Battery cell

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a battery cell. The technical problem is to be solved by providing a battery cell that increases the internal capacity of a can. To this end, the disclosure comprises: an electrode assembly having a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate; a can in which the electrode assembly is housed; a cap plate which covers an open area of the can and which has a cap hole formed therein; and a cap assembly mounted on the cap plate so as to cover the cap hole and connected to the electrode assembly, wherein the cap assembly is positioned lower than the can.

Description

battery cell

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery cell.

[0002] In general, with the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic devices such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones, and the commercialization of robots and electric vehicles, research into high-performance secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging is actively underway. Lithium secondary batteries, in particular, are widely used as an energy source for various electronic devices due to their high energy density, high operating voltage, and excellent storage and lifespan characteristics.

[0003] Among these lithium secondary batteries, a cylindrical secondary battery includes a cylindrical electrode assembly, a cylindrical can that accommodates the electrode assembly and an electrolyte, and a cap assembly that is coupled to an opening of the can to seal the can and allow current generated from the electrode assembly to flow to an external device. The cylindrical secondary battery has a structure in which the can having a negative electrode and the cap assembly having a positive electrode are mutually insulated by a gasket.

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

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a battery cell in which the height of the cap assembly is designed to be lower than the height of the can in the battery cell, thereby increasing the internal capacity of the can.

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

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described technical problem, a battery cell comprises: an electrode assembly having a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate; a can in which the electrode assembly is built; a cap plate covering an opened area of ​​the can and having a cap hole formed therein; and a cap assembly mounted on the cap plate, covering the cap hole, and connected to the electrode assembly; wherein the cap assembly is positioned lower than the can.

[0008] The can may include a circular bottom portion; a side portion extending upward from the bottom portion; and a coupling portion extending from the side portion and surrounding the periphery of the cap plate.

[0009] The cap plate can be mounted on the above side.

[0010] The above-mentioned joint and the cap plate can be joined by welding.

[0011] The cap plate may include a first plate coupled to the can; a second plate extending inwardly from the first plate and having a downward slope; and a third plate extending inwardly from the second plate and having the cap hole formed therein.

[0012] The cap plate may further include a cap notch formed on the first plate and ruptured when a set pressure is reached.

[0013] The above cap assembly may include a terminal covering the cap hole; a sealing member positioned between the terminal and the cap plate to maintain airtightness; a current collector connecting the electrode assembly and the terminal; and an insulator positioned between the current collector and the cap plate to prevent short circuiting.

[0014] The terminal may include a first terminal that covers the cap hole at the upper portion of the cap plate and is positioned lower than the can; and a second terminal that extends downward from the first terminal and penetrates the cap hole to be connected to the current collector.

[0015] The above current collector may include a first current collector plate having an upper side coupled to the terminal and a lower side connected to the electrode assembly.

[0016] The above insulator may include a first lower insulator disposed between the first collector plate and the cap plate.

[0017] The above insulator may further include a first side insulator mounted on the can or the electrode assembly and preventing a short circuit due to the flow of the first collector plate.

[0018] The above current collector may include a second current collector plate connected to the electrode assembly; and a second tab connecting the second current collector plate and the terminal.

[0019] The above insulator may include a second insulator attached to the cap plate.

[0020] The above cap assembly may include a cap vent built into the can and covering the cap hole; a cap sealing body positioned between the cap vent and the cap plate to maintain airtightness; a cap down coupled to the cap vent; a cap insulator positioned between the cap vent and the cap down to prevent short circuiting; and a cap collector tab connecting the cap down and the electrode assembly.

[0021] The cap vent may include a first vent side plate coupled to the cap plate via the cap sealing body; a first vent slanted plate arranged to be inclined downward on the inner side of the first vent side plate; a first vent center plate extending from the inner side of the first vent slanted plate and coupled to the cap down; and a first vent notch hole formed in at least one of the first vent side plate and the first vent slanted plate and capable of breaking at a set pressure.

[0022] The cap down may include a first down side plate coupled to the first vent side plate via the cap insulator; and a first down center plate extending inward from the first down side plate and coupled to the first vent center plate.

[0023] The cap down may further include a first down penetration hole formed in the first down side plate and allowing fluid to pass therethrough; and a first down rupture hole formed in the first down center plate and capable of being broken.

[0024] The cap vent may include a second vent plate coupled to the cap plate via the cap sealing body; and a second vent notch hole formed in the second vent plate and capable of breaking at a set pressure.

[0025] The cap down may include a second down side plate coupled to the second vent plate via the cap insulator; and a second down center plate extending inward from the second down side plate and coupled to the second vent plate.

[0026]

[0027] *The cap down may further include a second down penetration hole formed in the second down center plate and allowing fluid to pass through; and a second down breaking hole formed in the second down center plate and capable of breaking.

[0028] In the battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cap assembly is positioned lower than the can, so that the length of the can is increased, thereby increasing the capacity.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since interference with a cap assembly is prevented even when a plurality of battery cells are stacked, it is possible to manufacture a battery module in which battery cells are connected in series.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery module and a battery pack manufactured using a battery having an improved structure and a vehicle including the same can be provided.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing of a can according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 4 is a drawing schematically showing a cap plate according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a drawing schematically showing a process in which a cap plate is broken by a cap notch according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 6 is a drawing schematically showing a cap assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 7 is a drawing specifically showing the entire body in Figure 6.

[0040] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a modified example of the entire body in Fig. 7.

[0041] Figure 9 is a drawing schematically showing a second embodiment of a cap assembly having a current blocking function in the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing showing the cap assembly with an incline in FIG. 9.

[0043] Figure 11 is a drawing schematically showing the operating state of the cap assembly in Figure 10.

[0044] Figure 12 is a schematic drawing showing the flat cap assembly in Figure 9.

[0045] Figure 13 is a drawing schematically showing the operating state of the cap assembly in Figure 12.

[0046] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their typical or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted with meanings and concepts that conform to the technical spirit of the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of a term to best explain his or her own invention. Therefore, 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 spirit of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as substitutes for them at the time of filing this application.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0052] 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.

[0053] Additionally, when a component is described as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or coupled to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through other components.

[0054] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of "may" when describing embodiments of the present disclosure refers to "one or more embodiments of the present disclosure." Expressions such as "one or more" and "one or more" preceding a list of elements modify the list as a whole and do not modify individual elements in the list.

[0055] When reference is made throughout the specification to “A and / or B,” this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when reference is made to “C through D,” this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0056] When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C," are used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrases can refer to any suitable combination.

[0057] The term "use" may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize." As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than degrees, and are intended to take into account inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0058] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could also be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0059] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as depicted in the drawings. It will be understood that spatially relative positions encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as "beneath" or "lower" another element would be understood to be "above" or "upper" the other element. Thus, the term "beneath" can encompass both the above and below orientations.

[0060] 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.

[0061] In exemplary embodiments of square / pouch / circular batteries according to embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the square / pouch / circular batteries is selected and the selected battery is described as having a general structure, and in the case of a generally applicable technology, the general structure of the square / pouch / circular battery is described.

[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electrode assembly (10), a can (20), a cap plate (30), and a cap assembly (40). At this time, the cap assembly (40) is positioned lower than the can (20). That is, the upper end height of the cap assembly (40) can be designed to be lower than the upper end height of the can (20).

[0063] The electrode assembly (10) may include a first electrode plate (11) and a second electrode plate (12). The first electrode plate (11) may be either a negative electrode plate or a positive electrode plate. In this embodiment, an example in which the first electrode plate (11) is a positive electrode plate is described. The first electrode plate (11), which is a positive electrode plate, may be formed of a metal thin plate having excellent conductivity, for example, aluminum foil or mesh. The first electrode plate (11) may be provided with a positive electrode coated portion coated with a positive electrode active material and a positive electrode uncoated portion not coated with a positive electrode active material. For example, the positive electrode active material may be formed of a complex metal oxide such as a chalcogenide compound, LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiNiO2, or LiNiMnO2.

[0064] The second electrode plate (12) may be the other of the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate. In this embodiment, the second electrode plate (12) is described based on an example in which the second electrode plate is the negative electrode plate. The second electrode plate (12), which is the negative electrode plate, may be formed of a conductive metal plate, for example, a copper or nickel foil or mesh. The second electrode plate (12) may be provided with a negative electrode coated portion coated with a negative electrode active material and a negative electrode uncoated portion not coated with a negative electrode active material. For example, the negative electrode active material may be formed of a carbon-based material, Si, Sn, tin oxide, a tin alloy composite, a transition metal oxide, lithium metal nitrite, or a metal oxide.

[0065] A separator (13) may be interposed between the first electrode plate (11) and the second electrode plate (12) to prevent short circuit between the first electrode plate (11) and the second electrode plate (12). For example, the separator (230) may be made of polyethylene, polypropylene, a porous copolymer of polyethylene and polypropylene, etc.

[0066] Meanwhile, when the negative tab (14) connects the second electrode plate (12) and the can (20), the can (20) can operate as a negative electrode. When the cap assembly (40) is connected to the first electrode plate (11), the cap assembly (40) can operate as a positive electrode. Conversely, when the cap assembly (40) is connected to the second electrode plate (12), the cap assembly (40) can operate as a negative electrode.

[0067] An electrode assembly (10) may be built into a can (20). The can (20) may have a cylindrical shape with an open top. During the assembly process of a secondary battery, the electrode assembly (10) and the center pin (19) may be inserted into the can (20) together with an electrolyte. The can (20) may be made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or an equivalent thereof.

[0068] The cap plate (30) can cover the open area of ​​the can (20). A cap hole (39) can be formed in the cap plate (30). The can (20) has a cylindrical shape with an open upper side, and the cap plate (30) can be placed on the upper part of the can (20) to seal a portion of the can (20). The upper part of the can (20) can be brought into close contact with the cap plate (30) through a post-process.

[0069] The cap assembly (40) is mounted on the cap plate (30) to cover the cap hole (39) and can be connected to the electrode assembly (10). The cap assembly (40) is connected to the electrode assembly (10) and can become a positive electrode or a negative electrode. The cap assembly (40) is electrically disconnected from the can (20) and the cap plate (30), so that the can (20) can become a negative electrode or a positive electrode.

[0070] Fig. 3 is a schematic drawing of a can according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 3, a can (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a bottom portion (21), a side portion (22), and a joining portion (23).

[0071] The side portion (22) has a cylindrical shape and can extend upward from the circular bottom portion (21). The connecting portion (23) can extend upward from the side portion (22) and surround the periphery of the cap plate (30).

[0072] A cap plate (30) can be mounted on the side (22). The upper end of the side (22) can have a mounting surface (29) formed on the inner side. The mounting surface (29) can form a flat surface or an inclined surface. The lower end of the cap plate (30) can be mounted on the mounting surface (29). The connecting portion (23) can extend upward from the outer end of the upper end of the side (22). The lower end of the edge of the cap plate (30) can have a shape corresponding to the mounting surface (29).

[0073] The joint (23) and the cap plate (30) can be joined by welding. The cap plate (30) is pressed against the joint (23) in a manner of a force fit, and can be secured to the mounting surface (29) to maintain a horizontal state. The cap plate (30) in a horizontal state can be maintained in a joined state with the joint (23) by welding.

[0074] Fig. 4 is a drawing schematically showing a cap plate according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 4, a cap plate (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first plate (31), a second plate (32), and a third plate (33).

[0075] The first plate (31) can be joined to the can (20). The outer circumference of the first plate (31) can be welded so that it is in close contact with the joint portion (23). The upper portion of the first plate (31) can be designed to correspond to the height of the upper portion of the joint portion (23) or be lower than the upper portion of the joint portion (23).

[0076] The second plate (32) may extend inward from the first plate (31) and may have a downward slope. The second plate (32) may be formed integrally with the first plate (31) or may be joined to the inner circumferential surface of the first plate (31). The second plate (32) may form a low point as it goes inward.

[0077] The third plate (33) extends inward from the second plate (32) and may have a cap hole (39) formed therein. The third plate (33) may have a flat circular shape with a height corresponding to the low point of the second plate (32). A cap hole (39) may be formed in the center of the third plate (33).

[0078] Fig. 5 is a drawing schematically illustrating a process in which a cap plate is broken by a cap notch according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 5, the cap plate (30) according to the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a cap notch (34).

[0079] The cap notch (34) is formed on the first plate (31) and can be broken when the set pressure is reached. That is, when the internal pressure of the can (20) rises and reaches the set pressure, the cap notch (34) formed on the first plate (31) can be broken to discharge the fluid to the outside. This can prevent an explosion due to an increase in the internal pressure of the can (20). The cap notch (34) can be formed circumferentially on the bottom or top surface of the first plate (31).

[0080] Fig. 6 is a schematic drawing of a cap assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 6, the cap assembly (40) according to the first embodiment may include a terminal (41), a sealing body (42), a current collector (43), and an insulator (44).

[0081] The terminal (41) can cover the cap hole (39). The terminal (41) can be connected to a separate terminal. The terminal (41) can be coupled to the cap plate (30) on the outside of the can (20). The terminal (41) can be coupled to the upper surface of the third plate (33).

[0082] A sealing member (42) can be positioned between the terminal (41) and the cap plate (30) to maintain airtightness. The sealing member (42) has a hole formed in the center and can be formed of a non-conductive material. The sealing member (42) can be bonded to the terminal (41) and the upper surface of the third plate (33) by an adhesive. The sealing member (42) can block external foreign substances from entering the inside of the can (20) through the cap hole (39).

[0083] The current collector (43) can connect the electrode assembly (10) and the terminal (41). When the first electrode plate (11) and the terminal (41) are connected by the current collector (43), the terminal (41) can become a positive electrode.

[0084] An insulator (44) can be placed between the current collector (43) and the cap plate (30) to prevent a short circuit. The insulator (44) is formed of a non-conductive material and can be combined with the lower surface of the third plate (33). The insulator (44) can prevent a short circuit from occurring due to the current collector (43) being electrically connected to the third plate (33).

[0085] A terminal (41) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first terminal (411) and a second terminal (412).

[0086] The first terminal (411) covers the cap hole (39) above the cap plate (30) and can be positioned lower than the can (20). The height of the coupling portion (23) can be designed to be higher than the height of the upper surface of the first terminal (411). The first terminal (411) can be positioned lower than the first plate (31). The first terminal (411) can have a disc shape with a diameter larger than the cap hole (39). The first terminal (411) can be positioned above the third plate (33). A sealing member (42) can be positioned between the first terminal (411) and the third plate (33).

[0087] The second terminal (412) extends downward from the first terminal (411) and can be connected to the current collector (43) by passing through the cap hole (39). The outer diameter of the second terminal (412) can be designed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the third plate (33).

[0088] Fig. 7 is a drawing specifically showing the collector in Fig. 6. Referring to Fig. 7, the collector (43) may include a second collector plate (435) and a second tab (436).

[0089] The second collector plate (435) can be connected to the electrode assembly (10). The second collector plate (435) has a circular shape, and its bottom surface can be in contact with the first electrode plate (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The outer diameter of the second collector plate (435) can be designed to be smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly (10).

[0090] The second tab (436) can connect the second collector plate (435) and the terminal (41). The lower portion of the second tab (436) can be connected to the second collector plate (435), and the upper portion can be connected to the second terminal (412). A space can be secured between the second collector plate (435) and the cap plate (30) by the second tab (436).

[0091] The insulator (44) may include a second insulator (445). The second insulator (445) may remain attached only to the cap plate (30). The second insulator (445) may be coupled to the bottom surface of the third plate (33). The inner diameter of the second insulator (445) may be designed to be larger than the outer diameter of the second terminal (412) and smaller than the inner diameter of the third plate (33). The outer diameter of the second insulator (445) may be designed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the third plate (33).

[0092] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a modified example of the current collector in Fig. 7. Referring to Fig. 8, the current collector (43) may include a first current collector plate (431).

[0093] The first current collector (431) may have an upper side coupled to a terminal (41) and a lower side connected to an electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (431) has a circular shape, and a central portion thereof may be in contact with a second terminal (412). The first current collector (431) may have a diameter corresponding to the width or diameter of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the current collector (43) may collect current from the electrode assembly (10) and be connected to the terminal by a separate tab, or the current collector (43) itself may directly connect the electrode assembly (10) and the terminal. In addition, the current collector (43) may adopt various tab shapes for connecting the electrode assembly (10) and the terminal.

[0094] The insulator (44) may include a first lower insulator (441). The first lower insulator (441) may be disposed between the first collector plate (431) and the cap plate (30). The first lower insulator (441) may be coupled to the lower surface of the third plate (33) and the upper surface of the first collector plate (431). The inner diameter of the first lower insulator (441) may be designed to be larger than the outer diameter of the second terminal (412), and the outer diameter of the first lower insulator (441) may be designed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the electrode assembly (10). The outer diameter of the first lower insulator (441) may be designed to be larger than the outer diameter of the third plate (33) and smaller than the outer diameter of the second plate (32).

[0095] The insulator (44) may further include a first side insulator (442). The first side insulator (442) is mounted on the can (20) or the electrode assembly (10) and may prevent a short circuit due to movement of the first current collector (431). The first side insulator (442) may be adhered to the outer circumferential surface of the upper end of the electrode assembly (10) and may include a first side vertical portion (443) extending upward and a first side horizontal portion (444) extending inward from the upper end of the first side vertical portion (443). The first side horizontal portion (444) may be disposed between the first current collector (431) and the first plate (31).

[0096] Fig. 9 is a schematic drawing showing a second embodiment of a cap assembly having a current blocking function according to the present invention. Referring to Fig. 9, a cap assembly (40) having a current blocking function may include a cap vent (51), a cap sealing body (52), a cap down (53), a cap insulator (54), and a cap current collector tab (55).

[0097] The cap vent (51) is built into the can (20) and can cover the cap hole (39). The cap plate (30) has a circular shape with a cap hole (39) formed in the center, and the cap vent (51) positioned below the cap plate (30) can have an outer diameter formed to cover the cap hole (39).

[0098] The cap sealing body (52) can be positioned between the cap vent (51) and the cap plate (30) to maintain airtightness. The cap sealing body (52) can have its upper side attached to the cap plate (30) and its lower side attached to the upper side of the cap vent (51). The cap sealing body (52) can have a circular belt shape. The cap sealing body (52) can protrude inwardly from the cap plate (30).

[0099] The cap down (53) can be combined with the cap vent (51). The upper surface of the cap down (53) can be combined with the lower surface of the cap vent (51). The cap down (53) forms a hole through which a fluid can pass, and when the cap vent (51) is ruptured at the set pressure, a part of the cap down (53) is separated from the cap down (53) together with the cap vent (51), so that current interruption can be performed.

[0100] A cap insulator (54) can be placed between the cap vent (51) and the cap down (53) to prevent a short circuit. The cap insulator (54) can have its upper side attached to the bottom surface of the cap vent (51) and its lower side attached to the upper surface of the cap down (53). The cap insulator (54) can have a circular belt shape.

[0101] The cap collector tab (55) can connect the cap down (53) and the electrode assembly (10). The cap collector tab (55) can be connected to the first electrode plate (11) and the non-broken cap down (53).

[0102] Fig. 10 is a schematic drawing of the cap assembly having an incline in Fig. 9, and Fig. 11 is a schematic drawing of the operating state of the cap assembly in Fig. 10. Referring to Figs. 10 and 11, the cap vent (51) according to the first embodiment may include a first vent side plate (61), a first vent slant plate (62), a first vent center plate (63), and a first vent notch hole (64). The cap vent (51) is integrally formed to have a circular shape, and may be combined as needed.

[0103] The first vent side plate (61) can be connected to the cap plate (30) via the cap sealing body (52). The first vent side plate (61) can extend inward from the cap sealing body (52). A cap insulator (54) can be attached to the bottom surface of the first vent side plate (61).

[0104] The first vent slant plate (62) can be arranged so as to slope downward on the inner side of the first vent side plate (61).

[0105] The first vent center plate (63) extends from the inner side of the first vent slant plate (62) and can be combined with the cap down (53). The first vent center plate (63) can be welded or bonded to a separate area of ​​the cap down (53).

[0106] The first vent notch hole (64) is formed in at least one of the first vent side plate (61) and the first vent slant plate (62) and is breakable at a set pressure. The first vent center plate (63) can be separated by the first vent notch hole (64). The first vent notch hole (64) can be formed in a circumferential direction.

[0107] The cap down (53) according to the first embodiment may include a first down side plate (65) and a first down center plate (66). The cap down (53) is integrally formed to have a circular shape and may be joined as needed. The cap down (53) may be manufactured including a conductive material.

[0108] The first downside plate (65) can be connected to the first vent side plate (61) via a cap insulator (54). A cap collector tab (55) can be connected to the first downside plate (65). The cap collector tab (55) can be welded to the bottom surface of the first downside plate (65).

[0109] The first down center plate (66) extends inward from the first down side plate (65) and can be combined with the first vent center plate (63). The first down center plate (66) can be designed to be thinner than the first down side plate (65). The upper surface of the first down center plate (66) can remain combined with the first vent center plate (63).

[0110] The cap down (53) according to the first embodiment may include a first down penetration hole (67) and a first down breaking hole (68).

[0111] The first down penetration hole (67) is formed in the first down side plate (65) and can pass fluid. A plurality of first down penetration holes (67) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The fluid passing through the first down penetration hole (67) can press the cap vent (51) and induce a rupture of the first vent notch hole (64).

[0112] The first down-break hole (68) is formed in the first down-center plate (66) and is breakable. The first down-break hole (68) may be formed in the circumferential direction of the first down-center plate (66). The first down-center plate (66) disposed inside the first down-break hole (68) may be coupled to the first vent center plate (63). Accordingly, when the first vent center plate (63) is broken by the internal pressure of the can (20), the first down-center plate (66) coupled to the first vent center plate (63) may be separated from the cap down (53) to perform current interruption.

[0113] Fig. 12 is a schematic drawing of the flat cap assembly in Fig. 9, and Fig. 13 is a schematic drawing of the operating state of the cap assembly in Fig. 12. Referring to Figs. 12 and 13, the cap vent (51) according to the second embodiment may include a second vent plate (71) and a second vent notch hole (72). The cap vent (51) is integrally formed to have a circular shape and may be combined as needed.

[0114] The second vent plate (71) can be coupled to the cap plate (30) via the cap sealing body (52). The second vent plate (71) can extend inwardly from the cap sealing body (52). A cap insulator (54) can be attached to the bottom surface of the second vent plate (71). The second vent plate (71) can include a second vent side plate (711) coupled to the cap sealing body (52), and a second vent center plate (712) extending inwardly from the second vent side plate (711) and positioned on the inside of the cap sealing body (52).

[0115] The second vent notch hole (72) is formed in the second vent plate (71) and can be broken at a set pressure. The second vent plate (71) formed on the inside of the second vent notch hole (72) can be separated by the second vent notch hole (72). The second vent notch hole (72) can be formed in a circumferential direction in the second vent center plate (712).

[0116] The cap down (53) according to the second embodiment may include a second down side plate (75) and a second down center plate (76). The cap down (53) is integrally formed to have a circular shape and may be joined as needed. The cap down (53) may be manufactured including a conductive material.

[0117] The second downside plate (75) can be connected to the second vent plate (71) via the cap insulator (54). A cap collector tab (55) can be connected to the second downside plate (75). The cap collector tab (55) can be welded to the bottom surface of the second downside plate (75).

[0118] The second down center plate (76) may extend inwardly from the second down side plate (75) and be combined with the second vent center plate (73). The second down center plate (76) may include a second center slant plate (761), a second center horizontal plate (762), and a second center separator plate (763). The second center slant plate (761) may extend upwardly slantedly from the second down side plate (75). The second center horizontal plate (762) may extend inwardly from the second center slant plate (761). The second center separator plate (763) may have a circular shape and be arranged on the inner side of the second center horizontal plate (762). The second center separator plate (763) may be formed to be thinner than the second center horizontal plate (762). The second center separator plate (763) can be combined with the second vent center plate (712). The cap collector tab (55) may be combined with the bottom surface of the second center horizontal plate (762).

[0119] The cap down (53) according to the second embodiment may include a second down penetration hole (77) and a second down breaking hole (78).

[0120] The second down penetration hole (77) is formed in the second down center plate (76) and can pass fluid through it. A plurality of second down penetration holes (77) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction on the second center horizontal plate (762). The fluid passing through the second down penetration hole (77) can press the cap vent (51) and induce a rupture of the second vent notch hole (72).

[0121] The second down rupture hole (78) is formed in the second down center plate (76) and is breakable. The second down rupture hole (78) may be formed in the circumferential direction of the second down center plate (76). The second down center plate (76) disposed inside the second down rupture hole (78) may be coupled with the second vent center plate (73). The second down rupture hole (78) may be formed in the second center separator plate (763). When the second vent plate (71) is ruptured by the internal pressure of the can (20), the second center separator (763) coupled with the second vent plate (71) is separated from the cap down (53), thereby allowing current interruption.

[0122] 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. An electrode assembly comprising a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate; A can in which the above electrode assembly is built; A cap plate covering the open area of ​​the can and forming a cap hole; and A cap assembly mounted on the cap plate to cover the cap hole and connected to the electrode assembly; A battery cell characterized in that the cap assembly is positioned lower than the can.

2. In the first paragraph, the can Circular bottom; a side extending upward from the above bottom portion; and A battery cell characterized by including a joining portion extending from the side and surrounding the periphery of the cap plate.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell characterized in that the cap plate is mounted on the side.

4. In paragraph 2, A battery cell characterized in that the above-mentioned joint and the cap plate are joined by welding.

5. In the first paragraph, the cap plate A first plate coupled to the above can; A second plate extending inward from the first plate and having a downward slope; and A battery cell characterized by including a third plate extending inward from the second plate and having the cap hole formed therein.

6. In the fifth paragraph, the cap plate A battery cell characterized by further comprising a cap notch formed on the first plate and ruptured when a set pressure is reached.

7. In the first paragraph, the cap assembly A terminal covering the above cap hole; A sealing body arranged between the terminal and the cap plate to maintain airtightness; A current collector connecting the electrode assembly and the terminal; and A battery cell characterized by including an insulator arranged between the above-described collector and the cap plate to prevent short circuit.

8. In paragraph 7, the terminal A first terminal covering the cap hole on the upper side of the cap plate and positioned lower than the can; and A battery cell characterized by including a second terminal extending downward from the first terminal and penetrating the cap hole to be connected to the current collector.

9. In paragraph 7, the entire body A battery cell characterized by including a first collector plate, the upper side of which is connected to the terminal and the lower side of which is connected to the electrode assembly.

10. In the 9th paragraph, the insulator A battery cell characterized by including a first lower insulator disposed between the first collector plate and the cap plate.

11. In the 10th paragraph, the insulator A battery cell characterized by further comprising a first side insulator mounted on the can or the electrode assembly and preventing short circuit due to movement of the first collector plate.

12. In paragraph 7, the entire body A second collector plate connected to the above electrode assembly; and A battery cell characterized by including a second tab connecting the second collector plate and the terminal.

13. In the 12th paragraph, the insulator A battery cell characterized by including a second insulator attached to the cap plate.

14. In the first paragraph, the cap assembly A cap vent built into the can and covering the cap hole; A cap sealing body arranged between the cap vent and the cap plate to maintain airtightness; Cap down combined with the above cap vent; A cap insulator arranged between the cap vent and the cap down to prevent short circuit; and A battery cell characterized by including a cap collector tab connecting the cap down and the electrode assembly.

15. In the 14th paragraph, the cap vent A first vent side plate coupled to the cap plate via the cap sealing body; A first vent slant plate arranged downwardly on the inner side of the first vent side plate; A first vent center plate extending from the inner side of the first vent slant plate and coupled with the cap down; and A battery cell characterized by including a first vent notch hole formed in at least one of the first vent side plate and the first vent slope plate and capable of breaking at a set pressure.

16. In the 15th paragraph, the cap down A first downside plate coupled to the first ventside plate via the cap insulator; and A battery cell characterized by including a first down center plate extending inward from the first down side plate and coupled to the first vent center plate.

17. In the 16th paragraph, the cap down A first down-through hole formed on the first downside plate and allowing fluid to pass through; and A battery cell characterized in that it further includes a first down-break hole formed in the first down-center plate and capable of breaking.

18. In the 14th paragraph, the cap vent A second vent plate coupled to the cap plate via the cap sealing body; and A battery cell characterized by including a second vent notch hole formed on the second vent plate and capable of breaking at a set pressure.

19. In paragraph 18, the cap down A second downside plate coupled to the second vent plate via the cap insulator; and A battery cell characterized by including a second down center plate extending inward from the second down side plate and coupled with the second vent plate.

20. In paragraph 19, the cap down A second down-through hole formed on the second down center plate and allowing fluid to pass through; and A battery cell characterized in that it further includes a second down-break hole formed in the second down-center plate and capable of breaking.

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