Battery cell and manufacturing method therefor

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a structure that may comprise: a body case which includes an opening on one surface thereof and has an electrode assembly received therein through the opening; a cover case coupled to the body case to cover the opening; a through-hole penetrating the cover case; a terminal plate which is positioned on the outer side of the cover case, is made of a first metal material, and includes a communication hole communicatively connected to the through-hole; a connection member which is inserted through the through-hole and the communication hole to couple the cover case and the terminal plate, is electrically connected to the electrode assembly, and is made of a second metal material; and a bonding part which melts at a preset temperature along the periphery of the communication hole to connect the connection member and the terminal plate.

Description

Battery cell and manufacturing method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery cell and a method for manufacturing the same. Specifically, the disclosure relates to a battery cell and a method for manufacturing the same, which improves the bonding strength between a body case and a terminal unit and minimizes contact resistance.

[0002] Battery cells are the basic units of secondary batteries. Multiple battery cells can be assembled to form a battery module or battery pack. Secondary batteries are batteries that undergo repeated charging and discharging. Small-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable electronic devices such as cell phones and laptops, while large-capacity secondary batteries can be used as power sources for automobiles and other devices.

[0003] Battery cells are classified into square, pouch, and cylindrical shapes depending on their shape, but they can commonly include an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator are laminated or rolled into a jelly roll shape.

[0004] A terminal unit electrically connected to an electrode assembly is arranged on at least one side of the battery cell, and the terminal unit can supply current generated in the electrode assembly to the outside through a connecting member penetrating the terminal plate.

[0005] Terminal plates and connecting members are made of dissimilar metals and are typically joined through caulking. However, caulking has the disadvantage of weak bonding strength and the formation of gaps, which increases electrical resistance. Welding between dissimilar metals also has the disadvantage of poor weldability, weak joint strength, and the formation of intermetallic compounds (IMCs).

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to improve the bonding strength of a terminal unit through a bonding portion.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to minimize the gap between the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to increase the contact surface between the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to prevent detachment of a connecting member from a terminal unit through a joint.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to improve the bonding strength by welding a terminal plate and a connecting member in a terminal unit.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to minimize damage to a connecting member during the welding process of a terminal plate and a connecting member in a terminal unit.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to minimize melting of a connecting member during the welding process of a terminal plate and a connecting member in a terminal unit.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to suppress the formation of IMC (intermetallic compound) in the bonding of a terminal plate and a connecting member.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to extend the life of a battery cell.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem is to increase the stability of a battery cell.

[0016] The battery assembly and control method of the present disclosure can be widely applied to green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other battery-powered solar and wind power generation. Furthermore, the battery assembly and control method of the present disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other vehicles that aim to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery assembly may include: a body case having an opening on one surface thereof and accommodating an electrode assembly therein through the opening; a cover case coupled to the body case and covering the opening; a through hole penetrating the cover case; a terminal plate positioned on the outside of the cover case and including a communication hole communicating with the through hole, the terminal plate being formed of a first metal material; a connecting member inserted through the through hole and the communication hole to connect the cover case and the terminal plate and electrically connect with the electrode assembly, the connecting member being formed of a second metal material; and a connecting member melting at a preset temperature along the periphery of the communication hole to connect the connecting member and the terminal plate.

[0018] The above connecting member may penetrate the through hole and at least a portion thereof may be exposed to the outside through the communication hole.

[0019] The melting point of the second metal material may be formed higher than the melting point of the first metal material.

[0020] The above preset temperature may be set to a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material.

[0021] The above connecting member may include a cylindrical body portion inserted into the communication hole and the through hole; a head portion exposed to the outside of the communication hole; and a protrusion portion formed along the circumference of the body portion by extending in the radial direction of the body portion between the body portion and the head portion.

[0022] The diameter of the above protrusion may be larger than the diameter of the above through hole.

[0023] The above-mentioned joint can be formed by melting an area of ​​the terminal plate adjacent to the periphery of the communication hole at the preset temperature.

[0024] The terminal plate includes a protrusion formed to protrude outward, and the connecting portion can be formed by melting the protrusion at the preset temperature.

[0025] The above-mentioned joint can be formed by melting the molten member at the preset temperature.

[0026] The above molten member may be in a ring shape.

[0027] The above connecting member may include a pinhole penetrating the connecting member along a direction from the cover case toward the body case.

[0028] It may further include a pin member inserted into the above pinhole.

[0029] It may further include a support member formed of an insulating material and positioned between the cover case and the terminal plate to support the terminal plate.

[0030] The above-mentioned joint may be formed of a single metal material including the first metal material that is different from the second metal material.

[0031] The above-mentioned joint may cover at least a portion of a portion of the connecting member adjacent to the periphery of the communication hole.

[0032] The above first metal material may include an aluminum material, and the above second metal material may include a copper material.

[0033] The above connecting member may be a rivet.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a battery cell may include: a body case having an opening on one surface thereof and accommodating an electrode assembly therein through the opening; a cover case coupled to the body case and covering the opening; a through hole penetrating the cover case; a terminal plate formed of a first metal material and having a communication hole communicating with the through hole and located on the outside of the cover case; a connecting member formed of a second metal material and inserted through the through hole and the communication hole to connect the cover case and the terminal plate and electrically connect with the electrode assembly; and the method may include: a step of fastening the connecting member to the through hole and the communication hole; a step of melting a melting member or a portion of the terminal plate at a preset temperature; a step of melting a melting member or a portion of the terminal plate to form a connecting member so as to couple the terminal plate and the connecting member.

[0035] The step of forming the above-mentioned joint may be such that a protrusion formed by protruding outward from the terminal plate is melted to form the joint.

[0036] The step of forming the above-mentioned joint may be performed by melting a portion of the terminal plate arranged around the communication hole to form the joint.

[0037] The step of forming the above-mentioned joint may be such that a portion of the ring-shaped molten member is melted to form the joint.

[0038] The above melting step may include a step of heating the melting member or a part of the terminal plate to a preset temperature using a heating unit.

[0039] The step of melting the molten member at a preset temperature may further include a step of heating the molten member or a part of the terminal plate to a preset temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the bonding strength of the terminal unit can be improved through the bonding portion.

[0041] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the gap between the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit can be minimized.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the contact surface between the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit can be increased.

[0043] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, detachment of a connecting member from a terminal unit can be prevented through a coupling portion.

[0044] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the bonding strength can be improved by welding the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit.

[0045] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, damage to the connecting member can be minimized during the welding process of the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit.

[0046] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, melting of the connecting member can be minimized during the welding process of the terminal plate and the connecting member in the terminal unit.

[0047] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the formation of IMC (intermetallic compound) can be suppressed in the bonding of the terminal plate and the connecting member.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the life of a battery cell can be extended.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the stability of a battery cell can be increased.

[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a body case and a cover case separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates a body case and a cover case combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates a battery cell separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of a cover case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates a cover case separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating heating of a protrusion on a terminal plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating heating of a molten member on a terminal plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a terminal plate being heated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a joint formed on a terminal plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a joint formed on a terminal plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a joint formed through an area of ​​a terminal plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 12 illustrates a pin member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-section of a pin member coupled to a cover case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 14 illustrates a body case and a cover case separated according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 15 illustrates a body case and a cover case combined according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 16 illustrates a cover case separated according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 17 illustrates a cover case coupled to a collector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-section of a cover case and a collector combined according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, these are merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described as examples.

[0070] Certain terms used in this specification are for convenience of explanation only and are not intended to limit the illustrated embodiments.

[0071] For example, expressions such as "same" and "same as" not only indicate a strictly identical state, but also indicate a state in which there is a difference in tolerance, or the degree to which the same function is obtained.

[0072] For example, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as “in which direction,” “along which direction,” “parallel,” “perpendicular,” “centered,” “concentric,” or “coaxial” not only strictly indicate such arrangements, but also indicate a state of relative displacement with an angle or distance that allows for tolerance, or the degree to which the same function is obtained.

[0073] In order to explain the present disclosure, the following description is based on a spatial orthogonal coordinate system with mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) means both directions in which each axis extends.

[0074] The X-direction, Y-direction, and Z-direction mentioned below are for the purpose of explanation so that the present disclosure can be clearly understood, and it is of course possible to define each direction differently depending on where the standard is set.

[0075] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" before the components mentioned below is intended solely to avoid confusion regarding the components they refer to, and has no bearing on the order, importance, or dominant-subordinate relationship between the components. For example, an invention can be implemented that includes only a second component without a first component.

[0076] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0077] Below, the present disclosure will be described in detail. However, this is merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described as examples.

[0078] FIG. 1 illustrates a body case (10) and a cover case (20) separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] Figure 1 illustrates that the body case (10) and the cover case (20) forming the outer shape of the present disclosure are manufactured in a separated state.

[0080] The battery cell (1) described in this specification refers to a secondary battery that can be repeatedly used by charging and discharging electrical energy. For example, it may be a lithium secondary battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0081] The battery cell (1) may be classified into a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery depending on its shape. Referring to Fig. 1, a prismatic secondary battery is illustrated as an example in this specification for convenience of explanation, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] The body case (10) includes an opening (15) on one side and can accommodate an electrode assembly (60) inside through the opening (15). The body case (10) can have an opening (15) formed on at least one side, so that an opening (15) can be formed on one side and the other side facing the one side.

[0083] When an opening (15) is formed on one side and the other side facing each other in the body case (10), the body case (10) can be provided in a perforated form as shown in Fig. 1.

[0084] The cover case (20) can be coupled to the body case (10) to close the opening (15). The cover case (20) corresponds to the shape of the opening (15) formed in the body case (10) and can be coupled to the body case (10) by being positioned in the opening (15).

[0085] The cover case (20) may include a terminal unit (23) that is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60), and the electrode assembly (60) accommodated inside the body case (10) and the outside of the body case (10) may be electrically connected through the terminal unit (23).

[0086] The terminal unit (23) is formed to be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60) in the cover case (20) and can provide a path for electrical connection to the outside. The terminal unit (23) is formed to penetrate the cover case (20) and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60) accommodated inside the body case (10).

[0087] The terminal unit (23) is formed to protrude from the cover case (20) and may include a terminal plate (30), a connecting member (40), and a supporting member (70). The terminal plate (30) forms the upper surface of the terminal unit (23) and may serve to finish the terminal unit (23). The terminal plate (30) is formed of a first metal material having electrical conductivity and may be electrically connected to the connecting member (40).

[0088] The connecting member (40) may be formed to be exposed or protruding from the terminal unit (23) by penetrating the cover case (20), the support member (70), and the terminal plate (30). The connecting member (40) may be formed of a first metal material that is an electrically conductive material so as to be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60) and the terminal plate (30) accommodated inside the body case (10).

[0089] For example, the connecting member (40) may be formed of metal, and among metals, copper, which has low electrical resistance and good electrical conductivity, may be used. The connecting member (40) may include a rivet.

[0090] *The support member (70) is formed so that the upper surface of the terminal plate (30) can be secured, and the lower surface can be secured to the cover case (20), so that it can be placed between the terminal plate (30) and the cover case (20).

[0091] The support member (70) is formed with a cross-section wider than the terminal plate (30) to accommodate the terminal plate (30) on the upper surface, and is formed with a cross-section smaller than the cover case (20) to accommodate the upper surface of the cover case (20).

[0092] The support member (70) is formed of a material with low electrical conductivity and can be electrically isolated from the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30). The support member (70) can support the lower surface of the terminal plate (30) and limit horizontal movement of the terminal plate (30).

[0093] FIG. 2 illustrates a body case (10) and a cover case (20) combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Figure 2 illustrates a body case (10) and a cover case (20) combined, in which the cover case (20) is combined with the opening (15) of the body case (10) so that the interior of the body case (10) can be closed.

[0095] The body case (10) may have an opening (15) formed on one side or on the other side facing the one side, and since a cover case (20) is coupled to the opening (15), the body case (10) may be coupled with one or more cover cases (20).

[0096] A terminal unit (23) electrically connected to an electrode assembly (60) can be formed in the cover case (20), and the terminal unit (23) is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60), so that the current movement path of the battery cell (1) can vary depending on the arrangement of the terminal unit (23).

[0097] Referring to FIG. 2, an opening (15) is formed on one side of the body case (10) or on the other side facing the one side, so that two cover cases (20) can be combined with the body case (10). The cover case (20) can be combined with the opening (15) on one side of the body case (10) or on the other side facing the one side, so as to isolate an electrode assembly (60) that can be accommodated inside the body case (10) from the outside.

[0098] The body case (10) may be formed as a hexahedron with both sides facing each other open, but is not limited thereto, and may include a form in which at least one side is open and an acceptable space is formed inside, so that the electrode assembly (60) is accommodated inside through one side.

[0099] FIG. 3 illustrates a battery cell (1) separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] A battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electrode assembly (60), a body case (10) that accommodates the electrode assembly (60) therein, and a cover case (20) that closes an opening (15) of the body case (10) to limit the position of the electrode assembly (60).

[0101] The electrode assembly (60) can be formed by stacking an anode, a cathode, and a separator.

[0102] In FIG. 3, the battery cell (1) can be expressed as a square battery and the electrode assembly (60) can be expressed as a stack type inserted into the square battery, but the types of the battery cell (1) and the electrode assembly (60) are not limited thereto.

[0103] The body case (10) can be manufactured through a press process. The body case (10) is formed in a shape that surrounds the electrode assembly (60) to protect it from external impact, and the method for manufacturing the body case (10) and the cover case (20) is not particularly limited.

[0104] The body case (10) may include an opening (15) with at least one side open, and in FIG. 3, the openings (15) may be formed on opposite sides of the body case (10). Each of the opposite sides of the body case (10) may be opened.

[0105] Referring to Fig. 3, both sides of the body case (10) facing each other can be formed with an opening (15) that is open in the Y direction. An electrode assembly (60) and an electrolyte can be accommodated inside the body case (10) through the opening (15).

[0106] For example, the body case (10) is provided in a hexahedral shape and has openings (15) formed along the Y direction so that both sides facing each other can be opened. A cover case (20) can be coupled to each opening (15) of the body case (10) to close the receiving space of the body case (10).

[0107] The electrode assembly (60) can be accommodated inside the body case (10) by penetrating the opening (15) of the body case (10), and the cover case (20) can close the opening (15) of the body case (10) in which the electrode assembly (60) is accommodated. The body case (10) can be sealed by being combined with the cover case (20), and can protect the electrode assembly (60) from the outside.

[0108] The cover case (20) may include a terminal unit (23) that electrically connects the electrode assembly (60) to the outside. The terminal unit (23) is connected to the electrode assembly (60) and may be connected to the cover case (20) to form a positive or negative electrode.

[0109] The terminal unit (23) is formed to protrude from the cover case (20) and can be connected to the electrode assembly (60) accommodated inside the body case (10) by penetrating the cover case (20). That is, the terminal unit (23) can serve as a passage that electrically connects the electrode assembly (60) to the outside in order to supply electric energy produced by the electrode assembly (60) or store electric energy in the electrode assembly (60).

[0110] A terminal unit (23) may be provided in multiple pieces for each battery cell (1), each of which may serve as a positive electrode and a negative electrode. In addition, the positive and negative electrodes formed by the terminal unit (23) may be formed in multiple pieces for each battery cell (1).

[0111] In Fig. 3, the body case (10) has openings (15) formed on both sides facing each other, and the cover case (20) is coupled to the body case (10) at the openings (15), so that a plurality of terminal units (23) can be arranged on both sides facing each other.

[0112] The pin member (80) is coupled with the electrode assembly (60) and pins protruding in one direction can be arranged. The pin member (80) can be inserted into the pin hole (45).

[0113] The pin member (80) is in the form of a plate having a predetermined thickness and has a pin protruding from the center and can be combined with the terminal unit (23). The pin member (80) is made of a material with high electrical conductivity and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60).

[0114] The pin member (80) can electrically connect the electrode assembly (60) and the terminal unit (23).

[0115] FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of a cover case (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] The terminal unit (23) can protrude outward from the upper surface of the cover case (20) by penetrating the cover case (20). The terminal plate (30), connecting member (40), and supporting member (70) included in the terminal unit (23) can be sequentially stacked on the cover case (20).

[0117] The terminal plate (30) is located on the outside of the cover case (20) and may be formed of a first metal material. The terminal plate (30) may be formed in a square plate shape to be seated on the upper surface of the support member (70).

[0118] The terminal plate (30) may include a communication hole (35) that is opened at the center to allow a connecting member (40) to pass through. The communication hole (35) may communicate with a through hole (25) formed in the cover case (20) and serve as a passage connecting the inside and outside of the cover case (20).

[0119] The connecting member (40) can be inserted through the through hole (25) and the communication hole (35) to connect the cover case (20) and the terminal plate (30). The connecting member (40) can penetrate the cover case (20) and the terminal plate (30) and be formed to protrude from the terminal plate (30).

[0120] For example, the connecting member (40) may be a rivet.

[0121] The connecting member (40) may be formed of a second metal material having electrical conductivity and electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60). The connecting member (40) may be formed of a second metal material and may be different from the first metal material of the terminal plate (30).

[0122] For example, the connecting member (40) may be formed of copper and the terminal plate (30) may be formed of aluminum.

[0123] A support member (70) is arranged between the terminal plate (30) and the cover case (20) to support the terminal plate (30). The support member (70) may be formed with a larger area than the terminal plate (30), and the terminal plate (30) may be arranged on the support member (70).

[0124] The support member (70) may be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity. For example, it may be formed of a plastic material. The support member (70) may be formed of an electrically insulating material, and thus may not be electrically connected to the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0125] FIG. 5 illustrates a cover case (20) separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 5, it may sequentially include a terminal plate (30), a connecting member (40), a supporting member (70), a sealing gasket (50), a cover case (20), and an insulating plate (110) from the top. Based on the cover case (20), the terminal plate (30), the connecting member (40), the supporting member (70), and the sealing gasket (50) may be combined on the upper surface, and the insulating plate (110) may be combined on the lower surface.

[0127] The terminal plate (30) may be formed of a first metal material and may have a shape of a square plate. The terminal plate (30) may include a communication hole (35) in the center, and the communication hole (35) may communicate with a through hole (25) formed in the cover case (20).

[0128] That is, when the terminal plate (30) is assembled to the cover case (20), the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25) may overlap at least partially with each other.

[0129] The connecting member (40) is formed of a second metal material and may have a cylindrical shape. The connecting member (40) includes a protrusion (43) whose cross-sectional size is formed differently at certain heights, so that the cross-sectional size may vary depending on the height.

[0130] The connecting member (40) is arranged to penetrate the through hole (25) of the cover case (20) and the communication hole (35) of the terminal plate (30), so as to connect the inside and outside of the cover case (20).

[0131] The protrusion (43) formed on the connecting member (40) may have a larger cross-sectional area or larger diameter than the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25). The diameter of the protrusion (43) may be larger than the diameter of the through hole (25) and the communication hole (35).

[0132] The connecting member (40) may have a terminal plate (30) positioned on the upper portion and a cover case (20) positioned on the lower portion based on the protrusion (43). Specifically, the upper portion of the protrusion (43) of the connecting member (40) is formed to protrude from the communication hole (35), and the lower portion of the protrusion (43) may penetrate the support member (70), the sealing gasket (50), and the cover case (20).

[0133] The supporting member (70) may be formed with a peripheral portion protruding to accommodate the terminal plate (30) on the inner surface. The supporting member (70) may be formed with a relatively sunken inner surface so that the terminal plate (30) may be coupled to the inner surface of the supporting member (70).

[0134] The center of the support member (70) is open and can communicate with the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25), so that the connecting member (40) can penetrate the center of the support member (70). The support member (70) can be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity.

[0135] The support member (70) may include a support hole (75) that penetrates the support member (70) and is in communication with the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25). The support hole (75) may be formed with a larger area than the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25).

[0136] The sealing gasket (50) is formed in the shape of a column with an open center so that it can accommodate a connecting member (40) at the center. The sealing gasket (50) can serve to seal the current moving through the connecting member (40) so that it does not leak out to the outside.

[0137] The sealing gasket (50) may be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity. For example, it may be formed of a plastic material.

[0138] The cover case (20) can be coupled to the opening (15) of the body case (10) to close the opening (15).

[0139] In Fig. 5, the length of the cover case (20) is expressed as short, but it can be formed to a size corresponding to the opening (15) of the body case (10). The cover case (20) can include a through hole (25) and a sunken inner surface.

[0140] A support member (70) can be installed on the sunken inner surface of the cover case (20) to limit horizontal movement of the support member (70). The through hole (25) of the cover case (20) can communicate with the communication hole (35) of the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can pass through it.

[0141] An insulating plate (110) is provided on the lower surface of the cover case (20) and can be combined with the cover case (20). The insulating plate (110) can be formed to correspond to the cover case (20) or have a large cross-sectional area, and can be combined in a form that surrounds the cover case (20).

[0142] The insulating plate (110) may be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity. For example, it may be formed of a plastic material. The insulating plate (110) may have an open center portion into which a connecting member (40) may be inserted.

[0143] The insulating plate (110) prevents the current of the electrode assembly (60) from being transmitted through the cover case (20) and allows the current of the electrode assembly (60) to be transmitted only through the connecting member (40).

[0144] The terminal plate (120) may be placed on the lower surface of the insulating plate (110). The terminal plate (120) may be formed in a square shape with an open center. The open center of the terminal plate (120) corresponds to the open center of the insulating plate (110) so that a connecting member (40) may be inserted.

[0145] The terminal plate (120) is formed of a material having electrical conductivity and can be electrically connected to the connecting member (40) inserted into the center. Specifically, the terminal plate (120) is formed of a material having high electrical conductivity and can serve as a current collector (130).

[0146] The terminal plate (120) is electrically connected to the electrode assembly and can transmit the current of the electrode assembly to the connecting member (40). The terminal plate (120) is formed of a conductor and can receive current, but the insulating plate (110) is formed of a non-conductor or a material with low conductivity and can block the movement of current.

[0147] The terminal plate (120) and the insulating plate (110) can transfer the current of the electrode assembly (60) through the connecting member (40) inserted into the open center. The current of the electrode assembly can move through the terminal plate (120) and the connecting member (40) and be transmitted to the terminal plate (30).

[0148] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a protrusion (93) on a terminal plate (30) being heated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] Referring to Fig. 6, the protrusion (93) can be heated through the heating unit (90) and melted at a preset temperature to form a joining portion (100, see Fig. 9). The joining portion can be formed along the perimeter of the communication hole (35) to join the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0150] The terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be joined in the vertical direction through caulking or welding. The terminal plate (30) can be joined to the connecting member (40) by forming a joint through welding in the horizontal direction.

[0151] The terminal plate (30) is formed of a first metal material and the connecting member (40) is formed of a second metal material, so that the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be formed of different metals. If a gap occurs between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40), resistance increases due to an increase in the current movement path, which may deteriorate the performance of the battery cell (1).

[0152] The terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be joined so that the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) is minimized by making maximum contact to prevent performance degradation of the battery cell (1).

[0153] The terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be joined through caulking, but caulking is a mechanical joint and may have weak bonding strength, and additional gaps may be created during the caulking process.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (1) can be welded separately from caulking to create a joint, thereby ensuring maximum contact between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0155] For example, caulking and welding are performed independently, and when caulking is performed and the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) come into contact, welding is performed around the perimeter of the communication hole (35) to create a joint.

[0156] The joint can be formed between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) which are dissimilar metals. Specifically, the joint can be formed between the protrusion (93) arranged around the communication hole (35) and the connecting member (40).

[0157] The protrusion (93) is formed of the same first metal material as the terminal plate (30), and may be a different metal from the second metal material of the connecting member (40). The protrusion (93) corresponds to a part of the terminal plate (30) and may be formed to protrude from the terminal plate (30).

[0158] For example, if the first metal material includes aluminum and the second metal material includes copper, the melting point of the second metal material may be formed higher than the melting point of the first metal material. Melting point refers to melting temperature, and the melting point may vary depending on the metal.

[0159] The protrusion (93) can be melted at a preset temperature to create a bonding portion. The preset temperature can be set to a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material.

[0160] The protrusion (93) can be melted at a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material to form a bonding portion.

[0161] When the heating unit (90) applies a preset temperature to the protrusion (93), the first metal material will melt at the preset temperature, and the second metal material will not melt at the preset temperature. Since the heating unit (90) applies heat to the protrusion (93) protruding from the terminal plate (30), damage to the connecting member (40) due to heat can be minimized.

[0162] At a preset temperature, the protrusion (93) may be melted and the connecting member (40) may not be melted. In Fig. 6, the protrusion (93) melted by the heating member (90) may correspond to a portion of the terminal plate (30).

[0163] The protrusion (93) arranged around the periphery of the communication hole (35) can be melted by the heating part (90) to form a joint between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40). The protrusion (93) can fill the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) in a molten state and form a joint (100) around the periphery of the communication hole (35).

[0164] The connecting portion may be formed around the protrusion (93) or the first metal material by melting the first metal material, and the connecting portion may be formed of a single metal. (See Fig. 9)

[0165] Therefore, the bonding portion (100) may not correspond to a compound of different metals (IMC) because it does not include a second metal material.

[0166] The welding forming the above joint (100) may be a combination of bridging and brazing welding methods.

[0167] Bridging is a method of joining two materials by compensating for any gaps in the base metals with an external material. Brazing is a method of melting a filler metal to prevent the base metal from melting, and then filling the gaps in the base metals with the molten filler metal.

[0168] Welding to form a joint (100) is a method in which a filler metal is melted without melting the base metal, and the molten filler metal penetrates the gaps of the base metal by capillary action and solidifies to form a joint.

[0169] Specifically, the connecting member (40) corresponding to the parent material is not melted by the heating member (90), and the protrusion (93) corresponding to the filler material can be melted by the heating member (90). The melted protrusion (93) can flow into the gap formed between the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30) and then solidify to form the joining member (100).

[0170] The connecting portion (100) may be formed on a portion of the connecting member (40) adjacent to the communication hole (35) to fill the gap. At least the connecting portion (100) formed in the gap can connect the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30) to prevent an increase in resistance due to the gap and increase the bonding strength of the two members.

[0171] The connecting member (40) may include a cylindrical body portion (41) inserted into the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25), a head portion (42) exposed to the outside of the communication hole (35), and a protrusion (43) formed along the circumference of the body portion (41) by extending in the radial direction of the body portion (41) between the body portion (41) and the head portion (42). Preferably, the connecting member (40) may be a rivet.

[0172] The connecting member (40) may include a pin hole (45) penetrating from the cover case (20) toward the body case (10). The pin hole (45) may be coupled with a pin member (80, see FIG. 13) to support the connecting member (40). The pin hole (45) may penetrate the inner surface of the connecting member (40) to connect the inside and the outside of the cover case (20).

[0173] The connecting member (40) may include a pinhole (45) penetrating the connecting member (40) in the same direction as the direction from the cover case (20) toward the body case (10).

[0174] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a molten member (95) on a terminal plate (30) being heated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] Referring to Fig. 7, the molten member (95) is heated through the heating member (90) and melts at a preset temperature to form a joining member (100, see Fig. 9). The joining member is formed along the perimeter of the communication hole (35) to join the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0176] In Fig. 7, the molten member (95) can be formed into a ring shape with an open center. The molten member (95) can be spaced apart from the connecting member (40) on the terminal plate (30) by including a center larger than the circumference of the communication hole (35).

[0177] The molten member (95) can be placed on the terminal plate (30) in a configuration formed separately from the terminal plate (30). The molten member (95) can be placed on the terminal plate (30) after the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) are physically connected.

[0178] The molten member (95) can be heated and melted through the heating unit (90), and the molten member (95) can connect the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40). Preferably, the molten member (95) can fill the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) and form a joint.

[0179] The heating unit (90) applies heat to the melting member (95) spaced apart from the connecting member (40), so that damage to the connecting member (40) due to heat can be minimized.

[0180] The joint can be formed by melting the molten material (95) and can be made of a single metal. Since the joint is formed of the molten material (95) or the first metal material and does not include the second metal material, it can avoid including a compound of different metals (IMC) or minimize the creation of a compound of different metals (IMC).

[0181] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a terminal plate (30) being heated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0182] Referring to Fig. 8, a part or area of ​​the terminal plate (30) can be heated through a heating element (90) and melted at a preset temperature to form a joining portion (100, see Fig. 12). The joining portion can be formed along the perimeter of the communication hole (35) to join the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0183] The terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be joined through caulking, but caulking is a mechanical joint and may have weak bonding strength, and additional gaps may be created during the caulking process.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (1) can maximize contact between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) by producing a joint (100) by welding separately from caulking.

[0185] Caulking corresponds to diffusion bonding, and can join parts by using the diffusion of metal atoms at the bonding surface by bringing metal materials into close contact.

[0186] For example, the terminal unit (23) corresponds to the negative pole, and the joining of a connecting member (40) including a rivet and a terminal plate (30) may be required. The connecting member (40) corresponding to the negative pole may include a copper material, and the terminal plate (30) may include an aluminum material, which is a different metal from the connecting member (40). The connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30) may be joined through caulking to prevent the formation of an intermetallic compound (IMC).

[0187] First, after placing the terminal plate (30) on the upper side of the connecting member (40), the terminal plate (30) can be pressed so that it approaches the connecting member (40). Thereafter, the connecting member (40) can form a bonding surface as it comes into contact with the terminal plate (30). At the bonding surface, the atoms of the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30) can diffuse into each other and be bonded in a solid state.

[0188] After caulking, the connecting member (40) connected to the terminal plate (30) can be combined with a pin member (80, see Fig. 13). Specifically, a pin protruding in one direction from the pin member can be inserted into a pin hole (45) of the connecting member (40). To secure the pin member inserted into the pin hole (45), the inner surface of the pin hole (45) and the pin of the pin member can be combined through welding.

[0189] During the above welding process, the connecting member (40) can move around the pin, so that the connecting member (40) can move away from the terminal plate (30) around the communication hole (35).

[0190] A gap may occur or widen between the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30).

[0191] In Fig. 8, a part of the terminal plate (30) can form a joint to fill the gap, and the gap can also be filled through a protrusion (93) and a melting member (95).

[0192] A portion of the terminal plate (30) may be melted at a preset temperature to create a joint. The preset temperature may be set to a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material.

[0193] Therefore, a part of the terminal plate (30) can be melted at a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material to form a joint.

[0194] When the heating unit (90) applies a preset temperature to a part of the terminal plate (30), the first metal material will melt at the preset temperature and the second metal material will not melt at the preset temperature.

[0195] Therefore, at a preset temperature, a portion of the terminal plate (30) may melt and the connecting member (40) may not melt.

[0196] A portion of the terminal plate (30) arranged around the communication hole (35) may be melted by the heating unit (90) to form a joint between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40). The joint may be formed around the communication hole (35) by melting the terminal plate (30) or the first metal material, and the joint (100) may be formed only with the first metal material. (See Fig. 12)

[0197] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a joint (100) formed on a terminal plate (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10 is an enlarged drawing showing a joint (100) formed on a terminal plate (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] The connecting portion (100) is formed by melting a portion of the melting member (95) or the terminal plate (30), and thus can be formed of the same material as the terminal plate (30). The connecting portion (100) can be formed by melting through heating by the heating member (90) and then combining with the connecting portion (40) around the communication hole (35).

[0199] Since the second metal material forming the connecting member (40) does not melt at the preset temperature of the heating member (90), the joining member (100) may not include the second metal material. The joining member (100) may not include a compound of different metals, and may be formed of a single metal, which is the melting member (95) or the first metal material.

[0200] The connecting portion (100) is formed between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40), and can fill the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40). The connecting portion (100) formed of metal can fill the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40), and can prevent an increase in resistance due to the gap.

[0201] Referring to Fig. 10, the joint portion (100) may be formed by melting a portion of the terminal plate (30) without including the connecting member (40). The joint portion (100) is created through the heating member (90), but a preset temperature may be set so that the connecting member (40) is not included as a portion of the joint portion (100).

[0202] The preset temperature applied by the heating unit (90) may be a temperature higher than the melting point of the terminal plate (30) and lower than the melting point of the connecting member (40).

[0203] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a joint formed through one area of ​​a terminal plate (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0204] In Fig. 11, the shape of the joint (100) may be different compared to Figs. 9 and 10.

[0205] In FIGS. 9 and 10, the connecting portion (100) may be formed to be convex in a direction away from the connecting member (40) with at least a portion covering the upper surface of the connecting member (40).

[0206] In Fig. 11, the connecting portion (100) may be formed to be concave in a direction away from the connecting portion (40) with at least a portion covering the connecting portion (40). Depending on the area of ​​the terminal plate (30) that is melted, the connecting portion (100) may cover the upper surface or the side surface of the connecting portion (40), so that the shape of the connecting portion (100) may vary.

[0207] In FIGS. 9 to 11, the connecting portion (100) fills the gap between the connecting member (40) and the terminal plate (30), and a portion of the connecting member (40) may cover the upper surface of the connecting member (40).

[0208] The shape of the joint (100) may vary depending on the type of filler material used to form it. The joint (100) of FIGS. 9 and 10 is formed through a protrusion (93) or a melting member (95) protruding from the terminal plate (30), so that the terminal plate (30) may not be melted by the heating member (90).

[0209] In Fig. 11, the joint (100) is formed by melting one area of ​​the terminal plate (30), so that one area of ​​the terminal plate (30) adjacent to the joint (100) can be formed concave.

[0210] The heating unit (90) can heat a region of the terminal plate (30) at a preset temperature set to be higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material. The heating member (40) formed of the second metal material may not be melted by the heating unit (90).

[0211] Since the joint (100) is formed by a region of the terminal plate (30) that is melted through the heating section (90), the joint (100) may include a first metal material and may not include a second metal material.

[0212] Fig. 12 illustrates a pin member (80) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213] The pin member (80) is combined with the electrode assembly (60) and pins protruding in one direction can be arranged.

[0214] The pin member (80) is in the form of a plate having a predetermined thickness and may have a pin protruding from the center and may be combined with the connecting member (40). Specifically, the pin member (80) may be combined with a pin hole (45) formed in the connecting member (40).

[0215] The pin member (80) is made of a material with high electrical conductivity and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60). The pin member (80) can electrically connect the electrode assembly (60) and the connecting member (40).

[0216] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-section of a pin member (80) coupled to a cover case (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0217] Fig. 13 illustrates a pin member (80) being coupled to a pin hole (45) of a connecting member (40). When viewed from above, the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be coupled through a coupling portion (100).

[0218] The connecting member (40) includes a pinhole (45) penetrating through the center and can penetrate the terminal plate (30), the support member (70), and the cover case (20).

[0219] The connecting member (40) is supported by a sealing gasket (50) at the bottom, and the supporting member (70) and the sealing gasket (50) are formed of a non-conductive material so as to limit the path of current moving through the connecting member (40).

[0220] The sealing gasket (50) can prevent current from flowing to the cover case (20). The connecting member (40) includes a protrusion (43) having a wider cross-sectional area than the through hole (25) and the communication hole (35), and the protrusion (43) can support the terminal plate (30).

[0221] The insulating plate (110) is supported by the terminal plate (120) and the pin member (80), and can support the cover case (20).

[0222] The insulating plate (110) is formed of a non-conductive material and can limit the path of current transmitted through the terminal plate (120) and the pin member (80). The pin member (80) can serve as a current collector (130) and transmit the current of the electrode assembly (60) to the connecting member (40).

[0223] In the battery cell (1), current can be transmitted to the electrode assembly (60), pin member (80), terminal plate (120), connecting member (40), and terminal plate (30).

[0224] FIG. 14 illustrates a body case (10) and a cover case (20) separated according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 15 illustrates a body case (10) and a cover case (20) combined according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0225] The body case (10) may include an opening (15) on at least one side, and in FIG. 14, the opening (15) may be included on one side. The body case (10) forms an internal space in a hexahedral shape, and an electrode assembly (60) may be introduced into the internal space through one side.

[0226] The cover case (20) corresponds to the shape of the opening (15) and can be combined with the body case (10) at the opening (15) to close or cover the internal space. Through the combination of the cover case (20), the electrode assembly (60) accommodated in the internal space can be isolated from the outside and electrically connected to the outside through the terminal unit (23).

[0227] The terminal unit (23) may be formed to protrude from the cover case (20) and may include a terminal plate (30), a connecting member (40), and a supporting member (70). The terminal plate (30) may be formed of a first metal material and may include a through hole (25). The connecting member (40) may be formed of a second metal material and may penetrate the through hole (25).

[0228] The support member (70) is formed of a non-conductive material and can support the lower surface of the terminal plate (30). The connecting member (40) is placed between the terminal plate (30) and the support member (70) and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60).

[0229] The current collector (130) can be accommodated in the body case (10) and can be electrically connected to the positive or negative electrode of the electrode assembly (60). The current collector (130) can support the cover case (20) arranged on the upper surface in an overall folded shape.

[0230] The entire body (130) can support the lower surface of the cover case (20) so that the cover case (20) is positioned in the opening (15), and can be formed of a material having electrical conductivity and electrically connected to the terminal unit (23).

[0231] The current collector (130) is placed between the cover case (20) and the electrode assembly (60), and can electrically connect the terminal unit (23) formed in the cover case (20) and the electrode assembly (60).

[0232] FIG. 16 illustrates a cover case (20) separated according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 17 illustrates a cover case (20) combined with a current collector (130) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0233] Referring to Fig. 16, it may sequentially include a terminal plate (30), a connecting member (40), a supporting member (70), a sealing gasket (50), a cover case (20), an insulating plate (110), and a current collector (130) from the top. With respect to the cover case (20), the terminal plate (30), the connecting member (40), the supporting member (70), and the sealing gasket (50) may be combined on the upper surface, and the insulating plate (110) may be combined on the lower surface.

[0234] The terminal plate (30) may be formed of a first metal material and may have a shape of a square plate. The terminal plate (30) may include a communication hole (35) in the center, and the communication hole (35) may communicate with a through hole (25) formed in the cover case (20).

[0235] The connecting member (40) is formed of a second metal material and may have a columnar shape. The connecting member (40) includes a protrusion (43) whose cross-sectional size is formed differently at certain heights, and the protrusion (43) can support the terminal plate (30).

[0236] The connecting member (40) is arranged to penetrate the through hole (25) of the cover case (20) and the communication hole (35) of the terminal plate (30), so as to connect the inside and the outside of the cover case (20). The terminal plate (30) may be arranged on the upper side of the connecting member (40) based on the protrusion (43), and the cover case (20) may be arranged on the lower side.

[0237] The support member (70) is formed with a relatively sunken inner surface so that the terminal plate (30) can be accommodated on the inner surface of the support member (70). The central portion of the support member (70) is open and communicates with the communication hole (35) and the through hole (25), so that the connecting member (40) can penetrate the central portion of the support member (70). The support member (70) can be formed of a material having low electrical conductivity.

[0238] The sealing gasket (50) is formed in the shape of a column with an open center, and can accommodate a connecting member (40) at the center. The sealing gasket (50) can serve to seal the current flowing through the connecting member (40) so that it does not leak out to the outside. The sealing gasket (50) can be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity. For example, it can be formed of a plastic material.

[0239] The cover case (20) can be coupled to the opening (15) of the body case (10) to close or cover the opening (15).

[0240] In Fig. 16, the length of the cover case (20) is expressed as being short, but it can be formed to a size corresponding to the opening (15) of the body case (10). The cover case (20) can include a through hole (25) and a sunken inner surface.

[0241] A support member (70) can be installed on the sunken inner surface of the cover case (20) to limit horizontal movement of the support member (70). The through hole (25) of the cover case (20) can communicate with the communication hole (35) of the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can pass through it.

[0242] An insulating plate (110) is provided on the lower surface of the cover case (20) and can be combined with the cover case (20). The insulating plate (110) can be formed of a material with low electrical conductivity. For example, it can be formed of a plastic material.

[0243] The insulating plate (110) has an open center portion into which a connecting member (40) can be inserted. The insulating plate (110) prevents the current of the electrode assembly (60) from being transmitted through the cover case (20) and allows the current of the electrode assembly (60) to be transmitted only through the connecting member (40).

[0244] Referring to Fig. 16, the current collector (130) supports the lower surface of the insulating plate (110) and may be formed by bending. The current collector (130) may be bent in an 'L' shape, one side may support the insulating plate (110) and the cover case (20), and the other side may be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60).

[0245] One side of the contact member has an open center portion, and a connecting member (40) can be joined to the open center portion. The connecting member (40) can penetrate the terminal plate (30) at the upper portion based on the protrusion (43), and can penetrate the support member (70), sealing gasket (50), cover case (20), insulating plate (110), and current collector (130) at the lower portion.

[0246] The current collector (130) is formed of a plate made of a material with high electrical conductivity and can serve as a passage between the connecting member (40) and the electrode assembly (60). The current collector is connected to the connecting member (40) on one side and electrically connected to the electrode assembly (60) on the other side, so that the current of the electrode assembly (60) can be transmitted to the connecting member (40).

[0247] FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-section of a cover case (20) and a collector (130) combined according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0248] Fig. 18 illustrates a combination of a cover case (20) and a current collector (130). Looking from above, the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) can be combined through a connecting portion (100). The connecting member (40) can penetrate the terminal plate (30), the support member (70), and the cover case (20).

[0249] The connecting member (40) is supported by a sealing gasket (50) at the bottom, and the supporting member (70) and the sealing gasket (50) are formed of a non-conductive material so as to limit the path of current moving through the connecting member (40).

[0250] The sealing gasket (50) can prevent current from flowing to the cover case (20). The connecting member (40) includes a protrusion (43) having a wider cross-sectional area or larger diameter than the through hole (25) and the communication hole (35), and the protrusion (43) can support the terminal plate (30).

[0251] The insulating plate (110) supports the cover case (20) and can be supported by the current collector (130).

[0252] The insulating plate (110) is formed of a non-conductive material and can limit the path of current transmitted through the current collector (130). The current collector (130) can transmit current to a connecting member (40) connected to one side by being connected to the electrode assembly (60) on the other side.

[0253] In the battery cell (1), current can be transmitted to the electrode assembly (60), current collector (130), connecting member (40), and terminal plate (30).

[0254] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0255] A battery cell (1) according to the present disclosure includes a body case (10), a cover case (20), a terminal plate (30), and a connecting member (40). The body case (10) includes an opening (15) on one side, and an electrode assembly (60) can be accommodated therein through the opening (15).

[0256] A method for manufacturing a battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step (S100) of fastening a connecting member (40) to a through hole (25) and a communication hole (35), a step (S300) of melting a part of a melting member (95) or a terminal plate (30) at a preset temperature, and a step (S500) of melting a part of a melting member (95) or a terminal plate (30) to form a joining portion (100) to join the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40).

[0257] The step (S100) of attaching a connecting member (40) to a through hole (25) and a communication hole (35) can be performed by attaching the connecting member (40) by passing it through a through hole (25) formed in a cover case (20) and a communication hole (35) formed in a terminal plate (30).

[0258] The connecting member (40) can be physically connected to the through hole (25) and the communication hole (35) and fastened, and the connecting member (40) can be connected so as to protrude from the terminal plate (30).

[0259] The step (S300) of melting a part of the melting member (95) or the terminal plate (30) at a preset temperature may cause the melting member (95) or the terminal plate (30) to melt at a preset temperature. The preset temperature may vary depending on the first metal material of the terminal plate (30) and the second metal material of the connecting member (40).

[0260] In the step (S500) of melting a part of the molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30) to form a joint (100) to join the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40), the joint (100) can be formed through melting of the molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30).

[0261] The molten member (95) can be placed around the communication hole (35), and the molten member (95) can be combined with the connecting member (40) to fill the gap between the terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) and form a connecting portion (100).

[0262] The connecting portion (100) is formed of a single material such as a melting member (95) or a terminal plate (30), and may not include a second metal material of the connecting member (40).

[0263] The heating unit (90) can help create a joint (100) by applying heat to the melting member (95) or terminal plate (30) to melt it.

[0264] The heating unit (90) can be moved to selectively heat a portion of the molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30). The heating unit (90) can heat a portion of the molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30) that is spaced apart from the connecting member (40) to minimize damage and deformation of the connecting member (40) due to heat.

[0265] The heating unit (90) can selectively heat a portion of the molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30). The heated molten member (95) or the terminal plate (30) can form a joining portion (100).

[0266] The heating member (90) can prevent the creation of a joint (100) in which a part of the molten member (95) or terminal plate (30) and the connecting member (40) are mixed through selective heating.

[0267] The molten member (95) can be formed of the same first metal material as the terminal plate (30).

[0268] The molten member (95) may not be a second metal material such as the connecting member (40).

[0269] The protrusion (93) extending from the terminal plate (30) is formed of the first metal material and can be arranged around the perimeter of the communication hole (35). Therefore, the protrusion (93) extending from the terminal plate (30) can correspond to a part of the terminal plate (30).

[0270] The ring shape placed on the terminal plate (30) has an open center, and the open center may be wider than the communication hole (35). Therefore, the ring shape placed on the terminal plate (30) may correspond to the molten member (95).

[0271] A portion of the molten member (95) and the terminal plate (30) are spaced apart from the connecting member (40) and can be melted through the heating member (90). The molten member (95) can be combined with the connecting member (40) along the perimeter of the communication hole (35) to form a joint (100).

[0272] The bonding with the connecting member (40) in the connecting portion (100) does not mean a compound between metals, but rather means that a part of the molten molten member (95) or terminal plate (30) comes into contact with the upper surface of the connecting member (40) which is metal and is physically bonded.

[0273] The connecting member (40) and the joining portion (100) may be physically joined, but may not form a chemically joined compound.

[0274] The preset temperature is set to a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material, so that only the first metal material can be melted. The heating unit (90) can selectively heat only the terminal plate (30) or the melting member (95) of the first metal material to form the joining unit (100).

[0275] Although the present disclosure describes a single terminal unit (23), it can be applied to a plurality of terminal units (23) that can be formed in a battery cell (1).

[0276] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may include a combination of the above embodiments or a combination of at least one of the above embodiments and a known technology as another embodiment.

[0277] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail through specific examples, this is intended to specifically explain the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent that modifications or improvements can be made by a person having ordinary knowledge in the relevant field within the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0278] All simple modifications or changes of the present disclosure fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific scope of protection of the present disclosure will be made clear by the appended claims.

[0279] [Explanation of symbols]

[0280] 1: Battery cell

[0281] 10: Body case

[0282] 15: Opening

[0283] 20: Cover case

[0284] 25: Through hole

[0285] 30: Terminal plate

[0286] 35: Chimney hole

[0287] 40: Connecting member

[0288] 60: Electrode assembly

[0289] 70: Absence of support

[0290] 100: Joint

Claims

1. A body case including an opening on one side and accommodating an electrode assembly inside through the opening; A cover case that is coupled to the above body case and covers the above opening; A through hole penetrating the above cover case; A terminal plate including a communication hole communicating with the above through hole and located on the outside of the cover case and formed of a first metal material; A connecting member formed of a second metal material, inserted through the above through-hole and the above communication hole to connect the cover case and the terminal plate and electrically connect with the electrode assembly; and A battery cell including a connecting portion that connects the connecting member and the terminal plate by melting at a preset temperature along the periphery of the above-mentioned communication hole.

2. In paragraph 1, The above connecting member is, A battery cell having at least a portion thereof exposed to the outside through the above-described penetration hole.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell in which the melting point of the second metal material is formed higher than the melting point of the first metal material.

4. In paragraph 3, The above preset temperature is, A battery cell wherein the melting point of the first metal material is set higher than or equal to the melting point of the second metal material.

5. In paragraph 2, The above connecting member is, A cylindrical body part inserted into the above-mentioned communication hole and the above-mentioned through hole; A head portion exposed to the outside of the above-mentioned communication hole; and A battery cell including a protrusion formed along the circumference of the body portion by extending in the radial direction of the body portion between the body portion and the head portion.

6. In paragraph 5, The diameter of the above protrusion is, A battery cell having a diameter larger than the above through hole.

7. In paragraph 1, The above joint is, A battery cell formed by melting an area of ​​the terminal plate adjacent to the periphery of the above-described communication hole at the preset temperature.

8. In paragraph 1, The above terminal plate, Including a protrusion formed by protruding outward; The above joint is, A battery cell formed by melting the above protrusion at the above preset temperature.

9. In paragraph 1, The above joint is, A battery cell formed by melting a molten material at the above-mentioned preset temperature.

10. In paragraph 9, The above melting member is, Ring-shaped battery cell.

11. In paragraph 4, The above connecting member is, A battery cell including a pinhole penetrating the connecting member in a direction toward the body case from the cover case.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery cell further comprising a pin member inserted into the pinhole.

13. In paragraph 9, A battery cell further comprising a support member formed of an insulating material, the support member being positioned between the cover case and the terminal plate to support the terminal plate.

14. In any one of paragraphs 7 to 9, The above joint is, A battery cell formed of a single metal material including the first metal material that is different from the second metal material.

15. In paragraph 14, The above joint is, A battery cell, wherein at least a portion of the battery cell covers a portion of the connecting member adjacent to the periphery of the connecting hole.

16. In paragraph 1, The above first metal material includes aluminum material, A battery cell wherein the second metal material includes copper.

17. In paragraph 1, The above connecting member is a battery cell with a rivet.

18. A method for manufacturing a battery cell, comprising: a body case having an opening on one side and accommodating an electrode assembly therein through the opening; a cover case coupled to the body case and covering the opening; a through hole penetrating the cover case; a terminal plate including a communication hole communicating with the through hole and formed of a first metal material and located on the outside of the cover case; and a connecting member inserted through the through hole and the communication hole to couple the cover case and the terminal plate and electrically connect with the electrode assembly and formed of a second metal material; A step of attaching the connecting member to the above through hole and the above communication hole; A step of melting a molten member or a part of the terminal plate at a preset temperature; and A method for manufacturing a battery cell, comprising: a step of melting a molten member or a part of the terminal plate to form a joining member to join the terminal plate and the connecting member; 19. In Article 18, The step of forming the above joint is: A method for manufacturing a battery cell in which a protrusion formed by protruding outwardly from the terminal plate is melted to form a joining part.

20. In paragraph 18, The step of forming the above joint is: A method for manufacturing a battery cell, wherein a portion disposed around the periphery of the communication hole in the terminal plate is melted to form a joining portion.

21. In paragraph 18, The step of forming the above joint is: A method for manufacturing a battery cell in which a portion of the ring-shaped molten member is melted to form a joint.

22. In paragraph 18, The above melting step is, A method for manufacturing a battery cell, comprising: a step of heating the molten member or a part of the terminal plate to a preset temperature using a heating unit; 23. In paragraph 22, The step in which the molten material is melted at a preset temperature is A method for manufacturing a battery cell further comprising the step of heating the heating unit to a temperature higher than the melting point of the first metal material and lower than the melting point of the second metal material.

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