Battery pack

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack. The battery pack according to an aspect of the present invention may comprise: a housing having an accommodation space; and a module assembly disposed in the accommodation space. The module assembly may comprise: a module stack comprising multiple stacked battery modules; and a side frame comprising a plate portion, provided on the side surface of the module stack and coupled to the multiple battery modules, and a support portion, extending from the plate portion to the outside of the module stack and supported by the housing.

Description

battery pack

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0193697, filed December 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a battery pack capable of charging and discharging electric energy.

[0005] Secondary batteries have been applied to small fields such as mobile devices and laptop computers, but recently, their research direction has expanded to medium and large fields, and they are widely used in fields requiring high voltage and large capacity, such as energy storage systems (ESS) and electric vehicles (EV).

[0006] When multiple battery cells composed of these secondary batteries are connected and combined in a predetermined manner, a battery module can be formed. Furthermore, when multiple battery modules are assembled and packaged within a single housing, a battery pack can be formed. Recently, to improve the energy density of battery packs, active research has been conducted on methods for arranging battery modules within the battery pack housing and on structures for stably securing the battery modules to the housing.

[0007] One approach to improving the energy density of a battery pack is to stack multiple battery modules vertically. However, stacking battery modules vertically in this manner can lead to structural stability issues, as the battery modules are difficult to support stably within the housing.

[0008] For example, battery modules positioned relatively lower can be stably supported by the bottom of the housing, but battery modules positioned relatively higher have difficulty being stably supported and positioned by the housing. This can reduce the overall stability of the battery pack and cause it to become vulnerable to external impacts or contamination.

[0009] Accordingly, there has been an urgent need for the development of a battery pack that can simultaneously achieve improved energy density and structural stability by stably positioning and supporting vertically stacked battery modules within the battery pack housing.

[0010] The present invention has been devised to solve the above problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack having structural stability and high energy density.

[0011] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a housing having a receiving space; and a module assembly disposed in the receiving space, wherein the module assembly comprises: a module assembly in which a plurality of battery modules are stacked; and a side frame including a plate portion provided on a side surface of the module assembly and respectively coupled to the plurality of battery modules, and a support portion extended from the plate portion to the outside of the module assembly and supported by the housing.

[0013] At this time, a joining groove sunk inward is formed on the side of the battery module, and a plurality of joining holes are formed in the plate portion, each of which is connected to the joining grooves of the plurality of battery modules, and the module assembly and the side frame can be joined by joining members inserted into the joining holes and the joining grooves.

[0014] At this time, the above-mentioned coupling grooves are provided in multiple numbers and spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the battery module, and the plate portion can extend along the length direction of the battery module.

[0015] At this time, the vertical width of the plate portion may be smaller than the height of the module assembly.

[0016] At this time, the support member may be provided in multiple units and spaced apart along the length direction of the battery module.

[0017] At this time, a joining hole through which a predetermined joining member is penetrated and joined may be formed in the support member.

[0018] At this time, the support part may include an upper support part provided on the upper edge of the plate part; and a lower support part provided on the lower edge of the side plate.

[0019] At this time, the upper support part and the lower support part may be arranged to be misaligned with each other in the vertical direction.

[0020] At this time, the receiving space is partitioned, and a center-side support frame is further included, one side of which is supported by the inner wall of the housing, and the support part can be coupled to the center-side support frame.

[0021] At this time, the center side support frame has a plate shape extending parallel to the plate portion, and the upper support portion can be coupled to the upper edge portion of the center side support frame.

[0022] At this time, a center-side escape space with at least one side open is formed in the center-side support frame, and the lower support part can be coupled to the inner wall of the center-side escape space.

[0023] At this time, a side support frame is further included that extends along the perimeter of the receiving space and is supported on one side by the inner wall of the housing, and the support part can be coupled to the side support frame.

[0024] At this time, the side support frame has a plate shape extending parallel to the plate portion, and the upper support portion can be coupled to the upper edge portion of the side support frame.

[0025] At this time, the side support frame may have one side connected or joined to the inner wall of the housing.

[0026] At this time, a side escape space having at least one open side is formed in the side support frame, and the lower support part can be coupled to the inner wall of the side escape space.

[0027] At this time, the side frames may be provided in pairs and provided on opposite sides of the module assembly.

[0028] At this time, the receiving space is partitioned, and a center side support frame is supported by the inner wall of the housing on one side; and a side side support frame is further included that extends along the perimeter of the receiving space and is supported by the inner wall of the housing on one side, and one of the pair of side frames is coupled to one of the center side support frame and the side side support frame, and the other of the pair of side frames can be coupled to the other of the center side support frame and the side side support frame.

[0029] At this time, the side support frames are provided as a pair and extend parallel to each other on both sides of the receiving space, the center support frame extends parallel between the pair of side support frames to divide the receiving space into a first receiving space and a second receiving space, and the module assembly may include a first module assembly arranged in the first receiving space; and a second module assembly arranged in the second receiving space.

[0030] In a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention, the plate portion of the side frame is respectively connected to a plurality of battery modules that are stacked vertically, so that the battery modules can be relatively fixed in position and supported with each other via the side frame.

[0031] In addition, since the support portion of the side frame extends outward from the plate portion and is supported by the housing of the battery pack, the stacked battery modules can be stably positioned and supported by the housing via the side frame.

[0032] Through this, a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention can have a high energy density by stacking multiple battery modules vertically, while also having high structural stability by stably supporting the stacked battery modules by the housing via the side frame.

[0033] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a housing, a side support frame, and a center support frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 6.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a structure in which a lower support portion of a side frame and a support frame are combined, according to one embodiment of the present invention, of a battery pack.

[0042] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8 showing the joint structure of the lower support portion of the side frame and the center support frame.

[0043] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8 showing the joint structure of the lower support portion of the side frame and the side support frame.

[0044] FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a structure in which an upper support portion of a side frame and a support frame are combined, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 11 showing the joint structure of the upper support portion of the side frame and the center support frame.

[0046] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 11 showing the joint structure of the upper support portion of the side frame and the side support frame.

[0047] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited or restricted by the following examples.

[0048] In order to clearly explain the present invention, a detailed description of a part that is irrelevant to the description or a related known technology that may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention has been omitted, and when adding reference signs to components of each drawing in this specification, the same or similar reference signs are attached to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

[0049] In addition, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their usual or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts that conform to the technical idea of ​​the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term to explain his or her own invention in the best way.

[0050] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a housing, a side support frame, and a center support frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIGS. 1 and 2 disclose a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for charging and storing electric energy or discharging stored electric energy. As a non-limiting example, the battery pack (1) may be installed in the body of an electric vehicle to store and provide electric energy for driving a motor.

[0052] In this embodiment, the battery pack (1) may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may be configured to house other components of the battery pack (1) internally and protect them from external impact or contamination. To this end, the housing (10) may be made of a metal or reinforced plastic having a predetermined rigidity, but the material of the housing (10) is not limited thereto.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing (10) of the battery pack (1) according to the present embodiment may include an upper plate (12), a lower plate (14), and a side plate (16). In the present embodiment, the upper plate (12) and the lower plate (14) may each be formed of a square-shaped plate.

[0054] In addition, the upper plate (12) and the lower plate (14) can be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. Accordingly, an accommodation space (S) can be provided between the upper plate (12) and the lower plate (14). In the present embodiment, the side plate (16) can surround the accommodation space (S) between the upper plate (12) and the lower plate (14).

[0055] Accordingly, the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface of the receiving space (S) can be covered by the upper surface plate (12), the lower surface plate (14), and the side plate (16), respectively. Meanwhile, the side plate (16) can be formed by combining multiple flat plates, or can be provided as a single body by connecting multiple flat plates to each other.

[0056] In this embodiment, the housing (10) is provided as a box-shaped structure, but the shape of the housing (10) is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate and protect other components inside. For example, the housing (10) may be formed as a curved surface with at least one portion curved or bent.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a support frame (20, 30). The support frame (20, 30) may be a frame for supporting a module assembly (A) described below and positioning and fixing it within a housing (10). For this purpose, the support frame (20, 30) may be made of a metal or reinforced plastic having a predetermined rigidity, but is not limited thereto.

[0058] In this embodiment, the support frame (20, 30) may include a side support frame (20). The side support frame (20) may be a frame for supporting the module assembly (A) by utilizing the support force of the lower plate (14) and / or the side plate (16) of the housing (10).

[0059] In this embodiment, the side support frame (20) may have a plate shape extending in the front-back direction (X-axis direction) along the perimeter of the receiving space (S). At this time, one side of the side support frame (20) may be connected or coupled to the side plate (16) of the housing (10). In addition, the lower edge portion of the side support frame (20) may be connected or coupled to the lower plate (14). Through this, the side support frame (20) may support the module assembly (A) based on the supporting force of the housing (10).

[0060] At this time, in the present embodiment, the one side of the side support frame (20) may be a side facing the outside of the receiving space (S). In other words, the one side may be a side facing the inner wall of the side plate (16).

[0061] In addition, the above-mentioned one surface of the side support frame (20) may be connected or joined to the side plate (16) by means of several ribs as illustrated. Through this, the side support frame (20) can be made lightweight while having strong rigidity. Of course, the side support frame (20) may also be connected or joined to the inner wall of the side plate (16) by making contact with it.

[0062] In this embodiment, the upper edge of the side support frame (20) can be in contact with and supported by the upper support portion (54) of the module assembly (A) described later. At this time, the upper edge of the side support frame (20) can be bent toward the outside of the receiving space (S) so that the outer surface faces upward.

[0063] And, in this embodiment, the bent portion of the upper edge of the side support frame (20) can be joined or connected to the side plate (16). Accordingly, the upper support portion (54) can be supported more stably by making surface contact with the upper edge of the side support frame (20).

[0064] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a joining hole (21) may be formed in the upper edge of the side support frame (20). The joining hole (21) may be configured to allow the upper support portion (54) of the module assembly (A) to be joined to the side support frame (20). This will be described in detail later together with the module assembly (A).

[0065] At this time, the number of coupling holes (21) may be configured in multiple ways corresponding to the number of upper support members (54). In addition, the multiple coupling holes (21) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (X-axis direction) of the side support frame (20).

[0066] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a side escape space (23) may be formed on the inside of the side support frame (20). The side escape space (23) may be a space into which the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) described later is inserted. In addition, the lower support part (56) may be in contact with and supported by the inner wall of the side escape space (23).

[0067] For this purpose, the side escape space (23) may be opened on at least one side. In the present embodiment, the side escape space (23) may be opened on the side facing the receiving space (S). The lower support member (56) may be positioned inside the side escape space (23) by penetrating the open side of the side escape space (23).

[0068] The length (length in the X-axis direction) and width (width in the Y-axis direction) of the side escape space (23) can be appropriately modified to match the shape of the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) described later.

[0069] At this time, in this embodiment, the upper side of the side escape space (23) can be opened. The open upper part can be used in the assembly process of the side support frame (20) and the module assembly (A).

[0070] For example, in the assembly process of the side support frame (20) and the module assembly (A), the lower support member (56) can be lowered through the open upper side of the side escape space (23) and then placed in contact with the bottom surface of the side escape space (23). Accordingly, the lower support member (56) and the side support frame (20) can be assembled to each other.

[0071] At this time, in the present embodiment, a predetermined joining hole (25) may be formed on the bottom surface of the side escape space (23). This joining hole (25) may be configured to be provided so that the lower support portion (56) of the module assembly (A) is joined to the side support frame (20).

[0072] Of course, the joining hole (25) may be formed on the side surface of the inner wall of the side escape space (23) taking into consideration the shape of the lower support member (56), etc. The joining structure of the side support frame (20) and the module assembly (A) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 8 to 13.

[0073] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the side escape space (23) may be configured in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of lower support members (56). In addition, the multiple side escape spaces (23) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (X-axis direction) of the side support frame (20).

[0074] At this time, the plurality of side escape spaces (23) may be arranged so as to be offset from the plurality of coupling holes (21) described above in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). As an example, some of the plurality of side escape spaces (23) may be positioned between the plurality of coupling holes (21).

[0075] This may be to improve the assemblability of the side support frame (20) and the module assembly (A) by configuring the coupling holes (21, 25) to be arranged corresponding to the arrangement of the upper support part (54) and the lower support part (56) described above.

[0076] Referring again to FIG. 3, in this embodiment, a plurality of side support frames (20) may be configured and arranged respectively on the periphery of the receiving space (S). As an example, as illustrated, the side support frames (20) may be configured as a pair.

[0077] In addition, a pair of side support frames (20) are arranged on each side in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the receiving space (S) and can extend parallel to each other in the length direction (X-axis direction) of the receiving space (S).

[0078] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3, in the present embodiment, the support frame (20, 30) may include a center-side support frame (30). The center-side support frame (30) may be a frame that is placed between neighboring module assemblies (A) to support them.

[0079] In this embodiment, the center-side support frame (30) may have a plate shape extending in a direction parallel to it (X-axis direction) between a pair of side-side support frames (20).

[0080] Accordingly, the receiving space (S) can be divided into a first receiving space (S1) and a second receiving space (S2) by the center-side support frame (30). Hereinafter, the receiving space located on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the center-side support frame (30) is referred to as the first receiving space (S1), and the receiving space located on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) is referred to as the second receiving space (S2).

[0081] At this time, in the present embodiment, the center-side support frame (30) may be configured to have an overall plate shape. More specifically, as illustrated, the center-side support frame (30) may be provided in a form in which relatively thin plates are overlapped with each other, and the overlapped plates are connected or joined to each other by multiple ribs. Through this, the center-side support frame (30) can have strong rigidity while being lightweight.

[0082] In this embodiment, the lower edge portion of the center-side support frame (30) can be connected or joined to the lower plate (14) of the housing (10). Accordingly, the center-side support frame (30) can support the module assembly (A) using the supporting force of the housing (10).

[0083] And, in this embodiment, the upper edge of the center-side support frame (30) can be supported by the upper support portion (54) of the module assembly (A) described later. At this time, the upper edge of the center-side support frame (30) can have a predetermined outer surface formed in the thickness direction (X-axis direction). This outer surface can be formed to face upward. Through this, the upper support portion (54) can be supported more stably by making surface contact with the upper edge of the center-side support frame (30).

[0084] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a predetermined joining hole (31) may be formed in the upper edge of the center-side support frame (30). The joining hole (31) may be configured to allow the upper support portion (54) of the module assembly (A) to be joined to the center-side support frame (30).

[0085] At this time, the coupling holes (31) may be configured as a pair and spaced apart in the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the center-side support frame (30). Among the pair of coupling holes (31), the coupling hole (31) located on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) may be configured to couple the upper support part (54) of the module assembly (A) located in the first receiving space (S1), and the coupling hole (31) located on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) may be configured to couple the upper support part (54) of the module assembly (A) located in the second receiving space (S2). This will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 8 to 13.

[0086] And, in this embodiment, a pair of coupling holes (31) may be configured in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of upper support members (54). A plurality of pairs of coupling holes (31) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (X-axis direction) of the center-side support frame (30).

[0087] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a center-side escape space (33) may be formed on the inside of the center-side support frame (30). The center-side escape space (33) may be a space into which a lower support portion (56) of a module assembly (A) described later is inserted. In addition, the lower support portion (56) may be supported by being in contact with the inner wall of the center-side escape space (33).

[0088] For this purpose, the center-side escape space (33) can be opened on at least one side. In the present embodiment, the center-side escape space (33) can be opened on one side facing the first receiving space (S1) and on the other side facing the second receiving space (S2). As illustrated, one side and the other side of the center-side escape space (33) can be opposite sides in the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the center-side support frame (30).

[0089] As will be described in detail later, the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) arranged in the first receiving space (S1) can be arranged inside the center-side escape space (33) by penetrating through one open side of the center-side escape space (33), and the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) arranged in the second receiving space (S2) can be arranged inside the center-side escape space (33) by penetrating through the other open side of the center-side escape space (33).

[0090] The length (length in the X-axis direction) and width (width in the Y-axis direction) of the center-side escape space (33) can be appropriately modified in consideration of the shape of the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) described later.

[0091] At this time, in this embodiment, the upper side of the center-side escape space (33) can be opened. The upper part opened in this way can be used in the assembly process of the center-side support frame (30) and the module assembly (A).

[0092] For example, in the assembly process of the center-side support frame (30) and the module assembly (A), the lower support member (56) can be lowered through the open upper side of the center-side escape space (33) and then placed in contact with the bottom surface of the center-side escape space (33). Accordingly, the lower support member (56) can be supported by the center-side support frame (30).

[0093] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a predetermined joining hole (35) may be formed on the bottom surface of the center-side escape space (33). This joining hole (35) may be configured to be provided so that the lower support portion (56) of the module assembly (A) is joined to the center-side support frame (30).

[0094] At this time, the coupling holes (35) may be configured as a pair and may be spaced apart in the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the center-side support frame (30). Among the pair of coupling holes (35), the coupling hole (31) located on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) may be configured to couple the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) located in the first receiving space (S1), and the coupling hole (35) located on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) may be configured to couple the lower support part (56) of the module assembly (A) located in the second receiving space (S2).

[0095] Of course, the joining hole (35) may be formed on the side of the inner wall of the center escape space (33) taking into consideration the shape of the lower support member (56), etc. This will be described in detail later together with the module assembly (A).

[0096] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the center-side escape space (33) may be configured in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of lower support members (56). In addition, the multiple center-side escape spaces (33) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (X-axis direction) of the center-side support frame (30).

[0097] At this time, the plurality of center-side escape spaces (33) may be arranged so as to be offset from the plurality of coupling holes (31) described above in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). As an example, some of the plurality of center-side escape spaces (33) may be positioned between the plurality of coupling holes (31).

[0098] This may be to improve the assemblability of the center-side support frame (30) and the module assembly (A) by positioning the coupling holes (31, 35) corresponding to the arrangement of the upper support portion (54) and the lower support portion (56) described above.

[0099] Hereinafter, a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0100] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a module assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 6.

[0101] FIGS. 4 to 7 illustrate a module assembly (A) of a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the module assembly (A) in this embodiment may include a module assembly (40). The module assembly (40) may include a plurality of battery modules (42).

[0102] In this embodiment, the battery module (42) may be a module in which at least one battery cell is integrated and then packaged by a predetermined frame or housing. In this case, the battery cell may be formed of a pouch-type secondary battery or a cylindrical secondary battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] Such a battery module (42) can be electrically connected to an external power source and charged. Alternatively, the battery module (42) can be connected to an external load and discharge electrical energy. In other words, the battery module (42) can perform a charging and discharging function in the battery pack (1).

[0104] In this embodiment, the battery module (42) may have a hexahedral shape extending in the front-back direction (X-axis direction) when viewed as a whole. In addition, a joining groove (43) may be formed on a side surface of the battery module (42). The joining groove (43) may be configured to allow a side frame (50) described later to be joined.

[0105] The coupling groove (43) may be formed by being recessed into the inside of the battery module (42). If necessary, a screw thread may be formed on the inner circumference of the coupling groove (43). For this purpose, the coupling groove (43) may be formed by insert injection molding a nut into the housing or frame constituting the battery module (42), but is not limited thereto.

[0106] In this embodiment, the joining groove (43) of the battery module (42) may additionally perform other functions in addition to its function of joining the side frame (50). As an example, the joining groove (43) may be used for movement of the battery module (42) in the process for manufacturing the battery pack (1).

[0107] More specifically, a hook (hook) for a device or mechanism for movement can be inserted into the joining groove (43) of the battery module (42). This reduces the human labor required for moving the battery module (42), and also improves the accuracy of the arrangement of the battery module (42).

[0108] Meanwhile, the joining groove (43) may be formed on opposite sides of the battery module (42). This may be to enable a pair of side frames (50) to be joined to each of the two sides of the battery module (42).

[0109] In addition, the joining grooves (43) are configured in multiple numbers and can be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery module (42). This may be to increase the joining strength between the battery module (42) and the side frame (50) by securing more joining portions.

[0110] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the battery module (42) is illustrated as having a hexahedral shape extending forward and backward, but the shape of the battery module (42) may be appropriately modified in consideration of the characteristics of the battery cell, the shape of the receiving space (S), etc.

[0111] Again, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in the present embodiment, the module assembly (40) may be formed by stacking two battery modules (42) vertically. Hereinafter, the battery module (42) positioned relatively upper is referred to as an upper battery module (42b), and the battery module (42) positioned relatively lower is referred to as a lower battery module (42a). Of course, the module assembly (40) may also be formed by stacking three or more battery modules (42) as needed.

[0112] At this time, the joining grooves (43b) of the upper battery module (42b) may be positioned relatively tilted downward, and the joining grooves (43a) of the lower battery module (42a) may be positioned relatively tilted upward. This configuration may be intended to allow the plate portion (52) of the side frame (50) to have a width (w) as small as possible. This will be described in detail later together with the side frame (50).

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the module assembly (A) of the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a side frame (50). The side frame (50) may be a frame provided on the side of the module assembly (40) to support it. For this purpose, the side frame (50) may be made of a metal or reinforced plastic having a predetermined rigidity, but is not limited thereto.

[0114] In the present embodiment, the side frame (50) may include a plate portion (52). The plate portion (52) may have a flat plate shape placed on the side surface of the module assembly (40). In other words, the plate portion (52) may have a predetermined width (w) in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, the plate portion (52) may extend along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the module assembly (40).

[0115] In this embodiment, the plate portion (52) can be respectively combined with the battery modules (42) constituting the module assembly (40). To this end, at least a portion of the plate portion (52) can overlap with the side surfaces of the battery modules (42).

[0116] As illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, the upper portion of the plate portion (52) may overlap with the side surface of the upper battery module (42b), and the lower portion may overlap with the side surface of the lower battery module (42a). In addition, a coupling hole (53b) connected to the coupling groove (43b) of the upper battery module (42b) may be formed in the upper portion of the plate portion (52), and a coupling hole (53a) connected to the coupling groove (43a) of the lower battery module (42a) may be formed in the lower portion.

[0117] As described above, in the present embodiment, the coupling groove (43b) of the upper battery module (42b) is positioned relatively tilted downward, and the coupling groove (43a) of the lower battery module (42a) is positioned relatively tilted upward. Accordingly, the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) width (w) of the plate portion (52) can be formed as small as possible as smaller than the height (h) of the module assembly (40). Through this, the side frame (50) for supporting the battery module (42) can be formed with a simpler and more compact structure.

[0118] At this time, in the present embodiment, the number of coupling holes (53b) formed on the upper portion of the plate portion (52) corresponds to the number of coupling grooves (43b) of the upper battery module (42b), and can be connected to them, respectively. In addition, the number of coupling holes (53a) formed on the lower portion of the plate portion (52) corresponds to the number of coupling grooves (43a) of the lower battery module (42a), and can be connected to them, respectively.

[0119] In other words, two rows of coupling holes (53) corresponding to the number (2) of battery modules (42) can be arranged spaced apart in the vertical direction on the plate portion (52). In addition, a plurality of coupling holes (53) can be arranged spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the plate portion (52) on each row. Through this, the plate portion (52) can be directly coupled to each of the battery modules (42).

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a coupling member (B) can be coupled to the coupling groove (43) and coupling hole (53) that are connected to each other. The coupling member (B) can be coupled to the coupling groove (43) by penetrating the coupling hole (53). For this purpose, the coupling member (B) can be formed as a screw or a screw having threads corresponding to the inner circumference of the coupling groove (43).

[0121] However, the type of the connecting member (B) is not limited to that described above, and the connecting member (B) may be formed of various types of members capable of connecting the side frame (50) and the battery module (42). As another example, the connecting member (B) may be formed of a member having a rivet shape, a wedge shape, or the like.

[0122] Alternatively, the combination of the side frame (50) and the battery module (42) may be implemented by having a portion of the plate portion (52) protrude outward and fit into the combination groove (43) of the battery module (42).

[0123] In this way, in the present embodiment, the plate portion (52) is configured to be directly connected to the battery modules (42) that are stacked vertically, so that the battery modules (42) can be mutually supported via the side frame (50), and also, their relative positions with respect to each other can be stably fixed.

[0124] Referring again to FIGS. 2 to 6, the side frame (50) of the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a support portion (54, 56) extending from the plate portion (52) to the outside of the module assembly (40).

[0125] In this embodiment, the support portion (54, 56) may be a portion supported by the aforementioned support frame (20, 30). Through this, the module assembly (40) can be stably supported by the housing (10) via the side frame (50) and the support frame (20, 30).

[0126] In this embodiment, the support member (54, 56) may include an upper support member (54). The upper support member (54) may be a portion that is in contact with and supported by the upper edge of the support frame (20, 30) described above.

[0127] To this end, the upper support portion (54) may have a flange shape extending from the upper edge of the plate portion (52) toward the outside of the module assembly (40). At this time, a predetermined coupling hole (55) may be formed in the upper support portion (54). This coupling hole (55) may be configured for coupling with the support frame (20, 30). This will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11.

[0128] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the upper support portion (54) may be provided in multiple numbers and spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the plate portion (52). As a result, the module assembly (40) may be supported in a balanced manner along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) by the side frame (50).

[0129] In this embodiment, the support member (54, 56) may include a lower support member (56). The lower support member (56) may be a portion that is supported and in contact with the inner wall of the escape space (23, 33) of the support frame (20, 30) described above.

[0130] To this end, the lower support portion (56) may have a flange shape extending from the lower edge of the plate portion (52) toward the outside of the module assembly (40). At this time, a predetermined coupling hole (57) may be formed in the lower support portion (56). This coupling hole (57) may be configured for coupling with the support frame (20, 30). This will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11.

[0131] At this time, the width of the lower support portion (56) may be shorter than the width of the upper support portion (54). Here, the width of the support portions (54, 56) may mean the length of the support portions (54, 56) in the X-axis direction. This configuration may be intended to increase the rigidity of the support frame (20, 30) as much as possible by making the width of the escape space (23, 33) of the support frame (20, 30) as narrow as possible.

[0132] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a plurality of lower support members (56) may be provided and spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the plate member (52). As a result, the module assembly (40) may be supported in a balanced manner along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) by the side frame (50).

[0133] At this time, in the present embodiment, the upper support part (54) and the lower support part (56) may be positioned to be misaligned with each other in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). In other words, the upper support part (54) may be positioned between the adjacent lower support parts (56). Alternatively, the lower support part (56) may be positioned between the adjacent upper support parts (54).

[0134] This configuration may be intended to enhance the assembly of the module assembly (A) and the support frame (20, 30). More specifically, the connection of the side frame (50) of the module assembly (A) and the support frame (20, 30) may be accomplished using a predetermined tool. For example, the predetermined tool may be, but is not limited to, a driver or an electric drill.

[0135] At this time, the tool as described above can perform the joining process on the upper side of the support parts (54, 56). As in the present embodiment, if the upper support parts (54) and the lower support parts (56) are arranged so as to be misaligned in the vertical direction, the tool can enter between the adjacent upper support parts (54) and perform the process of joining the lower support parts (56) and the support frame (20, 30). In other words, interference by the upper support parts (54) can be minimized.

[0136] Through this, the assembly of the battery pack (1) can be improved. Of course, if necessary, the upper support (54) and the lower support (56) can be arranged in parallel in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0137] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the side frames (50) of the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured as a pair and provided respectively around the perimeter of the module assembly (40).

[0138] At this time, a pair of side frames (50) may be provided on each of the opposing sides of the module assembly (40). As a result, the module assembly (40) can be supported in a balanced manner on both sides by the pair of side frames (50).

[0139] In this embodiment, the module assembly (A) may include an intermediate plate (60). The intermediate plate (60) may be interposed between battery modules (42) that are stacked vertically. The intermediate plate (60) may be provided as a square flat plate corresponding to the upper or lower surface of the battery module (42).

[0140] In this embodiment, the intermediate plate (60) can perform a predetermined function. For example, the intermediate plate (60) can perform the function of ensuring insulation between the battery modules (42) stacked vertically. For this purpose, the intermediate plate (60) can be made of an insulating material.

[0141] As another example, the intermediate plate (60) may function to prevent heat transfer between battery modules (42) stacked vertically. To this end, the intermediate plate (60) may be made of a heat-dissipating or heat-resistant material. In this case, to further prevent heat transfer between battery modules (42), a heat-dissipating sheet (not shown) may be additionally provided on the upper and / or lower sides of the intermediate plate (60).

[0142] As another example, the intermediate plate (60) may serve to reinforce the structural rigidity of the battery modules (42) stacked vertically. To this end, the intermediate plate (60) may be made of metal or reinforced plastic having a predetermined rigidity.

[0143] At this time, the edge portions of both sides of the middle plate (60) can be respectively joined to the side frame (50). For this purpose, the plate portion (52) of the side frame (50) can be provided with a groove into which the edge portion of the middle plate (60) can be inserted.

[0144] Through this, a pair of side frames (50) provided on both sides of the module assembly (40) can be indirectly connected by the middle plate (60) to form a single rigid body. Accordingly, the structural rigidity and stability of the module assembly (A) can be further increased.

[0145] Hereinafter, a support structure between a module assembly and a support frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention is specifically described.

[0146] FIG. 8 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, cut so that the structure in which the lower support portion of the side frame and the support frame are combined is visible. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8, showing the combined structure of the lower support portion of the side frame and the center-side support frame. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8, showing the combined structure of the lower support portion of the side frame and the side-side support frame. FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, cut so that the structure in which the upper support portion of the side frame and the support frame are combined is visible. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 11, showing the combined structure of the upper support portion of the side frame and the center-side support frame. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 11, showing the combined structure of the upper support portion of the side frame and the side-side support frame.

[0147] Referring again to FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the module assembly (A) may be configured in multiple units. In addition, the multiple module assemblies (A) may be respectively placed in a portion of the receiving space (S) partitioned by the center-side support frame (30).

[0148] As illustrated, the module assembly (A) is composed of two units, and can be placed in the first receiving space (S1) and the second receiving space (S2), respectively. Hereinafter, the module assembly (A) placed in the first receiving space (S1) is referred to as the first module assembly (A1), and the module assembly (A) placed in the second receiving space (S2) is referred to as the second module assembly (A2).

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 11, as described above, in the present embodiment, a pair of side frames (50) may be provided on each of the two sides of the first module assembly (A1). At this time, among the pair of side frames (50), the side frame (50) located on the left side (in the negative direction of the Y-axis) may be coupled to the side support frame (20), and the side frame (50) located on the right side (in the positive direction of the Y-axis) may be coupled to the center support frame (30).

[0150] Likewise, a pair of side frames (50) may be provided on each side of the second module assembly (A2). At this time, among the pair of side frames (50), the side frame (50) located on the left side (in the negative direction of the Y-axis) may be coupled to the center-side support frame (30), and the side frame (50) located on the right side (in the positive direction of the Y-axis) may be coupled to the side-side support frame (20).

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, in the present embodiment, the lower support portion (56) of the side frame (50) provided on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) of the first module assembly (A1) and the lower support portion (56) of the side frame (50) provided on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the second module assembly (A2) can be supported by making surface contact with the bottom surface of the center-side escape space (33) of the center-side support frame (30).

[0152] At this time, the coupling hole (57) of the lower support member (56) can be connected in a coaxial arrangement with the coupling hole (35) provided on the bottom surface of the center-side escape space (33). In addition, a predetermined coupling member (B) can be coupled to the connected coupling hole (35, 57).

[0153] Accordingly, the lower support member (56) can be coupled to the center-side support frame (30). Therefore, the module assembly (A) can be more stably supported and positioned by the center-side support frame (30) and the housing (10) via the side frame (50).

[0154] Meanwhile, the connecting member (B) may be formed of a screw or screw, but is not particularly limited as long as it can connect the lower support member (56) and the center support frame (30).

[0155] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, in the present embodiment, the lower support portion (56) of the side frame (50) provided on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the first module assembly (A1) and the lower support portion (56) of the side frame (50) provided on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) of the second module assembly (A2) may be supported by a pair of side support frames (20). At this time, the lower support portion (56) may be supported by making surface contact with the bottom surface of the side escape space (23) of the side support frame (20).

[0156] At this time, the coupling hole (57) of the lower support member (56) can be connected in a coaxial arrangement with the coupling hole (25) provided on the bottom surface of the side escape space (23). In addition, a predetermined coupling member (B) can be coupled to the connected coupling hole (25, 57).

[0157] Accordingly, the lower support member (56) can be coupled to the side support frame (20). Therefore, the module assembly (A) can be more stably supported and positioned by the side support frame (20) and the housing (10) via the side frame (50).

[0158] Meanwhile, the connecting member (B) may be formed of a screw or screw, but is not particularly limited as long as it can connect the lower support member (56) and the side support frame (20).

[0159] At this time, as shown in FIGS. 6, 8 to 10, in the present embodiment, the width (w) of the plate portion (52) of the side frame (50) is configured to be as small as possible compared to the height (h) of the module assembly (40), so that the length in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) of the escape space (23, 33) can be configured to be as short as possible.

[0160] Accordingly, the vertical height (Z-axis direction) of the portion where the escape space (23, 33) is formed in the support frame (20, 30) can be sufficiently secured. Accordingly, the support frame (20, 30) can stably support the module assembly (A) with greater rigidity.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper support portion (54) of the side frame (50) is coupled to the upper edge portion of the support frame (20, 30), and only the lower support portion (56) is coupled to the inner surface of the escape space (23, 33), so that the number of escape spaces (23, 33) provided in the support frame (20, 30) and the volume occupied by the escape spaces (23, 33) can be minimized.

[0162] Through this, the weakening of the rigidity of the support frame (20, 30) due to the formation of the escape space (23, 33) can be minimized, so that the support frame (20, 30) can stably support the module assembly (A) with stronger rigidity.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in the present embodiment, the upper support portion (54) of the side frame (50) provided on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) of the first module assembly (A1) and the upper support portion (54) of the side frame (50) provided on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the second module assembly (A2) can be supported by making surface contact with the upper edge portion of the center-side support frame (30).

[0164] At this time, the coupling hole (55) of the upper support member (54) can be connected in a coaxial arrangement with the coupling hole (31) provided in the upper edge of the center-side support frame (30). In addition, a predetermined coupling member (B) can be coupled to the connected coupling hole (31, 57).

[0165] Accordingly, the upper support member (54) can be coupled to the center-side support frame (30). Therefore, the module assembly (A) can be more stably supported and positioned by the center-side support frame (30) and the housing (10) via the side frame (50).

[0166] Meanwhile, the connecting member (B) may be formed of a screw or screw, but is not particularly limited as long as it can connect the upper support member (54) and the center support frame (30).

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 13, in the present embodiment, the upper support portion (54) of the side frame (50) provided on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the first module assembly (A1) and the upper support portion (54) of the side frame (50) provided on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis) of the second module assembly (A2) may be supported by a pair of side support frames (20). At this time, the upper support portion (54) may be supported by making surface contact with the upper edge portion of the side support frame (20).

[0168] At this time, the coupling hole (55) of the upper support member (54) can be connected in a coaxial arrangement with the coupling hole (21) provided in the upper edge of the side support frame (20). In addition, a predetermined coupling member (B) can be coupled to the connected coupling hole (21, 57).

[0169] Accordingly, the upper support member (54) can be coupled to the side support frame (20). Therefore, the module assembly (A) can be more stably supported and positioned by the side support frame (20) and the housing (10) via the side frame (50).

[0170] Meanwhile, the connecting member (B) may be formed of a screw or screw, but is not particularly limited as long as it can connect the upper support member (54) and the side support frame (20).

[0171] As described above, in the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the side frames (50) are respectively connected to the battery modules (42) that are stacked vertically, so that the relative positions of the battery modules (42) can be fixed and also supported each other.

[0172] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support portion (54, 56) of the side frame (50) is configured to be supported by a support frame (20, 30) connected or coupled to the housing (10), so that the battery modules (42) stacked vertically can be stably supported by the housing (10) via the side frame (50).

[0173] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various embodiments are possible within the scope equivalent to the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0174] [Explanation of symbols]

[0175] 1: Battery pack

[0176] 10: Housing

[0177] 20: Side support frame

[0178] 30: Center-side support frame

[0179] A: Module assembly

[0180] 40: Module assembly

[0181] 50: Side frame

[0182] 60: Middle plate

[0183] B: Joining member

Claims

1. Housing having a receiving space; and Including a module assembly arranged in the above-mentioned receiving space, The above module assembly comprises: A module assembly in which multiple battery modules are stacked; and A battery pack comprising a side frame including a plate portion provided on a side of the module assembly and respectively coupled with the plurality of battery modules, and a support portion extending from the plate portion to the outside of the module assembly and supported by the housing.

2. In paragraph 1, On the side of the above battery module, an inwardly sunken joining groove is formed, In the above plate portion, a plurality of joining holes are formed, each of which is connected to the joining grooves of the plurality of battery modules. A battery pack, wherein the above module assembly and the side frame are joined by a joining member inserted into the joining hole and the joining groove.

3. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned joining grooves are provided in multiple numbers and are spaced apart along the length direction of the battery module, The above plate portion is a battery pack extending along the length direction of the battery module.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery pack wherein the vertical width of the above plate portion is smaller than the height of the module assembly.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, wherein the above-mentioned support members are provided in multiple numbers and spaced apart along the length direction of the battery module.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, wherein a joining hole is formed in the above support member through which a predetermined joining member is penetrated and joined.

7. In paragraph 1, The above support part, An upper support provided on the upper edge of the above plate portion; and A battery pack comprising a lower support member having a lower edge of the side plate.

8. In paragraph 7, A battery pack wherein the upper support portion and the lower support portion are arranged so as to be misaligned with each other in the vertical direction.

9. In paragraph 7, The above-mentioned receiving space is partitioned, and further includes a center-side support frame supported on one side by the inner wall of the housing, The above support member is a battery pack coupled to the center side support frame.

10. In paragraph 9, The above center-side support frame has a plate shape extending parallel to the plate portion, A battery pack, wherein the upper support member is connected to the upper edge of the center support frame.

11. In paragraph 9, In the above center-side support frame, a center-side escape space with at least one side open is formed, The lower support member is a battery pack that is joined to the inner wall of the center-side escape space.

12. In paragraph 7, Further comprising a side support frame extending along the perimeter of the above-mentioned accommodation space and having one side supported by the inner wall of the above-mentioned housing, The above support member is a battery pack coupled to the side support frame.

13. In paragraph 12, The above side support frame has a plate shape extending parallel to the plate portion, A battery pack, wherein the upper support member is connected to the upper edge of the side support frame.

14. In paragraph 13, The above side support frame is a battery pack, one side of which is in contact with the inner wall of the housing.

15. In paragraph 12, In the above side support frame, a side escape space with at least one side open is formed, The lower support member is a battery pack, which is joined to the inner wall of the side escape space.

16. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, wherein the above side frames are provided in pairs and are respectively provided on opposite sides of the module assembly.

17. In paragraph 16, A center-side support frame that divides the above-mentioned accommodation space and has one side supported by the inner wall of the housing; and Further comprising a side support frame extending along the perimeter of the above-mentioned accommodation space and having one side supported by the inner wall of the above-mentioned housing, One of the above pair of side frames is coupled to one of the center side support frame and the side side support frame, A battery pack, wherein another one of the above pair of side frames is coupled to another one of the above center side support frame and the above side side support frame.

18. In paragraph 17, The above side support frames are provided in pairs and extend parallel to each other on both sides of the receiving space, The above center-side support frame extends parallel between the pair of side-side support frames to divide the accommodation space into a first accommodation space and a second accommodation space, The above module assembly comprises: A first module assembly arranged in the first receiving space; and A battery pack comprising a second module assembly disposed in the second receiving space.

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