Battery cell assembly and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments, a battery cell assembly is provided. The battery cell assembly comprises: a plurality of battery cells; first and second cross beams spaced apart from each other with the plurality of battery cells therebetween; a second circuit assembly, which is coupled to the plurality of battery cells and includes an integrated circuit for measuring voltages of the plurality of battery cells; a first temperature sensor, which is spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and is in contact with the first cross beam; and a second temperature sensor, which is spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and is in contact with the second cross beam.

Description

Battery cell assembly and battery pack including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell assembly and a battery pack including the same. This application claims the benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2023-0182801, filed December 15, 2023, and Korean Application No. 10-2024-0151904, filed October 31, 2024, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0003] The technological development trend for secondary batteries for mobility is improving energy density and safety. The safety of secondary batteries for mobility is crucial, as it directly impacts the lives of passengers. Safety in secondary batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, reliable electrical insulation, and delayed heat transfer in the event of thermal runaway.

[0004] The technical idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a battery cell assembly that provides monitoring of the temperature distribution inside the cell and a battery pack including the same.

[0005] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery cell assembly is provided. The battery cell assembly includes: a plurality of battery cells; first and second cross beams spaced apart from each other with the plurality of battery cells interposed therebetween; a circuit assembly including an integrated circuit coupled to the plurality of battery cells and configured to measure voltages of the plurality of battery cells; a first temperature sensor spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and in contact with the first cross beam; and a second temperature sensor spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and in contact with the second cross beam.

[0006] The first cross beam includes a first cavity, and the first temperature sensor is within the first cavity.

[0007] The first cavity is longer than each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0008] The first cross beam includes first and second vertical ribs defining the first cavity and first and second horizontal ribs between the first and second vertical ribs, and the first temperature sensor is in contact with the first vertical rib.

[0009] The first vertical rib of the first cross beam includes a first slit connected to the first cavity.

[0010] The integrated circuit includes a first cable connected to the first temperature sensor through the first slit.

[0011] The second cross beam includes a second cavity, and the second temperature sensor is within the second cavity.

[0012] The second cross beam includes third and fourth vertical ribs defining the second cavity and third and fourth horizontal ribs between the third and fourth vertical ribs, and the second temperature sensor is in contact with the third vertical rib.

[0013] The third vertical rib of the second cross beam includes a second slit connected to the second cavity.

[0014] The integrated circuit includes a second cable connected to the second temperature sensor through the second slit.

[0015] According to exemplary embodiments, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes a pack housing; and a plurality of battery cell assemblies disposed on a base plate of the pack housing, each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies including a plurality of battery cells, first and second cross beams spaced apart from each other with the plurality of battery cells interposed therebetween, a first temperature sensor within a first cavity of the first cross beam, and a second temperature sensor within a second cavity of the second cross beam.

[0016] The distance between the second temperature sensor and the base plate is smaller than the distance between the first temperature sensor and the base plate.

[0017] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly may include first and second cross beams coupled to a cell block, a first temperature sensor coupled to the first cross beam, and a second temperature sensor coupled to the second cross beam. Accordingly, a temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly can be measured, and improved temperature monitoring of the battery cell assembly can be provided.

[0018] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0020] Figures 2 to 5 are perspective views showing the battery cell assembly of Figure 1.

[0021] Figures 6 and 7 are exploded front and rear views of the battery cell assembly of Figure 1.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120') according to other exemplary embodiments.

[0023] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0024] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0025] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0026] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0027]

[0028] (Example 1)

[0029] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, a battery pack (100) may include a pack housing (110) and a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The battery pack (100) may be a final product mounted in an application such as a vehicle.

[0031] The pack housing (110) can provide a space for mounting battery cell assemblies (120). The pack housing (110) can include a base plate (111) and side walls (112, 113, 114, 115).

[0032] Here, two directions substantially parallel to the mounting surface (111M) of the base plate (111) (i.e., the surface facing the battery cell assembly (120)) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface (111M) of the base plate (111) is defined as the Z direction. The X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0033] The base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may each be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of each of the base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be the X direction. The side walls (114, 115) may also be provided by an extrusion process. The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (111).

[0034] According to exemplary embodiments, the base plate (111) and side walls (112, 113) may be joined by friction stir welding. The base plate (111) may include a plurality of unit plates joined by friction stir welding.

[0035] The pack housing (110) may include a center beam (116). The center beam (116) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) may be interposed between the side walls (112, 113). The center beam (116) may be included in a center plate, which is one of a plurality of unit plates that are friction stir welded to each other. Accordingly, the center beam (116) may be formed together with the center plate, and the center beam (116) may be an integral and continuous element with the center plate.

[0036] The base plate (111) may include a plurality of cooling channels. The plurality of cooling channels may provide passages for the movement of a coolant, such as water, for example. The plurality of cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The plurality of cooling channels may extend in the X direction. The plurality of cooling channels may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0037] A plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be arranged on a base plate (111) of a pack housing (110). The base plate (111) may support the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). Side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may horizontally surround the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0038] Hereinafter, the technical concept of the present invention will be described based on an embodiment in which the battery pack (100) is of a modular type and each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) does not include a module frame. However, this is for illustrative purposes and does not limit the technical concept of the present invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will easily arrive at an embodiment in which the battery pack may be of a modular type and each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies includes a module frame based on the description herein.

[0039] Thermal Interface Material (TIM) layers may be provided between the base plate (111B) of the pack housing (110) and the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The TIM layers may include a resin composition. The TIM layers may be provided by a thermal resin application process.

[0040] The resin composition may be a room temperature curable composition. That is, the curing reaction of the resin composition may be initiated and proceed at room temperature. The curing reaction of the resin composition may be accelerated at a temperature higher than room temperature. The curing reaction rate of the resin composition at a temperature higher than room temperature may be faster than the curing reaction rate of the resin composition at room temperature. As a non-limiting example, the subject of the resin composition may be any one of a silicone resin, a polyol resin, an epoxy resin, and an acrylic resin.

[0041] The center beam (116) can extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) can isolate a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) in the Y direction. The center beam (116) can be interposed between the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0042] In Fig. 1, the arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) can be said to be a 3 * 2 arrangement. The arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) disclosed in Fig. 1 is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) arranged in M ​​* N (wherein, M and N are each integers greater than or equal to 2) based on the description herein.

[0043] The battery pack (100) may further include leads coupled to side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) of the pack housing (110). The leads may cover elements mounted inside the battery pack (100), such as a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and electrical components. The leads may be secured to the pack housing (110) by mechanical coupling means, such as bolting.

[0044] The battery pack may further include exhaust devices coupled to the sidewalls (114, 115). Either of the sidewalls (114, 115) may include exhaust holes connected to the exhaust devices. The exhaust devices may be configured to delay thermal propagation by releasing high-temperature gas within the battery pack (100) to the outside when a thermal runway event occurs in the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0045] Here, thermal runaway of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) is a state in which temperature changes of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) further accelerate the temperature change, which is an uncontrollable positive feedback. Multiple battery cell assemblies (120) in a state of thermal runaway exhibit a rapid temperature increase and emit a large amount of high-pressure gas and combustion debris.

[0046] The battery pack (100) may further include a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS may be configured to perform monitoring, balancing, and control of the battery pack (100). Monitoring of the battery pack (100) may include monitoring the voltage and current of specific nodes within a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and monitoring the temperature distribution of set locations within the battery pack (100).

[0047] Balancing of a battery pack (100) is an operation that reduces the deviation between multiple battery cell assemblies (120). Control of the battery pack (100) includes preventing overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack (100) can operate under optimal conditions, thereby preventing shortening of the lifespan of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies (120).

[0048] The battery pack (100) may further include additional electrical components, such as a cooling device, a PRA (Power Relay Assembly), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan may prevent overheating of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) by circulating air inside the battery pack (100). The PRA may be configured to supply or cut off power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor). The PRA may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) in a situation where an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, occurs. Additional electrical components may be interposed between the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115). The space between the battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115) may also be referred to as an electrical component mounting area.

[0049] The battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of bus bars configured to electrically connect a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be connected in series by the plurality of bus bars. Accordingly, the battery pack (100) may be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor).

[0050]

[0051] (Example 2)

[0052] Figures 2 to 5 are perspective views showing the battery cell assembly (120) of Figure 1.

[0053] Figures 6 and 7 are exploded front and rear views of the battery cell assembly (120) of Figure 1.

[0054] In FIGS. 2 to 7, the definition of direction is based on the case where the battery cell assembly (120) is arranged on the pack housing (110, see FIG. 1). In FIGS. 2 to 7, the X direction is the direction in which a plurality of battery cells (121) are arranged, the Y direction is the direction in which the first circuit assembly (123) and the second circuit assembly (124) are spaced apart, and the Z direction can be substantially perpendicular to each of the X direction and the Y direction.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may include a plurality of battery cells (121), a first circuit assembly (123), a second circuit assembly (124), first and second cross beams (125A, 125B), an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) assembly (127), and first and second temperature sensors (128, 129).

[0056] Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be a lithium ion battery. Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) includes an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a case. Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be any one of a cylindrical battery cell, a square battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the square battery cell is housed in a square metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is housed in a pouch case including an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0057] The electrode assembly may include an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode. The electrode assembly may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type. The jelly-roll type electrode assembly may include a winding structure of the anode, the cathode, and the separator interposed therebetween. The stack type electrode assembly may include a plurality of sequentially stacked anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and a plurality of separators interposed therebetween.

[0058] Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may include a positive lead (121P) and a negative lead (121N). The electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be connected to the positive lead (121P) and the negative lead (121N).

[0059] A plurality of battery cells (121) may form a plurality of banks. Each of the plurality of banks may include one or more battery cells (121). One or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be connected in parallel with each other. The plurality of banks may be connected in series with each other.

[0060] The negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be short-circuited with the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of a subsequent bank. The negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be welded with the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of a subsequent bank.

[0061] The positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be short-circuited with the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of a preceding bank. The positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be welded with the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of a preceding bank.

[0062] The number of serially connected banks and the number of battery cells (121) included in the multiple banks can be determined according to the magnitude of the voltage and current to be output from each of the battery cell assemblies (120).

[0063] A plurality of battery cells (121) may be arranged in the X direction. A plurality of pads may be provided between the plurality of battery cells (121). The plurality of pads may horizontally press the plurality of battery cells (121) and prevent or alleviate swelling of the plurality of battery cells (121). The plurality of pads may isolate the plurality of battery cells (121) from each other. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of pads may include PU (Poly Urethane). According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of pads may include a refractory material such as silicone.

[0064] According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of pads may be arranged alternately with the plurality of banks. According to exemplary embodiments, one of the plurality of banks may be interposed between adjacent pads, and one of the plurality of pads may be interposed between adjacent banks. According to other exemplary embodiments, two or more banks may be interposed between adjacent pads.

[0065] The first circuit assembly (123) and the second circuit assembly (124) may be spaced apart in the Y direction with a plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween. The first circuit assembly (123) and the second circuit assembly (124) may be electrically connected by an FFC assembly (127). Accordingly, sensing values ​​(e.g., voltage, current, and / or temperature) of the second circuit assembly (124) may be transmitted to the first circuit assembly (123) via the FFC assembly (127).

[0066] The first circuit assembly (123) may include an insulating frame (123F), an integrated circuit (123I), bus bars (123B), sensing pads (123C), sensing bars (123CB), wires (123Y), and an insulating cover (123IC).

[0067] The insulating frame (123F) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame (123F) may cover the front of a plurality of battery cells (121). The insulating frame (123F) may support positive leads (121P), negative leads (121N), bus bars (123B), and an integrated circuit (123I).

[0068] The bus bars (123B) may be short-circuited to the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank and the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank. The bus bars (123B) may be welded to the positive leads (121P) of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank and the negative leads (121N) of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank. The resulting voltages of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be output through the bus bars (123B). The bus bars (123B) may be fixed to the insulating frame (123F).

[0069] An integrated circuit (123I) may be mounted on an insulating frame (123F). Positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded together may constitute nodes within a battery cell assembly (120). The integrated circuit (123I) may be configured to measure voltages of the nodes. More specifically, the sensing bars (123CB) may be coupled to the bus bars (123B), and the sensing pads (123C) may be coupled to corresponding sets of the positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded together. Wires (123Y) may connect the integrated circuit (123I) and the sensing bars (123CB), or may connect the integrated circuit (123I) and the sensing pads (123C).

[0070] The sensing bars (123CB) and sensing pads (123C) may include a conductive material. The sensing bars (123CB) may have a rod shape. The sensing pads (123C) may have any of a patch shape, a plate shape, and a pad shape. Accordingly, the voltage of the sets of positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded to each other and the voltage of the bus bars (123B) can be measured.

[0071] The insulating cover (123IC) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating cover (123IC) may be fitted into the insulating frame (123F). The insulating cover (123IC) may cover the integrated circuit (123I), the bus bars (123B), the sensing pads (123C), the sensing bars (123CB), and the wirings (123Y), thereby protecting the electrical components of the first circuit assembly (123).

[0072] The second circuit assembly (124) may include an insulating frame (124F), an integrated circuit (124I), sensing pads (124C), wirings (124Y), first and second cables (124T1, 124T2), and an insulating cover (124IC).

[0073] The insulating frame (124F) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame (124F) may cover the rear of a plurality of battery cells (121). The insulating frame (124F) may support positive leads (121P), negative leads (121N), and an integrated circuit (124I).

[0074] An integrated circuit (124I) may be mounted on an insulating frame (124F). The integrated circuit (124I) may be configured to measure voltages of nodes within a battery cell assembly (120). Sensing pads (124C) may be coupled to corresponding sets of positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) that are welded to each other. Wires (124Y) may connect the integrated circuit (124I) and the sensing pads (124C). Accordingly, voltages of the sets of positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) that are welded to each other may be measured.

[0075] The insulating cover (124IC) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating cover (124IC) may be fitted to the insulating frame (124F). The insulating cover (124IC) may cover the integrated circuit (124I), the sensing pads (124C), the wires (124Y), and the first and second cables (124T1, 124T2), thereby protecting the electrical components of the second circuit assembly (124).

[0076] A first cable (124T1) can connect a first temperature sensor (128) and an integrated circuit (124I). The first cable (124T1) can be connected to the first temperature sensor (128) through a first slit (125AS) of a vertical rib (125AV1) of a first cross beam (125A).

[0077] The second cable (124T2) can connect the second temperature sensor (129) and the integrated circuit (124I). The second cable (124T2) can be connected to the second temperature sensor (128) through the second slit (125BS) of the vertical rib (125BV1) of the second cross beam (125B).

[0078] The cross beams (125A, 125B) can be spaced apart in the X direction with a plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween. The cross beams (125A, 125B) can cover the plurality of battery cells (121). The cross beams (125A, 125B) can be fixed to the plurality of battery cells (121). The cross beams (125A, 125B) can be fixed to the base plate (111, see FIG. 1) by a method such as bolting.

[0079] According to exemplary embodiments, the cross beams (125A, 125B) may have a stepped structure. According to exemplary embodiments, the cross beams (125A, 125B) may have complementary shapes. The complementary shapes of the cross beams (125A, 125B) include a concept of including a clearance between them for an assembly margin.

[0080] The cross beams (125A, 125B) may comprise a metal such as aluminum. The cross beams (125A, 125B) may be provided by, for example, an extrusion process, but are not limited thereto.

[0081] The first cross beam (125A) may include vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2) and horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3). The vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2) may be substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The vertical rib (125AV1) may pressurize the plurality of battery cells (121). The vertical rib (125AV2) may be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells (121) with the vertical rib (125AV1) therebetween. The length of the vertical rib (125AV1) in the Z direction may be greater than the length of the vertical rib (125AV2) in the Z direction. The vertical rib (125AV2) can cover the upper part of the vertical rib (125AV1).

[0082] The horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) can be substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. The horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) can be spaced apart from each other in the Z direction. The horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) can be interposed between the vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2). The horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) can be connected to the vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2). The horizontal rib (125AH2) can be interposed between the horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH3).

[0083] The horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) and the vertical ribs (125AV1, 125AV2) can define a cavity (125AC). The cavity (125AC) can be longer than each of the plurality of battery cells (121). The cavity (125AC) can extend in the Y direction. The length of the cavity (125AC) in the Y direction can be longer than each of the plurality of battery cells (121), but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, the cross beam (125A) can be lightweight, and the energy density of the battery cell assembly (120) can be increased.

[0084] The first temperature sensor (128) may be located within the cavity (125AC). The vertical rib (125AV1) may include a first slit (125AS) connected to the cavity (125AC), thereby allowing connection of the first cable (124T1) and the first temperature sensor (128). The first cable (124T1) may include a portion passing through the first slit (125AS).

[0085] The first cross beam (125A) may have high thermal conductivity because it includes a metal material such as aluminum. Accordingly, the temperature of the first cross beam (125A) may be similar to the temperature of the battery cell (121) adjacent to the first cross beam (125A). Accordingly, the temperature of the first cross beam (125A) measured by the first temperature sensor (128) may represent the temperature of one of the plurality of battery cells (121) adjacent to the first cross beam (125A).

[0086] Furthermore, since the first temperature sensor (128) is within the first cavity (125AC), it can be isolated from the plurality of battery cells (121). That is, the first temperature sensor (128) can be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells (121), and since the first temperature sensor (128) does not interfere between the first cross beam (125A) and the plurality of battery cells (121), the plurality of battery cells (121) can be uniformly pressurized by the first cross beam (125A).

[0087]

[0088] The second cross beam (125B) may include vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2) and horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2). The vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2) may be substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The vertical rib (125BV1) may pressurize the plurality of battery cells (121). The vertical rib (125BV2) may be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells (121) with the vertical rib (125BV1) therebetween. The length of the vertical rib (125BV1) in the Z direction may be greater than the length of the vertical rib (125BV2) in the Z direction. The vertical rib (125BV2) can cover the lower part of the vertical rib (125BV1).

[0089] The horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) can be substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. The horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) can be spaced apart from each other in the Z direction. The horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) can be interposed between the vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2). The horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) can be connected to the vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2). The horizontal rib (125BH2) can be interposed between the horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2).

[0090] The horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) and the vertical ribs (125BV1, 125BV2) may define a cavity (125BC). The cavity (125BC) may be longer than each of the plurality of battery cells (121). The cavity (125BC) may extend in the Y direction. The length of the cavity (125BC) in the Y direction may be longer than each of the plurality of battery cells (121), but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, the cross beam (125B) may be lightweight, and the energy density of the battery cell assembly (120) may be increased.

[0091] The second temperature sensor (129) may be located within the cavity (125BC). The vertical rib (125BV1) may include a second slit (125BS) connected to the cavity (125BC), thereby allowing connection of the second cable (124T2) and the second temperature sensor (129). The second cable (124T2) may include a portion passing through the second slit (125BS).

[0092] The second cross beam (125B) may have high thermal conductivity since it includes a metal material such as aluminum. The second cross beam (125B) may have high thermal conductivity since it includes a metal material such as aluminum. Accordingly, the temperature of the second cross beam (125B) may be similar to the temperature of the battery cell (121) adjacent to the second cross beam (125B). Accordingly, the temperature of the second cross beam (125B) measured by the second temperature sensor (129) may represent the temperature of one of the plurality of battery cells (121) adjacent to the second cross beam (125B).

[0093] Furthermore, since the second temperature sensor (129) is within the second cavity (125BC), it can be isolated from the plurality of battery cells (121). That is, the second temperature sensor (129) can be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells (121), and since the second temperature sensor (129) does not interfere between the second cross beam (125B) and the plurality of battery cells (121), the plurality of battery cells (121) can be uniformly pressurized by the second cross beam (125B).

[0094] According to exemplary embodiments, the horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) and the horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) may be at different levels. Here, the level of the horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) and the horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) may be, for example, the height in the Z direction of the horizontal ribs (125AH1, 125AH2, 125AH3) and the horizontal ribs (125BH1, 125BH2) based on the floor surface of the space where the battery cell assembly (120) is arranged, such as the base plate (111, see FIG. 1).

[0095] The horizontal rib (125AH1) may be at a higher level than the horizontal rib (125AH2), the horizontal rib (125AH2) may be at a higher level than the horizontal rib (125AH3), the horizontal rib (125AH3) may be at a higher level than the horizontal rib (125BH1), and the horizontal rib (125BH1) may be at a higher level than the horizontal rib (125BH2).

[0096] According to exemplary embodiments, the first temperature sensor (128) and the second temperature sensor (129) may be at different positions in the Z direction. For example, when the battery cell assembly (120) is disposed on the pack housing (110), the distance between the second temperature sensor (129) and the base plate (111, see FIG. 1) may be different from the distance between the first temperature sensor (128) and the base plate (111, see FIG. 1). The distance between the second temperature sensor (129) and the base plate (111, see FIG. 1) may be smaller than the distance between the first temperature sensor (128) and the base plate (111, see FIG. 1). Accordingly, since the temperature distribution in the Z direction can be known in addition to the temperature distribution in the X direction of the battery cell assembly (120), improved temperature monitoring of the battery cell assembly (120) can be provided.

[0097]

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, a first circuit assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be disposed at a center portion (e.g., a center portion in the Y direction) of the pack housing (110). According to exemplary embodiments, a second circuit assembly (124) of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be disposed at an edge portion (e.g., an edge portion in the Y direction) of the pack housing (110).

[0099] According to exemplary embodiments, the distance between the first circuit assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the center of the base plate (111) in the Y direction may be smaller than the distance between the second circuit assembly (124) of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the center of the base plate (111) in the Y direction.

[0100]

[0101] (Example 3)

[0102] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a battery cell assembly (120') according to other exemplary embodiments. The battery cell assembly (120') may replace one or more of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) of FIG. 1.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 8, a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120') may include a plurality of battery cells (121, see FIG. 2), a first circuit assembly (123'), a second circuit assembly (124, see FIG. 2), first and second cross beams (125A', 125B'), an FFC assembly (127), first temperature sensors (128, 128'), and second temperature sensors (129, 129').

[0104] The plurality of battery cells (121, see FIG. 2), the second circuit assembly (124, see FIG. 2), the FFC assembly (127), and the first and second temperature sensors (128, 129) are substantially the same as those described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7, and therefore, a duplicate description thereof is omitted.

[0105] The first circuit assembly (123') may include an insulating frame (123F), an integrated circuit (123I), bus bars (123B), sensing pads (123C), sensing bars (123CB), wires (123Y), an insulating cover (123IC), and first and second cables (123T1, 123T2).

[0106] The insulating frame (123F), integrated circuit (123I), bus bars (123B), sensing pads (123C), sensing bars (123CB), wirings (123Y), and insulating cover (123IC) are substantially the same as those described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7, and therefore, redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0107] The first temperature sensor (128') may be located within the cavity (125AC). The vertical rib (125AV1) of the first cross beam (125A') may include a first slit (125AS') connected to the cavity (125AC), thereby allowing connection of the first cable (123T1) and the first temperature sensor (128'). The first cable (123T2) may include a portion passing through the second slit (125BS').

[0108] The second temperature sensor (129') may be located within the cavity (125BC). The vertical rib (125BV1) of the second cross beam (125B') may include a second slit (125BS') connected to the cavity (125BC), thereby allowing connection of the second cable (123T2) and the second temperature sensor (129'). The second cable (123T2) may include a portion passing through the second slit (125BS').

[0109] The first cross beam (125A') is substantially identical to the first cross beam (125A, see FIG. 6) except that it further includes a first slit (125AS'). The second cross beam (125B') is substantially identical to the second cross beam (125B, see FIG. 6) except that it further includes a second slit (125BS').

[0110] The temperature of the first cross beam (125A') measured by the first temperature sensor (128') may represent the temperature of one of the plurality of battery cells (121, see FIG. 2) adjacent to the first cross beam (125A'). The temperature of the second cross beam (125B') measured by the second temperature sensor (129') may represent the temperature of one of the plurality of battery cells (121) adjacent to the second cross beam (125B').

[0111]

[0112] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; First and second cross beams spaced apart from each other with the plurality of battery cells interposed therebetween; A circuit assembly comprising an integrated circuit coupled to said plurality of battery cells and configured to measure a voltage of said plurality of battery cells; a first temperature sensor spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and in contact with the first cross beam; and A battery cell assembly comprising a second temperature sensor spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells and in contact with the second cross beam.

2. In paragraph 1, The first cross beam includes a first cavity, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the first temperature sensor is located within the first cavity.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly, wherein the first cavity is longer than each of the plurality of battery cells.

4. In paragraph 2, The first cross beam comprises first and second vertical ribs defining the first cavity and first and second horizontal ribs between the first and second vertical ribs, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the first temperature sensor is in contact with the first vertical rib.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the first vertical rib of the first cross beam includes a first slit connected to the first cavity.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery cell assembly, wherein the integrated circuit includes a first cable connected to the first temperature sensor through the first slit.

7. In paragraph 4, The second cross beam includes a second cavity, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the second temperature sensor is located within the second cavity.

8. In paragraph 7, The second cross beam comprises third and fourth vertical ribs defining the second cavity and third and fourth horizontal ribs between the third and fourth vertical ribs, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the second temperature sensor is in contact with the third vertical rib.

9. In paragraph 8, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the third vertical rib of the second cross beam includes a second slit connected to the second cavity.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery cell assembly, wherein the integrated circuit includes a second cable passing through the second slit and connected to the second temperature sensor.

11. Pack housing; and Comprising a plurality of battery cell assemblies arranged on a base plate of the above pack housing, A battery pack, wherein each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies comprises a plurality of battery cells, first and second cross beams spaced apart from each other with the plurality of battery cells interposed therebetween, a first temperature sensor within a first cavity of the first cross beam, and a second temperature sensor within a second cavity of the second cross beam.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery pack, characterized in that the distance between the second temperature sensor and the base plate is smaller than the distance between the first temperature sensor and the base plate.

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