column includes a front column located in front of the battery rack and a rear column located in the rear of the battery rack, The above connection blocks are two or more, One of the above connecting blocks is located between the front column of the first column and the front column of the second column, Another of the above connecting blocks is a battery rack positioned between the rear column of the first column and the rear column of the second column.

19. In paragraph 1, A battery rack further comprising a third sub-rack positioned adjacent to the first sub-rack or the second sub-rack.

20. An energy storage device comprising a battery rack according to paragraph 1.

Images