Battery module comprising busbar assembly and sensor assembly and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to the present disclosure, provided may be a battery module comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a bus bar assembly including a bus bar connected to the plurality of battery cells, and a bus bar frame supporting the bus bar; and a sensor assembly including a substrate part facing at least a portion of the bus bar frame, and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate part and the bus bar. The bus bar may comprise: a plurality of first bus bars connecting electrode tabs of battery cells adjacent to each other among the plurality of battery cells; and a second bus bar including a plurality of connection parts connecting electrode tabs of battery cells spaced apart from each other among the plurality of battery cells, and a bridge part connected to the connection parts.

Description

Battery module including a busbar assembly and a sensor assembly and a battery pack including the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module including a busbar assembly and a sensor assembly and a battery pack including the same.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be recharged and discharged, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including digital cameras, mobile phones, laptops, hybrid and electric vehicles, and energy storage systems (ESS). Secondary batteries can be lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, or nickel-hydrogen batteries.

[0003] Secondary batteries are manufactured as flexible pouch-type battery cells or rigid square or cylindrical can-type battery cells. Multiple battery cells can be formed into a stacked cell assembly.

[0004] Cell assemblies may be arranged within a case to form a battery module, and multiple battery modules may be arranged within a pack frame to form a battery pack. The battery pack may be used in various structures, such as vehicles or energy storage systems.

[0005] A battery module may include a cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells. A busbar terminal may be mounted on a battery cell located at the outermost end of the plurality of battery cells along a current path of the plurality of battery cells.

[0006] Additional terminal components (e.g., long busbars) may be required to accommodate changes in the location of busbar terminals. If a battery module includes a long busbar, insulating components may be required to insulate the long busbar, which may increase the weight and manufacturing cost of the battery module.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module with increased design freedom of terminal positions can be provided.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module and battery pack may be provided that do not require additional terminal components (e.g., long busbars) and insulating covers.

[0009] The battery module and battery pack of the present disclosure can be widely applied in green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other battery-powered solar and wind power generation. Furthermore, the battery module and battery pack of the present disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, which aim to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0010] A battery module of the present disclosure may include a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, a busbar assembly including a busbar frame supporting the busbar, a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame, and a sensor assembly including a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar. The busbar may include a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, a plurality of connecting portions connecting electrode tabs of spaced-apart battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and a second busbar including a bridge portion connected to the connecting portions.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the busbar frame may include a first region facing the plurality of first busbars and the plurality of connecting portions, a second region extending from the first region and facing the sensing terminal and at least a portion of the substrate portion, and a third region facing the bridge portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second region may be located opposite the third region with respect to the first region.

[0013] In one embodiment, the electrode tab may include a first electrode tab having a first polarity and a second electrode tab having a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. The plurality of connecting portions may include a first connecting portion connected to the first electrode tab and a second connecting portion connected to the first electrode tab.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the plurality of battery cells may include a first battery cell, a third battery cell spaced apart from the first battery cell, and a second battery cell adjacent to the first battery cell and positioned between the first battery cell and the third battery cell. The first bus bar may be connected to the first electrode tab of the first battery cell and the second electrode tab of the second battery cell. The second bus bar may be connected to the second electrode tab of the first battery cell and the first electrode tab of the third battery cell.

[0015] In one embodiment, the busbar may include a plurality of terminal busbars, at least some of which are exposed to the exterior of the battery module. Each of the plurality of terminal busbars may be connected to one of the plurality of battery cells.

[0016] In one embodiment, at least some of the plurality of terminal bus bars may be positioned between at least some of the plurality of first bus bars.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the plurality of battery cells may be provided in an even number. The plurality of terminal bus bars may include a first terminal bus bar and a second terminal bus bar positioned in the same direction with respect to the cell assembly.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the plurality of battery cells may be provided in an odd number. The plurality of terminal bus bars may include a first terminal bus bar located on one side of the cell assembly and a second terminal bus bar located on the other side of the cell assembly.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the busbar assembly may include a first busbar assembly positioned on one side of the cell assembly and a second busbar assembly spaced apart from the first busbar assembly and positioned on the other side of the cell assembly.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the sensor assembly may include an insulating sheet covering at least a portion of the cell assembly, and a connection terminal for transmitting a signal obtained from the sensing terminal to the outside of the battery module.

[0021] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of battery cells may include a pouch including an electrode assembly, an electrode receiving portion for receiving the electrode assembly, and a sealing portion surrounding at least a portion of the electrode receiving portion.

[0022] A battery pack of the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery modules, a pack frame accommodating the plurality of battery modules, and a battery management system disposed within the pack frame. Each of the plurality of battery modules may include a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, a busbar assembly including a busbar frame supporting the busbar, and a sensor assembly including a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar. The busbar may include a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and a second busbar including connection portions connecting electrode tabs of spaced-apart battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and a bridge portion connected to the connection portions.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of design freedom for the terminal locations of a battery module can be increased. This increased degree of design freedom can enhance the design convenience of devices (e.g., battery packs, vehicles, or energy storage systems) including the battery module.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the manufacturing cost and weight of a battery module or battery pack can be reduced.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery cell according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a side view of a battery cell according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a cell assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a battery module including a first busbar assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5C is a schematic diagram of a battery module including a second busbar assembly according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of a cell assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram of a first busbar assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram of a second busbar assembly according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment.

[0032] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, these are merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described as examples.

[0033] The terms and words used in this specification and claims described below are not to be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. The inventor will interpret these terms and concepts in a way that is consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms to best explain his or her invention.

[0034] Accordingly, it will be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present disclosure, and that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0035] Detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations that may obscure the gist of the present disclosure are omitted. In the attached drawings, some components are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted, and the sizes of each component do not fully reflect the actual size.

[0036]

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery cell according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view of a battery cell according to one embodiment.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1 and / or FIG. 2, a battery cell (100) may include a pouch (110), an electrode assembly (120), and an electrode tab (130). The battery cell (100) may be a secondary battery. For example, the battery cell (100) may be a lithium ion battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery cell (100) may be a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a nickel-hydrogen battery capable of being charged and discharged.

[0039] The pouch (110) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the battery cell (100). The pouch (110) may include an electrode receiving portion (111) for receiving an electrode assembly (120) and a sealing portion (115) for sealing at least a portion of the periphery of the electrode receiving portion (111). The electrode receiving portion (111) may provide a space for receiving the electrode assembly (120) and an electrolyte.

[0040] The sealing portion (115) may be formed by joining at least a portion of the periphery of the pouch (110). The sealing portion (115) is formed in a flange shape that extends outward from the electrode receiving portion (111) formed in the shape of a container, and may be arranged along at least a portion of the outer surface of the electrode receiving portion (111). In one embodiment, the sealing portion (115) may include a first sealing portion (115a) where the electrode tab (130) is positioned and a second sealing portion (115b) where the electrode tab (130) is not positioned. A portion of the electrode tab (130) may be pulled out or exposed to the outside of the pouch (110). In order to increase the sealing degree of the first sealing portion (115a) and simultaneously secure an electrical insulation state at the position where the electrode tab (130) is pulled out, the electrode tab (130) may be covered by an insulating film (140). The insulating film (140) is made of a film material thinner than the electrode tab (130) and can be attached to both sides of the electrode tab (130).

[0041] In one embodiment, the electrode tabs (130) may be arranged on opposite sides of the lengthwise direction of the battery cell (100). For example, the electrode tabs (130) may include a positive electrode tab (130a) having a first polarity (e.g., positive electrode) facing one side of the lengthwise direction of the battery cell (100) and a negative electrode tab (130b) having a second polarity (e.g., negative electrode) facing the other side of the lengthwise direction. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the sealing portion (115) may include two first sealing portions (115a) on which the electrode tabs (130) are arranged and one second sealing portion (115b) on which the electrode tabs (130) are not arranged. The electrode tabs (130) may be referred to as electrode leads.

[0042] The direction in which the electrode tabs (130) are positioned can be selectively designed. In one embodiment (e.g., FIG. 1), the electrode tabs (130) may include a positive electrode tab (130a) and a negative electrode tab (130b) positioned in an opposite direction to the positive electrode tab (130a) with respect to the electrode assembly (120). In FIG. 1, the electrode tabs (130) are shown positioned on opposite sides of the length direction of the battery cell (100) to face each other, but the structure of the electrode tabs (130) is not limited thereto. For example, two electrode tabs (130) may be arranged substantially parallel along the length direction of the battery cell (100).

[0043] Meanwhile, the pouch (110) is not limited to a structure in which a single sheet of outer material is folded to form a sealing portion (115) on three sides as shown in FIG. 1.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the sealing portion (115) may be formed in a form that is folded at least once. By folding at least a portion of the sealing portion (115), the bonding reliability of the sealing portion (115) may be improved, and the area of ​​the sealing portion (115) may be minimized. In one embodiment, among the sealing portions (115), a second sealing portion (115b) on which the electrode tab (130) is not arranged may be fixed by an adhesive member (not shown) after being folded twice. The angle at which the second sealing portion (115b) is bent or the number of times it is bent may be changed. For example, in one embodiment (not shown), the second sealing portion (115b) may be folded at an angle of 90° with respect to the first sealing portion (115a).

[0045] The electrode assembly (120) may include a cathode plate, an anode plate, and a separator. The separator may prevent contact between the cathode plate and the anode plate. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the electrode assembly (120) may be manufactured using various methods. According to exemplary embodiments, the electrode assembly may be formed by repeatedly arranging the anode, cathode, and separator. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly may be a winding type, a stacking type, a z-folding type, or a stack-folding type.

[0046] The first sealing portion (115a) may include a central region (116) that seals the electrode tab (130) and a border region (117) extending from the central region (116). The border region (117) may include a first border region (117a) and a second border region (117b) spaced apart from the first border region (117b). The first border region (117a) may extend from the central region (116) to the second sealing portion (115b).

[0047]

[0048] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery module (200) may include a cell assembly (101) including a plurality of battery cells (100), a module housing (210), and a busbar assembly (220).

[0050] The module housing (210) forms at least a portion of the exterior of the battery module (200) and may form an internal space (S) that accommodates a cell assembly (101) and / or a busbar assembly (220).

[0051] The module housing (210) may include a module cover (211) that forms at least a portion of the exterior of the battery module (200). For example, the module cover (211) may be connected to the receiving portion (212) and / or the end plate (215) of the module housing (210) and may surround at least a portion of the cell assembly (101). The module cover (211) may be disposed on one side of the cell assembly (101) and may cover the cell assembly (101).

[0052] The module housing (210) may include a receiving portion (212) surrounding the lower surface and side surfaces of the cell assembly (101). The receiving portion (212) may include a main plate (213) covering the lower surface of the cell assembly (101) and a plurality of side wall members (214) covering at least a portion of the side surfaces of the cell assembly (101). At least a portion of the internal space (S) may be surrounded by the main plate (213), the side wall members (214), and the end plate (215).

[0053] The module housing (210) may include an end plate (215) covering a portion of a side surface of the cell assembly (101). In one embodiment, the end plate (215) may be connected to an end portion in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of the receiving portion (212). The end plate (215) may cover a portion of the side surface of the cell assembly (101) and the busbar assembly (220). The end plate (215) may include a hole (215a) for receiving a connection terminal of the busbar assembly (220).

[0054] In one embodiment, the module housing (210) may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal. For example, the module housing (210) may be formed of aluminum and / or stainless steel. However, the material of the module housing (210) is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the module housing (210) may be formed of a polymer. The module housing (210) may be referred to as a housing, a case, or a module case.

[0055] The busbar assembly (220) may be electrically connected to an electrode tab (e.g., an electrode tab (130) of FIG. 1) of a battery cell (e.g., a battery cell (100) of FIG. 1). Through the busbar assembly (220), at least a portion of the current of the battery cell (100) may be transmitted to the outside of the battery module (200). The structure of the busbar assembly (220) is further described below.

[0056]

[0057] FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 4, the battery module (200) may include a cell assembly (101) including a plurality of battery cells (100), a sensor assembly (230), and a busbar assembly (300). The description of the battery cell (100) and the busbar assembly (220) of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and / or FIG. 3 may be applied to the battery cell (100) and the busbar assembly (300) of FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a drawing of the battery module (200) with the module housing (e.g., the module housing (210) of FIG. 2) excluded.

[0059] The cell assembly (101) may include a plurality of stacked battery cells (100). In one embodiment, the cell assembly (101) may further include a heat transfer blocking member (not shown) positioned between at least some of the plurality of battery cells (100). The heat transfer blocking member may include a heat-resistant material (e.g., mica) to delay heat transfer between the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0060] The sensor assembly (230) can detect information or operating status of the battery cell (100). For example, the sensor assembly (230) can detect at least one of the temperature or voltage of the battery cell (100). In one embodiment, the battery management system (e.g., the battery management system (490) of FIG. 7) can perform an operation for at least one of overcharge prevention or voltage balancing of the battery cell (100) based on the temperature and / or voltage of the battery cell (100) detected by the sensor assembly (230).

[0061] The sensor assembly (230) may include at least one sensing terminal (231). In one embodiment, the sensing terminal (231) may be a voltage sensing terminal for receiving a voltage signal of the battery cell (100). The sensing terminal (231) may be in contact with the bus bar (301). The sensing terminal (231) may connect the bus bar (301) to the substrate (232). The sensor assembly (230) may include a plurality of sensing terminals (231) each connected or bonded to a plurality of bus bars (301).

[0062] The sensor assembly (230) may include a substrate portion (232). The substrate portion (232) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a printed circuit board. The substrate portion (232) may be connected to a sensing terminal (231) and may include wiring for transmitting a signal detected at the sensing terminal (231) to a connection terminal (234).

[0063] The sensor assembly (230) may include an insulating sheet (233). The insulating sheet (233) may support the substrate portion (232). The insulating sheet (233) may prevent contact between the substrate portion (232) and the battery cell (100). At least a portion of the insulating sheet (233) may be positioned between the cell assembly (101) and the module cover (e.g., the module cover (211) of FIG. 3).

[0064] The sensor assembly (230) may include at least one connection terminal (234). The connection terminal (234) may provide a path for transmitting a signal acquired from the sensing terminal (231) to the outside of the battery module (200) (e.g., the battery management system (490) of FIG. 7). For example, the connection terminal (234) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (232) and the battery management system.

[0065] The busbar assembly (300) can be electrically connected to the battery cell (100). The current of the battery cell (100) can be transmitted to the outside of the battery module (200) through the busbar assembly (300).

[0066] The busbar assembly (300) may include an electrically conductive busbar (301) connected to an electrode tab (130) of a battery cell (100). The busbar (301) may include a slit (302) that accommodates the electrode tab (130) of the battery cell (100). The electrode tab (130) may be joined to the busbar (301) by being inserted into the slit (302). In one embodiment, some of the plurality of busbars (301) may be referred to as internal busbars, and others may be referred to as terminal busbars (330).

[0067] The busbar (301) may include at least one first busbar (310) and at least one second busbar (320). The second busbar (320) may be spaced apart from the first busbar (310). The shape of the second busbar (320) may be different from the shape of the first busbar (310).

[0068] The first bus bar (310) may be connected to adjacent battery cells (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100). For example, one first bus bar (310) may be connected to two battery cells that face or contact each other (e.g., the first battery cell (100a) and the second battery cell (100b) of FIG. 5a).

[0069] The second bus bar (320) may be connected to battery cells (100) that are spaced apart from each other among the plurality of battery cells (100). For example, the second bus bar (320) may be connected to battery cells (100) that are not adjacent to each other among the plurality of battery cells (100). The non-adjacent battery cells (100) may be defined as battery cells (100) that have another battery cell (100) between them.

[0070] The second bus bar (320) may include a plurality of connection portions (321) each connected to non-adjacent battery cells (100) and a bridge portion (322) connecting the plurality of connection portions (321). In one embodiment, the plurality of connection portions (321) and the bridge portion (322) may be formed integrally. The first bus bar (310) and the second bus bar (320) are further described below.

[0071] The busbar assembly (300) may include a busbar frame (340) that supports the busbar (301). The busbar frame (340) may be referred to as a support plate or a support frame. The busbar frame (340) may include holes and / or grooves through which electrode tabs (130) of the battery cells (100) pass. The electrode tabs (130) may pass through the holes and / or grooves of the busbar frame (340) and be connected to the busbar (301). In one embodiment, the busbar frame (340) may be made of a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer). At least a portion of the busbar frame (340) may be disposed between the cell assembly (101) and the busbar (301) to support the busbar (301). The busbar frame (340) may include at least one fastening hole for receiving a joining component (e.g., a screw, a rivet, and / or a boss structure). By means of the above-described joining component, the busbar frame (340) can be joined to a part (e.g., end plate (215)) of a module housing (e.g., module housing (210) of FIG. 2).

[0072] The busbar (301) may include a terminal busbar (330) for electrical connection to the outside of the battery module (200). The terminal busbar (330) may be electrically connected to one electrode tab (130). The electrode tab (130) of the battery cell (100) may be electrically connected to the outside of the battery module (200) by using the terminal busbar (330). A portion of the terminal busbar (330) may be exposed to the outside of the battery module (200). In one embodiment, the busbar (301) on which the terminal busbar (330) is formed may be referred to as a terminal busbar. The current of the battery cell (100) may be transmitted to the outside of the battery module (200) through the busbar (301) and the terminal busbar (330). In one embodiment, the terminal busbar (330) may be referred to as a portion of a plurality of busbars (301).

[0073] The busbar assembly (300) may be provided in multiple pieces. For example, the busbar assembly (300) may include a first busbar assembly (300a) and a second busbar assembly (300b) spaced apart from the first busbar assembly (300a). The first busbar assembly (300a) may be connected to one side of the cell assembly (101), and the second busbar assembly (300b) may be connected to the other side of the cell assembly (101). In Fig. 4, for convenience of explanation, the second busbar assembly (300b) is also illustrated in a 180-degree flipped state.

[0074] The position of the terminal bus bar (330) may be selectively designed. For example, depending on the design of a device (e.g., a battery pack (400) of FIG. 7, a vehicle, or an energy storage system) including the battery module (200), a change in the position of the terminal bus bar (330) of the battery module (200) may be required. The bus bar (301) of the present disclosure may change the direction and / or order in which the current of the battery cells (100) flows so that the position of the terminal bus bar (330) corresponds to a position requested by the user. For example, by connecting the second bus bar (320) to non-adjacent battery cells (100), the current provided from the plurality of battery cells (100) may flow in a non-sequential direction. At least some of the plurality of terminal bus bars (330) may not be located at the outermost end of the plurality of battery cells (100). The structure of the busbar assembly (300) for changing the position of the terminal busbar (330) is further described below.

[0075] The battery module (200) of the present disclosure may not include a separate conductive structure (e.g., a long busbar) for changing the position of the terminal busbar (330) and a component for protecting the conductive structure (e.g., an insulating cover surrounding the long busbar). A battery module (200) with reduced weight and production cost may be provided.

[0076] For convenience of explanation, some components are omitted or exaggerated in this document. For example, the number of battery cells (100), the number of bus bars (301), and / or the shape of the bus bars (301) may be designed selectively.

[0077]

[0078] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a cell assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a battery module including a first busbar assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5C is a schematic diagram of a battery module including a second busbar assembly according to one embodiment.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and / or 5C, a battery module (200) may include a cell assembly (101) including a plurality of battery cells (100), a sensor assembly (230) including a sensing terminal (231), a substrate (232), and a connection terminal (234), and a busbar assembly (300) including a busbar (301) and a busbar frame (340). The description of the cell assembly (101), the battery module (200), the sensor assembly (230), and the busbar assembly (300) of FIG. 4 may be applied to the cell assembly (101), the battery module (200), the sensor assembly (230), and the busbar assembly (300) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and / or 5C.

[0080] In one embodiment, the cell assembly (101) may include an even number (e.g., six) of battery cells (100). Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may include a first electrode tab (130a) having a first polarity and a second electrode tab (130b) having a second polarity different from the first polarity. The first electrode tab (130a) or the second electrode tab (130b) may be connected to a first bus bar (310), a second bus bar (320), or a terminal bus bar (330), respectively. A current path (CP) of the battery module (200) may be formed by the plurality of battery cells (100) and the bus bar (301). The current path (CP) may be a path of current flowing in the plurality of battery cells (100). The cell assembly (101) may include a first end tab (130c) and a second end tab (130d) forming an end of a current path (CP). The first end tab (130c) and the second end tab (130d) may each be an electrode tab (130) of a battery cell (100) located at an end of the current path (CP) among a plurality of battery cells (100). In one embodiment, the first end tab (130c) and the second end tab (130d) may be located in the same direction with respect to the cell assembly (101). For example, the first end tab (130c) and the second end tab (130d) may be connected to a first busbar assembly (300a).

[0081] A first bus bar (310) may be connected to two adjacent battery cells (100). For example, one first bus bar (310) may be connected to a first battery cell (100a) and a second battery cell (100b) that are adjacent to each other. In one embodiment, the first bus bar (310) may be connected to a first electrode tab (130a) of a first battery cell (100a) having a first polarity and a second electrode tab (130b) of a second battery cell (100b) having a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. The first bus bar (310) may include a first slit (302a) and a second slit (302b) spaced apart from the first slit (302a). The first slit (302a) may be connected to an electrode tab (130) of a first battery cell (100a), and the second slit (302b) may be connected to an electrode tab (130) of a second battery cell (100b) facing the first battery cell (100a). The first battery cell (100a) and the second battery cell (100b) may be battery cells (100) that face and / or contact each other.

[0082] The second bus bar (320) may be connected to two non-adjacent battery cells (100). For example, one second bus bar (320) may be connected to a first battery cell (100a) and a third battery cell (100c), which are not adjacent to each other. At least one battery cell (e.g., a second battery cell (100b) and / or a fourth battery cell (100d)) may be positioned between the first battery cell (100a) and the third battery cell (100c). In one embodiment, the second bus bar (320) may be connected to a second electrode tab (130b) of the first battery cell (100a) having a second polarity and a first electrode tab (130a) of the third battery cell (100c) having a first polarity opposite to the second polarity.

[0083] The second bus bar (320) may include a plurality of connection portions (321) connected to the first battery cell (100a) and the third battery cell (100c) and a bridge portion (322) connecting the plurality of connection portions (321).

[0084] The plurality of connecting portions (321) may include a first connecting portion (321a) having a third slit (302c) formed therein for accommodating a second electrode tab (130b) of a first battery cell (100a) and a second connecting portion (321b) having a fourth slit (302c) formed therein for accommodating a first electrode tab (130a) of a third battery cell (100c). The bridge portion (322) may be a portion of a second bus bar (320) extending from the first connecting portion (321a) to the second connecting portion (321b). The first connecting portion (321a) and the second connecting portion (321b) may be connected to electrode tabs (130) having different polarities. For example, the first connecting portion (321a) may be connected to a first electrode tab (130a) having a second polarity, and the second connecting portion (321b) may be connected to a second electrode tab (130b) having a second polarity.

[0085] In one embodiment, a plurality of connecting portions (321) and a bridge portion (322) may be formed integrally. The design diversity of the current path (CP) of the battery cell (100) may be increased by the bridge portion (322).

[0086] The terminal bus bar (330) may form an end of a current path (CP). For example, the terminal bus bar (330) may include a first terminal bus bar (330a) and a second terminal bus bar (330b), which each form two ends of the current path (CP). The first terminal bus bar (330a) may be connected to a first end tab (130c) of the battery cell (100). The second terminal bus bar (330b) may be connected to a second end tab (130d) of the battery cell (100).

[0087] The first terminal bus bar (330a) and the second terminal bus bar (330b) may be positioned in the same direction with respect to the cell assembly (101). For example, the first bus bar assembly (300a) may include the first terminal bus bar (330a) and the second terminal bus bar (330b).

[0088] At least some of the terminal bus bars (330) may not be located at the outermost end of the plurality of bus bars (301). At least some of the first terminal bus bars (330a) and the second terminal bus bars (330b) (e.g., the first terminal bus bar (330a)) may be located between the plurality of first bus bars (310). The position of the terminal bus bars (330) may be selectively designed by the second bus bar (320). Accordingly, the design convenience of the device including the battery module (200) may be increased.

[0089] The busbar frame (340) may include a first region (340a) facing the busbar (301), a second region (340b) extending from the first region (340a), and a third region (340c). In one embodiment, the first region (340a) may be referred to as the center of the busbar frame (340). The second region (340b) may be referred to as the edge or upper portion of the busbar frame (340). The third region (340c) may be referred to as the edge or lower portion of the busbar frame (340).

[0090] The first region (340a) of the busbar frame (340) may be positioned between at least a portion of the busbar (301) and the battery cell (100). For example, the busbar (301) may face the first busbar (310) and the connection portion (321). The first region (340a) of the busbar frame (340) may be connected to the busbar (301). The first region (340a) of the busbar frame (340) may face a portion (e.g., the central region (116)) of the first sealing portion (115a) of the battery cell (100).

[0091] The sensor assembly (230) and the busbar assembly (300) may be formed in a structure to increase the space utilization of the battery module (200). For example, at least a portion of the sensor assembly (230) may be arranged to face the busbar frame (340).

[0092] At least a portion of the sensor assembly (230) (e.g., the sensing terminal (231) and / or the substrate portion (232)) may be positioned opposite the bridge portion (322) of the second bus bar (320) with respect to the first region (340a) of the bus bar frame (340). For example, the sensing terminal (231), the substrate portion (232) and / or the terminal portion (341) of the terminal bus bar (330) may face the second region (340b). The second region (340b) of the bus bar frame (340) may face a portion (e.g., the first edge region (117a)) of the first sealing portion (e.g., the first sealing portion (115a) of FIG. 2). At least a portion of the second region (340b) may be positioned between the sensor assembly (230) and the first edge region (117a). The bridge portion (322) of the second busbar (320) may face the third region (340c) of the busbar frame (340). The third region (340c) of the busbar frame (340) may face a part (e.g., the second border region (117b)) of the first sealing portion (e.g., the first sealing portion (115a) of FIG. 2). At least a part of the third region (340c) may be located between the bridge portion (322) and the second border region (117b). In one embodiment, the bridge portion (322) may be coupled with the third region (340c) of the busbar frame (340).

[0093] By having the bridge portion (322) face the third region (340c) of the busbar frame (340), a space can be provided for the sensor assembly (230) to be coupled to the busbar frame (340). For example, at least a portion of the substrate portion (232) can be mounted to the second region (340b) of the busbar frame (340). By having the substrate portion (232) mounted to the busbar frame (340), the durability of the battery module (200) can be improved.

[0094]

[0095] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of a cell assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram of a first busbar assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram of a second busbar assembly according to one embodiment.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and / or 6C, a battery module (e.g., a battery module (200) of FIG. 4) may include a cell assembly (101) including a plurality of battery cells (100), and a busbar assembly (300) including a busbar (301) and a busbar frame (340). At least part of the description of the cell assembly (101), the busbar assembly (300), and the busbar (301) (e.g., the first busbar (310), the second busbar (320), and the terminal busbar (330)) of FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B, and / or 5C may be applied to the cell assembly (101) and the busbar assembly (300) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and / or 6C. For convenience of description, the sensor assembly (230) is omitted in FIGS. 6B and 6C. 4, the sensor assembly (230) of FIG. 5b, and / or FIG. 5c can be mounted to the busbar assembly (300) of FIG. 6b and FIG. 6c.

[0097] In one embodiment, the cell assembly (101) may include an odd number (e.g., seven) of battery cells (100). A current path (CP) of the battery module (200) may be formed by the plurality of battery cells (100) and the bus bar (301). The current path (CP) may be a path of current flowing in the battery module (200). The cell assembly (101) may include a first end tab (130c) and a second end tab (130d) forming an end of the current path (CP). The first end tab (130c) and the second end tab (130d) may be electrode tabs (130) of battery cells (100) located at the end of the current path (CP) among the plurality of battery cells (100), respectively. In one embodiment, the first end tab (130c) and the second end tab (130d) may be positioned in different directions relative to the cell assembly (101). For example, the first end tab (130c) may be connected to the second busbar assembly (300b), and the second end tab (130d) may be connected to the first busbar assembly (300a).

[0098] The first terminal busbar (330a) and the second terminal busbar (330b) may be positioned in different directions with respect to the cell assembly (101). For example, the first busbar assembly (300a) may include the second terminal busbar (330b), and the second busbar assembly (300b) may include the second terminal busbar (330b).

[0099] At least some of the terminal bus bars (330) may not be located at the outermost end of the plurality of bus bars (301). At least some of the first terminal bus bars (330a) and the second terminal bus bars (330b) (e.g., the first terminal bus bar (330a)) may be located between the plurality of first bus bars (310). The position of the terminal bus bars (330) may be selectively designed by the second bus bar (320). Accordingly, the design convenience of the device including the battery module (200) may be increased.

[0100]

[0101] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 7, a battery pack (400) may include a plurality of battery modules (200) and a pack frame (410) that accommodates the plurality of battery modules (200). The description of the battery module (200) described previously (e.g., FIGS. 3 and 4) may be applied to the battery module (200) of FIG. 7.

[0103] The pack frame (410) can accommodate components of the battery pack (400) (e.g., battery modules (200)). The pack frame (410) can include a bottom member (411) that supports the battery module (200), a pack cover (412) that covers the battery module (200), and a pack side wall (413) that surrounds at least a portion of the bottom member (411) and the pack cover (412). The bottom member (411) can support a receiving portion of the battery module (200) (e.g., a receiving portion (212) of FIG. 2).

[0104] The pack frame (410) may include a partition wall (420) that crosses at least some of the plurality of battery modules (200). For example, the receiving space of the pack frame (410) may be partitioned into a plurality of spaces by the partition wall (420). The partition wall (420) may be installed across the receiving space to reinforce the rigidity of the pack frame (410). In one embodiment, the partition wall (420) may include a first partition wall (420a) that crosses the plurality of battery cells (100) and a plurality of second partition walls (420b) that are substantially perpendicular to the first partition wall (420a).

[0105] In one embodiment, the battery pack (400) may include a duct member (430). The duct member (430) may include an exhaust space for providing a path for gases and / or flames discharged from the battery module (200). The duct member (430) may be disposed within the pack frame (410). The duct member (430) may surround at least a portion of the battery module (200). For example, gases and / or flames generated from battery cells of the battery module (200) (e.g., battery cells (100) of FIG. 1) may pass through the exhaust space of the duct member (430) to the exterior of the battery pack (400). In the present disclosure, the duct member (430) may be referred to as an exhaust duct or an exhaust member.

[0106] The battery pack (400) may include a battery control unit (490) for controlling the battery module (200). The battery control unit (490) may be disposed within the pack frame (410). The battery control unit (490) may include a battery management system (BMS). The configuration of the battery control unit (490) is known in various forms, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In one embodiment, the battery control unit (490) may be referred to as a processor. In one embodiment, the battery control unit (490) may be connected to the connection terminal (234) of the sensor assembly (230) of FIG. 4. The battery control unit (490) may perform a designated operation (e.g., overcharge prevention and / or voltage balancing) based on information of the battery module (200) received through the sensor assembly (230).

[0107] The structure of the battery pack (400) of FIG. 7 is exemplary. For example, the number of battery modules (200) included in the battery pack (400), the structure of the pack frame (410) and / or the duct member (430) can be selectively designed.

[0108]

[0109] The above description is merely an example of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be further included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0110] While the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims. For example, the present disclosure may be implemented by deleting some of the components in the above-described embodiments, and the embodiments may be implemented in combination with each other.

[0111]

[0112] Aspect 1) A battery module includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a busbar assembly including a busbar connected to the plurality of battery cells and a busbar frame supporting the busbar; and a sensor assembly including a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar, wherein the busbar may include a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells and a second busbar including a plurality of connecting portions connecting electrode tabs of spaced-apart battery cells among the plurality of battery cells and a bridge portion connected to the connecting portions.

[0113] Side 2) In side 1, the busbar frame may include a first region facing the plurality of first busbars and the plurality of connecting portions, a second region extending from the first region and facing the sensing terminal and at least a portion of the substrate portion, and a third region facing the bridge portion.

[0114] Side 3) In side 2, the second region may be positioned opposite the third region with respect to the first region. One battery module.

[0115] Side 4) In any one of Sides 1 to 3, the electrode tab may include a first electrode tab having a first polarity and a second electrode tab having a second polarity opposite to the first polarity, and the plurality of connecting portions may include a first connecting portion connected to the first electrode tab and a second connecting portion connected to the second electrode tab.

[0116] Side 5) In side 4, the plurality of battery cells include a first battery cell, a third battery cell spaced apart from the first battery cell, and a second battery cell adjacent to the first battery cell and positioned between the first battery cell and the third battery cell, and the first bus bar may be connected to the first electrode tab of the first battery cell and the second electrode tab of the second battery cell, and the second bus bar may be connected to the second electrode tab of the first battery cell and the first electrode tab of the third battery cell.

[0117] Side 6) In any one of Sides 1 to 5, the busbar includes a plurality of terminal busbars, at least some of which are exposed to the outside of the battery module, and each of the plurality of terminal busbars can be connected to one of the plurality of battery cells.

[0118] Side 7) In side 6, at least some of the plurality of terminal bus bars can be positioned between at least some of the plurality of first bus bars.

[0119] Side 8) In side 6 or side 7, the plurality of battery cells may be provided in an even number, and the plurality of terminal bus bars may include a first terminal bus bar and a second terminal bus bar positioned in the same direction with respect to the cell assembly.

[0120] Side 9) In any one of Sides 6 to 8, the plurality of battery cells may be provided in an odd number, and the plurality of terminal bus bars may include a first terminal bus bar located on one side of the cell assembly and a second terminal bus bar located on the other side of the cell assembly.

[0121] Side 10) In any one of Sides 1 to 9, the busbar assembly may include a first busbar assembly located on one side of the cell assembly and a second busbar assembly spaced apart from the first busbar assembly and located on the other side of the cell assembly.

[0122] Side 11) In any one of Sides 1 to 10, the sensor assembly may include an insulating sheet covering at least a portion of the cell assembly, and a connection terminal for transmitting a signal obtained from the sensing terminal to the outside of the battery module.

[0123] Side 12) In any one of Sides 1 to 11, the plurality of battery cells may each include a pouch including an electrode assembly, an electrode receiving portion that receives the electrode assembly, and a sealing portion that surrounds at least a portion of the electrode receiving portion.

[0124] Side 13) A battery pack includes a plurality of battery modules; a pack frame accommodating the plurality of battery modules; and a battery management system disposed within the pack frame, wherein each of the plurality of battery modules includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, a busbar assembly including a busbar frame supporting the busbar, and a sensor assembly including a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame, and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar, wherein the busbar may include a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and a second busbar including connecting portions connecting electrode tabs of non-adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and a bridge portion connected to the connecting portions.

Claims

1. A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; A busbar assembly including a busbar connected to the plurality of battery cells and a busbar frame supporting the busbar; and A sensor assembly including a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame, and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar, The above busbar comprises a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and A battery module comprising a second bus bar including a plurality of connecting portions connecting electrode tabs of battery cells spaced apart from each other among the plurality of battery cells and a bridge portion connected to the connecting portions.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module in which the busbar frame includes a first region facing the plurality of first busbars and the plurality of connecting portions, a second region extending from the first region and facing the sensing terminal and at least a portion of the substrate portion, and a third region facing the bridge portion.

3. In paragraph 2, The second region is a battery module located opposite the third region with respect to the first region.

4. In any one of the clauses 1 to 3, The electrode tab includes a first electrode tab having a first polarity and a second electrode tab having a second polarity opposite to the first polarity, A battery module wherein the plurality of connecting portions include a first connecting portion connected to the first electrode tab and a second connecting portion connected to the second electrode tab.

5. In paragraph 4, The plurality of battery cells include a first battery cell, a third battery cell spaced apart from the first battery cell, and a second battery cell adjacent to the first battery cell and positioned between the first battery cell and the third battery cell, The first bus bar is connected to the first electrode tab of the first battery cell and the second electrode tab of the second battery cell, A battery module wherein the second bus bar is connected to the second electrode tab of the first battery cell and the first electrode tab of the third battery cell.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above busbar comprises a plurality of terminal busbars, at least some of which are exposed to the outside of the battery module, A battery module wherein each of the plurality of terminal bus bars is connected to one of the plurality of battery cells.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery module wherein at least some of the plurality of terminal bus bars are positioned between at least some of the plurality of first bus bars.

8. In paragraph 6, The above plurality of battery cells are provided in an even number, A battery module wherein the plurality of terminal bus bars include a first terminal bus bar and a second terminal bus bar positioned in the same direction with respect to the cell assembly.

9. In paragraph 6, The above plurality of battery cells are provided in odd numbers, A battery module wherein the plurality of terminal busbars include a first terminal busbar located on one side of the cell assembly and a second terminal busbar located on the other side of the cell assembly.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A battery module wherein the busbar assembly comprises a first busbar assembly located on one side of the cell assembly and a second busbar assembly spaced apart from the first busbar assembly and located on the other side of the cell assembly.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A battery module comprising an insulating sheet covering at least a portion of the cell assembly, and a connection terminal for transmitting a signal obtained from the sensing terminal to the outside of the battery module.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A battery module wherein each of the plurality of battery cells includes a pouch including an electrode assembly, an electrode receiving portion for receiving the electrode assembly, and a sealing portion surrounding at least a portion of the electrode receiving portion.

13. Multiple battery modules; a pack frame accommodating the plurality of battery modules; and Includes a battery management system arranged within the pack frame, Each of the above plurality of battery modules A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells, A busbar assembly including a busbar connected to the plurality of battery cells and a busbar frame supporting the busbar, and A sensor assembly including a substrate portion facing at least a portion of the busbar frame, and a sensing terminal connecting the substrate portion and the busbar, The above busbar comprises a plurality of first busbars connecting electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells, and A battery pack comprising a second bus bar including connecting portions connecting electrode tabs of non-adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells and a bridge portion connected to the connecting portions.

Images