Cell block-fixing structure for assembling battery modules

Abstract

The present invention provides a cell block-fixing structure for assembling battery modules, the cell block-fixing structure comprising: a jig-moving body (220) positioned above a module frame with the latter, accommodating a cell block assembly (110) comprising a plurality of battery cells, fixedly placed on a welding apparatus (300); and a fixing jig (210) connected to the bottom end of the jig-moving body (220), wherein the cell block assembly (110) comprises terminal bus bars (111, 112) protruding to the outside of the module frame on one side, and the terminal bus bars (111, 112) are provided with terminal holes (111a, 112a), and when the module frame is being welded, the jig-moving body (220) moves downward so that the fixing jig (210) is inserted and fitted into the terminal holes (111a, 112a).

Description

Cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module for fixing the position of a cell block assembly placed within a U-frame when assembling a battery module by welding a battery module frame.

[0002] Secondary batteries, unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, are batteries that can be charged and discharged. They are used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that are driven by electrical power sources.

[0003] Currently, the types of secondary batteries widely used include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, i.e., unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.6 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. In addition, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series / parallel, it is common to first configure a battery module composed of at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module and add other components to configure the battery pack. Here, the battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and the battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0005] A battery module is composed of multiple cells electrically connected using a busbar.

[0006] Figure 1 is a drawing that briefly illustrates the assembly process of a conventional battery module.

[0007] Referring to Fig. 1, when assembling a battery module (1), a cell block assembly (10) is placed in a controlled position within a U-frame (20) and then positional restraint is secured with a thermal resin (21).

[0008] However, since the restraining force of the cell block assembly (10) is insufficient until the heat resin (21) hardens, there is a possibility that the cell block assembly (10) may move within the gap with the module frame during the module frame welding process (see Fig. 2).

[0009] Referring to Fig. 2, there is a problem that the cell block assembly (10) moves undesirably in the direction of the arrow due to insufficient binding force of the cell block assembly (10) before the heat resin (21) hardens, and the position of the terminal hole (11a, 12a) formed by punching the terminal bus bar (11, 12) of the cell block assembly (10) protruding outside the module frame becomes poor.

[0010] Here, the position indicates the degree to which the location is accurate with respect to a reference plane or straight line.

[0011] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly that can improve the positioning of terminal holes of cell block assemblies during the module frame welding process during the battery module manufacturing process.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module comprises: a jig moving body disposed on top of a module frame, wherein a module frame accommodating a cell block assembly including a plurality of battery cells is placed and fixed on a welding machine; and a fixing jig connected to a lower end of the jig moving body; wherein the cell block assembly includes a terminal bus bar formed to protrude outward from the module frame on one side, a terminal hole is formed in the terminal bus bar, and when the module frame is welded, the jig moving body moves downward so that the fixing jig can be inserted and fitted into the terminal hole.

[0013] Additionally, the above fixed jig may have a tapered shape so that it becomes narrower as it goes down.

[0014] Additionally, the fixed jig can be connected to the lower end of the jig moving body by a ball joint so that the jig moving body can rotate relative to the jig moving body.

[0015] In addition, the fixed jig includes an upper jig body and a lower jig head, and the jig head may have a downward convex shape.

[0016] Additionally, the terminal bus bar may include a first terminal bus bar of positive polarity and a second terminal bus bar of negative polarity, and the terminal hole may include a first terminal hole formed in the first terminal bus bar and a second terminal hole formed in the second terminal bus bar.

[0017] Additionally, the above-mentioned fixing jigs may be provided as a pair so as to be inserted and fitted into the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole, respectively.

[0018] In addition, when the fixed jig is inserted and fitted into the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole, the cell block assembly is restricted from moving relative to the module frame in one plane direction, and the one plane direction may be a plane direction perpendicular to the downward movement direction of the jig moving body.

[0019] In addition, the jig moving body is connected to an actuator fixed to the welding machine, and the jig moving body can be moved up and down by driving the actuator.

[0020] Additionally, the jig moving body may further include a spring arranged so that one end thereof is in contact with the fixed jig.

[0021] According to the present invention, in the process of welding a module frame to assemble a battery module, the terminal hole of the cell block assembly is restrained by a fixing jig, thereby improving the position of the terminal hole.

[0022] Figure 1 is a drawing that briefly illustrates the assembly process of a conventional battery module.

[0023] Figure 2 is a drawing showing the movement of a cell block assembly during a conventional battery module assembly process.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a battery module to which a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0025] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the terminal bus bar of the cell block assembly in the battery module of Figure 3.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a jig moving body and a fixed jig, which are components of a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a fixing jig of a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention moves downward to be inserted into a terminal hole of a battery module.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a state in which a fixing jig of a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention moves downward while not being aligned with the terminal hole of the battery module.

[0029] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a state in which the fixed jig of Fig. 7 is inserted and fitted into the terminal hole in a rotated state.

[0030] Figure 9 is a drawing showing a welding machine for welding a module frame for assembling a battery module.

[0031] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid ambiguity in the interpretation of the present invention. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0032] When a part in this specification is said to be connected to another part, this includes not only direct connections but also connections with other elements intervening. Furthermore, when a part is said to include a component, this does not exclude other components, unless otherwise specifically stated, but rather implies the inclusion of additional components.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein may be used in their common sense to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise.

[0034] Hereinafter, the cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 9.

[0035] FIG. 3 shows a battery module to which a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a terminal bus bar of a cell block assembly in the battery module of FIG. 3.

[0036] In order to assemble a battery module (100), a cell block assembly (110) including a plurality of battery cells is placed at a controlled position within a U-frame (120) to which a thermal resin is applied. The positional constraint of the cell block assembly (110) is secured by the curing of the thermal resin, but before the thermal resin is cured, the cell block assembly (110) can be moved within a gap with the module frame.

[0037] The above cell block assembly (110) includes a terminal bus bar (111, 112) formed on one side, and a terminal hole (111a, 112a) is formed in the terminal bus bar (111, 112).

[0038] The module frame that accommodates the cell block assembly (110) includes the U-frame (120) and further includes an upper frame (130) that covers the upper portion after the cell block assembly (110) is installed within the U-frame (120).

[0039] The above terminal busbar (111, 112) protrudes outside the module frame.

[0040] If the above cell block assembly (110) is not fixed to a controlled position within the module frame and moves within the module frame before the heat resin is cured, the terminal holes (111a, 112a) formed in the terminal bus bars (111, 112) are not in the correct position, resulting in a misalignment of the positioning diagram.

[0041] In order to assemble the above battery module (100), a process of welding the module frame is required. The welding is performed while the heat resin is not completely hardened, and during this welding process, the battery module (100) is rotated while being fixed to a welding machine (300) (see FIG. 9). As the battery module (100) rotates, the cell block assembly (110) may move relative to the module frame.

[0042] The cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention can improve positioning by restricting the movement of the cell block assembly (110) during the welding process of the module frame so that the terminal holes (111a, 112a) of the terminal bus bars (111, 111) are in the correct position.

[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates components of a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, including a jig moving body and a fixing jig. Referring to FIG. 5, a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0044] The cell block fixing structure for module assembly includes a jig moving body (220) formed in a bar shape and a fixing jig (210) connected to the lower end of the jig moving body (220).

[0045] The above fixed jig (210) is connected to the lower end of the jig moving body (220) by a ball joint (230) so that it can rotate relative to the jig moving body (220).

[0046] FIG. 6 shows a state in which a fixing jig of a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention moves downward to be inserted into a terminal hole of a battery module.

[0047] The above jig moving body (220) and the above fixed jig (210) are placed on top of the module frame, which accommodates a cell block assembly (110) including a plurality of battery cells, while the module frame is placed and fixed on a welding machine (300). Specifically, the jig moving body (220) and the above fixed jig (210) are placed on top of the terminal holes (111a, 112a) of the terminal bus bars (111, 112) formed on one side of the cell block assembly (110) accommodated in the module frame.

[0048] The above jig moving body (220) is connected to an actuator fixed to the welding machine (300), and the jig moving body (220) can move up and down by driving the actuator.

[0049] With the above module frame fixed to the welding machine (300), the jig moving body (220) moves downward by the driving of the actuator so that the fixed jig (210) is inserted into and fitted into the terminal hole (111a, 112a).

[0050] The above terminal busbars (111, 112) are composed of a positive first terminal busbar (111) and a negative second terminal busbar (112).

[0051] The above terminal hole (111a, 112a) is composed of a first terminal hole (111a) formed in the first terminal bus bar (111) and a second terminal hole (112a) formed in the second terminal bus bar (112).

[0052] The above fixed jigs (210) are provided as a pair so as to be inserted and fitted into the first terminal hole (111a) and the second terminal hole (112a), respectively.

[0053] The above-mentioned fixed jig (210) has a tapered shape that becomes narrower as it goes down. Since the above-mentioned fixed jig (210) has a tapered shape, a pair of the above-mentioned fixed jigs (210) can be inserted into the first terminal hole (111a) and the second terminal hole (112a) respectively and fitted together, so that the movement of the cell block assembly (110) can be restricted in a planar direction.

[0054] Here, the plane direction means a plane direction perpendicular to the downward movement direction of the jig moving body (220), and is the XY plane direction shown in Fig. 4.

[0055] The above cell block assembly (110) is restricted from moving relative to the module frame in the plane direction, thereby improving the positioning of the terminal holes (111a, 112a).

[0056] The above fixed jig (210) includes an upper jig body (212) and a lower jig head (211). It is preferable that the jig head (211) has a downwardly convex shape. The jig head (211) having a downwardly convex shape can be easily inserted into the terminal hole (111a, 112a).

[0057] FIG. 7 shows a state in which a fixing jig of a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention moves downward while not being aligned with the terminal hole of the battery module, and FIG. 8 shows a state in which the fixing jig is inserted and fitted into the terminal hole in a rotated state.

[0058] The above fixed jig (210) is connected to the lower end of the jig moving body (220) by a ball joint (230) so that it can rotate relative to the jig moving body (220). The above fixed jig (210) can rotate about the ball joint (230) as an axis.

[0059] When the above fixed jig (210) moves downward while not aligned with the terminal hole (111a, 1112a), the fixed jig (210) is inserted into the terminal hole (111a, 112a) while rotating as shown in FIG. 8.

[0060] That is, since the fixed jig (210) can rotate relative to the jig moving body (220), even when the terminal holes (111a, 112a) and the fixed jig (210) are not precisely aligned, the fixed jig (210) can be inserted and fitted into the terminal holes (111a, 112a), thereby restraining the cell block assembly (110) from moving in a planar direction.

[0061] Meanwhile, a spring (240) is placed outside the jig moving body (220), and one end of the spring (240) is fixed in contact with the fixed jig (210).

[0062] As shown in Fig. 8, when the fixed jig (210) is inserted and fitted into the terminal hole (111a, 112a) while being rotated, the spring (240) acts to apply elastic force in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of the fixed jig (210).

[0063] By applying the elastic force of the spring (240) to the fixed jig (210), the fixed jig (210) can be prevented from rotating more than necessary.

[0064] Figure 9 shows a welding machine for welding a module frame for assembling a battery module.

[0065] The welding machine (300) includes a U-frame clamp (330) for fixing the U-frame (120) of the battery module (100), an upper frame clamp (320) for fixing the upper frame (130), and an end plate clamp (340) for fixing the end plate (not shown).

[0066] In addition, the welding machine (300) further includes a motor (310) for rotating the battery module (100). As the battery module (100) rotates by driving the motor (310), welding of the module frame is performed.

[0067] The cell block assembly (110) positioned within the module frame is fixed by the fixing jig (210) and is restricted from moving in a plane direction, so that the cell block assembly (110) remains in position even when the heat resin is not hardened.

[0068] That is, in the process of welding the module frame to assemble the battery module (100), the terminal holes (111a, 112a) of the cell block assembly (110) are restrained by the fixing jig (210), thereby improving the position of the terminal holes (111a, 112a).

[0069] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments as described above, it is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the invention pertains within a scope that does not depart from the spirit of the present invention.

[0070] The present invention can provide a cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, in which the terminal hole of the cell block assembly is fixed by a fixing jig during the process of welding a module frame to assemble a battery module, thereby improving the position of the terminal hole.

Claims

1. A jig moving body positioned on top of a module frame that accommodates a cell block assembly including a plurality of battery cells while the module frame is placed and fixed on a welding machine; and including a fixed jig connected to the lower end of the above jig moving body; The above cell block assembly includes a terminal bus bar formed to protrude outside the module frame on one side, and a terminal hole is formed in the terminal bus bar, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein when the above module frame is welded, the jig moving body moves downward so that the above fixing jig is inserted and fitted into the terminal hole.

2. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned fixing jig is a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly, having a tapered shape that becomes narrower as it goes down.

3. In paragraph 2, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein the above-mentioned fixed jig is connected to the lower end of the jig moving body by a ball joint so that the jig can rotate relative to the jig moving body.

4. In paragraph 3, The above fixed jig includes an upper jig body and a lower jig head, The above jig head is a cell block fixing structure for battery module assembly, having a convex shape downward.

5. In paragraph 4, The above terminal bus bar includes a positive first terminal bus bar and a negative second terminal bus bar, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein the terminal hole includes a first terminal hole formed in the first terminal bus bar and a second terminal hole formed in the second terminal bus bar.

6. In paragraph 5, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein the above fixing jigs are provided in pairs so as to be inserted and fitted into the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole, respectively.

7. In paragraph 6, When the above fixing jig is inserted and fitted into the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole, the cell block assembly is restricted from moving relative to the module frame in one plane direction. A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein the above-mentioned one-plane direction is a plane direction perpendicular to the downward movement direction of the jig moving body.

8. In paragraph 7, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, wherein the jig moving body is connected to an actuator fixed to the welding machine, and the jig moving body moves up and down by driving the actuator.

9. In paragraph 3, A cell block fixing structure for assembling a battery module, further comprising a spring arranged so that one end of the spring is in contact with the fixed jig outside the jig moving body.

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