Battery cell and battery module comprising same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery cell and a battery module comprising same, and solves the technical problem of providing a battery cell capable of improving energy efficiency for the same volume and weight, and a battery module comprising same. To this end, the present invention provides a battery cell comprising: an electrode assembly; a cell case accommodating the electrode assembly; and a cap plate coupled to the cell case and sealing the cell case, wherein the cell case includes a first case body and a second case body made of a material different from that of the first case body.

Description

Battery cells and battery modules containing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery cell and a battery module including the same.

[0002] Secondary batteries, unlike non-rechargeable primary batteries, are rechargeable and dischargeable. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in small, portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while large-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for motor drives and power storage in hybrid and electric vehicles. These secondary batteries include an electrode assembly comprising a positive and negative electrode, a case housing the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] Secondary batteries can be used as battery modules or battery packs formed by a plurality of unit battery cells connected in series and / or parallel to provide high energy density. The battery module or battery pack can be formed by connecting the electrode terminals of a plurality of unit batteries to each other to meet the required power capacity and, for example, to implement a high-output secondary battery for an electric vehicle.

[0004] The above-described information disclosed in the background technology of this invention is only intended to improve understanding of the background of the present invention, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art.

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a battery cell and a battery module including the same capable of improving energy efficiency relative to the same volume and weight.

[0006] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0007] A battery cell according to the present invention for solving the above technical problem comprises: an electrode assembly; a cell case accommodating the electrode assembly; and a cap plate coupled to the cell case and sealing the cell case; wherein the cell case comprises: a first case body; and a second case body formed of a different material from the first case body.

[0008] The above first case body may be formed of a synthetic resin material, and the above second case body may be formed of a metal material.

[0009] The above synthetic resin material may include at least one of PC (Poly Carbonate), PP (Poly Propylene), and PPS (Poly Phenylene Sulfide), and the above metal material may include at least one of aluminum and an aluminum alloy.

[0010] The first case body may include a first bottom surface; a first end surface extending from the first bottom surface; and a first side surface arranged to intersect the first end surface; and the second case body may include a second bottom surface coupled to the first bottom surface; a second end surface coupled to the first end surface; and a second side surface coupled to the first side surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

[0011] The second floor surface may include a floor central portion positioned at the center of the first floor surface; and a floor extension portion extending from the floor central portion.

[0012] The above-mentioned floor extension portion may extend toward the vertex of the first floor surface.

[0013] The second end surface may include a second end body arranged to surround the first end surface; a second end connection portion provided on the second end body and connected to the bottom extension portion; and the second side surface may include a second side body arranged to surround the first side surface; and a second side connection portion provided on the second side body and connected to the bottom extension portion.

[0014] The above second side body can be connected to the above second end body.

[0015] The above-mentioned floor extension portion may extend toward the edge between the first floor surface and the first end surface.

[0016] The second end surface includes an end central portion arranged at the center of the first end surface; an end edge portion arranged at an edge of the first end surface; and a first end extension portion arranged between the end central portion and the end edge portion; and the second side surface is arranged at an edge of the first side surface and can be connected to the end edge portion.

[0017] The second end surface may further include a second end extension portion extending from the end center portion and connected to the bottom extension portion.

[0018] The first case body may include a first end surface; and a first side surface arranged to intersect the first end surface; and the second case body may include a bottom surface arranged to intersect the first end surface and the first side surface; a second end surface coupled with the first end surface; and a second side surface coupled with the first side surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

[0019] The second end surface may include a second end body arranged to surround the first end surface; a second end connection portion provided on the second end body and connected to the bottom surface; and the second side surface may include a second side body arranged to surround the first side surface; and a second side connection portion provided on the second side body and connected to the bottom surface.

[0020] The above second side body can be connected to the above second end body.

[0021] The first case body may include a first bottom surface; a first end surface extending from the first bottom surface; and the second case body may include a second bottom surface coupled to the first bottom surface; a second end surface coupled to the first end surface; and a side surface extending from the first bottom surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

[0022] The second floor surface may include a floor central portion positioned at the center of the first floor surface; and a floor extension portion extending from the floor central portion.

[0023] The above-mentioned floor extension portion may extend toward the vertex of the first floor surface.

[0024] The second end surface may include a second end body arranged to surround the first end surface and connected to the side surface; and a second end connecting portion provided on the second end body and connected to the bottom extension portion.

[0025] A battery module according to the present invention comprises: a housing; one or more battery cells arranged inside the housing; and a cooling plate in contact with the battery cells and cooling the battery cells; wherein the battery cells include an electrode assembly; a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly and has a first case body and a second case body formed of different materials; and a cap assembly coupled to the cell case and sealing the cell case.

[0026] The cooling plate may be in contact with at least one of the cell case and the cap assembly.

[0027] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0028] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 7 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 8 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig. 10 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig. 11 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 12 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 13 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 15 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 16 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig. 17 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig. 18 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 19 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 20 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 21 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 22 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Fig. 23 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig. 24 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig. 25 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 26 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Fig. 27 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig. 28 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 29 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their typical or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted with meanings and concepts that conform to the technical idea of ​​the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term in order to explain his own invention in the best way. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are only some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and various equivalents and modifications may exist at the time of filing this application. In addition, when used in this specification, "comprise" and "include" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of mentioned shapes, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, numbers, operations, elements, components and / or groups. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present invention, “may” and “may be” may include “one or more embodiments of the present invention.”

[0059] Additionally, to facilitate understanding of the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to scale and some components may be exaggerated in size. Furthermore, identical components may be assigned the same reference numbers in different embodiments.

[0060] The statement that two compared objects are "identical" means "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" may include deviations considered low in the art, such as deviations of less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of a parameter over a given region may imply uniformity on average.

[0061] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0062] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0063] Any configuration being placed "on (or under)" or "above (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, but also that other configurations may intervene between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0064] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component. Furthermore, when it is said that a part is electrically coupled to another part, this includes not only cases where they are directly connected, but also cases where they are connected with another element in between.

[0065] When reference is made throughout the specification to "A and / or B," this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated. In other words, "and / or" includes all or any combination of the listed items. When reference is made to "C through D," this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0066] When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" are used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrases can refer to any suitable combination.

[0067] The term "use" may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize." As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than degrees, and are intended to take into account inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0068] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could also be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0069] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as depicted in the drawings. It will be understood that spatially relative positions encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as "beneath" or "lower" another element would be understood to be "above" or "upper" the other element. Thus, the term "beneath" can encompass both the above and below orientations.

[0070] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure.

[0071] In describing the present invention below with multiple embodiments, duplicate descriptions of components that are identical or corresponding across the embodiments will be omitted. For example, if a component identical or corresponding to a component disclosed in one embodiment is disclosed in another embodiment, the corresponding component will be omitted from the description of the other embodiment, and the description will focus on the components that differ.

[0072] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 1, a battery module according to the present embodiment includes a housing (100), a battery cell (200), and a cooling plate (300).

[0074] The housing (100) forms the outline of the battery pack and can function as a structure that supports the battery cells (200) and cooling plates (300) as a whole. The housing (100) can provide a space for accommodating the battery cells (200) therein.

[0075] The housing (100) may include a bottom cover (110), an end plate (120), a side plate (130), and a top cover (140).

[0076] The bottom cover (110) may form the lower outer surface of the housing (100). For example, the bottom cover (110) may be formed to have a flat shape. The cross-sectional shape, size, etc. of the bottom cover (110) may be designed in various ways depending on the number and arrangement of battery cells (200).

[0077] The end plate (120) can form the front and rear exteriors of the housing (100). For example, the end plate (120) can be formed to have a plate shape that is arranged vertically with respect to the bottom cover (110). The end plate (120) can be arranged on the upper side of the bottom cover (110). The lower end of the end plate (120) can be fixed to the upper edge of the bottom cover (110) by various types of joining methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting.

[0078] The end plates (120) may be provided as a pair. The pair of end plates (120) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a first direction. Here, the first direction may be exemplified as a direction parallel to the X-axis direction with reference to FIG. 1. The pair of end plates (120) spaced apart from each other along the first direction may be arranged to be parallel to each other.

[0079] The side plate (130) can form the exterior of both sides of the housing (100). For example, the side plate (130) can be formed to have a plate shape that is arranged vertically with respect to the bottom cover (110) and the end plate (120). The side plate (130) can be arranged on the upper side of the bottom cover (110). The lower part of the side plate (130) can be fixed to the upper edge of the bottom cover (110) by various types of joining methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting.

[0080] The side plates (130) may be provided as a pair. The pair of side plates (130) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a second direction. Here, the second direction may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction, for example, a direction parallel to the Y-axis direction with reference to FIG. 1. The pair of side plates (130) spaced apart along the second direction may be arranged to be parallel to each other.

[0081] The inner surfaces of a pair of end plates (120) and a pair of side plates (130) may be formed to form a closed cross-section. Accordingly, a battery cell (200) and a cooling plate (300) may be accommodated in a space surrounded by the inner surfaces of a pair of end plates (120) and a pair of side plates (130).

[0082] The top cover (140) can form the upper exterior of the housing (100). The top cover (140) can close the internal space of the housing (100) surrounded by the inner surfaces of a pair of end plates (120) and a pair of side plates (130). For example, the top cover (140) can be formed to have the shape of a plate that faces the bottom cover (110) in a vertically parallel manner. The lower surface of the top cover (140) can be secured to the upper portions of the end plate (120) and the side plate (130). The top cover (140) can be fixed to the end plate (120) and the side plate (130) by various types of joining methods such as bolting, welding, and fitting.

[0083] The battery cell (200) can function as a unit structure that stores and supplies power in a battery module. The battery cell (200) can be arranged inside the housing (100). The battery cell (200) can be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple battery cells (200) can be arranged in at least two rows along a first direction inside the housing (100). The multiple battery cells (200) can be arranged in at least one column along a second direction. In FIG. 1, the multiple battery cells (200) are arranged in one row along the second direction as an example, but the multiple battery cells (200) are not limited thereto and can also be arranged in two or more rows along the second direction.

[0084] Hereinafter, the battery cell (200) is described as a square lithium ion secondary battery as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the battery cell (200) may be a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0085] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a battery cell (200) may include an electrode assembly (10), a cell case (20), and a cap assembly (30).

[0087] The electrode assembly (10) may include a separator (13) disposed between a positive electrode (11) and a negative electrode (12).

[0088] The positive electrode (11) and the negative electrode (12) may include a coated portion, which is an area where an active material is applied to a current collector formed of a thin metal foil, and a non-coated portion (11a, 12a), which is an area where an active material is not coated.

[0089] The electrode assembly (10) can be wound in the form of a jelly roll after a separator (13), which is an insulator, is interposed between the positive electrode (11) and the negative electrode (12). However, the electrode assembly (10) is not limited to this form, and may be formed in a stack structure in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode made of a plurality of sheets are alternately laminated with a separator (13) interposed therebetween.

[0090] The electrode assembly (10) can be formed singly, or can be provided in multiple pieces.

[0091] The cell case (20) can form the overall appearance of the battery cell (200). The cell case (20) can accommodate an electrode assembly (10) therein. For example, the cell case (20) can be formed to have the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with one side open.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, the cell case (20) may include a first case body (210) and a second case body (220).

[0094] The first case body (210) may form a portion of the outer appearance of the cell case (20), and the second case body (220) may form the remaining outer appearance of the cell case (20) excluding the first case body (210).

[0095] The first case body (210) and the second case body (220) may be formed of different materials. For example, the first case body (210) may be formed of a synthetic resin material, and the second case body (220) may be formed of a metal material. Here, the synthetic resin material constituting the first case body (210) may include at least one of PC (Poly Carbonate), PP (Poly Propylene), and PPS (Poly Phenylene Sulfide). In addition, the metal material constituting the second case body (220) may include at least one of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, and nickel-plated steel. Accordingly, the first case body (210) and the second case body (220) may increase the energy density per unit weight compared to a case in which they are formed only of an existing aluminum material, and may secure freedom in forming the thickness of the cell case (20).

[0096] The first case body (210) and the second case body (220) can be integrally joined by various types of dissimilar material joining methods such as insert injection and welding.

[0097] The first case body (210) may include a first bottom surface (211), a first end surface (212), and a first side surface (213).

[0098] The first bottom surface (211) can form the lower outer surface of the first case body (210). The first bottom surface (211) can be positioned to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) inside the housing (100). The first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape together with the second bottom surface (221) of the second case body (220) described later. That is, the first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a shape excluding the second bottom surface (221) from the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0099] For example, the first bottom surface (211) may be formed along the edge area of ​​the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20). The central portion and the vertex area of ​​the first bottom surface (211) may be formed to be empty.

[0100] The first end surface (212) extends from the first bottom surface (211) and can form the front and rear exterior surfaces of the first case body (210).

[0101] For example, the first end surface (212) may extend upward from the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0102] The lower portion of the first end surface (212) may have a shape that extends in a curved manner with a predetermined curvature from the upper surface of the first bottom surface (211). That is, the boundary portion between the first end surface (212) and the first bottom surface (211) may have an arc-shaped cross-section. Accordingly, the cell case (20) can prevent damage to the electrode assembly (10) accommodated therein.

[0103] The lower part of the first end surface (212) can be integrally connected to the upper edge of the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) can be arranged perpendicular to the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) can be integrally formed with the first bottom surface (211), or alternatively, it can be manufactured as a separate part from the first bottom surface (211) and then joined to the first bottom surface (211).

[0104] The first end surfaces (212) may be provided as a pair. The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction (X-axis direction based on FIG. 1) inside the housing (100). The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be arranged parallel to each other. The outer surfaces of the pair of first end surfaces (212) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120).

[0105] The first side surface (213) extends from the first bottom surface (211) and can form the exterior surfaces of both sides of the first case body (210). The first side surface (213) can be arranged to intersect the first end surface (212).

[0106] For example, the first side surface (213) may extend upward from the first bottom surface (211). The first side surface (213) may be arranged perpendicular to the first end surface (212). The first side surface (213) may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The area of ​​the first side surface (213) may be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the first end surface (212). The circumference of the first side surface (213) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the circumference of the first end surface (212).

[0107] The lower portion of the first side surface (213) may have a shape that extends in a curved manner at a predetermined curvature from the upper surface of the first bottom surface (211). That is, the boundary portion between the first side surface (213) and the first bottom surface (211) may have an arc-shaped cross-section.

[0108] The first side surfaces (213) may be provided as a pair. The pair of first side surfaces (213) may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction (Y-axis direction based on FIG. 1) inside the housing (100). The pair of first side surfaces (213) may be arranged parallel to each other. The outer surfaces of the pair of first side surfaces (213) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of side plates (130).

[0109] The second case body (220) may include a second bottom surface (221), a second end surface (222), and a second side surface (223).

[0110] The second bottom surface (221) can form the lower outer surface of the second case body (220). The second bottom surface (221) can be positioned to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) inside the housing (100). The second bottom surface (221) can be formed to form a rectangular cross-sectional shape together with the first bottom surface (211). That is, the first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a shape excluding the first bottom surface (211) from the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0111] The second floor surface (221) may include a bottom center portion (221a) and a bottom extension portion (221b).

[0112] The bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned at the center of the first bottom surface (211). For example, the bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned on the same plane as the first bottom surface (211). The circumference of the bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned so as to be surrounded by the inner surface of the first bottom surface (211). The bottom center portion (221a) may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The area of ​​the bottom center portion (221a) may be designed in various ways within a range smaller than the area of ​​the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0113] The bottom extension portion (221b) may extend from the bottom center portion (221a) toward the outer region of the first bottom surface (211). The bottom extension portion (221b) may function as a configuration that connects the second bottom surface (221) to the second end surface (222) and the second side surface (223) described later. Accordingly, the bottom extension portion (221b) may interconnect the second bottom surface (221), the second end surface (222), and the second side surface (223) formed of a metal material, thereby providing a path through which heat generated from the battery cell (200) may be transferred to the cooling plate (300) described later.

[0114] For example, the bottom extension portion (221b) may extend from the bottom center portion (221a) toward the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). More specifically, the bottom extension portion (221b) may have a rod shape in which one end is connected to the vertex of the bottom center portion (211a) and the other end extends toward the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). The other end of the bottom extension portion (221b) may penetrate the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). The outer circumferential surface of the other end of the bottom extension portion (221b) may be formed to extend continuously from the outer circumferential surface of the first bottom surface (211). Accordingly, the bottom extension portion (221b) may be directly connected to the second end surface (222) and the second side surface (223) described below.

[0115] The bottom extension portion (221b) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple bottom extension portions (221b) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the bottom center portion (221a). One end of each bottom extension portion (221b) may be individually connected to different vertices of the bottom center portion (221a). The other end of each bottom extension portion (221b) may be individually extended toward different vertices of the first bottom surface (211).

[0116] The second end surface (222) is combined with the first end surface (212) and can form the front and rear exterior surfaces of the second case body (220).

[0117] The second end faces (222) may be provided as a pair. The pair of second end faces (222) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The pair of second end faces (222) may be individually coupled to each of the first end faces (212). The outer surfaces of the pair of second end faces (222) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120).

[0118] The second end surface (222) may include a second end body (222a) and a second end connecting portion (222b).

[0119] The second end body (222a) may be formed to have a belt shape with one side open. The second end body (222a) may be arranged so that the open side faces downward, i.e., toward the first bottom surface (211). The inner surface of the second end body (222a) may be arranged to surround the entire circumference of the first end surface (212), excluding the circumference connected to the first bottom surface (211). Both sides of the second end body (222a) may be arranged on the same plane as both sides of the first end surface (212). The upper end of the second end body (222a) may be connected to a cap assembly (30) described below.

[0120] The second end connecting portion (222b) is provided on the second end body (222a) and can be connected to the bottom extension portion (221b). For example, the second end connecting portion (222b) may refer to a lower portion area of ​​the second end body (222a) arranged to face the first bottom surface (211). The second end connecting portion (222b) may be in contact with the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) arranged at the vertex area of ​​the first bottom surface (211). The second end connecting portion (222b) may be integrally connected to the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) by various connecting methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, the second end connection part (222b) can transfer heat transferred to the second end surface (222) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200), etc., to the second bottom surface (221) through the bottom extension part (221b).

[0121] The second side surface (223) can form the exterior of both sides of the second case body (220). The second side surface (223) can be combined with the first side surface (213) and arranged to intersect the second end surface (222).

[0122] The second side surfaces (223) may be provided as a pair. The pair of second side surfaces (223) may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction. The pair of second side surfaces (223) may be individually coupled to each of the first side surfaces (213). The outer surfaces of the pair of second side surfaces (223) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of side plates (130).

[0123] The second side surface (223) may include a second side body (223a) and a second side connection portion (223b).

[0124] The second side body (223a) may be formed to have a belt shape with one side open. The second side body (223a) may be arranged so that the open side faces downward, i.e., toward the first bottom surface (211). The inner surface of the second side body (223a) may be arranged to surround the entire circumference of the first side surface (213) except for the circumference connected to the first bottom surface (211). Both sides of the second side body (223a) may be arranged on the same plane as both sides of the first side surface (213). The upper end of the second side body (223a) may be connected to a cap assembly (30) described below.

[0125] The second side body (223a) may be connected to the second end body (222a). More specifically, both sides of the second side body (223a) may be in contact with and connected to one side of a different second end body (222a), respectively. Accordingly, when the battery cell (200) generates heat, the heat transferred to either the second side surface (223) or the second end surface (222) may be dispersed to the other side, thereby further improving the cooling efficiency of the battery cell (200).

[0126] The second side connecting portion (223b) is provided on the second side body (223a) and can be connected to the bottom extension portion (221b). For example, the second side connecting portion (223b) may refer to an end region of the second side body (223a) arranged to face the first bottom surface (211). The second side connecting portion (223b) may be in contact with the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) arranged at the vertex region of the first bottom surface (211). The second side connecting portion (223b) may be integrally connected to the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) by various connecting methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, the second side connection part (223b) can transfer heat transferred to the second side surface (223) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200), etc., to the second bottom surface (221) through the bottom extension part (221b).

[0127] The cap assembly (30) is coupled to the cell case (20) and can seal the cell case (20).

[0128] The cap assembly (30) may include a cap plate (31), a terminal (32), and a vent (34).

[0129] The cap plate (31) may be arranged to cover the open side of the cell case (20). For example, the cap plate (31) may be formed to have a flat plate shape. The cap plate (31) may be arranged on the upper side of the cell case (20). More specifically, the circumferential surface of the cap plate (31) may be in contact with the upper end of the second end body (222a) and the upper end of the second side body (223a). The circumferential surface of the cap plate (31) may be joined to the upper end of the second end body (222a) and the upper end of the second side body (223a) by various types of joining methods, such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, heat introduced into the second end surface (222) or the second side surface (223) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200) or the like can be transferred to the cap plate (31), and heat introduced into the cap plate (31) can be transferred to the second end surface (222) or the second side surface (223).

[0130] The cap plate (31) may be made of a conductive material including at least one of aluminum and an aluminum alloy.

[0131] The terminal (32) may be installed to penetrate the cap plate (31) and protrude outwardly from the cap plate (31). The outer surface of the upper pillar of the terminal (32) may be threaded and may be fixed to the cap plate (31) with a nut. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the terminal (32) may be formed in a rivet structure and may be riveted, or may be welded to the cap plate (31).

[0132] The terminals (32) protruding outward from the cap plate (31) may be formed as a pair. The pair of terminals (32) may be individually connected to the positive electrode (11) and the negative electrode (12) of the electrode assembly (10). Accordingly, the pair of terminals (32) may function as the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the battery cell (200), respectively.

[0133] For example, the terminal (32) may be electrically connected to a current collector including first and second current collectors (40, 50) (hereinafter referred to as positive and negative current collectors) welded to a positive electrode non-conducting portion (11a) or a negative electrode non-conducting portion (12a). For example, a pair of terminals (32) may be welded to the positive and negative electrode current collectors (40, 50), respectively. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the terminals (32) and the positive and negative electrode current collectors (40, 50) may be formed by being integrally joined.

[0134] An electrolyte injection port (33) into which a sealing plug (33a) can be installed can be formed in the cap plate (31).

[0135] The vent (34) can be opened and closed in response to changes in the internal pressure of the cell case (20). That is, the vent (34) can be kept closed during normal operation of the electrode assembly (10) to seal the cell case (20). The vent (34) can be opened when the internal pressure of the cell case (20) rises above a set level due to overcharging or a fire, and can discharge exhaust gases such as flames and gases from the inside of the cell case (20) to the outside of the cell case (20).

[0136] An insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly (10) and the cap plate (31). Here, the insulating member may include first and second lower insulating members (60, 70). Each of the first and second lower insulating members (60, 70) may be installed between the electrode assembly (10) and the cap plate (31).

[0137] Between the insulating member and the terminal (32), one end of a separating member that can be installed facing one side of the electrode assembly (10) can be installed.

[0138] The separating member may include first and second separating members (80, 90).

[0139] One end of the first and second separating members (80, 90), which can be installed facing one side of the electrode assembly (10), can be installed between the first and second lower insulating members (60, 70) and each terminal (32). The terminal (32) welded to the positive and negative current collectors (40, 50) can be connected to one end of the first and second lower insulating members (60, 70) and the first and second separating members (80, 90).

[0140] The cooling plate (300) is placed inside the housing (100) and can be in contact with the battery cell (200).

[0141] For example, the cooling plate (300) may be formed to have a plate shape. The cooling plate (300) may be arranged parallel to the bottom cover (110). The cooling plate (300) may be arranged between the bottom cover (110) and the battery cell (200). That is, the lower surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) in parallel. The upper surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face the first bottom surface (211) and the second bottom surface (221) of the battery cell (200) in parallel. The upper surface of the cooling plate (300) may be in direct contact with the first bottom surface (211) and the second bottom surface (221).

[0142] A flow path may be formed inside the cooling plate (300) to guide the flow of a coolant supplied from the outside. Accordingly, the cooling plate (300) can cool the battery cell (200) through the heat exchange between the coolant flowing inside and the battery cell (200). The coolant flowing inside the cooling plate (300) may be designed to be various types of heat exchange media, such as water or insulating oil. The cooling plate (300) may include a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, so that the heat exchange efficiency between the coolant and the battery cell (200) can be further improved.

[0143] As the second bottom surface (221), the second end surface (222), the second side surface (223), and the cap plate (31) are thermally connected to each other, when the battery cell (200) generates heat, the heat introduced into the second end surface (222), the second side surface (223), and the cap plate (31) can be transferred to the cooling plate (300) through the second bottom surface (221).

[0144] Below, a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0145] The battery module according to the present embodiment can be configured to differ only in the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) that is different from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0147] The description of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied as is to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment.

[0148] FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13, the first bottom surface (211) may be formed along the edge areas on both sides connected to a pair of first side surfaces (213) among the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20). The central area of ​​the first bottom surface (211) may be formed to be empty.

[0150] The first end surface (212) can be formed to have a cross-sectional shape in which the central region and the upper vertex region are empty.

[0151] The bottom extension portion (221b) may extend from the bottom center portion (221a) toward the edge between the first bottom surface (211) and the first end surface (212). More specifically, the bottom extension portion (221b) may refer to an end region of the bottom center portion (211a) that is parallel to the first end surface (212). The bottom extension portions (221b) may be provided in pairs. The pair of bottom extension portions (221b) may be respectively arranged at both ends of the bottom center portion (211a) that is parallel to the first end surface (212). The width of the bottom extension portion (221b) that is parallel to the second direction (Y-axis direction based on FIG. 9) may be the same as the width of the bottom center portion (221a) that is parallel to the second direction. The end of the floor extension (221b) penetrates the circumference of the first floor surface (211) and can be directly connected to the first end surface (212).

[0152] The second end surface (222) may include an end center portion (222c), an end edge portion (222d), and a first end extension portion (222e).

[0153] The end central portion (222c) may be positioned at the center of the first end surface (212). For example, the end central portion (222c) may be positioned on the same plane as the first end surface (212). The end central portion (222c) may be positioned such that its circumference is surrounded by the inner surface of the first end surface (212). The end central portion (222c) may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The area of ​​the end central portion (222c) may be designed in various ways within a range smaller than the area of ​​the front or rear surface of the cell case (20) facing the end plate (120).

[0154] The end edge portion (222d) may be arranged at the edge of the first end surface (212) and may be spaced apart from the end center portion (222c). For example, the end edge portion (222d) may be formed to have a plate shape covering the upper peripheral surface of the first end surface (212). The width of the end edge portion (222d) parallel to the second direction may be formed to be larger than the width of the end center portion (222c) parallel to the second direction. The end edge portion (222d) may be in contact with the cap plate (31) and may be connected to the cap plate (31).

[0155] The first end extension (222e) may be positioned between the end center portion (222c) and the end edge portion (222d). The first end extension (222e) may function as a configuration that thermally interconnects the end center portion (222c) and the end edge portion (222d). For example, the first end extension (222e) may extend from the upper vertex of the end center portion (222c) toward the upper vertex of the first end surface (212), i.e., toward the end of the end edge portion (222d).

[0156] The first end extension portion (222e) may be provided as a pair. A pair of first end extension portions (222e) may be connected to the upper vertices of a pair of end central portions (222c) and to both ends of an end edge portion (222d), respectively.

[0157] The second side surface (223) may be arranged at the edge of the first side surface (213). The second side surfaces (223) may be provided in pairs. A pair of second side surfaces (223) may be arranged at the edges of different first side surfaces (213).

[0158] For example, the second side surface (223) may be formed to have a plate shape that covers the upper peripheral surface of the first side surface (213). The width of the second side surface (223) parallel to the first direction may be the same as the width of the first side surface (213) parallel to the first direction. Both ends of the second side surface (223) may be respectively connected to ends of end edge portions (222d) coupled to different first end surfaces (212). The second side surface (223) may be in contact with the cap plate (31) and may be connected to the cap plate (31).

[0159] Below, a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0160] The battery module according to the present embodiment may be configured to differ from the battery module according to the second embodiment of the present invention only in that it further includes a second end extension portion (222f).

[0161] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the second end extension part (222f) that is different from the battery module according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0162] The description of the battery module according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be applied as is to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment.

[0163] FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18, the second end surface (222) may further include a second end extension portion (222f).

[0165] The second end extension (222f) extends from the end center (222c) and can be connected to the bottom extension (221b).

[0166] For example, the second end extension (222f) may refer to a lower portion of the end center portion (222c) that is parallel to the first bottom surface (211). The second end extension (222f) may extend from the end center portion (222c) toward a corner between the first bottom surface (211) and the first end surface (212). The lower portion of the second end extension (222f) may be connected to an end of the bottom extension (221b) that penetrates the circumference of the first bottom surface (211). Accordingly, the second end extension (222f) may electrically connect the end center portion (222c) and the cap plate (31) to the second bottom surface (221), thereby further improving the cooling efficiency of the battery cell (200).

[0167] The width of the second end extension (222f) parallel to the second direction may be the same as the width of the end center (222c) parallel to the second direction.

[0168] Below, a battery module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0169] The battery module according to the present embodiment can be configured to differ only in the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) that is different from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0171] The description of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied as is to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment.

[0172] FIG. 19 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 22 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 23 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 23, it may include a first end surface (212) and a first side surface (213).

[0174] The first end surface (212) can form the front and rear exterior of the first case body (210).

[0175] For example, the first end surface (212) may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The first end surfaces (212) may be provided as a pair. The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction (X-axis direction based on FIG. 19) inside the housing (100). The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be arranged parallel to each other. The outer surfaces of the pair of first end surfaces (212) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120), respectively.

[0176] The first side surface (213) can form the exterior of both sides of the first case body (210). The first side surface (213) can be arranged to intersect the first end surface (212).

[0177] For example, the first side surface (213) may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The first side surface (213) may be arranged perpendicularly to the first end surface (212). The area of ​​the first side surface (213) may be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the first end surface (212). The circumferential surface of the first side surface (213) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the circumferential surface of the first end surface (212).

[0178] The first side surfaces (213) may be provided as a pair. The pair of first side surfaces (213) may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction (Y-axis direction based on FIG. 19) inside the housing (100). The pair of first side surfaces (213) may be arranged parallel to each other. The outer surfaces of the pair of first side surfaces (213) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of side plates (130).

[0179] The second case body (220) may include a bottom surface (220a), a second end surface (222), and a second side surface (223).

[0180] The bottom surface (220a) can form the lower outer surface of the second case body (220). The bottom surface (220a) can be arranged to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) inside the housing (100). The bottom surface (220a) can be arranged to intersect the first end surface (212) and the first side surface (213). For example, the bottom surface (220a) can be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. That is, the bottom surface (220a) can be arranged to face the lower portions of the first end surface (212) and the first side surface (213). The bottom surface (220a) can be arranged perpendicular to the first end surface (212) and the first side surface (213). The perimeter surface of the bottom surface (220a) can be spaced apart from the lower portions of the first end surface (212) and the first side surface (213).

[0181] The second end surface (222) is combined with the first end surface (212) and can form the front and rear exterior surfaces of the second case body (220).

[0182] The second end faces (222) may be provided as a pair. The pair of second end faces (222) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The pair of second end faces (222) may be individually coupled to each of the first end faces (212). The outer surfaces of the pair of second end faces (222) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120).

[0183] The second end surface (222) may include a second end body (222a) and a second end connecting portion (222b).

[0184] The second end body (222a) may be formed to have a belt shape with one side open. The second end body (222a) may be arranged so that the open side faces downward, i.e., toward the bottom surface (220a). The inner surface of the second end body (222a) may be arranged to surround the entire circumference surface of the first end surface (212), except for the lower circumference surface facing the bottom surface (220a). Both sides of the second end body (222a) may be arranged on the same plane as both sides of the first end surface (212). The upper end of the second end body (222a) may be connected to a cap assembly (30) described below.

[0185] The second end connecting portion (222b) is provided on the second end body (222a) and can be connected to the bottom surface (220a). For example, the second end connecting portion (222b) can be formed to surround the lower peripheral surface of the first end surface (212) that is arranged to face the bottom surface (220a). The second end connecting portion (222b) can be in contact with the peripheral surface of the bottom surface (220a). The second end connecting portion (222b) can be integrally connected to the bottom surface (220a) by various connecting methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, the second end connection part (222b) can disperse heat transferred to the second end surface (222) or the cap plate (31) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200), etc., to the bottom surface (220a), or can disperse heat transferred to the bottom surface (220a) to the second end surface (222).

[0186] The second side surface (223) can form the exterior of both sides of the second case body (220). The second side surface (223) can be combined with the first side surface (213) and arranged to intersect the second end surface (222).

[0187] The second side surfaces (223) may be provided as a pair. The pair of second side surfaces (223) may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction. The pair of second side surfaces (223) may be individually coupled to each of the first side surfaces (213). The outer surfaces of the pair of second side surfaces (223) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of side plates (130).

[0188] The second side surface (223) may include a second side body (223a) and a second side connection portion (223b).

[0189] The second side body (223a) may be formed to have a belt shape with one side open. The second side body (223a) may be arranged so that the open side faces downward, i.e., toward the bottom surface (220a). The inner surface of the second side body (223a) may be arranged to surround the entire circumference surface of the first side surface (213), except for the lower circumference surface facing the bottom surface (220a). Both sides of the second side body (223a) may be arranged on the same plane as both sides of the first side surface (213). The upper end of the second side body (223a) may be connected to a cap assembly (30) described later.

[0190] The second side body (223a) may be connected to the second end body (222a). More specifically, both sides of the second side body (223a) may be in contact with and connected to one side of a different second end body (222a), respectively. Accordingly, when the battery cell (200) generates heat, the heat transferred to either the second side surface (223) or the second end surface (222) may be dispersed to the other side, thereby further improving the cooling efficiency of the battery cell (200).

[0191] The second side connecting portion (223b) is provided on the second side body (223a) and can be connected to the bottom surface (220a). For example, the second side connecting portion (223b) can be formed to surround the lower peripheral surface of the first side surface (213) that is arranged to face the bottom surface (220a). The second side connecting portion (223b) can be in contact with the peripheral surface of the bottom surface (220a). The second side connecting portion (223b) can be integrally connected to the bottom surface (220a) by various connecting methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, the second side connection part (223b) can disperse heat transferred to the second side surface (223) or the cap plate (31) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200), etc., to the bottom surface (220a), or can disperse heat transferred to the bottom surface (220a) to the second side surface (223).

[0192] Below, a battery module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0193] The battery module according to the present embodiment can be configured to differ only in the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0194] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the detailed configuration of the cell case (20) that is different from the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0195] The description of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied as is to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment.

[0196] FIG. 24 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 26 is a front view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 27 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 28 is a side view schematically showing the configuration of a cell case according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0197] Referring to FIGS. 24 to 28, the first case body (210) may include a first bottom surface (211) and a first end surface (212).

[0198] The first bottom surface (211) can form the lower outer surface of the first case body (210). The first bottom surface (211) can be positioned to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) inside the housing (100). The first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape together with the second bottom surface (221) of the second case body (220) described later. That is, the first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a shape excluding the second bottom surface (221) from the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0199] For example, the first bottom surface (211) may be formed along the edge area of ​​the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20). The central portion and the vertex area of ​​the first bottom surface (211) may be formed to be empty.

[0200] The first end surface (212) extends from the first bottom surface (211) and can form the front and rear exterior surfaces of the first case body (210).

[0201] For example, the first end surface (212) may extend upward from the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0202] The lower portion of the first end surface (212) may have a shape that extends in a curved manner with a predetermined curvature from the upper surface of the first bottom surface (211). That is, the boundary portion between the first end surface (212) and the first bottom surface (211) may have an arc-shaped cross-section. Accordingly, the cell case (20) can prevent damage to the electrode assembly (10) accommodated therein.

[0203] The lower part of the first end surface (212) can be integrally connected to the upper edge of the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) can be arranged perpendicular to the first bottom surface (211). The first end surface (212) can be integrally formed with the first bottom surface (211), or alternatively, it can be manufactured as a separate part from the first bottom surface (211) and then joined to the first bottom surface (211).

[0204] The first end surfaces (212) may be provided as a pair. The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction (X-axis direction based on FIG. 1) inside the housing (100). The pair of first end surfaces (212) may be arranged parallel to each other. The outer surfaces of the pair of first end surfaces (212) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120).

[0205] The second case body (220) may include a second bottom surface (221), a second end surface (222), and a side surface (224).

[0206] The second bottom surface (221) can form the lower outer surface of the second case body (220). The second bottom surface (221) can be positioned to face the upper surface of the bottom cover (110) inside the housing (100). The second bottom surface (221) can be formed to form a rectangular cross-sectional shape together with the first bottom surface (211). That is, the first bottom surface (211) can be formed to have a shape excluding the first bottom surface (211) from the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0207] The second floor surface (221) may include a bottom center portion (221a) and a bottom extension portion (221b).

[0208] The bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned at the center of the first bottom surface (211). For example, the bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned on the same plane as the first bottom surface (211). The circumference of the bottom center portion (221a) may be positioned so as to be surrounded by the inner surface of the first bottom surface (211). The bottom center portion (221a) may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The area of ​​the bottom center portion (221a) may be designed in various ways within a range smaller than the area of ​​the entire bottom surface of the cell case (20).

[0209] The bottom extension portion (221b) may extend from the bottom center portion (221a) toward the outer region of the first bottom surface (211). The bottom extension portion (221b) may function as a configuration that connects the second bottom surface (221) to the second end surface (222) and the second side surface (223) described later. Accordingly, the bottom extension portion (221b) may interconnect the second bottom surface (221), the second end surface (222), and the second side surface (223) formed of a metal material, thereby providing a path through which heat generated from the battery cell (200) may be transferred to the cooling plate (300) described later.

[0210] For example, the bottom extension portion (221b) may extend from the bottom center portion (221a) toward the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). More specifically, the bottom extension portion (221b) may have a rod shape in which one end is connected to the vertex of the bottom center portion (211a) and the other end extends toward the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). The other end of the bottom extension portion (221b) may penetrate the vertex of the first bottom surface (211). The outer circumferential surface of the other end of the bottom extension portion (221b) may be formed to extend continuously from the outer circumferential surface of the first bottom surface (211). Accordingly, the bottom extension portion (221b) may be directly connected to the second end surface (222) and the second side surface (223) described below.

[0211] The bottom extension portion (221b) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple bottom extension portions (221b) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the bottom center portion (221a). One end of each bottom extension portion (221b) may be individually connected to different vertices of the bottom center portion (221a). The other end of each bottom extension portion (221b) may be individually extended toward different vertices of the first bottom surface (211).

[0212] The second end surface (222) is combined with the first end surface (212) and can form the front and rear exterior surfaces of the second case body (220).

[0213] The second end faces (222) may be provided as a pair. The pair of second end faces (222) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The pair of second end faces (222) may be individually coupled to each of the first end faces (212). The outer surfaces of the pair of second end faces (222) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of end plates (120).

[0214] The second end surface (222) may include a second end body (222a) and a second end connecting portion (222b).

[0215] The second end body (222a) may be formed to have a belt shape with one side open. The second end body (222a) may be arranged so that the open side faces downward, i.e., toward the first bottom surface (211). The inner surface of the second end body (222a) may be arranged to surround the entire circumference of the first end surface (212), excluding the circumference connected to the first bottom surface (211). Both sides of the second end body (222a) may be arranged on the same plane as both sides of the first end surface (212). The upper end of the second end body (222a) may be connected to a cap assembly (30) described below.

[0216] The second end connecting portion (222b) is provided on the second end body (222a) and can be connected to the bottom extension portion (221b). For example, the second end connecting portion (222b) may refer to a lower portion area of ​​the second end body (222a) arranged to face the first bottom surface (211). The second end connecting portion (222b) may be in contact with the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) arranged at the vertex area of ​​the first bottom surface (211). The second end connecting portion (222b) may be integrally connected to the other end of the bottom extension portion (211b) by various connecting methods such as welding, bolting, and fitting. Accordingly, the second end connection part (222b) can transfer heat transferred to the second end surface (222) due to heat generation of the battery cell (200), etc., to the second bottom surface (221) through the bottom extension part (221b).

[0217] The side surface (224) can form the exterior of both sides of the second case body (220). The side surface (224) can be arranged to intersect the second end surface (222).

[0218] The side surfaces (224) may be provided as a pair. The pair of side surfaces (224) may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction. The outer surfaces of the pair of side surfaces (224) may be individually arranged to face the inner surfaces of the pair of side plates (130).

[0219] For example, the side surface (224) can be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0220] The side surface (224) may extend upward from both ends of the first bottom surface (211) spaced apart along the second direction. The lower end of the side surface (224) may be in contact with and connected to the other end of the bottom extension portion (221b). The two sides of the side surface (224) may be connected to the side of the second end body (222a) coupled to a different first end surface (212), respectively. The upper end of the side surface (224) may be in contact with and connected to the cap plate (31).

[0221] Below, a battery module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0222] Figure 29 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0223] Referring to FIG. 29, the battery module according to the present embodiment can be configured to differ only in the installation position of the cooling plate (300) from the battery module according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0224] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the installation position of the cooling plate (300), which is different from the battery module according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention, will be described.

[0225] The description of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment. The battery cell (200) included in the battery module according to the present embodiment can be any one of the battery cells (200) according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0226] The cooling plate (300) according to the present embodiment may be formed to have a plate shape. The cooling plate (300) may be arranged parallel to the top cover (140). The cooling plate (300) may be arranged between the top cover (140) and the battery cell (200). That is, the upper surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face parallel to the lower surface of the top cover (140). The lower surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face parallel to the cap plate (31) of the battery cell (200). The lower surface of the cooling plate (300) may be in contact with a bus bar (not shown) coupled to the cap plate (31) or the terminal (32).

[0227] The cooling plate (300) according to the present embodiment can be applied simultaneously with the cooling plates (300) according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention. That is, the cooling plates (300) are provided as a pair, and each pair of cooling plates (300) can be individually placed between the bottom cover (110) and the battery cell (200) and between the top cover (140) and the battery cell (200), respectively.

[0228] Below, a battery module according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0229] Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0230] Referring to FIG. 30, the battery module according to the present embodiment can be configured to differ only in the installation position of the cooling plate (300) from the battery module according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0231] Accordingly, in describing the battery module according to the present embodiment, only the installation position of the cooling plate (300), which is different from the battery module according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention, will be described.

[0232] The description of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the remaining configuration of the battery module according to the present embodiment. The battery cell (200) included in the battery module according to the present embodiment can be any one of the battery cells (200) according to the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0233] The cooling plate (300) according to the present embodiment may be formed to have a plate shape. The cooling plate (300) may be arranged parallel to the side plate (130). The cooling plate (300) may be arranged between the side plate (130) and the battery cell (200).

[0234] A plurality of cooling plates (300) may be provided. For example, the cooling plates (300) may be provided in pairs, and each pair of cooling plates (300) may be symmetrically arranged on both sides of the battery cell (200).

[0235] The outer surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face parallel to the inner surface of the side plate (130). The inner surface of the cooling plate (300) may be arranged to face parallel to the side surface of the battery cell (200), i.e., the second side surface (223) or the side surface (224). The inner surface of the cooling plate (300) may be in direct contact with the second side surface (223) or the side surface (224).

[0236] The cooling plate (300) according to the present embodiment can be applied simultaneously with the cooling plates (300) according to the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention. For example, the cooling plates (300) are formed in four pieces, and each cooling plate (300) can be individually placed between the bottom cover (110) and the battery cell (200), between the side plate (130) and the battery cell (200), and between the top cover (140) and the battery cell (200).

[0237] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom.

[0238] Therefore, the technical protection scope of the present invention should be defined by the following patent claims.

Claims

1. Electrode assembly; a cell case accommodating the electrode assembly; and A cap plate coupled to the cell case and sealing the cell case; The above cell case is, 1st case body; and A battery cell characterized by including a second case body formed of a different material from the first case body.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery cell characterized in that the first case body is formed of a synthetic resin material and the second case body is formed of a metal material.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell characterized in that the synthetic resin material includes at least one of PC (Poly Carbonate), PP (Poly Propylene), and PPS (Poly Phenylene Sulfide), and the metal material includes at least one of aluminum and an aluminum alloy.

4. In paragraph 1, The above first case body is, First floor surface; a first end surface extending from the first bottom surface; and including a first side surface arranged to intersect the first end surface; The above second case body is, A second bottom surface coupled to the first bottom surface; A second end surface coupled with the first end surface; and A battery cell characterized by comprising a second side surface coupled to the first side surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

5. In paragraph 4, The above second floor surface is, A central part of the floor disposed at the center of the first floor surface; and A battery cell characterized by including a bottom extension portion extending from the center of the bottom.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery cell characterized in that the above-mentioned bottom extension portion extends toward the vertex of the first bottom surface.

7. In paragraph 6, The above second end surface is, A second end body arranged to surround the first end surface; A second end connecting portion provided in the second end body and connected to the floor extension portion; The above second side surface is, A second side body arranged to surround the first side surface; and A battery cell characterized by including a second side connection part provided on the second side body and connected to the bottom extension part.

8. In paragraph 7, A battery cell characterized in that the second side body is connected to the second end body.

9. In paragraph 5, A battery cell characterized in that the bottom extension portion extends toward the edge between the first bottom surface and the first end surface.

10. In paragraph 9, The above second end surface is, An end center portion positioned at the center of the first end surface; An end edge portion arranged on the edge of the first end surface; and It includes a first end extension portion arranged between the end central portion and the end edge portion; A battery cell characterized in that the second side surface is arranged at the edge of the first side surface and is connected to the end edge portion.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery cell characterized in that the second end surface further includes a second end extension portion extending from the end center portion and connected to the bottom extension portion.

12. In paragraph 1, The above first case body is, First end surface; and including a first side surface arranged to intersect the first end surface; The above second case body is, A bottom surface arranged to intersect the first end surface and the first side surface; A second end surface coupled with the first end surface; and A battery cell characterized by comprising a second side surface coupled to the first side surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

13. In paragraph 12, The above second end surface is, A second end body arranged to surround the first end surface; A second end connecting portion provided in the second end body and connected to the bottom surface; The above second side surface is, A second side body arranged to surround the first side surface; and A battery cell characterized by including a second side connecting portion provided on the second side body and connected to the bottom surface.

14. In paragraph 13, A battery cell characterized in that the second side body is connected to the second end body.

15. In paragraph 1, The above first case body is, First floor surface; including a first end surface extending from the first bottom surface; The above second case body is, A second bottom surface coupled to the first bottom surface; A second end surface coupled to the first end surface; A battery cell characterized by including a side surface extending from the first bottom surface and arranged to intersect the second end surface.

16. In paragraph 15, The above second floor surface is, A central part of the floor disposed at the center of the first floor surface; and A battery cell characterized by including a bottom extension portion extending from the center of the bottom.

17. In paragraph 16, A battery cell characterized in that the above-mentioned bottom extension portion extends toward the vertex of the first bottom surface.

18. In paragraph 16, The above second end surface is, A second end body arranged to surround the first end surface and connected to the side surface; and A battery cell characterized by including a second end connecting portion provided in the second end body and connected to the bottom extension portion.

19. Housing; One or more battery cells arranged inside the housing; and A cooling plate is included, which is in contact with the battery cell and cools the battery cell; The above battery cell, electrode assembly; A cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly and has a first case body and a second case body formed of different materials; and A battery module characterized by comprising a cap assembly coupled to the cell case and sealing the cell case.

20. In paragraph 19, A battery module, wherein the cooling plate is in contact with at least one of the cell case and the cap assembly.

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