Battery module and battery device including same

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery module and a battery device including same, the battery module being capable of minimizing temperature deviation for each location in the battery module by having heterogeneous battery cells arranged in the battery module on the basis of thermal characteristics of the heterogeneous battery cells. The battery module comprises: a first type of battery cells; and a second type of battery cells having thermal characteristics differing from those of the first type of battery cells, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are irregularly and alternately arranged such that the difference in temperature for each location is minimized in the battery module on the basis of the thermal characteristics.

Description

Battery module and battery device including same

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0045385, dated April 3, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0029098, dated March 6, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery device including the same.

[0003]

[0004] In general, secondary batteries are used as an energy source for mobile devices, electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, electric bicycles, etc., and depending on the type of external device to which they are applied, they are sometimes used in the form of a single battery, or in the form of a module in which multiple batteries are connected to form a single unit.

[0005] Small mobile devices such as cell phones can operate for a certain period of time with the output and capacity of a single battery, but in cases such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles that require high power consumption, long-term operation, and high-power operation, a module form that includes multiple batteries is preferred due to issues with output and capacity, and the output voltage or output current can be increased depending on the number of built-in batteries.

[0006] Meanwhile, technology development is underway to minimize temperature differences between secondary battery cells in order to reduce performance and lifespan differences between secondary battery cells in battery devices.

[0007]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module and a battery device including the same, which can minimize temperature deviation according to location within a battery module by arranging heterogeneous battery cells within the battery module based on the thermal characteristics of the heterogeneous battery cells.

[0009] In addition, the present invention provides a battery module and a battery device including the same, which can reduce performance and lifespan differences between battery cells by connecting battery cells of the same type among battery cells arranged in the battery module and independently driving battery cells of different types.

[0010] In addition, the present invention provides a battery module and a battery device including the same, which can minimize heat accumulation at a specific location within the battery module by minimizing thermal deviation between battery cells.

[0011] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0012]

[0013] A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes battery cells of a first type and battery cells of a second type having different thermal characteristics from those of the battery cells of the first type, wherein the battery cells of the first type and the battery cells of the second type are arranged irregularly and alternately within the battery module based on the thermal characteristics so that the temperature difference between locations is minimized.

[0014] A battery device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes first to n-th battery modules, each of the first to n-th battery modules having first type battery cells and second type battery cells having different thermal characteristics from the first type battery cells, and the first type battery cells and the second type battery cells are electrically connected to each other independently in the first to n-th battery modules.

[0015]

[0016] According to embodiments of the present invention, by arranging heterogeneous battery cells within a battery module based on the thermal characteristics of the heterogeneous battery cells, the temperature deviation according to location within the battery module can be minimized.

[0017] In addition, the performance and lifespan deviation between battery cells can be reduced by connecting battery cells of the same type among the battery cells arranged within the battery module and independently driving battery cells of different types.

[0018] Additionally, by minimizing thermal variations between battery cells, heat accumulation at specific locations within the battery module can be minimized.

[0019] Additionally, the heat distribution between battery cells is uniform, so that heat propagation between battery cells can be uniform.

[0020] Additionally, thermal runaway of a specific battery cell can be prevented by minimizing temperature deviations by location within the battery module and minimizing heat accumulation at a specific location.

[0021] Additionally, since the operating temperatures of the battery cells are similar and thus the degradation tendencies are similar, the characteristic deviations between the battery cells over time can be minimized.

[0022] In addition, since the battery cells of the same type are electrically connected using “U” and “n” shaped bus bars, a double structure can be avoided when crossing with the battery cells of different types, thereby avoiding space loss.

[0023] Additionally, by avoiding serial connection between heterogeneous cells, energy loss due to variation between battery cells in a battery device can be minimized.

[0024] Additionally, heterogeneous battery cells with different operating ranges or energies can be electrically connected to be utilized as battery devices, thereby maximizing the available energy of the battery device.

[0025] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0026]

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2 illustrates operation based on a type B battery cell, which has a smaller operating range than type A in a battery module.

[0029] Figure 3 illustrates operation based on a battery cell of type A, which has a larger operating range than a battery cell of type B, in a battery module.

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates the arrangement and electrical connection relationship of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5 illustrates a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 6 illustrates a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 7 illustrates a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates a battery device including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037]

[0038] The above-described objects, means, and effects will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0039] Hereinafter, a battery module and a battery device including the same according to embodiments are disclosed.

[0040] Before describing the battery module and the battery device including the same according to the embodiments, the meaning of terms used in this specification is defined.

[0041] In the specification, heterogeneous battery cells may be defined as battery cells of different types with different thermal characteristics and battery performance. Homogeneous battery cells may be defined as battery cells of the same type with identical thermal characteristics and battery performance. Here, the thermal characteristics of a battery cell may include the heat generated during cell operation and the thermal conduction between cells. Battery performance may include the operating range and battery capacity.

[0042] Battery cells dissipate heat more easily at the periphery of the module than at the center. Therefore, cells located at the center of the module tend to maintain higher temperatures than those located at the periphery. Consequently, differences in operating temperature can occur depending on the location of the battery cells, potentially affecting cell performance and degradation (or lifespan), leading to variations among battery cells.

[0043] The battery device according to embodiments of the present invention aims to prevent heat transfer between battery cells by arranging heterogeneous battery cells to minimize thermal deviation within a battery module and using battery cells with high thermal stability.

[0044] FIG. 1 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 1, a battery module (100) according to one embodiment includes first type battery cells (CELA) and second type battery cells (CELB).

[0046] The first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may have different thermal characteristics and battery performance. For example, the first type of battery cells (CELA) may have better battery performance but worse heat generation and thermal conductivity characteristics compared to the second type of battery cells (CELB). Alternatively, the second type of battery cells (CELB) may have better battery performance but worse heat generation and thermal conductivity characteristics compared to the first type of battery cells (CELA).

[0047] Here, the difference in thermal characteristics between the first and second types of battery cells (CELA, CELB) may mean that at least one of the degree of heat generation and thermal conductivity is different between the first and second types of battery cells (CELA, CELB) when the battery is charged and discharged for the same period of time. In addition, the different battery performance between the first and second types of battery cells (CELA, CELB) may mean that at least one of the time required to charge and discharge, the operating range (or voltage range) of charge and discharge, and the battery capacity is different between the first and second types of battery cells (CELA, CELB).

[0048] Within the battery module (100), the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be arranged irregularly and alternately so that the temperature difference between locations within the battery module (100) is minimized based on thermal characteristics according to type.

[0049] As an example of the irregularly alternated arrangement, at least one second type battery cell (CELB) may be arranged in the center, at least one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged on both sides of at least one second type battery cell (CELB), and at least one second type battery cell (CELB) may be arranged on both sides of the next. Here, the number of different cells may be the same or different. In addition, the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) may be positive (+) or negative (-) cells. In addition, at least one of the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) may be used as a connector terminal (CNT).

[0050] As another example of the irregularly alternated arrangement, at least one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged in the center, at least one second type battery cell (CELB) may be arranged on both sides of at least one first type battery cell (CELA), and at least one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged on both sides of the next. Here, the number of different cells may be the same or different. In addition, the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) may be positive (+) or negative (-) cells. In addition, at least one of the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) may be used as a connector terminal (CNT).

[0051] For example, in a battery module (100), at least one second type of battery cell (CELB) and at least one first type of battery cell (CELA) may be irregularly alternately arranged on both sides of at least one of the first type of battery cells (CELA).

[0052] As another example, in the battery module (100), at least one first type battery cell (CELA) and at least one second type battery cell (CELB) may be irregularly alternately arranged on both sides based on at least one of the second type battery cells (CELB).

[0053] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, in a battery module (100), one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged on both sides of one second type battery cell (CELB), two second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged next, and one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged next. Here, the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) may be positive (+) or negative (-) cells.

[0054] In this way, the battery device according to embodiments of the present invention does not have a structure in which heterogeneous battery cells (CELA, CELB) are simply alternately arranged within a battery module (100), but has a structure in which heterogeneous battery cells (CELA, CELB) are irregularly arranged within the battery module (100) so as to secure temperature uniformity of the battery module (100) by considering thermal characteristics according to the type of heterogeneous battery cells (CELA, CELB), that is, heat generation and heat conduction of cells according to the type. This makes it possible to minimize temperature deviation according to location within the battery module (100).

[0055] In addition, the battery device according to embodiments of the present invention has a structure in which battery cells of the same type (CELA or CELB) are electrically connected within a battery module (100), and battery cells of different types (CELA, CELB) within the battery module (100) are connected to operate independently. This enables performance and lifespan deviations between battery cells to be reduced.

[0056] A more specific description of a battery module (100) having such a structure and a battery device including the same is as follows.

[0057] Figure 2 illustrates that the battery module operates based on a type B battery cell, which has a smaller operating range than a type A battery cell. Figure 3 illustrates that the battery module operates based on a type A battery cell, which has a larger operating range than a type B battery cell.

[0058] When heterogeneous battery cells are connected in series and parallel within a battery module (100), stability problems may occur due to voltage deviations between heterogeneous battery cells with different operating ranges, and available energy may be limited.

[0059] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate that a type A battery cell (CELA) is driven in an operating range of 0 V to 4.2 V, and a type B battery cell (CELB) is driven in an operating range of 0 V to 4.0 V.

[0060] Here, when full charging is performed based on the type B battery cell (CELB), as illustrated in Fig. 2, the type B battery cell (CELB) is charged to 100%, but the type A battery cell (CELA) is only charged to 80%. In other words, the battery device may be down-leveled to the type B battery cell (CELB) with lower battery performance because the available energy is limited.

[0061] In addition, when performing a full charge based on the type A battery cell (CELA), the type A battery cell (CELA) is charged to 100% as shown in Fig. 3, but the type B battery cell (CELB) may be charged to 120%. In other words, the type B battery cell (CELB) may have stability issues due to overcharging.

[0062] Accordingly, the battery device disclosed herein seeks to minimize temperature deviation within a battery module while maximizing the available energy of the battery device.

[0063] FIG. 4 illustrates the arrangement and electrical connection relationship of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 4, the battery module (100) includes first type battery cells (CELA), second type battery cells (CELB), a first bus bar (B1), and a second bus bar (B2).

[0065] The first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be arranged within the battery module (100) so that the temperature difference between locations within the battery module (100) is minimized based on the thermal characteristics of the heterogeneous battery cells (CELA, CELB).

[0066] The first bus bar (B1) can electrically connect the first type of battery cells (CELA), and the second bus bar (B2) can electrically connect the second type of battery cells (CELB). For example, the first bus bar (B1) can be used to connect the first type of battery cells (CELA) in series, and the second bus bar (B2) can be used to connect the second type of battery cells (CELB) in series.

[0067] The first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) can connect the same type of battery cells in series so that the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) are not electrically connected to each other. That is, the different types of battery cells (CELA, CELB) can be independently connected through the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) within the battery module (100) and can be independently charged or discharged.

[0068] For example, the first type battery cell (CELA) and the second type battery cell (CELB) can be positive (+) or negative (-) cells, and the positive first type battery cell (CELA) and the negative first type battery cell (CELA) can be arranged on both sides of the positive second type battery cell (CELB). Next, two second type battery cells (CELB) with a negative polarity and a positive polarity can be arranged on one side of the two sides, and two second type battery cells (CELB) with a negative polarity and a positive polarity can be arranged on the other side. Next, the positive first type battery cell (CELA) can be arranged on one side of the two sides, and the negative first type battery cell (CELA) can be arranged on the other side.

[0069] The first bus bar (B1) can be electrically connected between two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive and negative polarity, and the second bus bar (B2) can be electrically connected between two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive and negative polarity.

[0070] At least one of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be used as a connector terminal (CNT) for electrically connecting with another battery module.

[0071] Although only one connector is illustrated in FIG. 4, this is not limiting. At least one connector terminal (CNT) may be provided for each of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB).

[0072] In addition, the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) can be formed in such a way that they do not overlap each other when connecting battery cells of the same type. For example, the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) " "or " "Can be formed into a shape.

[0073] Here, " "and " "The member in the x-axis direction of the shape can be defined as a member that connects the battery cells, and the member in the y-axis direction can be defined as a member that is electrically connected to the battery cell and the lead (or contact point). The width of the member in the y-axis direction can be wider than the width of the member in the x-axis direction, and the width of the member in the y-axis direction can be changed depending on the size of the lead of the battery cell.

[0074] Additionally, the shape and size of the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) can be changed depending on the lead position of the battery cell of each type.

[0075] When these first busbars (B1) and second busbars (B2) are connected between non-adjacent battery cells, " "or " "The top and bottom are open, like the shape, to enable long-distance connection within the same width.

[0076] For example, a lead of a first type of battery cell may be connected to the upper portion of a y-axis-direction member of a first bus bar (B1), and a lead of a second type of battery cell may be connected to the lower portion of a y-axis-direction member of a second bus bar (B2).

[0077] As another example, the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) may be formed in a "W" or "M" shape to connect three battery cells of the same type. When connecting non-adjacent battery cells of the same type, the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) have at least one open top and bottom, like a "W" or "M" shape, to enable long-distance connection without overlapping each other.

[0078] Additionally, in the present embodiments, the battery cells may be formed at different positions on the front and rear sides, with the leads in contact with the bus bars depending on the battery cell type. For example, the leads of the first type of battery cells (CELA) may be formed at higher or lower positions than the leads of the second type of battery cells (CELB). In this case, since the leads of the first bus bar (B1) and the second bus bar (B2) differ depending on the battery cell type, they may be formed in various shapes without being limited to the shape of the bus bar.

[0079] Additionally, while the present embodiments illustrate two types of battery cells, they are not limited thereto. Three or more different types of battery cells, i.e., battery cells with different thermal characteristics, may be arranged within a battery module based on the thermal characteristics of each type.

[0080] Figure 5 illustrates a battery module (100) according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 5, a battery module (100) according to a first embodiment includes first type battery cells (CELA), second type battery cells (CELB), a first bus bar (B1), and a second bus bar (B2). Here, the first type battery cells (CELA) and the second type battery cells (CELB) may be positive (+) or negative (-) cells.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 5, within the battery module (100), two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive polarity and negative polarity may be arranged on either side of two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive polarity and negative polarity. Next, two second type battery cells (CELB) of negative polarity and positive polarity may be arranged on either side. Next, a first type battery cell of positive polarity (CELA) may be arranged on one side, and a first type battery cell of negative polarity (CELA) may be arranged on the other side.

[0083] The first bus bar (B1) can electrically connect two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the first bus bar (B1) can be connected in series between two first type battery cells (CELA) independently from the second type battery cells (CELB) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0084] The second bus bar (B2) can electrically connect two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the second bus bar (B2) can be connected in series between two second type battery cells (CELB) independently from the first type battery cells (CELA) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0085] At least one of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may be connected to at least one connector terminal for electrically connecting with another battery module.

[0086] For example, a first connector terminal (CNT1a, CNT1b) may be positioned at the front of the outermost first type of battery cells (CELA) in the battery module (100). Here, a voltage within a first voltage range (HV1+, HV1-) may be applied to the first connector terminal (CNT1a, CNT1b).

[0087] Additionally, second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b) may be positioned at the front of the second type of outermost battery cells (CELB) in the battery module (100). Here, a voltage within a second voltage range (HV2+, HV2-) may be applied to each of the second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b).

[0088] In this way, the first connector terminals (CNT1a, CNT1b) for input / output of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b) for input / output of the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be electrically connected to different battery modules independently of each type.

[0089] Figure 6 illustrates a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 6, a battery module (100) according to a second exemplary embodiment includes first type battery cells (CELA), second type battery cells (CELB), a first bus bar (B1), and a second bus bar (B2). For reference, the battery module (100) illustrated in FIG. 6 may have a structure in which the connector locations are different from those in FIG. 5.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 6, within the battery module (100), two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive polarity and negative polarity may be arranged on either side of two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive polarity and negative polarity. Next, two second type battery cells (CELB) of negative polarity and positive polarity may be arranged on either side. Next, a first type battery cell of positive polarity (CELA) may be arranged on one side, and a first type battery cell of negative polarity (CELA) may be arranged on the other side.

[0092] The first bus bar (B1) can electrically connect two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the first bus bar (B1) can be connected in series between two first type battery cells (CELA) independently from the second type battery cells (CELB) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0093] The second bus bar (B2) can electrically connect two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the second bus bar (B2) can be connected in series between two second type battery cells (CELB) independently from the first type battery cells (CELA) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0094] At least one of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may be connected to at least one connector terminal for electrically connecting with another battery module.

[0095] For example, a first connector terminal (CNT1a, CNT1b) may be positioned at the rear of the outermost first type of battery cells (CELA) in the battery module (100). Here, a voltage within a first voltage range (HV1+, HV1-) may be applied to the first connector terminal (CNT1a, CNT1b).

[0096] Additionally, second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b) may be positioned at the front of the second type of outermost battery cells (CELB) in the battery module (100). Here, a voltage within a second voltage range (HV2+, HV2-) may be applied to each of the second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b).

[0097] In this way, two first connector terminals (CNT1a, CNT1b) and two second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b) may be provided at the rear of the first type of battery cells (CELA) or the front of the second type of battery cells (CELB).

[0098] Figure 7 illustrates a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 7, a battery module (100) according to a third exemplary embodiment includes first type battery cells (CELA), second type battery cells (CELB), a first bus bar (B1), and a second bus bar (B2). For reference, the battery module (100) illustrated in FIG. 7 may have a different structure in terms of the arrangement structure of the first type battery cells (CELA) and the second type battery cells (CELB) and the location of the connectors compared to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 7, within the battery module (100), a second type of battery cell (CELB) having a positive polarity and a negative polarity may be arranged on either side of one first type of battery cell (CELA) having a negative polarity. Next, two first type of battery cells (CELA) having a positive polarity and a negative polarity may be arranged on either side. Next, a second type of battery cell (CELB) having a negative polarity and a positive polarity may be arranged on one side, and a second type of battery cell (CELB) having a positive polarity and a negative polarity may be arranged on the other side.

[0101] The first bus bar (B1) can electrically connect two first type battery cells (CELA) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the first bus bar (B1) can be connected in series between two first type battery cells (CELA) independently from the second type battery cells (CELB) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0102] The second bus bar (B2) can electrically connect two second type battery cells (CELB) of positive and negative polarity. For example, the second bus bar (B2) can be connected in series between two second type battery cells (CELB) independently from the first type battery cells (CELA) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module (100).

[0103] At least one of the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may be connected to at least one connector terminal for electrically connecting with another battery module.

[0104] For example, positive and negative first connector terminals (CNT1a, CNT1b) may be positioned at the front of the first type of battery cells (CELA), a negative second connector terminal (CNT2b) may be positioned at the front of the second type of battery cells (CELB), and a negative second connector terminal (CNT2b) may be positioned at the rear of the second type of battery cells (CELB).

[0105] In this way, the positions where the first connector terminals (CNT1a, CNT1b) and the second connector terminals (CNT2a, CNT2b) are arranged may change depending on the design or layout of the battery module (100).

[0106] FIG. 8 illustrates a battery device including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, a battery device (200) according to one embodiment includes first to nth battery modules (100), a relay (110), and a controller (300).

[0108] Each of the first to nth battery modules (100) may be equipped with first type battery cells (CELA) and second type battery cells (CELB) having different thermal characteristics from the first type battery cells (CLEA). The first type battery cells (CELA) and the second type battery cells (CELB) may be electrically connected to each other independently in the first to nth battery modules (100).

[0109] The first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be independently connected in series within and between the first to nth battery modules (100).

[0110] The relay (110) can selectively connect the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) of the first to n-th battery modules (100) in parallel. For example, the relay (110) can connect the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) of the first to n-th battery modules (100) in parallel or block the parallel connection according to a control signal (CS).

[0111] In this way, at the system level of the battery device, parallel connection between heterogeneous battery cells can be made, and parallel connection can be blocked depending on the operating status.

[0112] The controller (300) can output a control signal (CS) to the relay for controlling the relay according to an event signal (EVS). For example, the event signal (EVS) can be a sensing signal for sensing the charging voltage of the second type of battery cells (CELB).

[0113] If it is assumed that the first type of battery cells (CELA) have a larger operating range than the second type of battery cells (CELB), the controller (300) can compare the level of the charge voltage of the second type of battery cells (CELB) with a reference value through a sensing signal received from a sensor (not shown), and if the level of the charge voltage of the second type of battery cells (CELB) reaches the reference value as a result of the comparison, the relay (110) can be turned off.

[0114] This prevents the second type of battery cells (CELB) from being overcharged. In addition, since the charging operation is performed based on the first type of battery cells (CELA), which have a larger operating range than the second type of battery cells (CELB), the available energy in the battery device (200) can be fully utilized.

[0115] In this way, the battery device does not require design constraints for maintaining balance within the battery module, and its performance can be maintained due to its separated structure.

[0116] The first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be arranged irregularly and alternately within the first to nth battery modules (100) based on thermal characteristics so that the temperature difference between locations is minimized, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 7.

[0117] The first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may be arranged in an irregular manner, with at least one second type of battery cell and at least one first type of battery cell being arranged alternately on either side of at least one first type of battery cell (CELA) or at least one second type of battery cell (CELB).

[0118] Additionally, the first type of battery cells (CELA) can be electrically connected independently to the second type of battery cells (CELB) through the first bus bar (B1) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the first to nth battery modules (100).

[0119] Additionally, the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be electrically connected independently to the first type of battery cells (CELA) through a second bus bar (B2) on at least one of the front and rear sides of the first to nth battery modules (100).

[0120] Additionally, the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) can be independently connected in series among battery cells of the same type within the first to nth battery modules (100).

[0121] Additionally, the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may not be electrically connected to other types of battery cells within the first to nth battery modules (100). Additionally, the first type of battery cells (CELA) and the second type of battery cells (CELB) may be independently charged and discharged within one battery module (100).

[0122] Additionally, at least one first connector may be arranged on at least one side of the front and the rear of the first type of battery cells (CELA), and at least one second connector may be arranged on at least one side of the front and the rear of the second type of battery cells (CELA). Here, the first connector may be used to electrically connect with the first type of battery cells (CELA) of another battery module, and the second connector may be used to electrically connect with the second type of battery cells (CELB) of another battery module.

[0123] Even within a module or pack, battery cells may exhibit different heat dissipation effects depending on their placement and the location of surrounding cooling devices, even if they are identical. For example, within a module, the central cell may be hotter than the outer cells.

[0124] The present invention aims to minimize temperature deviations by location within a module (100) by arranging the cells based on the thermal characteristics of the battery cells when configuring a battery module by mixing LFP (lithium, phosphate, iron) series battery cells or NCM (nickel, cobalt, manganese) series battery cells having different thermal characteristics.

[0125] Furthermore, even within the same battery series, cells with different thicknesses may exhibit different heat conduction paths and thus different heat generation characteristics. In the case of heterogeneous series, the heat generation amount varies depending on the type of active material, particularly the cathode material (LFP, NCM, single crystal, LMO), resulting in some cells generating less heat and others generating more. In this specification, "different thermal characteristics" may refer to cells generating different amounts of heat.

[0126] FIG. 9 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 9, a first type of battery cell (CELA) and a second type of battery cell (CELB) may be arranged within a module (100). Here, the first type of battery cell (CELA) may be exemplified as a cell that generates more heat than the second type of battery cell (CELB). In addition, the first type of battery cell (CELA) may be thicker than the second type of battery cell (CELB).

[0128] A second type of battery cell (CELB) that generates less heat than a first type of battery cell (CELA) may be placed in the center of the module (100), and first type of battery cells (CELA) may be placed on both sides of the second type of battery cell (CELB), followed by second type of battery cells (CELB) on both sides.

[0129] For example, three second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged in the center of the module (100), one first type battery cell (CELA) may be arranged on either side of the three second type battery cells (CELB), then two second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged on either side, then two first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged on either side, then one second type battery cell (CELB) may be arranged on either side, and then three first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged on either side.

[0130] FIG. 10 illustrates the arrangement of heterogeneous battery cells in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] As illustrated in FIG. 10, a first type of battery cell (CELA) and a second type of battery cell (CELB) may be arranged within the module (100) based on the location of the cooling device. Here, the first type of battery cell (CELA) may be exemplified as a cell that generates more heat than the second type of battery cell (CELB). In addition, the first type of battery cell (CELA) may be thicker than the second type of battery cell (CELB).

[0132] For example, when the position of the cooling plate (140) is located on the side of the battery module (100), four first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged at the position closest to the side cooling plate (140) within the battery module (100), four second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged on the sides of the four first type battery cells (CELA), three first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged on the sides of the four second type battery cells (CELB), three second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged on the sides of three first type battery cells (CELA), two first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged on the sides of three second type battery cells (CELB), two second type battery cells (CELB) may be arranged on the sides of two first type battery cells (CELA), and two first type battery cells (CELA) may be arranged on the sides of two second type battery cells (CELB). One type of battery cell (CELA) of the first type can be arranged, and one type of battery cell of the second type (CELB) can be arranged on the side of one type of battery cell of the first type (CELA).

[0133] In this way, the battery device according to embodiments of the present invention is arranged in consideration of the thermal characteristics of heterogeneous battery cells (CELA, CELB) within the battery module (100), that is, the heat generation and heat conduction of the cells according to type, so that the temperature uniformity of the battery module (100) can be secured, and thereby the temperature deviation according to location within the battery module (100) can be minimized.

[0134] According to embodiments of the present invention, by arranging heterogeneous battery cells within a battery module based on the thermal characteristics of the heterogeneous battery cells, the temperature deviation according to location within the battery module can be minimized.

[0135] In addition, the performance and lifespan deviation between battery cells can be reduced by connecting battery cells of the same type among the battery cells arranged within the battery module and independently driving battery cells of different types.

[0136] Additionally, by minimizing thermal variations between battery cells, heat accumulation at specific locations within the battery module can be minimized.

[0137] Additionally, the heat distribution between battery cells is uniform, so that heat propagation between battery cells can be uniform.

[0138] Additionally, thermal runaway of a specific battery cell can be prevented by minimizing temperature deviations by location within the battery module and minimizing heat accumulation at a specific location.

[0139] Additionally, since the operating temperatures of the battery cells are similar and thus the degradation tendencies are similar, the characteristic deviations between the battery cells over time can be minimized.

[0140] In addition, since the battery cells of the same type are electrically connected using “U” and “n” shaped bus bars, a double structure can be avoided when crossing with the battery cells of different types, thereby avoiding space loss.

[0141] Additionally, by avoiding serial connection between heterogeneous cells, energy loss due to variation between battery cells in a battery device can be minimized.

[0142] Additionally, heterogeneous battery cells with different operating ranges or energies can be electrically connected to be utilized as battery devices, thereby maximizing the available energy of the battery device.

[0143] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. Type 1 battery cells; and comprising a second type of battery cells having different thermal characteristics from the first type of battery cells; A battery module, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are arranged irregularly and alternately so that the temperature difference between locations within the battery module is minimized based on the thermal characteristics.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module in which at least one second type of battery cell and at least one first type of battery cell are irregularly alternately arranged on both sides based on at least one of the first type of battery cells.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery module in which at least one first type battery cell and at least one second type battery cell are irregularly arranged alternately on both sides based on at least one of the second type battery cells.

4. In paragraph 1, The first type of battery cells are electrically connected independently to the second type of battery cells through a first bus bar on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module, A battery module, wherein the second type of battery cells are electrically connected independently from the first type of battery cells through a second bus bar on at least one of the front and rear sides of the battery module.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery module, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are independently connected in series among battery cells of the same type within the battery module.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery module in which the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are independently charged and discharged without being electrically connected to other types of battery cells within the battery module.

7. In paragraph 4, A battery module, wherein at least one first connector is arranged on at least one side of the front and rear of the first type of battery cells.

8. In paragraph 7, A battery module, wherein at least one second connector is arranged on at least one side of the front and rear of the second type of battery cells.

9. In paragraph 8, A battery module, wherein the first connector is electrically connected to the first type of battery cells of another battery module, and the second connector is electrically connected to the second type of battery cells of the other battery module.

10. In paragraph 4, The above first bus bar and the above second bus bar are not overlapped when connecting battery cells of the same type. "or " "Battery module formed in the shape of a.

11. Including the first to nth battery modules, Each of the first to nth battery modules is provided with first type battery cells and second type battery cells having different thermal characteristics from the first type battery cells, A battery device, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are electrically connected independently of each other in the first to nth battery modules.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery device, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are independently connected in series within and between the first to nth battery modules.

13. In paragraph 11, A battery device further comprising a relay for selectively connecting the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells of the first to nth battery modules in parallel.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising a controller for controlling the above relay, A battery device wherein the controller selectively drives the relay according to an event signal.

15. In paragraph 11, A battery device, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are arranged irregularly and alternately within the first to nth battery modules based on the thermal characteristics so that the temperature difference between locations is minimized.

16. In paragraph 15, A battery device in which at least one second type battery cell and at least one first type battery cell are irregularly alternately arranged on either side of at least one of the first type battery cells or the second type battery cells.

17. In paragraph 11, The first type of battery cells are electrically connected independently to the second type of battery cells through a first bus bar on at least one of the front and rear sides of the first to nth battery modules, A battery device wherein the second type of battery cells are electrically connected independently from the first type of battery cells through a second bus bar on at least one of the front and rear sides of the first to nth battery modules.

18. In paragraph 17, A battery device, wherein the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are independently connected in series among battery cells of the same type within the first to nth battery modules.

19. In paragraph 18, A battery device in which the first type of battery cells and the second type of battery cells are independently charged and discharged without being electrically connected to other types of battery cells within the first to nth battery modules.

20. In paragraph 17, At least one first connector is arranged on at least one side of the front and rear of the first type of battery cells, At least one second connector is arranged on at least one side of the front and rear of the second type of battery cells, A battery device, wherein the first connector is electrically connected to the first type of battery cells of another battery module, and the second connector is electrically connected to the second type of battery cells of the other battery module.

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