Cover-cell assembly, battery cell assembly, and battery pack

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments, a cover-cell assembly is provided. The cover-cell assembly comprises: an electrode assembly that includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator disposed therebetween; a case that includes an accommodation portion covering the electrode assembly and a sealing portion surrounding the accommodation portion; and a cell cover that is coupled to the case and includes a refractory material, wherein the cell cover fixes the sealing portion to the accommodation portion.

Description

Cover-cell assembly, battery cell assembly and battery pack

[0001] The present invention relates to a cover-cell assembly, a battery cell assembly, and a battery pack. This application claims the benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2024-0019017, filed February 7, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0003] The technological development trend for secondary batteries for mobility is improving energy density and safety. The safety of secondary batteries for mobility is crucial, as it directly impacts the lives of passengers. Safety in secondary batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, reliable electrical insulation, and delayed heat transfer in the event of thermal runaway.

[0004] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a cover-cell assembly, a battery cell assembly, and a battery pack with enhanced safety.

[0005] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a cover-cell assembly is provided. The cover-cell assembly comprises an electrode assembly including an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed therebetween; a case including a receiving portion covering the electrode assembly and a sealing portion surrounding the receiving portion; and a cell cover coupled to the case and comprising a refractory material, wherein the cell cover secures the sealing portion to the receiving portion.

[0006] The above sealing portion is in contact with the side of the case between the first main surface and the second main surface of the case and the second main surface of the case.

[0007] The above sealing portion is spaced apart from the first main surface of the case.

[0008] The above sealing portion extends from the first main surface of the case to the second main surface of the case.

[0009] A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the cell cover comprises a first portion contacting the first main surface, a second portion contacting the second main surface, and a third portion connected to the first and second portions.

[0010] The above third part is spaced apart from the case.

[0011] The above second part is in contact with the sealing portion.

[0012] The second portion includes a stepped portion having a step shape or a slope shape.

[0013] The first portion partially covers the first main surface, and the second portion partially covers the second main surface.

[0014] According to exemplary embodiments, a battery cell assembly is provided comprising a plurality of cover-cell assemblies.

[0015] Each of the plurality of cover assemblies includes an electrode assembly including an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed therebetween, a case covering the electrode assembly, and a cell cover coupled to the case and including a refractory material.

[0016] The above case includes a receiving portion and a sealing portion surrounding the receiving portion, and

[0017] The above cell cover is characterized in that it fixes the sealing portion to the receiving portion.

[0018] The cell cover includes a first portion contacting a first main surface of the case, a second portion contacting a second main surface of the case opposite to the first main surface, and a third portion spaced apart from the case.

[0019] The second part of the cell cover is in contact with the second main surface of the case and the sealing portion of the case.

[0020] The second portion of the cell cover includes a stepped portion having a step shape or a slope shape.

[0021] The above battery cell assembly further includes a mono frame surrounding the plurality of cover-cell assemblies.

[0022] The above battery cell assembly further includes an outer frame coupled to the mono frame.

[0023] The above battery cell assembly further includes a U frame supporting the plurality of cover-cell assemblies; and an upper plate coupled to the U frame.

[0024] The above battery cell assembly further includes an outer frame coupled to the U frame and the upper plate.

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies, each including a cell cover. Accordingly, when a thermal runaway event occurs, heat propagation can be delayed and venting can be promoted, thereby enhancing the safety of the battery cell assembly.

[0026] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 1 and 2 are drawings illustrating a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0029] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings illustrating cover-cell assemblies according to other exemplary embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0037] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0038] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0039] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0040] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0041]

[0042] (Example 1)

[0043] Figures 1 and 2 are drawings showing a cover-cell assembly (121) according to exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 shows the cover-cell assembly (121) as viewed from the opposite direction from Figure 1.

[0044] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a cover-cell assembly (121) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cover-cell assembly (121) may include a case (121C), an electrode assembly (121EA), a positive terminal (121P), a negative terminal (121N), and a cell cover (121F). The cover-cell assembly (121) may further include an electrolyte.

[0046] According to exemplary embodiments, the cover-cell assembly (121) may include one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is housed in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is housed in a pouch case including an aluminum laminate sheet. Hereinafter, the technical idea of ​​the present invention will be described based on an example in which the cover-cell assembly (121) includes a pouch-type battery cell, but one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to easily arrive at an example in which the cover-cell assembly (121) includes one of a cylindrical battery cell and a prismatic battery cell based on the description herein.

[0047] The electrode assembly (121EA) may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrode assembly (121EA) may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type. The jelly-roll type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a winding structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between them. The stack type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a plurality of sequentially stacked positive electrodes, a plurality of negative electrodes, and a plurality of separators interposed between them.

[0048] Each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include an anode tab (not shown). The anode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with the anode terminal (121P). The anode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with the anode terminal (121P).

[0049] Each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include a cathode tab (121NT). The cathode tab (121NT) of each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with the cathode terminal (121N). The cathode tab (121NT) of each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with the cathode terminal (121N).

[0050] The case (121C) may include an inner resin layer, a metal layer, and an outer resin layer. An adhesive and an anti-corrosion layer may further be provided between the inner resin layer and the metal layer and between the outer resin layer and the metal layer.

[0051] The inner resin layer may have heat-sealing properties and may be referred to as a sealant layer. The inner resin layer enables sealing of the case (121C). The inner resin layer may include a polyolefin resin, such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The metal layer may include any one of an alloy of iron, carbon, chromium, and manganese, an alloy of iron, chromium, and nickel, and aluminum. The metal layer may be a gas barrier. The metal layer may block the ingress and egress of gas from the case (121C). The outer resin layer may be a surface protection layer. The outer resin layer may include a material having wear resistance and heat resistance, such as a nylon resin.

[0052] The case (121C) may be provided by joining a first case (121C1) and a second case (121C2). The first case (121C1) may be substantially flat. The first case (121C1) may not include a receiving portion. The second case (121C2) may include a receiving portion (121R). The receiving portion (121R) may be formed by a pouch forming process. The receiving portion (121R) is a portion of the second case (121C2) formed into a bowl shape to accommodate the electrode assembly (121EA).

[0053] The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can surround the storage portion (121R). The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can be joined to the edge of the first case (121C1), thereby providing a case (121C). The sealing portion (121CS) can be provided by joining the first and second cases (121C1, 121C2). That is, the sealing portion (121CS) can be a joining portion of the first and second cases (121C1, 121C2).

[0054] As in the example of Fig. 3, when the storage portion is formed only in the second case (121C2) among the first and second cases (121C1, 121C2), the sealing portion (121CS) may be connected to the first main surface (121FS1). The sealing portion (121CS) may include a portion that forms a plane with the first main surface (121FS1). The sealing portion (121CS) may extend from the first main surface (121FS1) to the second main surface (121FS2).

[0055] The case (121C) may have an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) of the case (121C) may be widest surfaces of the case (121C). The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may be substantially parallel to at least one of the electrode assembly (121EA) or the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes included in the electrode assembly (121EA). The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may be opposite to each other.

[0056] An insulating tape (121I) may be applied on the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may protrude outside the case (121C). Accordingly, the resulting voltage and current of the cover-cell assembly (121) may be output through the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) may be a positive lead. The negative terminal (121N) may be a negative lead.

[0057] According to exemplary embodiments, the cell cover (121F) may include a refractory material. The cell cover (121F) may include either a Non-Combustible Glass Fiber Sheet (NCG) or a Modified Polyphenylene Oxide (mPPO) containing glass fiber.

[0058] The cell cover (121F) may include a first portion (121F1) in contact with the first main surface (121FS1), a second portion (121F2) in contact with the second main surface (121FS2), and a third portion (121F3) connected to the first and second portions (121F1, 121F2). The third portion (121F3) may be spaced apart from the cell cover (121F). The first portion (121F1) of the cell cover (121F) may partially cover the first main surface (121FS1). The second portion (121F2) of the cell cover (121F) may partially cover the second main surface (121FS2).

[0059] The cell cover (121F) may include curved portions. For example, the cell cover (121F) may include two curved portions, and thus may have an approximate n-shape, but is not limited thereto. The cell cover (121F) may also have a shape deformed from the n-shape as a result of the process and use after shipment.

[0060] A first portion (121F1) of the cell cover (121F) may be fixed to a first main surface (121FS1). A second portion (121F2) of the cell cover (121F) may be fixed to a second main surface (121FS2). The cell cover (121F) may include a refractory layer and an adhesive layer, and the first and second portions (121F1, 121F2) of the cell cover (121F) may be fixed to the first and second main surfaces (121FS1, 121FS2) of the case (121C) by the adhesive layer.

[0061] The second part (121F2) of the cell cover (121F) can be in contact with the sealing part (121CS) of the case (121C). The second part (121F2) of the cell cover (121F) can fix the sealing part (121CS) of the case (121C) to the second main surface (121FS2). More specifically, the sealing part (121CS) can be substantially on the same plane as the first main surface (121FS1). By the coupling of the cell cover (121F) and the case (121C), the part of the sealing part (121CS) can be folded to be in contact with the second main surface (121FS2) and the side (121S). The side (121S) of the case (121C) can be interposed between the first and second main surfaces (121FS1, 121FS2).

[0062] The second part (121F2) of the cell cover (121F) may include a step portion (121FS) that secures the sealing portion (121CS) to the second main surface (121FS2). The step portion (121FS) may have a step shape or a slope shape. The step portion (121FS) may be on the second main surface (121FS2).

[0063]

[0064] (Example 2)

[0065] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings showing a cover-cell assembly (121') according to other exemplary embodiments.

[0066] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a cover-cell assembly (121) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cover-cell assembly (121') may include a case (121C'), an electrode assembly (121EA), a positive terminal (121P), a negative terminal (121N), and a cell cover (121F). The cover-cell assembly (121') may further include an electrolyte.

[0068] The electrode assembly (121EA), positive terminal (121P), negative terminal (121N), and cell cover (121F) are substantially the same as those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, so redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0069] The case (121C') can be provided by joining a first case (121C1') and a second case (121C2'). Unlike the first case (121C1, see FIG. 1), the first case (121C1') can include a receiving portion (121R1). That is, the first case (121C1') can include a receiving portion (121R1), and the second case (121C2') can include a receiving portion (121R2). The electrode assembly (121EA) can be accommodated within the receiving portions (121R1, 121R2).

[0070] Accordingly, the sealing portion (121CS') of the case (121C') may be between the first and second main surfaces (121FS1', 121FS2'). By combining the cell cover (121F) and the case (121C'), a portion of the sealing portion (121CS') of the case (121C') may be folded to contact the second main surface (121FS2') and the side (121S'). The side (121S') of the case (121C') may be interposed between the first and second main surfaces (121FS1', 121FS2').

[0071]

[0072] (Example 3)

[0073] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 7, the battery cell assembly (120) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1, 121_2, 121_3, 121_4, 121_5, 121_6, 121_7, 121_8, 121_9, 121_10, 121_11, 121_12, hereinafter, 121_1 to 121_12). Each of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) is substantially the same as the cover-cell assembly (121) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In addition, the cover-cell assembly (121') of FIGS. 4 to 6 may replace the cover-cell assembly (121) of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0075] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) can be arranged in one direction. The plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) can be joined by, for example, an adhesive.

[0076] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) can form a plurality of banks. For example, cover-cell assemblies (121_1, 121_2) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a first bank. Cover-cell assemblies (121_3, 121_4) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a second bank. Cover-cell assemblies (121_5, 121_6) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a third bank. Cover-cell assemblies (121_7, 121_8) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a fourth bank. Cover-cell assemblies (121_9, 121_10) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a fifth bank. The cover-cell assemblies (121_11, 121_12) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a sixth bank. Multiple banks can be connected in series to each other.

[0077] The resulting connection configuration of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) may be referred to as 2-parallel-6-series (2P-6S), but this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the technical spirit of the present invention in any sense. The number of series-connected banks and the number of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) included in the plurality of banks may be determined depending on the magnitude of the voltage and current to be output from the battery cell assembly (120).

[0078] The battery cell assembly (120) may further include pads, a first integrated circuit assembly, a second integrated circuit assembly, and an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) assembly.

[0079] The pads can absorb swelling of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12). Each of the pads can include polyurethane (PU). Each of the pads can include a refractory material such as silicone.

[0080] The first integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover. The second integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, sensing plates, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover.

[0081] The first and second integrated circuit assemblies may include physical and functional components for providing electrical connections between the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), outputting resulting voltages of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), and measuring voltages (or currents) of nodes within a circuit comprised of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12).

[0082] The insulating frame may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame may cover the front of a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12). The insulating frame may support integrated circuits, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, and wiring.

[0083] The bus bars may be short-circuited to the positive leads (121P) of the cover-cell assemblies (121_1, 121_2) of the first bank and to the negative leads (121N) of one or more cover-cell assemblies (121_11, 121_12) of the last bank. The bus bars may be welded to the positive leads (121P) of the cover-cell assemblies (121_1, 121_2) of the first bank and to the negative leads (121N) of one or more cover-cell assemblies (121_11, 121_12) of the last bank. The resulting voltages of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) of the battery cell assembly (120) may be output through the bus bars. The bus bars may be fixed to the insulating frame.

[0084] The integrated circuit may be mounted on an insulating frame. The positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded to each other may form nodes within the battery cell assembly (120). The integrated circuit may be configured to measure the voltages of the nodes via sensing plates and sensing bars.

[0085] The sensing bars may include a conductive material. The sensing bars may have a rod-like shape. The sensing bars may be short-circuited to the bus bars. The sensing bars may be coupled to the bus bars. The voltage of the bus bars may be measured through the sensing bars.

[0086] Each of the plurality of sensing plates may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The plurality of sensing plates may include a conductive material. The plurality of sensing plates may be short-circuited to corresponding ones of the positive lead (121P) and the negative lead (121N) of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12).

[0087] Each of the plurality of sensing plates can be connected to an integrated circuit. Through the plurality of sensing plates, the voltages of the plurality of nodes within the battery cell assembly (120) can be measured.

[0088] The temperature sensors may be configured to measure the temperature of multiple points of the battery cell assembly (120). The temperature sensors may be spatially arranged, thereby allowing the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly (120) to be measured.

[0089] The insulating cover may include an insulating material, such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted to the insulating frame. The insulating cover may cover the integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, and temperature sensors, thereby protecting the electrical components of the first and second integrated circuit assemblies.

[0090]

[0091] (Example 4)

[0092] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120a) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 8, the battery cell assembly (120a) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) and a mono frame (120MF). The plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) are substantially the same as those described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0094] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) may be covered by a mono frame (120MF). The mono frame (120MF) may be an integral frame. The mono frame (120MF) may include openings for inserting the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), and thus, the cross-sectional shape of the mono frame (120MF) may be a hollow rectangle. The mono frame (120MF) may include a metal such as aluminum and stainless steel, and may protect the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12).

[0095]

[0096] (Example 5)

[0097] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120b) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery cell assembly (120b) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), a U-frame (120U), and a top plate (120T). The plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) are substantially the same as those described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0099] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) can be covered by a U-frame (120U) and a top plate (120T). The U-frame (120U) can have a U-shaped cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the U-frame (120U) can have a relatively wide opening, and the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12) can be easily inserted into the U-frame (120U). The U-frame (120U) and the top plate (120T) can be joined by a method such as butt welding. The U-frame (120U) and the top plate (120T) can include a metal such as aluminum and stainless steel, and can protect the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12).

[0100]

[0101] (Example 6)

[0102] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120c) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 10, the battery cell assembly (120c) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), a mono frame (120MF), and an outer frame (120OF). The battery cell assembly (120c) is identical to the battery cell assembly (120a) of FIG. 8, except that it further includes an outer frame (120OF).

[0104] The outer frame (120OF) may have a U-shape. The outer frame (120OF) may be joined to the mono frame (120MF). The outer frame (120OF) may be welded to the mono frame (120MF) or may be fixed to the mono frame (120MF) by mechanical means such as bolting. The outer frame (120OF) may provide additional mechanical strength to the battery cell assembly (120c).

[0105]

[0106] (Example 7)

[0107] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell assembly (120d) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 11, the battery cell assembly (120d) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121_1 to 121_12), a U-frame (120U), a top plate (120T), and an outer frame (120OF). The battery cell assembly (120d) is identical to the battery cell assembly (120b) of FIG. 9, except that it further includes an outer frame (120OF).

[0109] The outer frame (120OF) may be joined to the U-frame (120U) and the top plate (120T). The outer frame (120OF) may be welded to the U-frame (120U) and the top plate (120T), or may be secured to the U-frame (120U) and the top plate (120T) by mechanical means such as bolting. The outer frame (120OF) may provide additional mechanical robustness to the battery cell assembly (120d).

[0110]

[0111] (Example 8)

[0112] FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 1, 7, and 12, a battery pack (100) may include a pack housing (110), a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120), and cross beams (131). The battery pack (100) may be a final product mounted in an application such as a vehicle.

[0114] The pack housing (110) can provide a space for mounting battery cell assemblies (120). The pack housing (110) can include a base plate (111), side walls (112, 113, 114, 115), and a center beam (116).

[0115] Here, two directions substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) (i.e., the surface facing the battery cell assembly (120)) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) is defined as the Z direction. The X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0116] The base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may each be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of each of the base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be the X direction. The side walls (114, 115) may also be provided by an extrusion process. The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (111).

[0117] According to exemplary embodiments, the base plate (111) and side walls (112, 113) may be joined by friction stir welding. The base plate (111) may include a plurality of unit plates joined by friction stir welding.

[0118] The center beam (116) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) may be interposed between the side walls (112, 113). The center beam (116) may be included in a center plate, which is one of a plurality of unit plates that are friction stir welded to each other. Accordingly, the center beam (116) may be formed together with the center plate, and the center beam (116) may be a continuous element integrally formed with the center plate.

[0119] The base plate (111) may include a plurality of cooling channels. The plurality of cooling channels may provide passages for the movement of a coolant, such as water, for example. The plurality of cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The plurality of cooling channels may extend in the X direction. The plurality of cooling channels may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0120] A plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be arranged on a base plate (111) of a pack housing (110). The base plate (111) may support the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). Side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may horizontally surround the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0121] In FIG. 12, the battery pack (100) is of a modular type and the battery cell assemblies (120) of FIG. 7 are shown as being provided on the pack housing (110), but instead of the battery cell assemblies (120), one of the battery cell assemblies (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) of FIGS. 8 to 11 may be provided.

[0122] In Fig. 1, the arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) can be said to be a 3 * 2 arrangement. The arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) disclosed in Fig. 1 is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) arranged in M ​​* N (wherein, M and N are each integers greater than or equal to 2) based on the description herein.

[0123] The battery pack (100) may further include leads coupled to side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) of the pack housing (110). The leads may cover elements mounted inside the battery pack (100), such as a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and electrical components. The leads may be secured to the pack housing (110) by mechanical coupling means, such as bolting.

[0124] The battery pack may further include exhaust devices coupled to the sidewalls (114, 115). Either of the sidewalls (114, 115) may include exhaust holes connected to the exhaust devices. The exhaust devices may be configured to delay thermal propagation by releasing high-temperature gas within the battery pack (100) to the outside when a thermal runway event occurs in the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0125] Here, thermal runaway of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) is a state in which temperature changes of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) further accelerate the temperature change, which is an uncontrollable positive feedback. Multiple battery cell assemblies (120) in a state of thermal runaway exhibit a rapid temperature increase and emit a large amount of high-pressure gas and combustion debris.

[0126] According to exemplary embodiments, for each of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (121) of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120), a cell cover (121F) may be spaced apart from the base plate (111) with a case (121C) therebetween. According to exemplary embodiments, the cell cover (121F) may be at a higher level than the case (121C) with respect to the base plate (111). That is, the cell cover (121F) may cover an upper portion of the case (121C). Accordingly, even in a thermal runaway event, when high-temperature gas and flames are discharged through an exhaust path between the lead and the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120), the cover-cell assembly (121) may be protected by the cell cover (121F), and the safety of the battery pack (100) may be enhanced.

[0127] The battery pack (100) may further include a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS may be configured to monitor, balance, and control the battery pack (100). Monitoring of the battery pack (100) may include measuring voltage and current of specific nodes within a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and measuring temperature of set locations within the battery pack (100). The battery pack (100) may include measuring instruments for measuring the voltage, current, and temperature described above.

[0128] Balancing of a battery pack (100) is an operation that reduces the deviation between multiple battery cell assemblies (120). Control of the battery pack (100) includes preventing overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack (100) can operate under optimal conditions, thereby preventing shortening of the lifespan of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies (120).

[0129] The battery pack (100) may further include additional electrical components, such as a cooling device, a PRA (Power Relay Assembly), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan may prevent overheating of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) by circulating air inside the battery pack (100). The PRA may be configured to supply or cut off power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor). The PRA may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) in a situation where an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, occurs. Additional electrical components may be interposed between the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115). The space between the battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115) may also be referred to as an electrical component mounting area.

[0130] The battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of inter-busbars configured to electrically connect a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be connected in series by the plurality of inter-busbars. Accordingly, the battery pack (100) may be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor).

[0131]

[0132] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

Claims

1. An electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween; A case including a receiving portion covering the electrode assembly and a sealing portion surrounding the receiving portion; and Including a cell cover coupled to the case and containing a refractory material, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the above cell cover secures the sealing portion to the receiving portion.

2. In paragraph 1, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the sealing portion is in contact with the side of the case between the first main surface and the second main surface of the case and the second main surface of the case.

3. In paragraph 2, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the sealing portion is spaced apart from the first main surface of the case.

4. In paragraph 2, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the sealing portion extends from the first main surface of the case to the second main surface of the case.

5. In paragraph 2, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the cell cover comprises a first portion contacting the first main surface, a second portion contacting the second main surface, and a third portion connected to the first and second portions.

6. In paragraph 5, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the third portion is spaced apart from the case.

7. In paragraph 5, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the second part is in contact with the sealing part.

8. In paragraph 5, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the second part includes a stepped portion having a step shape or a slope shape.

9. In paragraph 5, The first part partially covers the first main surface, and A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the second portion partially covers the second main surface.

10. Including multiple cover-cell assemblies, Each of the plurality of cover assemblies includes an electrode assembly including an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed therebetween, a case covering the electrode assembly, and a cell cover coupled to the case and including a refractory material. The above case includes a receiving portion and a sealing portion surrounding the receiving portion, and A battery cell assembly characterized in that the cell cover fixes the sealing portion to the receiving portion.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the cell cover includes a first portion contacting a first main surface of the case, a second portion contacting a second main surface of the case opposite to the first main surface, and a third portion spaced apart from the case.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the second part of the cell cover is in contact with the second main surface of the case and the sealing portion of the case.

13. In paragraph 12, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the second portion of the cell cover includes a step portion having a step shape or a slope shape.

14. In paragraph 10, A battery cell assembly further comprising a mono frame surrounding the plurality of cover-cell assemblies.

15. In paragraph 14, A battery cell assembly further comprising an outer frame coupled to the above mono frame.

16. In paragraph 10, A U frame supporting the plurality of cover-cell assemblies; and A battery cell assembly further comprising an upper plate coupled to the U frame.

17. In paragraph 16, A battery cell assembly further comprising an outer frame coupled to the U frame and the upper plate.

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