Battery pack and operating method thereof

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document comprises: a first module including a plurality of battery cells; a second module connected in series to the first module and disposed in a first direction from the first module; and a third module connected in series to the second module and disposed in the first direction from the second module, wherein the first module, the second module and the third module have capacities that differ from each other.

Description

Battery pack and method of operation thereof

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This invention claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0004226, filed January 10, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] Embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a battery pack and a method of operating the same.

[0005] Recently, active research and development is being conducted on secondary batteries. Here, the term "secondary battery" refers to a rechargeable battery, encompassing both conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries, as well as recent lithium-ion batteries. Among secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries have the advantage of a much higher energy density than conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries can be manufactured in a compact and lightweight form, making them suitable for use as power sources for mobile devices. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries are attracting attention as a next-generation energy storage medium, as their use is expanding to include power sources for electric vehicles.

[0006] Additionally, secondary batteries can be utilized as battery packs, which typically include battery modules in which multiple battery cells are connected in series and / or parallel. Furthermore, secondary batteries can be utilized as battery racks, which include multiple battery modules and a rack frame that accommodates these battery modules.

[0007] Meanwhile, the battery modules contained in a battery pack are all connected in series and share the same current. Among these, the module at the center of the battery pack can exhibit a relatively high temperature because it is surrounded by other modules and cannot dissipate heat. Conversely, the modules located on the periphery of the battery pack can dissipate heat to the outside, resulting in a relatively low temperature. Since elevated module temperature adversely affects battery life, a method is used to reduce the temperature of the central module by reducing the current across all modules contained in the battery pack. However, this method suffers from the problem that the output of the entire battery is limited by the temperature of the module, which is the most unfavorable condition.

[0008] One object of the embodiments disclosed in this document is to provide a battery pack and a method of operating the same that mitigate temperature differences between battery modules.

[0009] One object of the embodiments disclosed in this document is to provide a battery pack and a method of operating the same that alleviates temperature differences between battery modules by controlling the arrangement of battery modules having different capacities.

[0010] One object of the embodiments disclosed in this document is to provide a battery pack and a method of operating the same that prevents output limitation of the battery by alleviating temperature differences between battery modules.

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

[0012] A battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document includes a first module including a plurality of battery cells, a second module connected in series with the first module and arranged in a first direction from the first module, and a third module connected in series with the second module and arranged in the first direction from the second module, wherein each of the first module, the second module, and the third module has a different capacity from each other.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first module may be greater than the capacity of the second module, and the capacity of the second module may be greater than the capacity of the third module.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a case for storing the first module, the second module, and the third module, and the shortest distance between the case and the first module may be longer than the shortest distance between the case and the third module.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the second module, and the charge / discharge rate of the second module may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the third module.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module may be smaller than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module, and the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module may be smaller than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the temperature of the first space, which is the space between the first module and the second module, may be lower than the temperature of the second space, which is the space between the second module and the third module.

[0018] In one embodiment, the second module may cover a side of the first module.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the number of battery cells included in each of the first module, the second module, and the third module may be different from each other.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the device may further include a cooling unit that absorbs heat from the first module, the second module, and the third module and is disposed in the first direction from the third module, an information acquisition unit that acquires temperature information of the first module, the second module, and the third module, and a control unit that controls the cooling unit based on the temperature of at least one of the first module, the second module, or the third module.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first module may be greater than the capacity of the second module, and the capacity of the second module may be greater than the capacity of the third module.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the control unit can control the cooling unit to be ON when the temperature of the third module is equal to or greater than a first set value, and can control the cooling unit to be OFF when the temperature of the third module is equal to or less than a second set value.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first set value may be greater than the second set value.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the control unit can control the ON / OFF of the cooling unit based on the ON / OFF signals of the first module, the second module, and the third module.

[0025] An operating method of a battery pack according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document includes an operation of acquiring temperature information of at least one of a first module, a second module, and a third module, an operation of comparing the temperature information with a first set value, and an operation of controlling a cooling unit disposed in a first direction from the third module to be turned ON, wherein the second module is connected in series with the first module and disposed in the first direction from the first module, the third module is connected in series with the second module and disposed in the first direction from the second module, and each of the first module to the third module has a different capacity.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the method may further include an operation of comparing the temperature information with a second set value, and an operation of controlling the cooling unit to an OFF state.

[0027] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0028] The battery pack and its operating method according to the embodiments disclosed in this document can alleviate temperature differences between battery modules.

[0029] The battery pack and its operating method according to the embodiments disclosed in this document can alleviate the temperature difference between battery modules by adjusting the arrangement of battery modules having different capacities.

[0030] The battery pack and its operating method according to the embodiments disclosed in this document can prevent output limitation of the battery by alleviating the temperature difference between battery modules.

[0031] The effects of the battery pack and its operating method according to the disclosure of this document are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art according to the disclosure of this document.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and capacity of modules included in a battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and charge / discharge speed of modules included in a battery pack according to an embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and capacity of modules included in a battery pack according to another embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and charge / discharge speed of modules included in a battery pack according to another embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operating method of a battery pack according to an embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0038] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the present invention encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0040] The embodiments and terminology used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to a specific embodiment, but should be understood to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the item, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0041] In this document, the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", "first", "second", "A", "B", "(a)", or "(b)" may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components, and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order) unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0042] In this document, when a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “connected,” with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” or “coupled” or “connected,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired or wirelessly), or indirectly (e.g., via a third component).

[0043] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory, CD-ROM), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0044] According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, a battery pack (100) according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document may include a plurality of battery modules (110), an information acquisition unit (120), a cooling unit (130), and a control unit (140).

[0047] The plurality of battery modules (110) may include a plurality of battery modules. Each battery module included in the plurality of battery modules (110) may be connected in series with each other. Accordingly, the plurality of battery modules (110) may be charged with the same current. Furthermore, the plurality of battery modules (110) may be discharged with the same current.

[0048] Each of the plurality of battery modules (110) may include a plurality of battery cells. For example, each of the plurality of battery modules (110) may include three or four battery cells, but is not limited thereto. The battery cells included in the battery modules may be connected in series or in parallel with each other.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the plurality of battery modules (110) may include a first module (111), a second module (112), and a third module (113). The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be connected in series with each other. That is, the first module (111) may be connected in series with the second module (112) and the third module (113), the second module (112) may be connected in series with the first module (111) and the third module (113), and the third module (113) may be connected in series with the first module (111) and the second module (112).

[0050] The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be arranged in sequence along the first direction. That is, the second module (112) may be arranged in the first direction from the first module (111), and the third module (113) may be arranged in the first direction from the second module (112). In other words, the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be arranged in sequence along the first direction. The arrangement of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) will be described later in relation to the arrangement of the cooling unit (130).

[0051] The capacities of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different. According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111) may be a [Ah], the capacity of the second module (112) may be b [Ah], and the capacity of the third module (113) may be c [Ah]. Here, a, b, and c may be different from each other.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111) may be greater than the capacity of the second module (112). Furthermore, the capacity of the second module (112) may be greater than the capacity of the third module (113). That is, a may be greater than b, and b may be greater than c.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the number of battery cells included in the first module (111) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the second module (112). In addition, the number of battery modules included in the second module (112) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the third module (113). That is, the capacity difference between the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be determined by the number of included identical battery cells, but is not limited thereto. For example, the capacity of the battery cells included in the first module (111) may be greater than the capacity of the battery cells included in the second module (112).

[0054] According to an embodiment, the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be the same. The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) are connected in series, and the modules connected in series share current with each other, so the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be the same.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other. The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) have different capacities, and the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) are the same, so the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other. That is, the charge and discharge rates of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) may be A [C], the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) may be B [C], and the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113) may be C [C]. Here, A, B, and C may be different from each other.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112). In addition, the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113). That is, A may be lower than B, and B may be lower than C.

[0058] According to an embodiment, a temperature change due to charging or discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) may be proportional to a charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). The heat generation due to charging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) and the temperature rise due to the heat generation may be proportional to the charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). The heat generation due to discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) and the temperature rise due to the heat generation may be proportional to the charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). That is, when the charge / discharge rate is low, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be small, and when the charge / discharge rate is high, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be large.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112), and the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113). That is, since the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112). In addition, since the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113). Accordingly, the magnitude of the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the plurality of battery modules (110) may increase in the order of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113).

[0060] The space between the first module (111) and the second module (112) may be defined as the first space. Additionally, the space between the second module (112) and the third module (113) may be defined as the second space. According to an embodiment, the temperature of the first space may be lower than the temperature of the second space. That is, since the temperature rise of the first module (111) is lower than the temperature rise of the second module (112) and the temperature rise of the second module (112) is lower than the temperature rise of the third module (113), the temperature rise of the first space may be lower than the temperature rise of the second space. Accordingly, the temperature of the first space may be lower than the temperature of the second space.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the shortest distances between each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130) may be different from each other. The shortest distance between the first module (111) and the cooling unit (130) may be greater than the shortest distance between the second module (112) and the cooling unit (130). The shortest distance between the second module (112) and the cooling unit (130) may be greater than the shortest distance between the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130). That is, the sizes of the shortest distances between each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130) may decrease in the order of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113). In other words, the third module (113) may be arranged closest to the cooling unit (130), and the first module (111) may be arranged farthest from the cooling unit (130).

[0062] The information acquisition unit (120) can acquire information on a plurality of battery modules (110). According to an embodiment, the information acquisition unit (120) can acquire temperature information on a plurality of battery modules (110). For example, the information acquisition unit (120) can acquire temperature information on each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113). According to an embodiment, the information acquisition unit (120) can further acquire temperature information on at least one of the first space, the second space, or the battery case.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the information acquisition unit (120) can transmit information on the acquired plurality of battery modules (110) to the control unit (140).

[0064] The cooling unit (130) can cool a plurality of battery modules (110). According to an embodiment, the cooling unit (130) can absorb heat of the plurality of battery modules (110) and cool the plurality of battery modules (110). For example, the cooling unit (130) can cool the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113). That is, the cooling unit (130) can absorb heat of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113), respectively, and cool the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113).

[0065] According to an embodiment, the amount of heat of the plurality of battery modules (110) absorbed by the cooling unit (130) may be inversely proportional to the distance between the cooling unit (130) and the plurality of battery modules (110). That is, the cooling unit (130) may absorb a lot of heat from a nearby battery module and a little heat from a distant battery module. According to an embodiment, the amount of heat absorbed by the cooling unit (130) from each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other. Specifically, since the distance between the cooling unit (130) and the first module (111) is greater than the distance between the cooling unit (130) and the second module (112), the amount of heat absorbed by the cooling unit (130) from the first module (111) may be less than the amount of heat absorbed from the second module (112). In addition, since the distance between the cooling unit (130) and the second module (112) is greater than the distance between the cooling unit (130) and the third module (113), the amount of heat absorbed by the cooling unit (130) from the second module (112) may be less than the amount of heat absorbed by the third module (113). That is, the cooling unit (130) may cool the third module (113) the most and cool the first module (111) the least.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the cooling unit (130) cools the third module (113) with the greatest temperature rise the most and cools the first module (111) with the smallest temperature rise the least, so that the battery pack (100) can mitigate the temperature difference among the plurality of battery modules (110). Accordingly, the battery pack (100) can mitigate the temperature difference among each of the plurality of battery modules (110) and prevent the output of the battery from being limited.

[0067] The control unit (140) can control the cooling unit (130). According to an embodiment, the control unit (140) can control the cooling unit (130) based on temperature information received from the information acquisition unit (120). That is, the control unit (140) can control the cooling unit (130) based on the temperature of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), or the third module (113). Here, the temperature of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), or the third module (113) can be defined as temperature information.

[0068] When the cooling unit (130) is in the OFF state, the control unit (140) can compare the temperature information with a first set value. Here, the first set value can be set based on the type of battery, the outside temperature, whether the vehicle is being driven, etc. The first set value can be the basis for determining whether the temperature of the battery needs to be cooled.

[0069] According to an embodiment, when the temperature information is greater than or equal to the first set value, the control unit (140) can control the cooling unit (130) to be in an ON state. That is, the control unit (140) can change the state of the cooling unit (130) from an OFF state to an ON state. In addition, when the temperature information is less than the first set value, the control unit (140) may not issue a separate command to the cooling unit (130). That is, the control unit (140) can maintain the state of the cooling unit (130) in an OFF state.

[0070] When the cooling unit (130) is turned on, the control unit (140) can compare the temperature information with a second set value. Here, the second set value can be set based on the type of battery, the outside temperature, whether the vehicle is being driven, etc. The second set value can serve as the basis for determining whether the temperature of the battery needs to be cooled.

[0071] According to an embodiment, when the temperature information is greater than or equal to the second set value, the control unit (140) can control the cooling unit (130) to an OFF state. That is, the control unit (140) can change the state of the cooling unit (130) from an ON state to an OFF state. In addition, when the temperature information is less than the second set value, the control unit (140) may not issue a separate command to the cooling unit (130). That is, the control unit (140) can maintain the state of the cooling unit (130) in an ON state.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the first set value may be greater than the second set value. That is, the first set value, which is a criterion for the control unit (140) to control the cooling unit (130) to an ON state, may be greater than the second set value, which is a criterion for the control unit (140) to control the cooling unit (130) to an OFF state, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] By controlling the state of the cooling unit (130) based on the temperature information by the control unit (140), the battery pack (100) can control whether or not to operate the cooling unit (130) depending on whether cooling is necessary. That is, the battery pack (100) can operate the cooling unit (130) only when cooling is necessary, thereby improving the cooling efficiency and energy efficiency of the battery pack (100).

[0074] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and capacity of modules included in a battery pack according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 2, the capacities of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) according to one embodiment may be different. According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111) may be a [Ah], the capacity of the second module (112) may be b [Ah], and the capacity of the third module (113) may be c [Ah]. Here, a, b, and c may be different from each other.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111) may be greater than the capacity of the second module (112). Furthermore, the capacity of the second module (112) may be greater than the capacity of the third module (113). That is, a may be greater than b, and b may be greater than c.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the number of battery cells included in the first module (111) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the second module (112). In addition, the number of battery modules included in the second module (112) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the third module (113). That is, the capacity difference between the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be determined by the number of included identical battery cells, but is not limited thereto. For example, the capacity of the battery cells included in the first module (111) may be greater than the capacity of the battery cells included in the second module (112).

[0078] According to an embodiment, the shortest distances between each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130) may be different from each other. The shortest distance between the first module (111) and the cooling unit (130) may be greater than the shortest distance between the second module (112) and the cooling unit (130). The shortest distance between the second module (112) and the cooling unit (130) may be greater than the shortest distance between the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130). That is, the sizes of the shortest distances between each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) and the cooling unit (130) may decrease in the order of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113). In other words, the third module (113) may be arranged closest to the cooling unit (130), and the first module (111) may be arranged farthest from the cooling unit (130).

[0079] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and charge / discharge speed of modules included in a battery pack according to an embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0080] Referring to Fig. 3, the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be the same. The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) are connected in series, and the modules connected in series share current with each other, so the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be the same.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other. The first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) have different capacities, and the currents of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) are the same, so the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other. That is, the charge and discharge rates of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113) may be different from each other.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) may be A [C], the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) may be B [C], and the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113) may be C [C]. Here, A, B, and C may be different from each other.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112). In addition, the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113). That is, A may be lower than B, and B may be lower than C.

[0084] According to an embodiment, a temperature change due to charging or discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) may be proportional to a charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). The heat generation due to charging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) and the temperature rise due to the heat generation may be proportional to the charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). The heat generation due to discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110) and the temperature rise due to the heat generation may be proportional to the charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110). That is, when the charge / discharge rate is low, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be small, and when the charge / discharge rate is high, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be large.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112), and the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113). That is, since the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112). In addition, since the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113). Accordingly, the magnitude of the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the plurality of battery modules (110) may increase in the order of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113).

[0086] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and capacity of modules included in a battery pack according to another embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, a battery pack (100_1) according to another embodiment may include a plurality of battery modules (110_1). The plurality of battery modules (110_1) may include a plurality of battery modules. Each battery module included in the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may be connected in series with each other. Accordingly, the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may be charged with the same current. In addition, the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may be discharged with the same current.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may include a first module (111_1), a second module (112_1), and a third module (113_1). The first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be connected in series with each other.

[0089] The battery pack (100_1) may include a case. Here, the case forms the outer shape of the battery pack (100_1) and can accommodate a plurality of battery modules (110_1). That is, the case may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape that accommodates a plurality of battery modules (110_1), but is not limited thereto. The case may form an internal space.

[0090] The third module (113_1) may be positioned on the outer side of the internal space. According to an embodiment, the third module (113_1) may be positioned to surround the outer side of the internal space formed by the case. For example, the third module (113_1) may be in direct or indirect contact with the case, but is not limited thereto.

[0091] The second module (112_1) may be arranged inside the internal space. According to an embodiment, the second module (112_1) may be arranged inside the position where the third module (113_1) is arranged in the internal space. For example, the second module (112_1) may be arranged in direct or indirect contact with the third module (113_1). Accordingly, the second module (112_1) may be arranged spaced apart from the case. That is, the third module (113_1) may be arranged between the second module (112_1) and the case. In other words, the case and the second module (112_1) may be arranged in opposite directions with the third module (113_1) as the center. Accordingly, the third module (113_1) may cover the side of the second module (112_1).

[0092] The first module (111_1) may be arranged inside the internal space. According to an embodiment, the first module (111_1) may be arranged inside the position where the second module (112_1) is arranged in the internal space. For example, the first module (111_1) may be arranged in direct or indirect contact with the second module (112_1). Accordingly, the first module (111_1) may be arranged spaced apart from the third module (113_1) and the case. That is, the second module (112_1) may be arranged between the first module (111_1) and the third module (113_1). In other words, the first module (111_1) and the third module (113_1) may be arranged in opposite directions with respect to the second module (112_1). Accordingly, the second module (112_1) can cover the side of the first module (111_1).

[0093] According to an embodiment, the shortest distances between each of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) and the case may be different from each other. For example, the shortest distance between the first module (111_1) and the case may be greater than the shortest distance between the second module (112_1) and the case. The shortest distance between the second module (112_1) and the case may be greater than the shortest distance between the third module (113_1) and the case. Accordingly, the shortest distance between the first module (111_1) and the case may be greater than the shortest distance between the third module (113_1) and the case. That is, the third module (113_1), the second module (112_1), and the first module (111_1) may be sequentially arranged in a direction from the case forming the outer shape of the battery pack (100_1) toward the center of the battery pack (100_1).

[0094] The capacities of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be different. In an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111_1) may be a [Ah], the capacity of the second module (112_1) may be b [Ah], and the capacity of the third module (113_1) may be c [Ah]. Here, a, b, and c may be different from each other.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first module (111_1) may be greater than the capacity of the second module (112_1). In addition, the capacity of the second module (112_1) may be greater than the capacity of the third module (113_1). That is, a may be greater than b, and b may be greater than c.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the number of battery cells included in the first module (111_1) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the second module (112_1). In addition, the number of battery modules included in the second module (112_1) may be greater than the number of battery modules included in the third module (113_1). That is, the capacity difference between the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be determined by the number of included identical battery cells, but is not limited thereto. For example, the capacity of the battery cells included in the first module (111_1) may be greater than the capacity of the battery cells included in the second module (112_1).

[0097] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and charge / discharge speed of modules included in a battery pack according to another embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0098] Referring to Fig. 5, the currents of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be the same. The first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) are connected in series, and the modules connected in series share current with each other, so the currents of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be the same.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be different from each other. The first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) have different capacities, and the currents of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) are the same, so the charge and discharge speeds of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be different from each other. That is, the charge and discharge rates of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1) may be different from each other.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111_1) may be A [C], the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112_1) may be B [C], and the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113_1) may be C [C]. Here, A, B, and C may be different from each other.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111_1) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112_1). In addition, the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112_1) may be lower than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113_1). That is, A may be lower than B, and B may be lower than C.

[0102] According to an embodiment, a temperature change due to charging or discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may be proportional to a charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1). Heat generation due to charging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1) and a temperature rise due to heat generation may be proportional to a charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1). Heat generation due to discharging of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1) and a temperature rise due to heat generation may be proportional to a charge / discharge rate of each of the plurality of battery modules (110_1). That is, when the charge / discharge rate is low, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be small, and when the charge / discharge rate is high, the temperature change due to charging or discharging may be large.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111_1) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112_1), and the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112_1) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113_1). That is, since the charge / discharge rate of the first module (111_1) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112_1), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module (111_1) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112_1). In addition, since the charge / discharge rate of the second module (112_1) is less than the charge / discharge rate of the third module (113_1), the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module (112_1) may be less than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module (113_1). Accordingly, the magnitude of the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the plurality of battery modules (110_1) may increase in the order of the first module (111_1), the second module (112_1), and the third module (113_1).

[0104] The space between the first module (111_1) and the second module (112_1) may be defined as the first space. In addition, the space between the second module (112_1) and the third module (113_1) may be defined as the second space. According to an embodiment, the temperature of the first space may be lower than the temperature of the second space. That is, since the temperature rise of the first module (111_1) is lower than the temperature rise of the second module (112_1) and the temperature rise of the second module (112_1) is lower than the temperature rise of the third module (113_1), the temperature rise of the first space may be lower than the temperature rise of the second space. Accordingly, the temperature of the first space may be lower than the temperature of the second space.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the temperature outside the battery pack (100_1) may be lower than the temperature inside the battery pack (100_1). Accordingly, heat inside the battery pack (100_1) may be transferred to the outside of the battery pack (100_1). The case forms the outer shape of the battery pack (100_1), and the amount of heat transferred from the inside of the battery pack (100_1) to the outside of the battery pack (100_1) is proportional to the distance from the outside of the battery pack (100_1), so the amount of heat transferred from the plurality of battery modules (110_1) to the outside may be proportional to the distance from the case. That is, the amount of heat transferred from the third module (113_1) to the outside of the battery pack (100_1) may be greater than the amount of heat transferred from the second module (112_1) to the outside of the battery pack (100_1). Additionally, the amount of heat transferred from the second module (112_1) to the outside of the battery pack (100_1) may be greater than the amount of heat transferred from the first module (111_1) to the outside of the battery pack (100_1). That is, the degree to which the plurality of battery modules (110_1) are cooled by the temperature outside the battery pack (100_1) may be greater in the order of the third module (113_1), the second module (112_1), and the first module (111_1).

[0106] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operating method of a battery pack according to an embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0107] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 is only one embodiment, and the order of operations according to various embodiments of the present invention may be different from that illustrated in FIG. 6, and some of the steps illustrated in FIG. 6 may be omitted, the order between the steps may be changed, or the steps may be merged.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 6, the operating method of the battery pack (100) may include an operation (S110) of obtaining temperature information of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113), an operation (S120) of comparing the temperature information with a first set value, an operation (S130) of controlling a cooling unit (130) disposed in a first direction from the third module (113) to an ON state, an operation (S140) of comparing the temperature information with a second set value, and an operation (S150) of controlling the cooling unit (130) to an OFF state.

[0109] Below, the above operations S110 to S150 are specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0110] In operation S110, the battery pack (100) can obtain temperature information of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113).

[0111] The battery pack (100) can obtain information on a plurality of battery modules (110). According to an embodiment, the battery pack (100) can obtain temperature information on a plurality of battery modules (110). For example, the battery pack (100) can obtain temperature information on each of the first module (111), the second module (112), and the third module (113). According to an embodiment, the battery pack (100) can further obtain temperature information on at least one of the first space, the second space, or the battery case.

[0112] In operation S120, the battery pack (100) can compare the temperature information with the first set value.

[0113] The battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130). According to an embodiment, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) based on temperature information received from the battery pack (100). That is, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) based on the temperature of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), or the third module (113). Here, the temperature of at least one of the first module (111), the second module (112), or the third module (113) can be defined as temperature information.

[0114] When the cooling unit (130) is in the OFF state, the battery pack (100) can compare the temperature information with a first set value. Here, the first set value can be set based on the type of battery, the outside temperature, whether the vehicle is being driven, etc. The first set value can be the basis for determining whether the temperature of the battery needs to be cooled.

[0115] In operation S130, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) disposed in the first direction from the third module (113) to be turned ON.

[0116] According to an embodiment, when the temperature information is equal to or greater than the first set value, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) to an ON state. That is, the battery pack (100) can change the state of the cooling unit (130) from an OFF state to an ON state. In addition, when the temperature information is less than the first set value, the battery pack (100) may not issue a separate command to the cooling unit (130). That is, the battery pack (100) can maintain the state of the cooling unit (130) in an OFF state.

[0117] In operation S140, the battery pack (100) can compare the temperature information with the second set value.

[0118] When the cooling unit (130) is turned on, the battery pack (100) can compare the temperature information with a second set value. Here, the second set value can be set based on the type of battery, the outside temperature, whether the vehicle is being driven, etc. The second set value can serve as the basis for determining whether the temperature of the battery needs to be cooled.

[0119] In operation S150, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) to the OFF state.

[0120] According to an embodiment, when the temperature information is equal to or greater than the second set value, the battery pack (100) can control the cooling unit (130) to an OFF state. That is, the battery pack (100) can change the state of the cooling unit (130) from an ON state to an OFF state. In addition, when the temperature information is less than the second set value, the battery pack (100) may not issue a separate command to the cooling unit (130). That is, the battery pack (100) can maintain the state of the cooling unit (130) in an ON state.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the first set value may be greater than the second set value. That is, the first set value, which is a criterion for the battery pack (100) to control the cooling unit (130) to an ON state, may be greater than the second set value, which is a criterion for the battery pack (100) to control the cooling unit (130) to an OFF state, but is not limited thereto.

[0122] The above description is merely an example of the technical idea disclosed in this document, and those skilled in the art to which the embodiments disclosed in this document pertain may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments disclosed in this document.

[0123] Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this document are intended to illustrate, rather than limit, the technical concepts disclosed in this document, and the scope of the technical concepts disclosed in this document is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the technical concepts disclosed in this document should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within the equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the rights of this document.

[0124] [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 100: Battery pack

[0126] 110: Multiple battery modules

[0127] 120: Information Acquisition Department

[0128] 130: Cooling section

[0129] 140: Control Unit

Claims

1. A first module comprising a plurality of battery cells; A second module connected in series with the first module and positioned in a first direction from the first module; and A third module is connected in series with the second module and is arranged in the first direction from the second module, Each of the first module, the second module, and the third module is a battery pack having a different capacity.

2. In paragraph 1, The capacity of the first module is greater than the capacity of the second module, A battery pack wherein the capacity of the second module is greater than the capacity of the third module.

3. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a case for storing the first module, the second module, and the third module, A battery pack wherein the shortest distance between the case and the first module is longer than the shortest distance between the case and the third module.

4. In paragraph 2, A battery pack wherein the charge / discharge rate of the first module is lower than the charge / discharge rate of the second module, and the charge / discharge rate of the second module is lower than the charge / discharge rate of the third module.

5. In paragraph 1, The temperature change due to charging or discharging of the first module is smaller than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module, A battery pack in which the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the second module is smaller than the temperature change due to charging or discharging of the third module.

6. In paragraph 5, The temperature of the first space, which is the space between the first module and the second module, is A battery pack having a temperature lower than that of a second space between the second module and the third module.

7. In paragraph 1, The second module is a battery pack that covers the side of the first module.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery pack wherein the numbers of battery cells included in each of the first module, the second module, and the third module are different from each other.

9. In paragraph 1, A cooling unit that absorbs heat from the first module, the second module, and the third module and is positioned in the first direction from the third module; An information acquisition unit that acquires temperature information of the first module, the second module, and the third module; and A battery pack further comprising a control unit that controls the cooling unit based on a temperature of at least one of the first module, the second module, or the third module.

10. In paragraph 9, The capacity of the first module is greater than the capacity of the second module, A battery pack wherein the capacity of the second module is greater than the capacity of the third module.

11. In paragraph 9, The above control unit controls the cooling unit to be ON when the temperature of the third module is higher than the first set value, A battery pack that controls the cooling unit to OFF when the temperature of the third module is lower than the second set value.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery pack wherein the first setting value is greater than the second setting value.

13. In paragraph 9, The above control unit is a battery pack that controls the ON / OFF of the cooling unit based on the ON / OFF signals of the first module, the second module, and the third module.

14. An operation of acquiring temperature information of at least one of the first module, the second module and the third module; An operation of comparing the above temperature information with the first set value; and Including an operation of controlling a cooling unit arranged in the first direction from the third module to be ON, The second module is connected in series with the first module and is positioned in the first direction from the first module, The third module is connected in series with the second module and is positioned in the first direction from the second module, A method of operating a battery pack in which each of the first to third modules has a different capacity.

15. In paragraph 14, An operation of comparing the above temperature information with a second set value; and A method of operating a battery pack further comprising an operation of controlling the cooling unit to an OFF state.

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