Secondary battery, battery module having same, and method for manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a secondary battery, a battery module having same, and a method for manufacturing the secondary battery. The secondary battery comprises: a battery can accommodating an electrode assembly; a current collector electrically connected to the electrode assembly and protruding from a side portion of the electrode assembly; a terminal plate surrounding the upper portion of the current collector so as to contact same and exposing the top of the current collector through a terminal hole; and a detection ring which has a rear surface that is simultaneously in even contact with the current collector and the terminal plate, is disposed so as to surround the upper portion of the current collector, and which detects an alignment offset between the current collector and the terminal plate.

Description

Secondary battery, battery module including the same, and method for manufacturing the secondary battery

[0001] The present invention relates to a secondary battery, a battery module including the same, and a method for manufacturing the secondary battery, and more specifically, to a direct-connected secondary battery, a battery module including the same, and a method for manufacturing the direct-connected secondary battery.

[0002] A secondary battery has a structure in which a cap assembly is welded to a battery can containing an electrode assembly to seal the inside of the battery can, and the electrode assembly is electrically connected to the outside through electrode terminals provided in the cap assembly.

[0003] At this time, the electrode terminal provided in the cap assembly is typically formed by welding a current collector and a terminal plate that are electrically connected to the electrode assembly. For example, the electrode terminal can be formed by first forming a current collector so that it is electrically connected to the electrode assembly, and then welding the current collector and the terminal plate.

[0004] However, after the terminal plate is placed to cover the collector plate, welding is performed without ensuring sufficient adhesion or alignment with the collector plate, which causes various welding defects.

[0005] If the terminal plate is not sufficiently bonded to the collector plate or welding is performed in a misaligned state, various welding defects such as cracks, undercuts, or in-holes may occur due to the gap between the terminal plate and the collector plate.

[0006] Welding defects between the terminal plate and the collector plate reduce the sealing properties of the secondary battery by the cap assembly, causing defects such as electrolyte leakage and increased resistance.

[0007] 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.

[0008] The present invention has been proposed to improve the problems described above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a secondary battery having a detection ring that is arranged to contact the terminal plate and the current collector simultaneously and can check the degree of adhesion and alignment between the terminal plate and the current collector.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery module including a secondary battery as described above.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a secondary battery as described above.

[0011] 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.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object, a secondary battery may include a battery can for accommodating an electrode assembly, a current collector electrically connected to the electrode assembly and protruding from a side of the electrode assembly, a terminal plate surrounding an upper portion thereof to contact the current collector and exposing an upper portion of the current collector through a terminal hole, and a detection ring having a back surface that is in flat contact with the current collector and the terminal plate at the same time and arranged to surround an upper portion of the current collector to detect an alignment step between the current collector and the terminal plate.

[0013] In one embodiment, the detection ring can be configured to partially remove the upper portion of the current collector to define a current collector horizontal plane extending along the perimeter of the current collector and a terminal plate along the perimeter of the terminal hole, thereby defining the terminal hole and simultaneously contacting the terminal horizontal plane located at the same level as the current collector horizontal plane.

[0014] As an example, the detection ring may have a flat upper surface positioned at the same level as the upper surface of the terminal plate and the collector, thereby having a uniform thickness.

[0015] As one embodiment, the detection ring may have an upper surface inclined downward toward the collector, such that the outer periphery, which is the periphery adjacent to the terminal plate, may be positioned higher than the upper surface of the collector.

[0016] As an example, the vertical separation distance between the outer periphery and the upper surface of the collector may range from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0017] As one embodiment, the detection ring may have an outer receiving portion that receives a terminal protrusion extending vertically from a terminal horizontal plane on an outer surface and protruding from the terminal vertical plane in contact with the detection ring.

[0018] As one embodiment, the detection ring may have an inner receiving portion that receives a current collector protrusion protruding from an outer surface of the current collector on an inner surface that contacts the current collector.

[0019] As an example, the present invention may further include an inner welding line for joining the collector along the circumference of the detection ring and an outer welding line for joining the detection ring and the terminal plate along the circumference of the terminal hole and forming a concentric circle with the inner welding line.

[0020] As one embodiment, the detection ring is composed of the same material as the terminal plate.

[0021] As one embodiment, the electrode assembly may further include a sub-plate electrically connecting the electrode assembly and the current collector, wherein the current collector may be configured to protrude from the sub-plate.

[0022] As one embodiment, the battery can may include at least one opening that communicates with the outside and exposes the current collector.

[0023] As one embodiment, the battery can further include a cap plate coupled to the opening to seal the inside of the battery can from the outside, and a sealing member covering the cap plate to electrically insulate the cap plate, and a terminal plate can be disposed on the sealing member.

[0024] As one embodiment, a cap plate and a terminal plate, which are arranged so that a pair of the openings are opposite each other along the length direction of the battery can and are electrically separated by a sealing member, may be provided as side terminals arranged at each of the pair of openings.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object, a battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in a row along a third direction so that battery cans accommodating electrode assemblies face each other, a plurality of bus lines arranged on upper surfaces of the plurality of battery cells for electrically connecting each of the battery cells, and a plurality of connection tabs for transmitting electric energy by connecting the bus lines classified into set groups to each other, and each of the battery cells includes a current collector protruding from a side to be electrically connected to the electrode assembly, a terminal plate surrounding an upper portion to be in contact with the current collector and exposing the current collector through a terminal hole, and a detection ring having a back surface that is in flat contact with the current collector and the terminal plate at the same time and is arranged to surround an upper portion of the current collector to detect an alignment step between the current collector and the terminal plate.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery may include a step of accommodating an electrode assembly in a battery can so that a side of the electrode assembly is exposed through an opening of the battery can, a step of attaching a current collector having a current receiving end along an outer circumference to a side of the electrode assembly, a step of arranging a terminal plate having a terminal receiving end communicating with a terminal hole on the current collector so as to expose the current collector through the terminal hole, a step of arranging a detection ring in a receiving trench defined by the current receiving end and the terminal receiving end, and a step of detecting a step difference between the current collector and the terminal plate based on the detection ring.

[0027] However, the effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0028] According to a secondary battery, a battery module including the same, and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention, a detection ring that simultaneously contacts a current collector plate and a terminal plate can be placed to easily detect an alignment step or adhesion between the current collector plate and the terminal plate.

[0029] Accordingly, welding defects caused by gaps or gaps between the collector plate and the terminal plate can be prevented.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the secondary battery illustrated in Figure 1 taken along the first direction.

[0033] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a battery can that constitutes the exterior of the secondary battery illustrated in Figure 1.

[0034] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the R1 area of ​​Figure 2.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the first cap assembly and the first subplate assembly illustrated in FIG. 4 in a separated state.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a planar shape corresponding to the first detection ring illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0037] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a modified example of the first detection ring illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing another modified example of the first detection ring illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0039] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the R2 area of ​​Figure 2.

[0040] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the second cap assembly and the second subplate assembly shown in Fig. 9 in a separated state.

[0041] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery illustrated in FIG. 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a detection device that detects an alignment step between a first collector and a first terminal plate using a first detection ring.

[0044] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be construed only in terms of meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0045] 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 ideas of the present invention, and that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0046] Additionally, when used herein, the terms "comprise", "include" and / or "comprising", "including" specify the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, elements and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, elements, elements and / or groups thereof.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a secondary battery (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an electrode assembly (100), a battery can (200) that accommodates the electrode assembly (100), a sub-plate assembly (PA) that has a current collector and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (100), a cap assembly (CA) that has a terminal plate that contacts the current collector, and a detection ring (DR) that detects a step difference between the current collector and the terminal plate.

[0056] In the present embodiment, the subplate assembly (PA), the cap assembly (CA), and the detection ring (DR) may be individually provided to be electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the electrode assembly (100).

[0057] As an example, the electrode assembly (100) can store or release energy by charge transfer between a pair of electrode plates. The electrode assembly (100) can be formed by winding or stacking a first electrode plate (not shown), a separator (not shown), and a second electrode plate (not shown) formed in a thin plate shape or a film shape. When the electrode assembly (100) is a rolled laminate, the winding axis can be parallel to the longitudinal direction of the battery can (200). In addition, the electrode assembly (100) can be a stack type rather than a rolled type, and the shape of the electrode assembly (100) is not limited in the present invention. In addition, the electrode assembly (100) can be a Z-stack electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate are inserted on both sides of a separator folded in a Z-stack shape. In addition, the electrode assembly (100) may be housed inside the battery can (200) by stacking one or more electrode assemblies (100) so that their long sides are adjacent to each other, and the number of electrode assemblies (100) is not limited in the present disclosure. The first electrode plate of the electrode assembly (100) may serve as an anode, and the second electrode plate may serve as a cathode. Of course, the opposite is also possible.

[0058] The first electrode plate is formed by applying a first electrode active material such as graphite or carbon to a first electrode current collector plate formed of a metal foil such as copper, copper alloy, nickel or nickel alloy, and may include a first electrode tab (or first non-coated region) which is a region where the first electrode active material is not applied. The first electrode tab may be a passage for current flow between the first electrode plate and the first sub-plate assembly (310). In some examples, the first electrode tab may be formed by cutting the first electrode plate in advance to protrude from one side when manufacturing the first electrode plate, and may protrude further from one side than the separator without separate cutting.

[0059] The second electrode plate is formed by applying a second electrode active material such as a transition metal oxide to a second electrode current collector plate formed of a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and may include a second electrode tab (or second non-coated region) which is a region where the second electrode active material is not applied. The second electrode tab may be a passage for current flow between the second electrode plate and the second sub-plate assembly (410). In some examples, the second electrode tab may be formed by cutting the second electrode plate in advance to protrude toward the other side when manufacturing the second electrode plate, and may protrude further toward the other side than the separator without separate cutting.

[0060] In some examples, the first electrode tab may be positioned on the right end side of the electrode assembly, and the second electrode tab may be positioned on the left end side of the electrode assembly. Here, left and right are for convenience of explanation based on the secondary battery illustrated in FIG. 2, and their positions may change when the secondary battery rotates left and right or up and down.

[0061] As an example, the battery can (200) may be provided in an open hexahedral shape having a pair of open areas. Accordingly, the battery can (200) may be configured to communicate with the outside through a first opening (210) and a second opening (220) that are arranged to face each other along a first direction (I), and may be provided with a long side wall (230) that is arranged to face each other along a second direction (II) that is a width direction of the electrode assembly (100), and a short side wall (240) that is arranged to face each other along a third direction (III) that is a height direction of the electrode assembly (100).

[0062] Accordingly, the internal space of the battery can (200) is defined by the long side wall (230) and the short side wall (240), and the electrode assembly (100) can be inserted into either the first opening (210) or the second opening (220) and accommodated in the internal space.

[0063] The electrode assembly (100) housed inside the battery can (200) can be electrically connected to the sub-plate assembly by exposing the electrode plate or the electrode tab connected to the electrode plate through the first opening (210) and the second opening (220).

[0064] In the present embodiment, the battery can (200) may be formed of a metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel-plated steel, stainless steel (SUS), etc.

[0065] The battery can (200) may further include a vent section (V).

[0066] The vent portion (110) may be formed on one side of the battery can (200). For example, the vent portion (110) may be provided on a single side wall (240) of the battery can (200). The vent portion (V) may prevent an explosion of the secondary battery or a chain heating reaction of secondary batteries arranged close to the secondary battery.

[0067] The vent (110) may be configured to open when the internal pressure of the secondary battery exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure. The threshold pressure may be set differently depending on the field of application, material, purpose, etc. of the secondary battery. Alternatively, the vent (110) may be configured to open when the internal temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0068] As an example, the sub-plate assembly (PA) is electrically connected to the electrode plates of the electrode assembly (100) exposed through the first opening (210) and the second opening (220), and the cap assembly (CA) is electrically connected to the sub-plate assembly (PA) and can be coupled to the battery can (200) to cover the first opening (210) and the second opening (220).

[0069] Accordingly, the electrode assembly (100) accommodated in the internal space of the battery can (200) is sealed from the outside by the cap assembly (CA) and can protect the electrode assembly (100) from the external environment.

[0070] Accordingly, the sub-plate assembly (PA) may be composed of a first sub-plate assembly (310) connected to the positive plate of the electrode assembly (100) and a second sub-plate assembly (410) connected to the negative plate, and the cap assembly (CA) may include a first cap assembly (350) connected to the first sub-plate assembly (310) and a second cap assembly (450) connected to the second sub-plate assembly (410).

[0071] Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the R1 area of ​​Fig. 2, and Fig. 5 is a view showing the first cap assembly and the first subplate assembly shown in Fig. 4 in a separated state.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, one side of the electrode assembly (100) exposed through the first opening (210) of the battery can (200) can be coupled with the first sub-plate assembly (310) and the first cap assembly (350).

[0073] The first sub-plate assembly (310) is coupled to a side of the electrode assembly (100) exposed through the first opening (210) and can be electrically connected to an electrode plate, for example, a positive electrode plate, of the electrode assembly (100). For example, the first sub-plate assembly (310) can include a first sub-plate (320) and a first current collector (330).

[0074] The first sub-plate (320) can be coupled to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly (100). In the present embodiment, the positive electrode tab can be coupled to the first sub-plate (320) by welding. However, this is exemplary, and the first sub-plate (320) can be directly connected to the positive electrode tab as well as the positive electrode plate.

[0075] The first collector (330) can be coupled to the first sub-plate (320). For example, the first collector (330) can be electrically connected to the first sub-plate (320) by welding.

[0076] For example, the first collector (330) may include a first planar portion (331) coupled with the first sub-plate (320), a first protrusion (332) protruding from the first planar portion (331) along a first direction (I), and a first attachment (333) extending from the first protrusion (332) to have an inclined surface.

[0077] The first flat portion (331) is configured to make surface contact with the first sub-plate (320) to increase adhesion to the first sub-plate (320) and can function as a base of the first protrusion (332) and the first attachment (333).

[0078] The first protrusion (332) may be provided in a cylindrical shape protruding from the first flat portion (331) along the first direction (I). The first protrusion (332) may be protruded so as to penetrate the first cap assembly (350) positioned at the top so as to be electrically connected to a terminal plate (380) provided as an electrode terminal.

[0079] The first attachment (333) has a truncated cone shape and can be positioned on the first protrusion (332) and penetrates the first terminal hole (TH1) provided in the terminal plate (380). In the present embodiment, the first attachment (333) is inserted into the first terminal hole (TH1) so that the upper surfaces of the terminal plate (380) and the first attachment (333) can form the same plane. That is, the upper surfaces of the terminal plate (380) and the first attachment (333) can be positioned at the same level.

[0080] In particular, the side of the first attachment (333) may be partially removed to provide a first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) extending along the circumference of the first attachment (333). The first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) is arranged parallel to the first flat portion (331) located below and is defined by the adjacent first current collecting vertical plane (333b).

[0081] Accordingly, the first attachment (333) is defined by a first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) and a first current collecting vertical plane (333b), and a ring-shaped first current collecting receiving end (S1) extending along the circumference of the first attachment (333) is provided.

[0082] A first insulating member (340) is arranged to cover the upper surface of the first sub-plate (320) so as to expose the first current collector (330). By arranging a first cap assembly (350) on the upper surface of the first insulating member (340), the first cap assembly (350) and the first sub-plate (320) can be electrically isolated. More specifically, the first sub-plate (320) can be electrically isolated from the first cap plate (360) arranged thereon by the first insulating member (340).

[0083] A first cap assembly (350) is placed on a first insulating member (340). The first cap assembly (350) may include a first cap plate (360), a first sealing member (370), and a first terminal plate (380).

[0084] The first cap plate (360) is provided with a first through hole (PH1) and is positioned on the first insulating member (340) so that the first protrusion (332) passes through it. For example, the first cap plate (360) may be electrically connected to the battery can (200) and exhibit a polarity opposite to that of the first current collector (330). Accordingly, the first cap plate (360) may be formed of a conductive metal.

[0085] An electrolyte injection port (IH) may be positioned on the first cap plate (360). Electrolyte may be injected into the battery can (200) through the electrolyte injection port (IH). After the electrolyte injection is completed, the electrolyte injection port (IH) may be sealed using a sealing means such as a stopper. It is apparent that the electrolyte injection port (IH) may be positioned on the second cap plate (460) described below.

[0086] The first sealing member (370) can be combined with the first cap plate (360) to electrically insulate the first terminal plate (380) and the first cap plate (360) from each other. Accordingly, the first sealing member (370) can be made of an insulating material.

[0087] The first terminal plate (380) may be coupled to the first sealing member (370) so as to be distinct from the first cap plate (360). For example, the first terminal plate (380) may function as a positive terminal of a secondary battery. Accordingly, a busbar may be welded onto the first terminal plate (380) to electrically connect it to another secondary battery.

[0088] A first terminal hole (TH1) penetrating the first terminal plate (380) may be provided to communicate with the first through hole (PH1). In the present embodiment, a first attachment (333) having a frusto-conical shape may pass through the first terminal hole (TH1). Accordingly, the diameter of the first terminal hole (TH1) may be configured to be smaller than the diameter of the first through hole (PH1). However, this is exemplary, and the first terminal hole (TH1) may have a diameter equal to or larger than the diameter of the first through hole (PH1).

[0089] In particular, the first terminal plate (380) defining the first terminal hole (TH1) can be additionally removed along the perimeter of the first terminal hole (TH1) to provide a first terminal receiving end (S2).

[0090] For example, the first terminal plate (380) can be removed to have a height (H) set along the perimeter of the first terminal hole (TH1) to form a first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and a first terminal vertical plane (380b). Accordingly, the first terminal hole (TH1) can be defined by the first terminal horizontal plane (380a), and a first terminal receiving end (S2) can be provided that communicates with the first terminal hole (TH1) and is defined by the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b).

[0091] In particular, the first current collecting vertical plane (333b) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b) are set to have the same height, so that the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) can be located on the same plane. That is, the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b) are located at the same level.

[0092] Accordingly, when the first attachment (333) of the current collector (330) is inserted into the first terminal hole (TH1), the first current collector receiving end (S1) and the first terminal receiving end (S2) are connected to each other to form a single receiving trench (S).

[0093] That is, when the first cap assembly (350) is coupled to the first sub-plate assembly (310), the first attachment (333) is positioned so that the upper surface of the first attachment (333) and the upper surface of the terminal plate (380) are positioned at the same level by penetrating the first terminal hole (TH1). Accordingly, the first attachment (333) is surrounded by a receiving trench (S) having a depth corresponding to the set height (H), so that it can be positioned in an isolated island shape.

[0094] As an example, the detection ring (DR) may include a first detection ring (390) positioned on top of the first cap assembly (350) and a second detection ring (490) positioned on top of the second cap assembly (450).

[0095] For example, the first detection ring (390) can fill a receiving trench (S) provided between the first terminal plate (380) and the first attachment (333) of the first current collector (330). Since the receiving trench (S) is provided in a trench shape that continuously surrounds the first attachment (333), the first detection ring (390) that fills the receiving trench (S) is also provided in a ring shape that continuously surrounds the first attachment (333).

[0096] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a planar shape corresponding to the first detection ring illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 6, the first detection ring (390) may have a hollow cylinder shape with a uniform thickness corresponding to a set height (H) and an upper surface arranged to form the same plane as the first attachment (333) and the first terminal plate (380). Accordingly, the upper surface of the first attachment (333) may be exposed through the central opening of the first detection ring (390) corresponding to the first terminal hole (TH1).

[0098] At this time, the first detection ring (390) may have a flat back surface (391) and a flat upper surface (392). Therefore, when the alignment step, which is the height difference between the first detection ring (390), the first attachment (333), and the first terminal plate (380), is smaller than the set allowable range, the first detection ring (390), the first attachment (333), and the first terminal plate (380) may form a substantially uniform surface. Accordingly, the first current collector (330) having the first terminal plate (380) and the first attachment (333) may be stably arranged without alignment error and may be bonded to each other over a sufficient area.

[0099] Accordingly, the first detection ring (390), the first attachment (333), and the first terminal plate (380) can be welded together and joined as one body. The first detection ring (390) and the first attachment (333) can be joined by an inner welding line (WL1), and the first detection ring (390) and the first terminal plate (380) can be joined by an outer welding line (WL2). That is, the first terminal plate (380) and the first current collector (330) can be sufficiently and stably bonded without any gaps or gaps, thereby reducing welding defects such as cracks, undercuts, and in-holes.

[0100] In the present embodiment, the first detection ring (390) may be composed of substantially the same conductive material as the first terminal plate (380). Accordingly, the first terminal plate (380), the first detection ring (390), and the first current collector (330) may be electrically connected to function as a single electrode terminal, specifically, a positive electrode terminal.

[0101] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a modified example of the first detection ring shown in FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a drawing showing another modified example of the first detection ring shown in FIG. 6.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 7, the deformation detection ring (390a) has a flat back surface (391a) and an inclined upper surface (392a) that is inclined downward toward the first attachment (333), so that the outer peripheral portion adjacent to the first terminal plate (380) can be positioned higher than the upper surface of the first attachment (333).

[0103] Accordingly, a buffer space (BS) can be formed on the upper portion of the deformation detection ring (390a) to prevent the first attachment (333) from protruding higher than the deformation detection ring (390a). Since the upper surface of the first detection ring (390) is positioned at the same level as that of the first attachment (333), the first attachment (333) may protrude higher than the first detection ring (390) due to a slight process error.

[0104] If the first attachment (333) protrudes higher than the first detection ring (390), when a module or pack is configured using a secondary battery (1000), interference with the bus line may occur, which may reduce the efficiency of the process for manufacturing the module or pack.

[0105] Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the upper surface can be deformed to be inclined so that the outer periphery is positioned higher than the inner periphery, so that the first attachment (333) does not protrude from the first terminal plate (380) and the deformation detection ring (390a).

[0106] In the present embodiment, the vertical separation distance between the outer periphery of the deformation detection ring (390a) and the first attachment (333) can be set to have a range of about 0.1 mm to 0.5 m. If the vertical separation distance is less than 0.1 mm, it is difficult to achieve the protrusion suppression effect of the first attachment (333), and if the vertical separation distance exceeds 0.5 mm, it is difficult to achieve the unique purpose of the deformation detection ring (390a) of detecting the degree of adhesion between the first current collector (330) and the first terminal plate (380). Accordingly, the vertical separation distance can be set to have a range of about 0.1 mm to 0.5 m.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, another deformation detection ring (390b) may further include a hook structure to strengthen the fixing force to the first attachment (333) and the first terminal plate (380).

[0108] For example, another deformation detection ring (390b) may have an outer receiving portion (SG2) on its outer surface that receives a terminal protrusion (380p) protruding from the first terminal vertical surface (380b).

[0109] The detection ring (390) accommodated in the accommodation trench (S) is fixed by the inner welding line (WL1) and the outer welding line (WL2) on the upper surface, but in the process of detecting the alignment step, the detection accuracy may be reduced due to the absence of a fixing means.

[0110] Accordingly, a terminal protrusion (380p) can be placed on the first terminal vertical surface (380b) and an outer receiving portion (SG2) can be provided to receive and fix the terminal protrusion (380p) on the outer surface of another deformation detection ring (390b). Accordingly, the movement of the other deformation detection ring (390b) along the circumferential direction within the receiving trench (S) can be suppressed, and the alignment step between the first terminal plate (380) and the first current collector (330) can be precisely detected.

[0111] Optionally, at least one current collecting protrusion (333p) may be arranged on the outer surface of the first attachment (333) and an inner receiving portion (SG1) may be further arranged on the inner surface of another deformation detection ring (390b) that comes into contact with the first attachment (333). Accordingly, the other deformation detection ring (390b) can be stably fixed inside the receiving trench (S).

[0112] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the R2 area of ​​FIG. 2, and FIG. 10 is a view showing the second cap assembly and the second subplate assembly shown in FIG. 9 in a separated state.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the other side of the electrode assembly (100) exposed through the second opening (220) of the battery can (200) can be coupled with the second sub-plate assembly (410) and the second cap assembly (450).

[0114] The second sub-plate assembly (410) is coupled to a side of the electrode assembly (100) exposed through the second opening (220) and can be electrically connected to an electrode plate, for example, a negative electrode plate, of the electrode assembly (100). For example, the second sub-plate assembly (410) can include a second sub-plate (420) and a second current collector (430).

[0115] The second sub-plate (420) can be coupled to the negative tab of the electrode assembly (100). In the present embodiment, the negative tab can be coupled to the second sub-plate (420) by welding. However, this is exemplary, and the second sub-plate (420) can be directly connected to the negative tab as well as the negative plate.

[0116] The second collector (430) can be coupled to the second sub-plate (420). For example, the second collector (430) can be electrically connected to the second sub-plate (420) by welding.

[0117] For example, the second collector (430) may include a second flat portion (431) coupled with the second sub-plate (420), a second protrusion (432) protruding from the second flat portion (431) along the first direction (I), and a second attachment (433) extending from the second protrusion (432) to have an inclined surface.

[0118] The second flat portion (431) is configured to make surface contact with the second sub-plate (420) to increase adhesion to the second sub-plate (420) and can function as a base for the second protrusion (432) and the second attachment (433).

[0119] The second protrusion (432) may be provided in a cylindrical shape protruding from the second flat portion (431) along the first direction (I). The second protrusion (432) may be protruded so as to penetrate the second cap assembly (450) located at the top so as to be electrically connected to a terminal plate (480) provided as an electrode terminal.

[0120] The second attachment (433) has a truncated cone shape and can be positioned on the second protrusion (432) and penetrates the second terminal hole (TH2) provided in the terminal plate (480). In the present embodiment, the second attachment (433) is inserted into the second terminal hole (TH2) so that the upper surfaces of the second terminal plate (480) and the second attachment (433) can form the same plane. That is, the upper surfaces of the second terminal plate (480) and the fourth attachment (433) can be positioned at the same level.

[0121] In particular, the side of the second attachment (433) may be partially removed to provide a second current collecting horizontal plane (433a) extending along the circumference of the second attachment (433). The second current collecting horizontal plane (433a) is arranged parallel to the second flat portion (431) located below and is defined by the adjacent second current collecting vertical plane (433b).

[0122] Accordingly, the second attachment (433) is defined by the second current collecting horizontal plane (433a) and the second current collecting vertical plane (433b), and a ring-shaped third current collecting receiving end (S3) extending along the circumference of the second attachment (433) is provided.

[0123] A second insulating member (440) is arranged to cover the upper surface of the second sub-plate (420) so as to expose the second current collector (430). A second cap assembly (450) is arranged on the upper surface of the second insulating member (440), so that the second cap assembly (450) and the second sub-plate (420) can be electrically isolated. More specifically, the second sub-plate (420) can be electrically isolated from the second cap plate (460) arranged thereon by the second insulating member (440).

[0124] A fourth cap assembly (450) is placed on the first insulating member (440). The second cap assembly (450) may include a second cap plate (460), a second sealing member (470), and a second terminal plate (480).

[0125] The second cap plate (460) is provided with a second through hole (PH2) and is positioned on the second insulating member (440) so that the second protrusion (432) passes through it. For example, the second cap plate (460) may be electrically connected to the battery can (200) and exhibit a polarity opposite to that of the second current collector (430). Accordingly, the second cap plate (460) may be made of a conductive metal.

[0126] The second sealing member (470) can be combined with the second cap plate (460) to electrically insulate the second terminal plate (480) and the second cap plate (460) from each other. Accordingly, the second sealing member (370) can be made of an insulating material.

[0127] The second terminal plate (480) may be coupled to the second sealing member (470) so as to be distinct from the second cap plate (460). For example, the second terminal plate (480) may function as a negative terminal of a secondary battery. Accordingly, a busbar may be welded onto the second terminal plate (480) to electrically connect it to another secondary battery.

[0128] A second terminal hole (TH2) penetrating the second terminal plate (480) may be provided to communicate with the second through hole (PH2). In the present embodiment, a second attachment (433) having a frusto-conical shape may be passed through the second terminal hole (TH2). Accordingly, the diameter of the second terminal hole (TH2) may be configured to be smaller than the diameter of the second through hole (PH2). However, this is exemplary, and the second terminal hole (TH2) may have a diameter equal to or larger than the diameter of the second through hole (PH2).

[0129] In particular, a second terminal plate (480) defining a second terminal hole (TH2) can be additionally removed along the perimeter of the second terminal hole (TH2) to provide a fourth terminal receiving end (S4).

[0130] For example, the second terminal plate (480) can be removed to have a height (H) set along the perimeter of the second terminal hole (TH2) to form a second terminal horizontal plane (480a) and a second terminal vertical plane (480b). Accordingly, the second terminal hole (TH2) can be defined by the second terminal horizontal plane (480a), and a fourth terminal receiving end (S4) can be provided that communicates with the second terminal hole (TH2) and is defined by the second terminal horizontal plane (480a) and the second terminal vertical plane (480b).

[0131] In particular, the second current collecting vertical plane (433b) and the second terminal vertical plane (480b) are set to have the same height, so that the second terminal horizontal plane (480a) and the second current collecting horizontal plane (433a) can be positioned on the same plane. That is, the second terminal horizontal plane (480a) and the second terminal vertical plane (480b) are positioned at the same level.

[0132] Accordingly, when the second attachment (433) of the second collector (430) is inserted into the interior of the second terminal hole (TH2), the third collector receiving end (S3) and the fourth terminal receiving end (S4) are connected to each other to form a single receiving trench (S).

[0133] That is, when the second cap assembly (450) is coupled to the second sub-plate assembly (410), the second attachment (433) is positioned so that the upper surface of the second attachment (433) and the upper surface of the second terminal plate (480) are positioned at the same level by penetrating the second terminal hole (TH2). Accordingly, the second attachment (433) is surrounded by a receiving trench (S) having a depth corresponding to the set height (H), so that it can be positioned in an isolated island shape.

[0134] In the present embodiment, the first and second cap assemblies (350, 450) may be provided as side terminals directly welded to the first and second sub-plate assemblies (310, 410) provided at both ends of the battery can. However, if it is necessary to check the degree of adhesion of the welding target, it may be applied to various methods of cap assembly bonding as well as the side terminals.

[0135] For example, the second detection ring (490) can fill a receiving trench (S) provided between the second terminal plate (480) and the second attachment (433) of the second current collector (430). Since the receiving trench (S) is provided in a trench shape that continuously surrounds the second attachment (433), the second detection ring (490) that fills the receiving trench (S) is also provided in a ring shape that continuously surrounds the second attachment (433).

[0136] The second detection ring (490) has substantially the same configuration as the first detection ring (390) described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8. Therefore, similar to the first detection ring (390), the degree of adhesion between the second terminal plate (480) and the second current collector (430) can be easily detected through the second detection ring (490). Further detailed description of the second detection ring (490) is omitted.

[0137] According to the secondary battery (1000) as described above, the alignment step and adhesion between the current collector and the terminal plate can be easily checked by a detection ring that is arranged to surround the upper part of the current collector and has a back surface that is in flat contact with the current collector and the terminal plate at the same time.

[0138] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] The battery module (2000) illustrated in FIG. 11 may include a plurality of battery cells that are substantially the same as the secondary battery (1000) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10. Accordingly, in the battery module illustrated in FIG. 11, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in FIGS. 1 to 10, and further detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 11, a battery module (2000) according to the present invention may include a plurality of battery cells (1000) having first and second connection terminals (131, 132) and aligned in one direction, a plurality of connection tabs (1100) connecting adjacent battery cells (1001, 1002), and a protection circuit unit (1200) connected to the plurality of connection tabs (1100) to protect the battery cells from overcurrent.

[0141] For example, the battery cell (1000) may include a secondary battery having the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10. Accordingly, the battery cell (1000) may generate current by an electrochemical reaction of an electrode assembly and an electrolyte contained in a battery can (200).

[0142] In particular, the battery cell (1000) may have a side terminal structure in which a first cap assembly (350) and a second cap assembly (450) are arranged at both ends of the battery can (200) along the first direction (I). Accordingly, a positive terminal and a negative terminal may be arranged at each end of the battery cell (1000).

[0143] The battery cells (1000) are arranged so that the wide outer surfaces of the battery can (200) contact each other along the second direction (II), and the first cap assembly (350) and the second cap assembly (450) are arranged at both ends of the battery can (200) along the first direction (I) and are configured to be aligned along the second direction (II).

[0144] The positive terminal of each battery cell (1000) is connected to the first connection terminal (131) by a first connection line (not shown) extending upward, and the negative terminal is connected to the second connection terminal (132) by a second connection line (133) extending upward. Accordingly, the positive terminal and the negative terminal located on the side of the battery cell (1000) are connected to the first and second connection terminals (131, 132) located on the upper side of the battery cell (1000), respectively, by the first connection line and the second connection line (133).

[0145] At this time, a plurality of first connection terminals (131) and a plurality of second connection terminals (132) can be electrically connected to the connection tab (1100). A plurality of battery cells (1000) connected to a single connection tab (1100) by the first connection terminal (131) or the second connection terminal (132) can function as a group of batteries connected in parallel with each other.

[0146] That is, a plurality of battery cells (1000) connected to the connection tab (1100) are connected in parallel with each other, and the connection tabs (1100) and the connection tabs (1100) are connected in series with each other, so that groups of batteries connected by the connection tabs (1100) can be connected in series with each other.

[0147] Accordingly, by controlling the number of battery groups connected to the connection tab (1100), a plurality of battery cells (1000) can be electrically connected through a combination of serial and parallel connections to form a battery module (2000). Gas generated while the plurality of battery cells (1000) are operating can be discharged to the outside through the vent portion (V).

[0148] At this time, it is obvious that the number and arrangement of battery cells constituting the battery module (2000) are not limited to the structure illustrated in FIG. 11 and can be changed in various ways as needed.

[0149] A plurality of battery cells (1000) may be arranged in one direction with their wide outer surfaces facing each other and secured by a module housing (1300).

[0150] At this time, the battery cell (1000) is in contact with the first terminal plate (380) of the first cap assembly (350) and the first current collector (330) of the first sub-plate assembly (310) at the same time, and the degree of bonding or alignment difference between the first terminal plate (380) and the first current collector (330) can be easily detected through the first detection ring (390) surrounding the upper part of the first current collector (330).

[0151] Accordingly, the operational stability of the battery cell can be significantly improved by preventing welding defects due to gaps or intervals between the first terminal plate (380) and the first current collector (330). Accordingly, the operational stability of the battery module (2000) can be improved.

[0152] The module housing (1300) may include a pair of end plates (1310, 1320) positioned at the front and rear of the aligned battery cells (1000) and facing the wide surface of the battery cells (1000), and a side plate (1330) and a bottom plate (1340) connecting the pair of end plates (1310, 1320).

[0153] The side plates (1330) are provided as a pair to simultaneously support both sides of the multiple battery cells (1000), and the bottom plate (1340) is configured to simultaneously support the bottom surface of the multiple battery cells (1000). The module housings (1300) can be connected to each other by a connecting member such as a bolt (B).

[0154] The protection circuit unit (1200) mounts electronic components and protection circuits, etc., and can be electrically connected to the connection tab (1100). The protection circuit unit (1200) includes a first circuit unit (1210) and a second circuit unit (1220) extending from different positions along the direction in which a plurality of battery cells (1000) are arranged.

[0155] At this time, the first circuit unit (1210) and the second circuit unit (1220) are spaced apart from each other at a certain interval and positioned parallel to each other so that they can be electrically connected to adjacent connection tabs (1100).

[0156] For example, the first circuit unit (1210) extends from the upper first side of the plurality of battery cells (1000) along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (1000) are arranged, and the second circuit unit (1220) extends from the upper second side of the plurality of battery cells (1000) along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (1000) are arranged. At this time, the second circuit unit (1220) may be spaced apart from the first circuit unit (1210) by a constant interval with the vent (134) therebetween and may be arranged parallel to the first circuit unit (1210).

[0157] A pair of circuit units (1210, 1220) spaced apart from each other are arranged parallel to each other along the direction in which a plurality of battery cells are arranged, thereby minimizing the area of ​​the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) constituting the protection circuit unit (1200).

[0158] The detection line (1400) can detect the voltage, temperature, and current of each battery cell (1000) to check whether it is operating normally, and if it is operating abnormally, can transmit an operation stop signal to stop the operation of the defective cell.

[0159] First operation information such as voltage, current, and temperature transmitted from a connection tab (1100) adjacent to a first circuit unit (1210) and second operation information such as voltage, current, and temperature transmitted from a second circuit unit (1220) adjacent to a connection tab (1100) can be integrated and managed through a detection line (1400).

[0160] For example, the detection line (1400) is made of a flexible material and can be flexibly deformed according to the shape and structure of the surrounding environment.

[0161] In particular, when swelling occurs in the battery cell (1000), the shock can be absorbed by the elasticity or flexibility of the detection line (1400), thereby preventing the first and second circuit units (1210, 1220) from being damaged.

[0162] In the present embodiment, the protection circuit unit (1200) may include a battery management system (BMS), and the connection tab (1100) may include a bus bar.

[0163] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing the secondary battery illustrated in FIG. 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in FIGS. 1 to 5, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0164] Below, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is described, focusing on the cathode process of joining the cathode plate of the electrode assembly (100) and the first sub-plate assembly (310) and joining the first sub-plate assembly (310) and the first cap assembly (350).

[0165] However, the same can be applied to the cathode process of joining the cathode plate of the electrode assembly (100) and the second sub-plate assembly (410) and joining the second sub-plate assembly (410) and the second cap assembly (450).

[0166] Referring to FIG. 12, the electrode assembly (100) is accommodated in the battery can (200) so that the side is exposed through the first opening (210) of the battery can (200) (step S100). The electrode assembly (100), manufactured in a laminated or rolled form through the assembly process, is inserted into the battery can (200) through the first opening (210).

[0167] Next, a current collector (330) having a current collector receiving section (S1) along the outer periphery is attached to the side of the electrode assembly (100) (step S200).

[0168] For example, a first sub-plate assembly (310) having a first sub-plate (320) and a first current collector (330) is coupled to the side of the electrode assembly (100) where the positive plate or positive tab of the electrode assembly is exposed.

[0169] At this time, the first sub-plate (320) to which the first current collector (330) is coupled can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (100) by welding. The first current collector (330) can include a first flat portion (331) coupled to the first sub-plate (320), a first protrusion (332) protruding from the first flat portion (331) along the first direction (I), and a first attachment (333) extending from the first protrusion (332) to have an inclined surface.

[0170] The first attachment (333) has a cone shape and can be placed on the first protrusion (332) and penetrates the first terminal hole (TH1) provided in the terminal plate (380).

[0171] In particular, the side of the first attachment (333) may be partially removed to provide a first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) extending along the circumference of the first attachment (333). The first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) is arranged parallel to the first flat portion (331) located below and is defined by the adjacent first current collecting vertical plane (333b).

[0172] Accordingly, the first attachment (333) is defined by a first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) and a first current collecting vertical plane (333b), and a ring-shaped first current collecting receiving end (S1) extending along the perimeter of the first attachment (333) is provided.

[0173] Next, a first terminal plate (380) having a terminal receiving end (S2) communicating with a first terminal hole (TH1) is placed on the current collector (330) to expose the current collector (330) through the terminal hole (TH1) (step S300).

[0174] For example, a first cap assembly (350) having a first cap plate (360) and a first terminal plate (380) separated from each other by a first sealing member (370) can be coupled to the upper portion of the first sub-plate assembly (310).

[0175] The first cap plate (360) is provided with a first through hole (PH1) and is placed on the first insulating member (340) so that the first protrusion (332) passes through it. A first terminal hole (TH1) is provided that passes through the first terminal plate (380) so as to communicate with the first through hole (PH1), so that the first attachment (333) having a truncated cone shape can be coupled to pass through the first terminal hole (TH1).

[0176] In particular, the first terminal plate (380) defining the first terminal hole (TH1) can be additionally removed along the perimeter of the first terminal hole (TH1) to provide a first terminal receiving end (S2).

[0177] The first terminal plate (380) can be removed to have a height (H) set along the perimeter of the first terminal hole (TH1) to form a first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and a first terminal vertical plane (380b). Accordingly, the first terminal hole (TH1) is defined by the first terminal horizontal plane (380a), and a first terminal receiving end (S2) communicating with the first terminal hole (TH1) and defined by the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b) can be provided.

[0178] In particular, the first current collecting vertical plane (333b) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b) are set to have the same height, so that the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first current collecting horizontal plane (333a) can be located on the same plane. That is, the first terminal horizontal plane (380a) and the first terminal vertical plane (380b) are located at the same level.

[0179] Accordingly, when the first attachment (333) of the current collector (330) is inserted into the first terminal hole (TH1), the first current collector receiving end (S1) and the first terminal receiving end (S2) are connected to each other to form a single receiving trench (S).

[0180] Accordingly, when the first cap assembly (350) is coupled to the first sub-plate assembly (310), the first attachment (333) is surrounded by a receiving trench (S) having a depth corresponding to the set height (H) through the first terminal hole (TH1).

[0181] Next, a first detection ring (390) is placed in a receiving trench (S) defined by a current collector (S1) and a terminal receiving end (S2) (step S400), and a step difference between the first detection ring (390) and the first current collector (330) and the first terminal plate (380) is detected (step S500).

[0182] The first detection ring (390) is made of a ring structure made of the same conductive material as the first terminal plate (380) and can be inserted into the receiving trench (S).

[0183] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a detection device that detects an alignment step between a first collector and a first terminal plate using a first detection ring.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 13, after placing the first detection ring (390) in the receiving trench (S), a difference in height, i.e., an alignment step, is detected in the outer boundary area (A1, A2) between the first detection ring (390) and the first terminal plate (380) and the inner boundary area (A3, A4) between the first detection ring (390) and the first attachment (333) of the first current collector (330).

[0185] For example, after placing the first detection ring (390) in the receiving trench (S), the vision camera (VC) is moved upward to detect the relative height difference with respect to the first detection ring (390) in the outer boundary areas (A1, A2) and the inner boundary areas (A3, A4).

[0186] That is, the first step, which is a height difference between the first detection ring (390) and the first current collector (330), can be detected at the inner boundary area (A3, A4), which is at least one pair of positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the first current collector (330), and the second step, which is a height difference between the first detection ring (390) and the first terminal plate (380), can be detected at the outer boundary area (A3, A4), which is at least one pair of positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the center of the first terminal hole (TH1).

[0187] It is determined whether the detected height difference is within the allowable range (step S600), and if the allowable range is satisfied, welding is performed between the first detection ring (390) and the first terminal plate (380) (step S700).

[0188] Accordingly, the first detection ring (390) and the first terminal plate (380) are joined by an outer welding line (WL2), and the first detection ring (390) and the first attachment (333) of the first current collector (330) are joined by an inner welding line (WL1).

[0189] Conversely, if the detected height difference exceeds the tolerance range, the detection ring is replaced with a new one, and the first and second step detection processes are repeated. If the required number of repetitions fail to meet the tolerance range, the battery is judged defective and discarded.

[0190] According to the secondary battery, the battery module including the same, and the method for manufacturing the secondary battery as described above, a detection ring that is in simultaneous contact between the current collector plate and the terminal plate can be placed to easily detect the alignment step or adhesion between the current collector plate and the terminal plate.

[0191] Accordingly, welding defects caused by gaps or gaps between the collector plate and the terminal plate can be prevented.

[0192] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A battery can housing an electrode assembly; A current collector electrically connected to the electrode assembly and protruding from a side of the electrode assembly; A terminal plate surrounding the upper portion to contact the entire body and exposing the upper portion of the entire body through a terminal hole; and A detection ring having a back surface that is in flat contact with the current collector and the terminal plate at the same time and arranged to surround the upper portion of the current collector to detect an alignment step between the current collector and the terminal plate. A secondary battery, including:

2. In the first paragraph, the detection ring is a secondary battery in which the upper portion of the current collector is partially removed, the terminal plate is partially removed along the perimeter of the terminal hole to define the terminal hole, and the detection ring simultaneously contacts the horizontal current collector plane extending along the perimeter of the current collector and the horizontal terminal plane located at the same level as the horizontal current collector plane.

3. A secondary battery in the second paragraph, wherein the detection ring has a flat upper surface positioned at the same level as the upper surface of the terminal plate and the collector and has a uniform thickness.

4. In the second paragraph, the detection ring has an upper surface inclined downward toward the current collector, so that the outer peripheral portion adjacent to the terminal plate is positioned higher than the upper surface of the current collector.

5. A secondary battery in the fourth paragraph, wherein the vertical distance between the outer peripheral portion and the upper surface of the collector is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

6. A secondary battery in the second paragraph, wherein the detection ring has an outer receiving portion that receives a terminal protrusion that extends vertically from the terminal horizontal plane on the outer surface and protrudes from the terminal vertical plane that contacts the detection ring.

7. A secondary battery in claim 6, wherein the detection ring has an inner receiving portion that receives a current collector protrusion protruding from an outer surface of the current collector on an inner surface that contacts the current collector.

8. A secondary battery according to claim 1, further comprising an inner welding line joining the current collector along the circumference of the detection ring and an outer welding line joining the detection ring and the terminal plate along the circumference of the terminal hole and forming a concentric circle with the inner welding line.

9. A secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein the detection ring is made of the same material as the terminal plate.

10. A secondary battery according to claim 1, further comprising a sub-plate electrically connecting the electrode assembly and the current collector, wherein the current collector is configured to protrude from the sub-plate.

11. A secondary battery according to claim 10, wherein the battery can includes at least one opening communicating with the outside and exposing the current collector.

12. In the 11th paragraph, a cap plate coupled to the opening to seal the inside of the battery can from the outside; and Further comprising a sealing member covering the cap plate to electrically insulate the cap plate, A secondary battery, wherein the terminal plate is placed on the sealing member.

13. In the 12th paragraph, a secondary battery in which the cap plate and the terminal plate are arranged so as to be electrically separated by the sealing member, such that a pair of the openings are arranged to face each other along the longitudinal direction of the battery can, and are provided as side terminals arranged in each of the pair of openings.

14. A plurality of battery cells arranged in a row along the third direction so that the battery cans accommodating the electrode assembly face each other; A plurality of bus lines arranged on the upper surface of the plurality of battery cells and electrically connecting each of the plurality of battery cells; and It comprises a plurality of connecting taps for transmitting electrical energy by connecting the above bus lines classified into set groups, Each of the above battery cells, A current collector protruding from the side to be electrically connected to the above electrode assembly; A terminal plate surrounding the upper portion to contact the above-mentioned collector and exposing the above-mentioned collector through a terminal hole; and A detection ring having a back surface that is in flat contact with the current collector and the terminal plate at the same time and arranged to surround the upper portion of the current collector to detect an alignment step between the current collector and the terminal plate. A battery module having a .

15. In the 14th paragraph, the detection ring is formed by partially removing the upper portion of the current collector and extending along the perimeter of the current collector, and partially removing the terminal plate along the perimeter of the terminal hole to define the terminal hole, and simultaneously contacting the terminal horizontal plane located at the same level as the current collector horizontal plane. Battery module.

16. In the 15th paragraph, the detection ring has an upper surface inclined downward toward the current collector, so that the outer peripheral portion adjacent to the terminal plate is positioned higher than the upper surface of the current collector.

17. In the 15th paragraph, the detection ring, An outer receiving portion for receiving a terminal protrusion extending vertically from the terminal horizontal plane and protruding from the terminal vertical plane in contact with the detection ring; and A battery module having an inner receiving portion that receives a current collector protrusion protruding from the outer surface of the above-mentioned collector.

18. A step of accommodating the electrode assembly in the battery can so that the side of the electrode assembly is exposed through the opening of the battery can; A step of attaching a current collector having a current collection terminal along an outer periphery to a side of the electrode assembly; A step of arranging a terminal plate having a terminal receiving end communicating with a terminal hole on the collector and exposing the collector through the terminal hole; A step of placing a detection ring in a receiving trench defined by the above-mentioned receiving end and the above-mentioned terminal receiving end; and A step of detecting a step difference between the collector and the terminal plate based on the detection ring. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, comprising:

19. In the 18th paragraph, the step of detecting the step is: A step of detecting a first step, which is a height difference between the detection ring and the collector, at at least one pair of positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the collector; and A step of detecting a second step, which is a height difference between the detection ring and the terminal plate, at least one pair of positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the center of the terminal hole. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, comprising:

20. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the first step and the second step are performed by a vision camera located on the upper portion of the terminal plate.

Images