Flexible circuit board, and battery module and battery pack including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module. The battery module according to an aspect of the present invention comprises: multiple battery cells; a controller for controlling the multiple battery cells; and a flexible circuit board for electrically connecting the multiple battery cells and the controller, wherein the flexible circuit board includes: a substrate body including multiple coupling members coupled to the multiple battery cells, respectively, and multiple circuit members for connecting the multiple coupling members and the controller, respectively; and a film including a thin film-shaped cover member for covering the outer surface of the substrate body and a partition member extending from the cover member and interposed between adjacent circuit members among the multiple circuit members.

Description

Flexible circuit boards, battery modules and battery packs including the same

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0005273, dated January 12, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] The present invention relates to a flexible circuit board, a battery module and a battery pack including the same, and more particularly, to a flexible circuit board electrically connecting a battery cell and a battery controller, and a battery module and a battery pack including the same.

[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 integrated and packaged, a battery module can be formed. This battery module can perform the function of charging and discharging electrical energy. At this time, the battery module is equipped with a battery management system (BMS), which acquires information about the battery cell status, such as voltage and current, and controls the module's operations, such as charging and discharging, based on this information.

[0007] Additionally, a flexible circuit board (FCB) may be used to electrically connect the battery management system and the battery cells. The FCB may have printed circuits connecting the battery management system to the positive and negative terminals of the battery cells, respectively. This allows the battery management system to individually obtain information about the voltage and current of the battery cells.

[0008] At this time, the conventional flexible circuit board may be composed of a metal plate having the aforementioned circuit engraved thereon, a film layer covering the outer surface of the metal plate, and an adhesive applied therebetween to combine them.

[0009] However, conventional flexible printed circuit boards have a problem where, if excessive current flows through the circuit or the circuit temperature rises excessively, the contact material between the circuits can burn, causing the film layer to swell. This can lead to additional problems, such as short circuits between circuits.

[0010] Accordingly, there has been an urgent need for the development of flexible circuit boards with high stability, and battery modules and battery packs including the same, which prevent contact or short circuits between circuits even when overcurrent flows through the circuit or the temperature of the circuit rises excessively.

[0011] The present invention has been devised to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a flexible circuit board having high stability and a battery module including the same, which is configured to prevent contact or short circuit between circuits even in an abnormal state such as when an overcurrent flows in the circuit or the circuit is overheated.

[0012] 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.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery module is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a controller for controlling the plurality of battery cells; and a flexible circuit board for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and the controller, wherein the flexible circuit board includes: a substrate body including a plurality of connecting members respectively connected to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members respectively connecting the plurality of connecting members and the controller; and a film including a thin film-shaped cover member covering an outer surface of the substrate body and a partition member extending from the cover member and interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0014] At this time, the circuit member includes an extension portion, one side of which is connected to the controller and extends in an arbitrary direction; and a connection portion that connects the other side of the extension portion with one of the plurality of connecting members, and the partition member can be interposed between the extension portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0015] At this time, the extension portion can extend parallel to the extension portion of the neighboring circuit member.

[0016] At this time, the extension portion includes a first extension portion having a first circuit width; and a second extension portion having a second circuit width smaller than the first circuit width, and the partition member can be interposed between the second extension portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0017] At this time, the extension portion includes a first extension portion having a first interval between the adjacent circuit members; and a second extension portion having a second interval between the adjacent circuit members that is narrower than the first interval, and the partition member may be interposed between the second extension portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0018] At this time, the circuit member includes a pattern portion configured to perform a predetermined function while one side is electrically connected to the controller; and a connecting portion connecting the other side of the pattern portion to one of the plurality of connecting members, and the partition member may be interposed between the pattern portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0019] At this time, the pattern section may be configured to be disconnected when a voltage or current greater than a preset amount is applied.

[0020] At this time, the partition member can be formed by pressing a portion of the film so that it enters between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0021] At this time, the bulkhead member can be formed by heat fusion.

[0022] At this time, a concave groove may be formed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members on the outer surface of the cover member.

[0023] At this time, the cover member may be provided on each of both sides of the substrate.

[0024] At this time, the bulkhead member can be connected to the cover member provided on both sides of the substrate body in the thickness direction, respectively.

[0025] At this time, the flexible circuit board may further include a bonding layer provided between the substrate body and the cover member to bond the substrate body and the cover member.

[0026] At this time, the bonding layer may be made of an adhesive.

[0027] At this time, the bulkhead member may extend parallel to a section of the circuit member.

[0028] At this time, the above-mentioned bulkhead member may be provided in multiple pieces and may be provided between adjacent circuit members among the multiple circuit members.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery module is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a controller for controlling the plurality of battery cells; and a flexible circuit board for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and the controller, wherein the flexible circuit board comprises: a substrate body including a plurality of bonding members respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members respectively connecting the plurality of bonding members and the controller; a film covering an outer surface of the substrate body; a bonding layer provided between the film and the substrate body to bond the film and the substrate body; and a partition member interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members, the partition member being made of a different material from the bonding layer.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is provided, comprising a battery module according to any one of the battery modules described above.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, a flexible circuit board for a battery module for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells provided in the battery module and a controller for controlling the same is provided, the flexible circuit board comprising: a substrate body including a plurality of connecting members that can be connected to the plurality of battery cells respectively, and a plurality of circuit members that connect the plurality of connecting members and the controller respectively; and a film including a cover member that covers an outer surface of the substrate body, and a partition member that extends from the cover member and is interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, a flexible circuit board for a battery module for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells provided in the battery module and a controller for controlling the same is provided, the flexible circuit board comprising: a substrate body including a plurality of bonding members that can be respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members that respectively connect the plurality of bonding members and the controller; a film that covers an outer surface of the substrate body; a bonding layer that is provided between the film and the substrate body and bonds the film and the substrate body; and a partition member that is interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members and is made of a different material from the bonding layer.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, a flexible circuit board and a battery module including the same have a partition member interposed between adjacent circuit members of the flexible circuit board that electrically connect a controller and a battery cell, so that even if an overcurrent flows to the circuit member and a surrounding film or adhesive layer is deformed, the partition member can prevent mutual contact between the adjacent circuit members.

[0034] Through this, in the flexible circuit board and battery module including the same according to one aspect of the present invention, contact or short circuit between circuits can be prevented, so that the stability of the flexible circuit board and battery module can be further improved.

[0035] 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.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible circuit board illustrated in Figure 2.

[0039] Figure 4 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] In addition, terms or 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.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible circuit board illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0046] At this time, each component of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated in the drawing, and the size of the component or the thickness of the line may be expressed somewhat exaggeratedly for the convenience of understanding.

[0047] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate a battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for storing or externally discharging electrical energy. In other words, the battery module (1) can charge and discharge electrical energy.

[0048] Such a battery module (1) can be used as a component of a battery pack. A battery pack can be defined as an assembly comprising at least one battery module packaged together. Such a battery pack can be installed in various facilities or locations to provide electrical energy. As an example, the battery pack can be installed in the body of an electric vehicle to provide energy to drive a motor, but is not limited thereto.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 1, a battery module (1) according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a housing (10) in the shape of a body. The housing (10) may be formed by combining multiple plates together.

[0050] In this embodiment, the housing (10) may be configured to accommodate other components of the battery module (1). Accordingly, the other components can be protected from external impact or contamination.

[0051] Alternatively, the housing (10) may function as a support that provides a base on which other components can be supported. For this purpose, the housing (10) may be made of, but is not limited to, metal or reinforced plastic having a predetermined rigidity.

[0052] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the housing (10) is provided as a box-shaped assembly in which several frames having a plate shape are joined to each other, but the shape or structure of the housing (10) is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate and protect or support other components.

[0053] Referring again to FIG. 1, a battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a controller (20). The controller (20) may be installed and supported in a housing (10). In the present embodiment, the controller (20) may be configured to control the operation of a battery assembly (A) described below. As an example, the controller (20) may constitute a battery management system (BMS).

[0054] In this embodiment, the controller (20) may be configured to individually control the battery cells (30) constituting the battery assembly (A) described below. At this time, the controller (20) may be configured to obtain information regarding the status of each battery cell (30) and to comprehensively control and manage the battery cells (30) based on the information. The status of the battery cell (30) may include the voltage, current, capacity, temperature, etc. of the battery cell (30).

[0055] To this end, the controller (20) may include an electric circuit, a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a controller, an arithmetic logic unit, an operational logic circuit, a digital signal processing device, a microcomputer, an FPGA, a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, or any device capable of performing the functions described below.

[0056] In addition, a predetermined cable (not shown) may be provided on one side of the controller (20). The cable may be a cable for electrically connecting the battery assembly (A) and the controller (20). The cable may be composed of multiple wires or a flat flexible cable (FFC), but is not limited thereto.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery assembly (A). The battery assembly (A) may be an assembly that is connected to an external power source to store electrical energy or is connected to an external load to release electrical energy. This battery assembly (A) may be housed and protected or supported within the aforementioned housing (10).

[0058] In the present embodiment, the battery assembly (A) may include at least one battery cell (30) to perform a charge / discharge function. The battery cell (30) may include a cell body and a first electrode lead and a second electrode lead provided on the outside of the cell body.

[0059] In this embodiment, the cell body may be provided as a pouch-shaped structure with an electrode assembly provided therein. However, the shape of the cell body may be appropriately modified depending on the structure or type of the electrode assembly provided therein. For example, the shape of the cell body may have a cylindrical shape.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first electrode lead and the second electrode lead may be leads for electrically connecting the electrode assembly of the cell body to the outside. The first and second electrode leads may be provided in the form of a film or sheet extending to the outside of the cell body.

[0061] The first and second electrode leads may be provided at the front and rear portions of the cell body, respectively. However, the shape and position of the electrode leads may be appropriately modified depending on the structure of the electrode assembly, the shape of the cell body, etc. For example, the electrode leads may be provided as metal wires or metal pieces having a predetermined length.

[0062] At this time, one of the first electrode lead and the second electrode lead may be a lead connected to the positive electrode of the electrode assembly, and the other may be a lead connected to the negative electrode of the electrode assembly.

[0063] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the battery cell (30) may be configured in multiple units. Accordingly, the charge / discharge capacity of the battery module (1) may be increased. Such multiple battery cells (30) may be arranged and electrically connected in a predetermined manner.

[0064] In this embodiment, a plurality of battery cells (30) may be arranged in parallel. In addition, the plurality of battery cells (30) may be connected in series with each other along the arrangement direction. To this end, the battery assembly (A) of the battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a bus bar (40).

[0065] In this embodiment, the bus bar (40) may be configured to electrically connect the electrode leads of adjacent battery cells (30). The bus bar (40) may be provided as a flat metal piece (or metal piece), but is not limited thereto.

[0066] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 1, the controller (20) of the battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may need to be electrically connected to each of the battery cells (30). This may be so that the controller (20) may obtain information regarding the voltage of the battery cell (30) as information regarding the battery cell (30). For example, the controller (20) may obtain information regarding the voltage of the battery cell (30) by measuring the potential difference between the first electrode lead and the second electrode lead of the battery cell (30).

[0067] To this end, the battery assembly (A) of the battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a flexible circuit board (50). In this embodiment, the flexible circuit board (50) may be configured to electrically connect the first electrode leads (32) of a plurality of battery cells (30) and the controller (20).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, in the present embodiment, the flexible circuit board (50) may include a circuit board body (51). The circuit board body (51) may be a circuit board having a predetermined circuit engraved thereon. In the present embodiment, the circuit board body (51) may be formed of a metal sheet. For example, the circuit board body (51) may be provided as copper foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0069] At this time, the substrate body (51) may have a certain degree of flexibility. Accordingly, the flexible circuit board (50) can absorb external impact or be appropriately bent to fit the internal structure of the battery module.

[0070] And, in this embodiment, a connector (58) may be mounted on the substrate body (51). The connector (58) may be a connector that can be electrically connected to a cable connected to the controller (20). That is, one end of the cable may be connected to the connector (58).

[0071] In this embodiment, the substrate body (51) may include a base member (52), a plurality of circuit members (53), and a plurality of connecting members (56). The base member (52) may be a thin plate that supports other components of the substrate body (51). Such a base member (52) may be formed by etching a copper foil forming the substrate body (51).

[0072] That is, the base member (52) may be a portion of the copper foil that does not form a circuit in the substrate body (51). The remaining portion of the copper foil that forms a circuit in the substrate body (51) may form a circuit member (53) or a bonding member (56) described later.

[0073] In this embodiment, a plurality of connecting members (56) may be configured to be respectively connected to a plurality of bus bars (40) that are electrically connected to the battery cell (30). At this time, the connecting member (56) may be a portion formed by etching copper foil as described above, or the connecting member (56) may be provided separately and then connected to a circuit member (53) described later by welding or the like.

[0074] At this time, the joining member (56) may have a pad shape so that it can be easily joined to the bus bar (40) through a welding process. However, the structure or shape of the joining member (56) is not particularly limited as long as it can be joined to the bus bar (40) or the electrode lead of the battery cell (30).

[0075] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the connecting member (56) may be connected to the connector (58) by the circuit member (53). That is, the plurality of circuit members (53) may be circuits that electrically connect the plurality of connecting members (56) and the connector (58), respectively. For this purpose, the number of circuit members (53) may correspond to the number of connecting members (56). As described above, the circuit member (53) may be formed by etching the copper foil forming the substrate body (51).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the circuit element (53) of the flexible circuit board (50) may include an extension portion (54). The extension portion (54) may be electrically connected to a connector (58). In addition, the extension portion (54) may extend away from the connector (58). At this time, the extension portion (54) may extend in parallel with the extension portion (54) of another adjacent circuit element (53).

[0077] In the present embodiment, the extension portion (54) may include a first extension portion (54a) and a second extension portion (54b) that are connected to each other. At this time, the first extension portion (54a) may have a first circuit width (w1), and the second extension portion (54b) may have a second circuit width (w2) that is different from the first circuit width (w1). At this time, the second circuit width (w2) may be smaller than the first circuit width (w1).

[0078] In this embodiment, the circuit member (53) may include a connecting portion (55). The connecting portion (55) may be a part that connects the extension portion (54) and the joining member (56) of the circuit member (53) to each other.

[0079] At this time, since the plurality of connecting members (56) in the present embodiment are spaced apart from each other, at least a portion of the connecting portion (55) can extend in a direction away from the connecting portion (55) of the adjacent circuit member (53). Through this, the flexible circuit board (50) can transmit the potential applied to the battery cell (30) to the controller through the connector (58), or receive a control signal from the controller.

[0080] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (53) provided on the substrate body (51) has been described as being connected to another external electric circuit or electric device via a connector (58). However, if necessary, the circuit member (53) may be configured to be directly connected to another external electric circuit or electric device without a separate connector. For this purpose, welding or soldering processes for connecting different circuits may be used, but are not limited thereto.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the flexible circuit board (50) according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a film (60). The film (60) may be a film that protects the outer surface of the substrate body (51). For example, the film (60) may be a polyamide film (PI film) having excellent heat resistance and insulation properties, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] In this embodiment, the film (60) may include a thin film-shaped cover member (61). The cover member (61) may be provided on the upper and lower surfaces of the substrate body (51) to cover them. Accordingly, both surfaces of the substrate body (51) may be protected from the outside.

[0083] If necessary, the cover member (61) may be provided only on one side of the substrate body (51). Alternatively, the cover member (61) may be configured to cover only a portion of one side of the substrate body (51).

[0084] At this time, a bonding layer (63) may be provided between the cover member (61) and the substrate body (51). As an example, the bonding layer (63) may be formed of an adhesive applied to the outer surface of the substrate body (51). Accordingly, the cover member (61) and the substrate body (51) may be bonded to each other.

[0085] Meanwhile, as illustrated in Fig. 2, more heat may be generated in the second extension portion (54b) of the circuit member (53) having a narrow circuit width than in other portions of the circuit member (53). This heat may cause the bonding layer (63) or cover member (61) around the second extension portion (54b) to be deformed.

[0086] As an example, the bonding layer (63) heated by the second extension portion (54b) may be combusted and vaporized (or expanded). Accordingly, the cover member (61) may be pushed outward. As a result, the second extension portions (54b) of adjacent circuit members (53) may come into contact with each other, resulting in a short circuit.

[0087] To prevent this, the film (60) of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a partition member (62). In this embodiment, the partition member (62) may extend from the cover member (61) and be interposed between the second extension portions (54b) of the adjacent circuit members (53). Accordingly, even if the bonding layer (63) is deformed, the partition member (62) may prevent contact between the circuit members (53), thereby preventing a short circuit.

[0088] At this time, in the present embodiment, the partition member (62) can be connected to the cover member (61) provided on each of the two sides of the substrate body (51) in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the substrate body (51). Through this, the partition member (62) can be more stably fixed in position between the second extension portions (54b) of the adjacent circuit members (53), thereby properly performing the above-described short-circuit prevention function.

[0089] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the partition member (62) may be formed by pressing a portion of the film (60) between the second extension portions (54b) of the adjacent circuit members (53). Alternatively, the partition member (62) may be formed by thermal bonding.

[0090] As an example, a high-temperature heater may push a portion of a film (60) covering a substrate body (51) between second extension portions (54b) of adjacent circuit members (53). For example, the heater may be a soldering iron. Accordingly, the films (60) provided on each side of the substrate body (51) may be brought into contact with each other and thermally fused to form a partition wall member (62).

[0091] At this time, in the present embodiment, a groove (61a) may be formed on the outer surface of the cover member (61). The groove (61a) may have a shape that is sunken between the second extension portions (54b) of adjacent circuit members (53). Such a groove (61a) may extend along the partition member (62).

[0092] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a plurality of partition members (62) may be provided. In addition, the partition members (62) may be interposed between the second extension portions (54b) of adjacent circuit members (53). Accordingly, short circuits can be prevented between each of the multiple circuit members (53).

[0093] Additionally, in the present embodiment, a partition member (62) may also be interposed between the second extension portion (54b) of the adjacent circuit member (53) and the base member (52). Such a partition member (62) may be formed using the same method as described above. Through this, a short circuit between the base member (52) and the circuit member (53) may also be prevented.

[0094] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the bulkhead member (62) may extend parallel to the second extension portion (54b) of the circuit member (53). As illustrated, the bulkhead member (62) may extend corresponding to a section where the second extension portion (54b) is formed, where heat is likely to be generated.

[0095] As a result, the bulkhead member (62) can prevent short circuits throughout the entire area of ​​the second extension portion (54b). However, the bulkhead member (62) may extend beyond the second extension portion (54b) as needed. For example, the bulkhead member (62) may extend along the entire area where the extension portion (54) of the circuit member (53) is formed, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] As described above, according to the battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the controller (20) can obtain information about the status of the battery cell (30) through the flexible circuit board (50).

[0097] Furthermore, according to a battery module (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, since a partition member is interposed between adjacent circuit members on a flexible circuit board, even if an abnormal condition such as overcurrent flowing through a circuit member and heat being generated occurs, a short circuit between the circuit members can be prevented.

[0098] Meanwhile, in the illustrated embodiment, all battery cells are connected to the controller by one flexible circuit board, but if necessary, the battery cells may be configured to be connected to the controller by multiple flexible circuit boards.

[0099] Below, a flexible circuit board according to another embodiment of the present invention is described using different drawings.

[0100] Fig. 4 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a flexible circuit board according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] At this time, each component of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated in the drawing, and the size of the component or the thickness of the line may be expressed somewhat exaggeratedly for the convenience of understanding.

[0102] First, a flexible circuit board according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0103] FIG. 4 discloses a flexible circuit board (150) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4, the flexible circuit board (150) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include a board body (151).

[0104] At this time, the substrate body (151) may be composed of a metal sheet as described in the first embodiment. As an example, the substrate body (151) may be composed of copper foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] At this time, in the present embodiment, the substrate body (151) may include a base member (152), a circuit member (153), and a connecting member. The base member (152) may be a member that supports other components of the substrate body (151), and the connecting member may be a member that is electrically connected to the electrode leads of the battery cell. The connecting member may be configured in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of electrode leads of the battery cell.

[0106] At this time, the base member (152) may be formed by etching the copper foil forming the substrate body (151), as described in the first embodiment. Here, the base member (152) may be a portion of the substrate body (151) that does not form a circuit.

[0107] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (153) may be a circuit that connects a connector mounted on the substrate body (151) to a connecting member. Of course, the circuit member (153) may also be connected to another circuit board or electrical element through a configuration or connecting structure other than a connector.

[0108] At this time, the circuit member (153) may be formed by etching the copper foil forming the substrate body (151), as described in the first embodiment. Here, the circuit member (153) may be a part that forms a circuit in the substrate body (151).

[0109] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (153) may include an extension portion (154). One end of the extension portion (154) may be electrically connected to a connector. In addition, the extension portion (154) may extend in a direction away from the connector. In this case, the extension portion (154) may extend in parallel with the extension portion (154) of another adjacent circuit member (153).

[0110] In the present embodiment, the extension portion (154) may include a first extension portion (154a) and a second extension portion (154b) that are connected to each other. Here, the first extension portion (154a) may be defined as a portion whose spacing from another adjacent circuit member (154) is a first spacing (d1). The second extension portion (154b) may be defined as a portion whose spacing from another adjacent circuit member (154) is a second spacing (d2).

[0111] At this time, the second gap (d2) may be narrower than the first gap (d1). In a part where the gap between adjacent circuit members (153) is relatively narrow, such as the second extension part (154b), more heat may be generated than in other parts.

[0112] In this embodiment, the flexible circuit board (150) may include a film protecting the substrate body (151) as described in the first embodiment and a bonding layer provided between the substrate body (151) and the film, and the heat described above may deform the bonding layer or the film.

[0113] For example, as described in the first embodiment, the bonding layer may burn when subjected to excessive heat, pushing the film outward. This may cause a short circuit between the circuit elements (153).

[0114] To prevent this, the film may include a partition member (162). At this time, the partition member (162) may be configured identically to the partition member (62) according to the first embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 3).

[0115] More specifically, the bulkhead member (162) can be formed by pressing a portion of the film between the second extension portions (154b) of the adjacent circuit members (153). Accordingly, the bulkhead member (162) can be interposed between the second extension portions (154b) of the adjacent circuit members (153).

[0116] At this time, the bulkhead member (162) can be formed by heat-melting the film provided on both sides of the substrate body (151) so that it is in contact with the second extension portion (154b) of the neighboring circuit member (153).

[0117] Due to this, both sides of the substrate body (151) in the thickness direction of the bulkhead member (162) can be connected to other parts of the film provided on both sides of the substrate body (151). At this time, the other parts of the film can be configured in the same manner as the cover member of the first embodiment.

[0118] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the partition member (162) may extend along the second extension portion (154b) of the circuit member (153). In addition, a groove (161a) may be provided on the outer surface of the cover member. The groove (161a) may have a shape that is sunken between the second extension portions (154b) of the adjacent circuit members (153). The groove (161a) may extend along the partition member (162).

[0119] Additionally, in the present embodiment, a plurality of partition members (162) may be provided. Some of the plurality of partition members (162) may be interposed between the second extension portions (154b) of adjacent circuit members (153). The remaining portions may be interposed between the second extension portions (154b) of the circuit members (153) located at the outermost side and the base member (152).

[0120] Accordingly, even if the gap between the circuit members (153) narrows and there is a section where excessive heat is generated, since the partition member (162) is configured to prevent excessive deformation of the film or contact between the circuit members (153), a short circuit between the circuit members (153) can be effectively prevented.

[0121] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (153) may include a connecting portion (155). The connecting portion (155) may be a circuit that connects the aforementioned extension portion (154) and the connecting portion to each other. In this case, since the plurality of connecting members are spaced apart from each other, at least a portion of the connecting portion (155) may extend in a direction away from the connecting portion (155) of another adjacent circuit member (153).

[0122] Next, a flexible circuit board according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0123] FIG. 5 discloses a flexible circuit board (250) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5, the flexible circuit board (250) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a board body (251).

[0124] At this time, the substrate body (251) may be composed of a metal sheet as described in the first embodiment. As an example, the substrate body (251) may be composed of copper foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0125] At this time, in the present embodiment, the substrate body (251) may include a base member (252), a circuit member (253), and a connecting member. The base member (252) may be a member that supports other components of the substrate body (251), and the connecting member may be a member that is electrically connected to the electrode leads of the battery cell. The connecting member may be configured in multiple pieces corresponding to the number of electrode leads of the battery cell.

[0126] At this time, the base member (252) may be formed by etching the copper foil forming the substrate body (251), as described in the first embodiment. Here, the base member (252) may be a portion of the substrate body (251) that does not form a circuit.

[0127] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (253) may be a circuit for connecting a connector mounted on a connecting member and a substrate body (251). Of course, the circuit member (253) may also be connected to another circuit board or electrical element through a configuration or connecting structure other than a connector.

[0128] At this time, the circuit member (253) may be formed by etching the copper foil forming the substrate body (251), as described in the first embodiment. Here, the circuit member (253) may be a part that forms a circuit in the substrate body (251).

[0129] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (253) may include a pattern portion (254) and an extension portion (255). The pattern portion (254) may be a circuit configured to perform a predetermined function. One side of the pattern portion (254) may be electrically connected to a connector.

[0130] Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated, the pattern portion (254) may be configured with a more complex circuit to perform a specific function. For example, the pattern portion (254) may include at least a portion that is bent, a portion that branches into multiple branches, or a portion where multiple circuit branches are connected to each other.

[0131] As an example, the pattern portion (254) may be configured to be short-circuited when a current exceeding a preset amount is applied to the circuit element (253). In other words, the pattern portion (254) may be configured to function as a fuse. However, the functions that the pattern portion (254) can perform are not limited to the functions described above.

[0132] As previously explained, the pattern portion (254) has a rather complex structure to perform a certain function, so that relatively more heat may be generated in the pattern portion (254) than in other parts of the circuit member (253).

[0133] The flexible circuit board (250) according to the present embodiment may include a film protecting the substrate body (251) and a bonding layer provided between the substrate body (251) and the film as described in the first embodiment, and the heat of the pattern portion (254) described above may deform the bonding layer or the film.

[0134] As an example, as described in the first embodiment, the bonding layer may burn when excessive heat is applied, pushing the film outward. This may cause a short circuit between the circuit elements (253).

[0135] To prevent this, the film may include a partition member (262). At this time, the partition member (262) may be configured identically to the partition member (62) according to the first embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 3).

[0136] More specifically, the partition member (262) can be formed by pressing a portion of the film between the pattern portions (254) of the adjacent circuit members (253). Accordingly, the partition member (162) can be interposed between the pattern portions (254) of the adjacent circuit members (153).

[0137] At this time, the partition member (262) can be formed by heat-melting the films provided on both sides of the substrate body (251) so that they are in contact between the pattern portions (254) of the adjacent circuit members (253). Accordingly, both sides of the substrate body (251) in the thickness direction of the partition member (262) can be respectively connected to other parts of the films provided on both sides of the substrate body (251). At this time, the other parts of the films can be configured in the same manner as the cover member of the first embodiment.

[0138] Meanwhile, the partition member (262) may extend along the pattern portion (254) of the circuit member (253). In addition, in the present embodiment, a groove (261a) recessed between the pattern portions (254) of adjacent circuit members (253) may be provided on the outer surface of the cover member. This groove (261a) may extend along the partition member (262).

[0139] In addition, in the present embodiment, a plurality of partition members (262) may be provided. Some of the plurality of partition members (262) may be interposed between the pattern portions (254) of adjacent circuit members (253). The remaining portions may be interposed between the pattern portions (254) of the circuit members (253) located at the outermost side and the base member (252).

[0140] Accordingly, in the present embodiment, even if excessive heat is generated in the pattern portion (254) of the circuit member (253), the partition member (262) can prevent excessive deformation of the film or contact between the circuit members (253), so that a short circuit between the circuit members (253) can be prevented in an abnormal state.

[0141] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the circuit member (253) may include a connecting portion (255). The connecting portion (255) may be a circuit that connects the aforementioned pattern portion (254) and the connecting portion to each other. In this case, since a plurality of connecting members may be spaced apart from each other, at least a portion of the connecting portion (255) may extend in a direction away from the connecting portion (255) of another adjacent circuit member (253).

[0142] Next, a flexible circuit board according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0143] FIG. 6 discloses a flexible circuit board (350) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the flexible circuit board (350) may include a substrate body (361) and a film (360).

[0144] In the present embodiment, the substrate body (361) may include a base member (352), a circuit member (353), and a joining member. At this time, the base member (352), the circuit member (353), and the joining member of the substrate body (351) according to the present embodiment may be configured identically to the base member (52) (illustrated in FIG. 2), the circuit member (53) (illustrated in FIG. 2), and the joining member (56) (illustrated in FIG. 2) of the substrate body (51) (illustrated in FIG. 2) according to the first embodiment.

[0145] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the film (360) may be configured to protect the substrate body (351). As illustrated, the film (360) may include a cover member (361) provided on each of both sides of the substrate body (351) to cover it. In this case, the cover member (361) may be configured to cover only a portion of the both sides of the substrate body (351).

[0146] In addition, a bonding layer (362) may be provided between the substrate body (351) and the cover member (361). The bonding layer (362) may be a layer for bonding the substrate body (351) and the cover member (361) to each other. For example, the bonding layer (362) may be made of an adhesive, but is not limited thereto.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the second extension portion (354b) of the circuit member (353) may be a portion of the circuit having a narrower width than other portions. Alternatively, the second extension portion (354b) of the circuit member (353) may be a portion having a narrower gap from an adjacent circuit member (353) than other portions. Alternatively, the second extension portion (354b) may be a portion configured to perform a predetermined function. In such a second extension portion (354b), more heat may be generated than in other portions of the circuit member (353).

[0148] The heat described above may deform the bonding layer (362) or the film (360). For example, as described in the first embodiment, the bonding layer (362) may burn when excessive heat is applied, pushing the film (360) outward. This may cause a short circuit between the circuit elements (353).

[0149] To prevent this, the flexible circuit board (350) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a partition member (365) having insulating properties. In this embodiment, the partition member (365) may be interposed between the second extension portions (354b) of adjacent circuit members (353). In addition, the partition member (365) may extend in parallel along the second extension portions (354b).

[0150] At this time, in the present embodiment, the bulkhead member (365) may be made of a different material from the bonding layer (362). For example, the bulkhead member (365) may be made of a material having superior heat resistance than the bonding layer (362). Alternatively, the bulkhead member (365) may be made of a material having a lower thermal strain rate than the bonding layer (362). Alternatively, the bulkhead member (365) may be made of a material having a lower combustion temperature than the bonding layer (362).

[0151] Accordingly, even if excessive heat is generated in the second extension portion (354b) of the circuit member (353), the partition member (365) can prevent contact between the circuit members (353), so that a short circuit between the circuit members (353) can be prevented.

[0152] At this time, in the present embodiment, the partition member (365) may have a thickness thicker than the substrate body (351). Alternatively, the partition member (365) may have a thickness thicker than the second extension portion (354b). Accordingly, even if the second extension portion (354b) becomes somewhat loose due to deformation of the bonding layer (362) or the film (360), contact or short circuit between the circuit members (353) can be more effectively prevented by the partition member (362).

[0153] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the partition wall member (365) may be configured in multiple pieces. In addition, some of the multiple partition wall members (365) may be interposed between adjacent second extension portions (354b), and the remaining parts may be interposed between the second extension portion (354b) located at the outermost side and the base member (352). Accordingly, short circuiting between the circuit member (353) and the base member (352) may also be prevented.

[0154] 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.

[0155] [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] 1: Battery module

[0157] 10: Housing

[0158] 20: Controller

[0159] 30: Battery cell

[0160] 40: Busbar

[0161] 50, 150, 250, 350: Flexible circuit board

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; a controller controlling the plurality of battery cells; and A flexible circuit board electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and the controller is included, The above flexible circuit board is, A substrate body including a plurality of bonding members respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members respectively connecting the plurality of bonding members and the controller; and A battery module comprising a film including a thin film-shaped cover member covering an outer surface of the substrate body and a partition member extending from the cover member and interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

2. In paragraph 1, The above circuit absence is, An extension portion, one side of which is connected to the controller and extends in any direction; and Including a connecting member connecting the other side of the above extension and one of the plurality of connecting members, A battery module, wherein the bulkhead member is interposed between the extension portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery module, wherein the extension part extends parallel to the extension part of the neighboring circuit member.

4. In paragraph 2, The above extension part, a first extension portion having a first circuit width; and A second extension portion having a second circuit width smaller than the first circuit width, A battery module, wherein the bulkhead member is interposed between the second extended portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

5. In paragraph 2, The above extension part, A first extension portion having a first spacing from the neighboring circuit member; and A second extension portion having a second gap narrower than the first gap with respect to the neighboring circuit member, A battery module, wherein the bulkhead member is interposed between the second extended portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

6. In paragraph 1, The above circuit absence is, A pattern portion, one side of which is electrically connected to the controller and configured to perform a predetermined function; and Including a connecting portion connecting the other side of the above pattern portion and one of the plurality of connecting members, A battery module, wherein the above-mentioned bulkhead member is interposed between the pattern portions of adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery module, wherein the above pattern portion is configured to be disconnected when a current exceeding a preset size is applied.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery module wherein the bulkhead member is formed by pressing a portion of the film so that it enters between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

9. In paragraph 8, The above bulkhead member is a battery module formed by heat fusion.

10. In paragraph 1, A battery module, wherein a recessed groove is formed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members on the outer surface of the cover member.

11. In paragraph 1, A battery module, wherein the cover member is provided on each of both sides of the substrate.

12. In paragraph 11, The above bulkhead member is a battery module, wherein both sides in the thickness direction of the substrate body are respectively connected to the cover members provided on both sides of the substrate.

13. In paragraph 1, A battery module, wherein the flexible circuit board further includes a bonding layer provided between the board body and the cover member to bond the board body and the cover member.

14. In paragraph 13, The above bonding layer is a battery module made of an adhesive.

15. In paragraph 1, The above bulkhead member is a battery module extending parallel to a section of the above circuit member.

16. In paragraph 1, A battery module wherein the above bulkhead member is provided in multiple pieces and is provided between each adjacent circuit member among the multiple circuit members.

17. Multiple battery cells; a controller controlling the plurality of battery cells; and A flexible circuit board electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and the controller is included, The above flexible circuit board is, A substrate body including a plurality of bonding members respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members respectively connecting the plurality of bonding members and the controller; A film covering the outer surface of the above substrate body; A bonding layer provided between the film and the substrate body to bond the film and the substrate body; and A battery module comprising a partition member interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members, the partition member being made of a material different from the bonding layer.

18. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to claim 1 or claim 17.

19. A flexible circuit board for a battery module for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells provided in the battery module and a controller controlling the same, A substrate body including a plurality of bonding members that can be respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members that respectively connect the plurality of bonding members and the controller; and A flexible circuit board comprising a film including a cover member covering an outer surface of the substrate body and a partition member extending from the cover member and interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members.

20. A flexible circuit board for a battery module for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells provided in the battery module and a controller controlling the same, A substrate body including a plurality of bonding members capable of being respectively bonded to the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of circuit members each connecting the plurality of bonding members to the controller; A film covering the outer surface of the above substrate body; A bonding layer provided between the film and the substrate body to bond the film and the substrate body; and A flexible circuit board comprising a partition member interposed between adjacent circuit members among the plurality of circuit members, the partition member being made of a material different from the bonding layer.

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