Battery cell assembly, battery pack, and transportation means comprising same

Abstract

A battery cell assembly relating to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a plurality of battery cells; a housing including an accommodation part in which the plurality of battery cells is accommodated; and at least one fixing member which is provided to cover at least a partial area of the outer surface of each of the plurality of battery cells so as to fix the battery cell to the inside of the accommodation part, and which has a battery cell exposure hole to allow a part of the battery cell to be exposed to the outside.

Description

Battery cell assembly, battery pack and vehicle including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, and more particularly, to a structure in which individual battery cells can be easily replaced while the battery cells can be stably fixed within a housing.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0054702, filed April 24, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Recently, rechargeable secondary batteries have been widely used as a power source for wireless mobile devices. Furthermore, secondary batteries are also attracting attention as a potential energy source for electric and hybrid electric vehicles, which are being proposed as a solution to air pollution caused by existing gasoline and diesel vehicles that use fossil fuels. Consequently, the applications that utilize secondary batteries are diversifying significantly due to their advantages, and it is expected that secondary batteries will be applied to a wider range of fields and products in the future.

[0004] In general, a secondary battery can have a plurality of battery cells, and these battery cells are classified into cylindrical and prismatic battery cells in which the electrode assembly is built into a cylindrical or prismatic metal can, and pouch-type battery cells in which the electrode assembly is built into a pouch-type case made of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the battery case. The electrode assembly built into the battery case is a power plant capable of charging and discharging, which is composed of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator structure interposed between the positive and negative electrodes. It is classified into a jelly-roll type in which a separator is interposed between long sheet-shaped positive and negative electrodes coated with an active material and wound, and a stack type in which a plurality of positive and negative electrodes of a predetermined size are sequentially stacked while being interposed between separators.

[0005] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the welding process of a typical battery cell (30) and a bus bar (50). And, Fig. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the battery cell assembly (40) including battery cells (30) fixed using a conventional adhesive (60).

[0006] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in the field of advanced technology, a battery pack (not shown) including a battery cell assembly (or battery cell stack) composed of a plurality of battery cells (30) and a battery management system is used to supply power to various electronic devices. As shown in FIG. 1, the battery cell assembly (40) is generally electrically connected by a method such as resistance welding using a resistance welding rod (20) between the electrode terminals (10) of each of the plurality of battery cells (30) mounted therein and a bus bar (50) in the form of a metal plate.

[0007] In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, in the conventional battery cell assembly, the battery cells (30) were sometimes fixed using an adhesive (60) (potting resin) or the like inside the outer case (not shown) of the battery cell assembly (40) to prevent damage to the electrical connection due to external impact.

[0008] However, in the battery cell assembly (40) of the prior art, if problems such as over-discharge, damage, or short-circuit occur in some of the battery cells (30) among the plurality of battery cells (30) during use, it was difficult to individually replace only some of the battery cells (30) that had problems. That is, since the plurality of battery cells (30) were connected to the bus bar (50), if they were separated from the bus bar (50), the bus bar (50) was likely to be damaged, resulting in the electrical connection of the normal battery cells (30) being disconnected. In addition, in order to separate the battery cells (30) fixed inside the external case with the adhesive (60), the adhesive (60) had to be removed, but this was inefficient because it took a lot of time and money to remove the adhesive (60).

[0009] Therefore, it was inevitable that the battery cell assembly (40) of the prior art be replaced with a minimum unit such as a module assembly composed of several battery cells (30) that are not fixed with an adhesive (60), or be replaced with a completely new battery cell assembly (40). This replacement method has the problem of increasing the maintenance cost of the battery cell assembly (40) and causing environmental pollution because normal battery cells must be discarded along with defective battery cells and recycling of discarded battery cells is difficult.

[0010] Conversely, even when multiple battery cells are housed within a housing without the adhesives or wire bonding techniques employed in prior art, another problem arises. Specifically, the free space within the housing causes frequent movement of the battery cells within the housing, potentially leading to short circuits in electrical connections or damage to the battery cells themselves.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need for the development of a new battery assembly technology that allows for easy replacement of individual battery cells while at the same time stably fixing the battery cells within the housing.

[0012] The present invention aims to solve problems occurring in conventional battery assemblies.

[0013] Specifically, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, which can be easily replaced individually while preventing damage to electrical connecting members (such as bus bars) due to external impact, thereby increasing durability.

[0014] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell assembly is provided, which includes a plurality of battery cells, a housing including a receiving portion for receiving the plurality of battery cells, and at least one fixing member provided to cover at least a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of battery cells to fix the battery cells inside the receiving portion.

[0015] In addition, a battery cell assembly related to one embodiment of the present invention may include a housing including a plurality of battery cells, a receiving portion for receiving the plurality of battery cells, and at least one fixing member that covers at least a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of battery cells to fix the battery cells inside the receiving portion, and has a battery cell exposure opening so that a portion of the battery cells is exposed to the outside.

[0016] The fixing member may include a side wall portion provided to elastically support a portion of a side surface of the battery cell when the battery cell is placed in the receiving portion; and a damper portion provided to elastically support at least a portion of a lower surface of the battery cell when the battery cell is placed in the receiving portion. In this case, the side wall portion and the damper portion may be formed in a cap shape integrally. In addition, a battery cell exposure opening may be formed in the side wall portion and the damper portion so that a portion of the battery cell is exposed to the outside. The damper portion may have a predetermined thickness to buffer the load of the battery cell.

[0017] The above-mentioned fixing member may have a rib pressurizing portion protruding toward the side of the battery cell.

[0018] The above-mentioned fixing member may be provided by being coupled to the above-mentioned receiving portion.

[0019] The above-mentioned fixing member may include an electrically insulating rubber material.

[0020] The above-mentioned receiving portion may include a plurality of mounting grooves in which each of the plurality of battery cells is mounted, and a rib fixing portion protruding toward the side of the battery cell accommodated on the inner surface of the mounting groove may be provided.

[0021] The above battery cell may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal.

[0022] The above battery cell assembly may include a plurality of holder assemblies coupled to the housing and detachably provided with each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0023] The holder assembly may include a positive bus bar configured to make direct contact with and electrically connect to a positive terminal of the battery cell when combined with the battery cell; a positive mold having the positive bus bar built in; and a negative bus bar configured to connect to a negative terminal of the battery cell and combined with the positive mold.

[0024] The anode mold may be electrically insulating and may be coupled so that a portion of the anode busbar is exposed to the outside, and the cathode busbar may be coupled with the anode mold and an anode exposure opening may be formed so that an exposed portion of the anode busbar is exposed to the outside.

[0025] The above anode bus bar may include: an anode plate portion located at the lower portion of the anode mold; an anode connection unit having a shape protruding from the anode plate portion toward the anode terminal and configured to elastically press the anode terminal; and an anode protrusion portion protruding and extending from the anode plate portion to be inserted into the anode exposure opening.

[0026] The above anode mold may include a mold plate portion provided to cover the upper portion of the anode plate portion; and a mold protrusion portion that protrudes upward from the mold plate portion to cover the side of the anode protrusion portion and has an exposure hole formed therein so that the upper portion of the anode protrusion portion of the combined anode bus bar is exposed to the outside.

[0027] The above negative bus bar may include: a negative plate portion coupled with the housing; a negative convex portion formed convexly upward from the negative plate portion to form a receiving space in which the positive mold is received; and a negative connection portion bent downward from the negative plate portion and extending from the negative plate portion to make direct contact with the positive terminal.

[0028] In addition, the housing may include an upper cover provided to cover the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells; and a lower cover provided to cover the lower portions of the plurality of battery cells. The upper cover may be formed with an anode opening open to expose a cathode bus bar to the outside and a cathode opening open to expose a cathode bus bar to the outside, and may further include a plurality of connecting members mounted on the upper portion of the upper cover, each of which has at least one of a cathode contact portion contacting the cathode bus bar through the anode opening and a cathode contact portion contacting the cathode bus bar through the cathode opening. In addition, a sealing member may be provided on a joining surface of the upper cover and the lower cover.

[0029] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack including at least one battery cell assembly and a battery management system (BMS) is provided.

[0030] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a means of transportation including the battery pack is provided.

[0031] As described above, the battery assembly, battery pack, and transportation means including the same according to one embodiment of the present invention have the following effects.

[0032] The battery cells are removable from the holder assembly, thereby allowing individual replacement of battery cells within the battery assembly.

[0033] In addition, by including a fixing member that fixes the battery cell within the housing, it is possible to easily replace the battery cell individually, while preventing damage to the electrical connecting member (bus bar, etc.) due to external impact, and increasing durability.

[0034] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the welding process of a typical battery cell and bus bar.

[0035] Figure 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell assembly including battery cells fixed using a conventional adhesive.

[0036] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are a perspective view and a bottom perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a partial plan view schematically showing a battery cell mounted on a lower cover of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view schematically showing a mounting cap coupled to a lower cover of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view schematically showing a mounting cap coupled to a lower cover of a battery cell assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a partial plan view schematically showing a battery cell inserted into a mounting groove of a lower cover of a battery cell assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view schematically showing the remaining components of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, excluding a connecting member.

[0044] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some components of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention in an exploded state.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell and a holder assembly connected to a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the exploded configuration of a holder assembly of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIGS. 15 and 16 are schematic drawings showing some components of a holder assembly of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing a moving means according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Hereinafter, a battery assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] In addition, regardless of the drawing symbol, identical or corresponding components are given identical or similar reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted, and for the convenience of explanation, the size and shape of each component depicted may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0053] Fig. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 5 and 6 are a perspective view and a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the battery cells (110) may be cylindrical battery cells. However, the external shape of the battery cells is not necessarily limited to a cylindrical shape, and may be square battery cells having a rectangular parallelepiped external shape.

[0055] In addition, each of the plurality of battery cells (110) may be provided with a positive terminal (112) and a negative terminal (114). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the battery cell (110) includes an electrode assembly, a battery can (116) containing the electrode assembly (not shown) therein, and a cap assembly (115) coupled to the upper portion of the battery can (116). At this time, the positive terminal (112) may be located at the upper portion of the cap assembly (115). The negative terminal (114) may be at least a portion of the battery can (116). In addition, the battery cell (110) may be filled with an electrolyte therein. In FIG. 5, the shape of the battery can (116) is shown as cylindrical, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to a cylindrical battery can (116), and a square battery can may be applied.

[0056] Here, the electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrode assembly may be rolled into a roll shape. The positive electrode may be manufactured from an active material containing metallic lithium or a lithium alloy. The negative electrode may be manufactured from an active material containing lithium, such as carbon or a metal oxide. The separator may be manufactured to include a non-conductive polymer, such as a polyolefin.

[0057] Here, the battery can (116) may be made of an electrically conductive metal material. The outer wall of the battery can (116) may have mechanical rigidity to protect internal components such as the electrode assembly (not shown) and electrolyte from the outside. The battery can (116) may be electrically connected to the negative electrode.

[0058] Here, the cap assembly (115) may be equipped with an insulating gasket (not shown), a venting device (not shown), a PTC element (not shown), a positive terminal (112) and a terminal plate (not shown) connecting the positive terminal. However, the cap assembly is not necessarily limited to these configurations, and can be applied to any general cap assembly equipped in a battery cell (110).

[0059] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (190) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the housing (190) includes a receiving portion (193) having an accommodating space formed therein corresponding to or larger than the size of the plurality of battery cells (110). The housing (190) may be formed of an electrically insulating material. For example, the housing (190) may be formed of a plastic material. In addition, the receiving portion (193) of the housing (190) may be provided with a plurality of mounting grooves (171) in which each of the plurality of battery cells (110) is accommodated.

[0060] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention includes at least one fixing member (186) to fix the battery cells (110) inside the receiving portion (193) without them moving. The fixing member (186) is provided to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the fixing member (186) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the side and bottom surfaces of each of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0061] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention can stably fix the battery cells (110) within the receiving portion (193) by including the fixing member (186). Through this, the present invention can prevent the plurality of battery cells (110) from being dislocated within the housing (190) or damaged by impact. Ultimately, the battery assembly (100) of the present invention has the advantage of stably accommodating the plurality of battery cells (110) within the housing (190), while easily replacing defective battery cells (110) by detaching the fixing member (186) from the defective battery cells (110) and applying new battery cells (110) as needed.

[0062] In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the fixing member (186) may be provided to elastically support at least a portion of the outer surface of the battery cell (110) when the battery cell (110) is placed in the receiving portion (193). Specifically, the fixing member (186) may include a side wall portion (187) provided to elastically support a portion of the side surface of the battery cell (110) when the battery cell (110) is placed in the receiving portion (193). In addition, the fixing member (186) may include a damper portion (188) provided to elastically support at least a portion of the lower surface of the battery cell (110) when the battery cell (110) is placed in the receiving portion (193). The side wall portion (187) and the damper portion (188) may be formed integrally. The side wall portion (187) is formed to have a predetermined thickness while surrounding the side surface of the battery cell (110). At this time, the inner diameter of the side wall portion (187) is set slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the battery cell (110), so that the side surface of the battery cell (110) can be elastically compressed. With this configuration, the side wall portion (187) can be stably fixed to the surface of the battery cell (110).

[0063] Additionally, the fixing member (186) may be a cap-shaped member in which the side wall portion (187) and the damper portion (188) are formed integrally. The fixing member (186) may be formed integrally to surround at least a portion of the side surface (110a) and the lower surface (110c) of the battery cell (110).

[0064] In addition, the side wall portion (187) and the damper portion (188) may be formed with battery cell exposure openings (H1) so that a portion of the battery cell (110) is exposed to the outside. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, a plurality of battery cell exposure openings (H1) for heat dissipation may be formed at predetermined intervals in the side wall portion (187) and the damper portion (188).

[0065] In addition, the battery cell exposure opening (H1) may be provided so that, when the fixing member (186) is inserted into the mounting groove (171), a portion of the fixing member (186) that is pressed and pushed out is gathered into the battery cell exposure opening (H1). In other words, the battery cell exposure opening (H1) may serve as a kind of buffer space that accommodates a deformed portion of the fixing member (186). Therefore, the present invention has the advantage of allowing the insertion process of inserting the fixing member (186) into the mounting groove (171) to proceed smoothly.

[0066] However, the position at which the fixing member (186) elastically supports the outer surface of the battery cell (110) and the elastically supporting form of the fixing member (186) are not limited to a specific form. For example, the fixing member (186) may be provided to elastically support at least a portion of the outer surface of the battery cell (110) in the form of a point or line.

[0067] In addition, the damper part (188) may be formed to surround the bottom surface, i.e., the lower surface, of the battery cell (110). The damper part (188) is in close contact with the lower surface of the battery cell (110) to suppress the battery cell (110) from vertically shaking within the mounting groove (171) of the housing (190). Furthermore, the damper part (188) may support the weight of the battery cell (110) and also play a role in absorbing vibration.

[0068] In addition, the damper portion (188) of the fixed member (186) may have a predetermined thickness so as to be able to cushion the load of the battery cell (110). The damper portion (188) is located at the center of the lower surface of the battery cell (110) and directly supports the weight of the battery cell (110). At this time, if the damper portion (188) is too thin, it may not be able to withstand the weight of the battery cell (110), and there is a risk that the lower portion of the battery cell (110) may be deformed or damaged. On the other hand, if the damper portion (188) is excessively thick, the overall height of the battery cell assembly (100) may unnecessarily increase, which may reduce the utilization of the internal space of the housing (190).

[0069] Fig. 7 is a partial plan view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell (110) mounted on the lower cover (170) of a battery cell assembly (100). And, Fig. 8 is a partial perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a fixing member (186) coupled to the lower cover (170) of a battery cell assembly (100).

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 8, the fixing member (186) can be coupled to the receiving portion (193). For example, the fixing member (186) can be coupled to the mounting groove (171) of the housing (190). Through this configuration, the fixing member (186) can simultaneously perform the function of protecting the battery cell (110) by wrapping the battery cell (110) and the function of fixing the battery cell (110) to the housing (190).

[0071] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) may apply a double injection molding technique to combine the fixing member (186) and the mounting groove (171). This is a method in which the fixing member (186) is simultaneously injection molded during the forming process of the housing (190), rather than manufacturing the housing (190) and the fixing member (186) separately and then combining them. Through this double injection process, a structure in which the fixing member (186) is firmly combined with the inner surface of the mounting groove (171) of the housing (190) can be obtained. In particular, during the injection process, the fixing member (186) material adheres closely to the uneven portion or the inside of the void of the mounting groove (171), so that the mechanical bonding strength can be greatly improved. In addition, the method of combining the fixing member (186) to the mounting groove (171) through double injection has the advantage of improving the fixing performance of the battery cell (110) as well as increasing productivity.

[0072] In addition, the connection between the mounting groove (171) and the fixing member (186) can be implemented in various ways. For example, it can be a mechanical connection method in which the fixing member (186) surrounding the lower part of the battery cell (110) is pressed into the inner circumference of the mounting groove (171) formed in the receiving portion (193). For example, the width (D1) of the battery cell (110) surrounded by the fixing member (186) can be formed to be slightly larger than the inner space width (D2) of the mounting groove (171) of the housing (190). This means that when the battery cell (110) is inserted into the mounting groove (171), a portion of the fixing member (186) is compressed, and the battery cell (110) can be strongly fixed and forcibly fitted by this compressive force.

[0073] In addition, the fixing member (186) may include an electrically insulating rubber material. Since at least a portion of the fixing member (186) is made of an electrically insulating material, the electrical insulation between the plurality of battery cells (110) is improved, thereby preventing leakage current and short circuits. In particular, the present invention can increase the sealing and elasticity of the portion surrounding the battery cells (110) by using an elastic rubber material. This not only allows the battery cells (110) to be stably fixed to the mounting groove (171) without movement, but also helps protect the battery cells (110) from external vibrations or shocks.

[0074] For example, examples of rubber materials include synthetic rubbers such as silicone rubber, ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), and polyurethane, as well as natural rubber. Therefore, the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention can simultaneously secure fixing stability and electrical insulation of the battery cell (110) by including electrically insulating rubber as the material of the fixing member (186).

[0075] Fig. 9 is a partial perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a fixing member (186) coupled to a lower cover (170) of a battery cell assembly (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention. And, Fig. 10 is a partial plan view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell (110) inserted into a mounting groove (171) of a lower cover (170) of a battery cell assembly (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, 9 and 10, the fixing member (186) may include a rib pressing portion (189) protruding toward the side of the battery cell (110) accommodated in the inner surface of the mounting groove (171). The rib pressing portion (189) may be formed on the inner surface of the side wall portion (187) of the fixing member (186). The rib pressing portion (189) may locally press the side surface of the battery cell (110) to increase the fixing force between the battery cell (110) and the fixing member (186).

[0077] In addition, the rib pressurizing portion (189) can be distributed across multiple points along the inner surface of the side wall portion (187) of the fixing member (186). This ensures even adhesion to the entire surface of the battery cell (110), thereby maximizing the stability of maintaining the position of the battery cell (110).

[0078] Accordingly, the present invention can increase the bonding strength with the battery cell (110) and significantly improve the position fixing ability within the housing (190) by providing the rib pressurizing portion (189) to the fixing member (186). This is effective in maintaining the structural stability of the battery cell assembly (100) even under vibration or impact loads.

[0079] In addition, the housing (190) may include a rib fixing portion (177) on the inner surface of the receiving portion (193). For example, the rib fixing portion (177) may have a shape that protrudes from the inner surface of the mounting groove (171) of the receiving portion (193) of the housing (190) toward the battery cell (110). This serves to fix and support the position of the battery cell (110) inserted into the mounting groove (171). In particular, the rib fixing portion (177) may locally press a portion of the side surface of the battery cell (110) to prevent the battery cell (110) from moving within the mounting groove (171). The rib fixing portion (177) may be distributed over a plurality of points along the inner surface of the side wall portion (187) of the fixing member (186). The rib fixing portion (177) may include a plastic material having excellent electrical insulation properties.

[0080] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) can significantly improve the fixing stability of the battery cell (110) by providing a rib fixing part (177) in the mounting groove (171) of the housing (190).

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing (190) may include an upper cover (120). Here, the upper cover (120) may be provided to cover the upper and middle portions of the plurality of battery cells (110). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the upper cover (120) may have an upper wall (121) and a side wall (123) extending downward from the outer periphery of the upper wall (121). The lower cover (170) may be provided to cover the lower portions of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0082] In addition, the housing (190) may include a lower cover (170). The lower cover (170) of the battery cell assembly (100) may be a lower cover (170) provided to be coupled with the lower portion of the upper cover (120). For example, the upper cover (120) and the lower cover (170) may be screw-coupled using a fastening bolt (192). In addition, the lower cover (170) may be provided to cover the lower portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (110). To this end, the lower cover (170) may be formed with a plurality of mounting grooves (171) that accommodate the lower portions of each of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0083] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) can be easily assembled by placing a plurality of battery cells (110) on the lower cover (170) and then covering it with the upper cover (120).

[0084] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view schematically showing the remaining components of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, excluding a connecting member (180).

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 11, the upper cover (120) may be formed with an anode opening (122) for contact between the anode bus bar (130) and a connecting member (180) described below. Specifically, the anode opening (122) may have an open shape so that the anode bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside.

[0086] Additionally, the upper cover (120) may be formed with a cathode opening (124) for contact between the cathode bus bar (150) and a connecting member (180) described later. Specifically, the cathode opening (124) may have an open shape so that the cathode bus bar (150) is exposed to the outside.

[0087] Additionally, the upper cover (120) may be formed with a connecting groove (127) designed to insert a connecting member (180) described later. For example, the connecting groove (127) may have a size corresponding to that of the connecting member (180).

[0088] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) may further include a plurality of connecting members (180). The connecting members (180) may be mounted on the upper part of the upper cover (120). Each of the plurality of connecting members (180) may include at least one of a positive contact portion (182) and a negative contact portion (184). The positive contact portion (182) may be provided to contact the positive plate portion (132) of the positive bus bar (130) through the positive opening (122).

[0089] For example, the negative contact portion (184) may be provided to contact the negative plate portion (152) of the negative bus bar (150) through the negative opening (124). The connecting member (180) may have a shape that extends along the connecting groove (127) formed on the upper surface of the upper cover (120). That is, the connecting member (180) may have a bent shape according to the upper surface structure of the upper cover (120). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the battery cell assembly (100) may include a connecting member (180) electrically connected to a plurality of positive bus bars (130) and a connecting member (180) connected to the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150).

[0090] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some components of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention separated.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 12, the battery cell assembly (100) may further include a sealing member (175) for waterproofing the battery cell assembly (100). The sealing member (175) may be provided on a joining surface of the upper cover (120) and the lower cover (170). For example, the sealing member (175) has a linear shape extending in one direction. The two ends of the linear shape of the sealing member (175) may have a loop shape connected. The sealing member (175) is continuously formed with a constant width and thickness along the entire joining surface of the upper cover (120) and the lower cover (170). Accordingly, a gap may be prevented from occurring between the upper cover (120) and the lower cover (170).

[0092] In addition, the sealing member (175) may include a polymer material or a rubber material. For example, the rubber material may include synthetic rubber such as silicone rubber, EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber, polyurethane, or natural rubber. For example, the sealing member (175) may include a silicone material such as silicone rubber. The silicone material has excellent heat resistance, cold resistance, ozone resistance, chemical resistance, etc., and thus can maintain airtightness even in the harsh usage environment of the battery pack (200). However, the sealing member (175) is not necessarily limited to these materials, and any elastic material that can increase the sealing property of the housing and has electrical insulation properties can be applied.

[0093] For example, in the process of manufacturing the lower cover (170), the sealing member (175) can be formed to be inserted into the lower cover (170) together with the fixing member (186) using a double injection method.

[0094] FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell (110) and a holder assembly (160) of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] In addition, FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing an exploded view of the components of the holder assembly (160) of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIGS. 15 and 16 are drawings schematically showing some components of the holder assembly of the battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 13 to 17, the battery cell assembly (100) includes a plurality of holder assemblies (160). Each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) is provided so as to be connectable to the inside of the upper cover (120). Each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) is provided so as to be detachable from each of the plurality of battery cells (110). As shown in FIG. 13, the holder assembly (160) may be provided so as to be connectable to the upper portion of the battery cell (110). In addition, the holder assembly (160) may be provided so that when the positive terminal (112) of the battery cell (110) and the positive bus bar (130) are in contact, the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110) and the negative bus bar (150) are in contact.

[0097] Conversely, the holder assembly (160) may be provided so as to be detachable from the upper portion of the battery cell (110). In addition, the holder assembly (160) may be provided so that when the battery cell (110) is detached from the holder assembly (160), the positive terminal (112) and the negative terminal (114) are sequentially detached from the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150).

[0098] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) is designed so that the battery cells (110) can be detachably mounted from the holder assembly (160), thereby enabling individual replacement of a plurality of mounted battery cells (110) without damaging the fixing members or electrical connecting members (such as bus bars) that fix the battery cells (110) within the outer case. This prevents the problem of the electrical connection of normal battery cells (110) being disconnected during the process of replacing defective battery cells (110). In addition, since there is no need to remove the adhesive when replacing the battery cells (110), the replacement cost and time can be effectively reduced. In addition, the problem of normal battery cells (110) being discarded along with defective battery cells (110) can be prevented, thereby lowering the maintenance cost of the battery cell assembly (100) and preventing environmental pollution.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes a positive electrode bus bar (130). The positive electrode bus bar (130) is provided to be electrically connected by contacting the positive electrode terminal (112). The positive electrode bus bar (130) may include a metal plate having a structure in which the positive electrode protrusion (136) is bent at least once toward the mold protrusion (144).

[0100] In addition, each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes an anode mold (140). The anode mold (140) is made of an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material may be, for example, a plastic material. The anode mold (140) is provided to be coupled with the anode bus bar (130). At this time, the anode mold (140) may be coupled so that a portion of the anode bus bar (130) is exposed. The anode mold (140) and the anode bus bar (130) may be coupled using an insert injection method. For example, the anode bus bar (130) may be inserted into the mold in advance, an electrically insulating molten plastic material is injected into each cavity of the mold, and then the anode mold (140) may be coupled through a process of hardening.

[0101] In addition, each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes a negative bus bar (150) arranged to be connected to a negative terminal (114). The negative bus bar (150) can be coupled to the positive mold (140). The negative bus bar (150) can be coupled to the positive mold (140) using, for example, an adhesive or an adhesive tape (174). An positive exposure opening (151) can be formed in the negative bus bar (150) so that an exposed portion of the positive bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside. For example, the positive exposure opening (151) can be formed so that an upper portion of the positive bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside.

[0102] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) related to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of holder assemblies (160), so that the plurality of mounted battery cells (110) can be individually replaced without damaging the fixing members or electrical connecting members (bus bars, etc.) of the battery cells (110). In addition, the present invention can prevent the problem of the electrical connection of normal battery cells (110) being disconnected in the process of replacing defective battery cells (110). In addition, since the present invention does not require removing the adhesive when replacing the battery cells (110), the replacement cost and time can be effectively reduced. In addition, the present invention can prevent the problem of normal battery cells (110) being discarded together with defective battery cells (110) of the prior art. In addition, the maintenance cost of the battery cell assembly (100) can be reduced and environmental pollution can be prevented.

[0103] Additionally, the anode bus bar (130) may include an anode plate portion (132). The anode plate portion (132) may be located at the bottom of the anode mold (140). The anode plate portion (132) may have a flat plate shape with a circular outer portion.

[0104] In addition, the positive bus bar (130) may include a positive connection unit (134). The positive connection unit (134) may have a shape that protrudes from the positive plate portion (132) toward the positive terminal (112). The positive connection unit (134) may be provided to elastically press the positive terminal (112). That is, the positive connection unit (134) may be provided so that the protruding length can be varied depending on the distance between the positive bus bar (130) and the positive terminal (112).

[0105] Additionally, the anode bus bar (130) may include an anode protrusion (136). The anode protrusion (136) may be configured to be inserted into the anode exposure opening (151). The anode protrusion (136) may have a shape that protrudes and extends from the anode plate portion (132). The anode protrusion (136) may be electrically connected by being joined to a connecting member (180) (external bus bar) described below.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, the anode connection unit (134) may include a body portion (138). The body portion (138) may be electrically conductive. That is, the body portion (138) may include a material such as an electrically conductive metal. The body portion (138) may be provided to be embedded in the anode mold (140). That is, the body portion (138) of the anode connection unit (134) may be coupled to the inside of the anode mold (140) using an insert injection method.

[0107] In addition, the positive electrode connection unit (134) may include a pressurized moving part (137). The pressurized moving part (137) may be electrically conductive. That is, the pressurized moving part (137) may include an electrically conductive metal material. The pressurized moving part (137) may be provided at the lower portion of the body part (138). That is, the pressurized moving part (137) may be provided to be in direct contact with the positive electrode terminal (112). To this end, the pressurized moving part (137) may be provided to be movable in a direction that pressurizes the positive electrode terminal (112). At this time, the pressurized moving part (137) is designed to be movable within a certain range toward the positive electrode terminal (112), so that the contact pressure with the positive electrode terminal (112) can be appropriately adjusted.

[0108] In addition, the positive electrode connection unit (134) may include an elastic member (139). The elastic member (139) may be built into the body portion (138). The elastic member (139) may be provided to elastically press the pressurizing moving portion (137) toward the positive electrode terminal (112). The elastic member (139) is installed inside the body portion (138) to elastically support the pressurizing moving portion (137), thereby stably maintaining the pressing force against the positive electrode terminal (112). Through this positive electrode connection unit (134), the electrical connection between the positive electrode terminal (112) and the positive electrode bus bar (130) can be more reliably achieved.

[0109] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) can reliably electrically connect the positive terminal (112) and the positive bus bar (130) by including the positive connection unit (134). In addition, since the positive connection unit (134) elastically presses the positive terminal (112), deformation or damage of the positive connection unit (134) or the positive terminal (112) can be prevented, and thus, connection failure due to deformation or damage of the positive connection unit (134) or the positive terminal (112) that occurs during the connection process of the prior art can be effectively prevented.

[0110] The above-mentioned positive electrode connection unit (134) may be provided to penetrate the positive electrode plate portion (132). That is, at least one through hole (133) may be formed in the positive electrode plate portion (132) so that the positive electrode connection unit (134) may penetrate therethrough. The positive electrode connection unit (134) may be provided with a stopper (135) in the body portion (138). The stopper (135) may be provided to prevent the pressurized moving portion (137) from moving in the insertion direction while inserted into the through hole (133).

[0111] Additionally, the positive mold (140) may include a mold plate portion (142). The mold plate portion (142) may be provided to cover the upper portion of the positive plate portion (132). That is, the mold plate portion (142) may be coupled to the upper portion of the positive plate portion (132). The mold plate portion (142) may be electrically insulating. The mold plate portion (142) may have a circular shape.

[0112] In addition, the anode mold (140) may include a mold protrusion (144). The mold protrusion (144) may be provided to cover a portion of the side and upper surface of the anode protrusion (136). To this end, the mold protrusion (144) may have a shape that protrudes upward from the mold plate portion (142). An exposure hole (146) may be formed in the mold protrusion (144). The exposure hole (146) may be provided inside the mold protrusion (144) so ​​that the upper portion of the anode protrusion (136) of the coupled anode bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside. Since the upper surface of the anode protrusion (136) is opened through the exposure hole (146), the anode protrusion (136) is easily electrically connected to the connecting member (180). Therefore, the structure of the anode mold (140) can ensure effective insulation and fixation of the anode bus bar (130), while also facilitating smooth electrical connection with other components.

[0113] In addition, the positive protrusion (136) of the positive bus bar (130) may be built into the mold protrusion (144). In addition, as shown in FIG. 17, the mold plate portion (142) may be provided with an insertion groove (145). The insertion groove (145) may be provided to receive an end of the body portion (138) of the positive connection unit (134).

[0114] Specifically, the negative bus bar (150) may include a negative plate portion (152). The negative plate portion (152) may be arranged to be coupled with the upper cover (120). The negative plate portion (152) may have a circular shape.

[0115] For example, the negative plate portion (152) can be joined to the upper cover (120) by adding a double-sided adhesive tape (not shown) or adhesive between the upper surface of the negative plate portion (152) and the inner surface of the upper cover (120). However, the joining method is not necessarily limited to this method, and the negative plate portion (152) can be joined to the inner structure of the upper cover (120) through mechanical joining. For example, the negative plate portion (152) can be joined to the upper cover (120) by a forced fit method or an insert injection method.

[0116] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) may include a negative convex portion (154). The negative convex portion (154) may be formed to be convex upward from the negative plate portion (152) to form a receiving space (126) in which the positive mold (140) is received. The negative convex portion (154) may be formed through a casting or rolling process. The negative convex portion (154) protrudes from the negative plate portion (152) to provide a space in which the positive mold (140) is seated, thereby enabling compact assembly of the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150).

[0117] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) may include a negative connection portion (156). The negative connection portion (156) may have a shape that is bent downward from the negative plate portion (152). The negative connection portion (156) may have a shape that is extended from the negative plate portion (152) so as to be in direct contact with the negative terminal (111). For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the negative bus bar (150) may have four negative connection portions (156). The four negative connection portions (156) may have a shape that is bent downward from the negative plate portion (152) so as to be in direct contact with the negative terminal (114) of the battery can (116) located below. In addition, the negative connection portion (156) is formed to extend downward from the opposite side of the negative plate portion (152) so as to be in direct contact with the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110). At this time, it is desirable for the negative electrode connection portion (156) to exert elasticity so that it can make stable contact with the negative electrode terminal (114).

[0118] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) has a structure in which a negative plate portion (152) that is directly connected to a housing (190) is formed as a basic body, and a negative convex portion (154) and a negative connection portion (156) are formed integrally.

[0119] Accordingly, the negative bus bar (150) of the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention can stably receive and couple the positive bus bar (130) by including the negative convex portion (154) and the negative connection portion (156), thereby inducing stable contact between the positive bus bar (130) and the positive terminal (112), and further directly connecting with the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110) coupled to the lower portion of the holder assembly (160). Ultimately, the negative bus bar (150) can implement a compact holder assembly (160), thereby effectively increasing the energy density of the battery cell assembly (100).

[0120] In addition, as shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, the negative electrode connection portion (156) may be formed with a connection opening (157) formed by partially perforating the portion. In addition, the negative electrode connection portion (156) may be provided with a connection protrusion (158) that protrudes and extends from the inner circumference of the connection opening (157). The connection opening (157) may be formed to be larger than the connection protrusion (158). Accordingly, when the connection protrusion (158) comes into contact with the negative terminal (114), it does not come into contact with the inner circumference of the connection opening (157) even if the connection protrusion (158) is deformed, thereby preventing damage caused by collision of the connection protrusion (158).

[0121] In addition, the connecting protrusion (158) may be provided to enable elastic pressing. The connecting protrusion (158) may have a shape in which a portion of the negative connecting portion (156) protrudes toward the negative terminal (114). The connecting protrusion (158) may have a shape that extends long in one direction. The connecting protrusion (158) may have a structure that is bent in a V shape toward the battery can (116). This V-shaped connecting protrusion (158) has the advantage of being able to elastically press the negative terminal (114).

[0122] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a battery pack (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 18, the present invention provides a battery pack (200) according to one embodiment. The battery pack (200) includes at least one battery cell assembly (100) and a battery management system (BMS) (210). Specifically, the battery management system (210) can perform overcharge / overdischarge prevention and temperature management of the battery cell (110). The battery management system (210) can be built into the battery pack (200).

[0124] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a moving means (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 19, the present invention provides a means of transportation (300) according to one embodiment. This means of transportation (300) includes a battery pack (200) of the present invention. That is, the means of transportation (300) can have the battery pack (200) built into its interior. The means of transportation (300) can use the battery pack (200) as a power source for movement. For example, the means of transportation (300) can be an electric vehicle, an electric bicycle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, an unmanned robot, an unmanned aerial vehicle, etc.

[0126] The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above are disclosed for the purpose of illustration, and those skilled in the art having ordinary knowledge of the present invention will be able to make various modifications, changes, and additions within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0127] According to a battery assembly, a battery pack and a means of transportation including the same in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells are detachable from the holder assembly, thereby enabling individual replacement of the battery cells within the battery assembly.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; A housing including a receiving portion for receiving the plurality of battery cells; and A battery cell assembly characterized by comprising at least one fixing member that covers at least a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of battery cells to fix the battery cell inside the receiving portion, and has a battery cell exposure opening so that a portion of the battery cell is exposed to the outside.

2. In paragraph 1, The above fixed member is, When the battery cell is placed in the receiving portion, a side wall portion provided to elastically support a portion of the side of the battery cell; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a damper portion configured to elastically support at least a portion of the lower surface of the battery cell when the battery cell is placed in the receiving portion.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the side wall portion and the damper portion are formed integrally in a cap shape.

4. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the side wall portion and the damper portion have a battery cell exposure opening formed therein so that a portion of the battery cell is exposed to the outside.

5. In paragraph 2, The above damper part, A battery cell assembly characterized by having a predetermined thickness to cushion the load of the battery cell.

6. In paragraph 1, The above fixed member is, A battery cell assembly characterized by having a rib pressurizing portion protruding toward the side of the battery cell.

7. In paragraph 1, The above fixed member is, A battery cell assembly characterized in that it is coupled to the above-mentioned receiving portion.

8. In paragraph 1, The above fixed member is, A battery cell assembly characterized by including an electrically insulating rubber material.

9. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned receiving portion includes a plurality of mounting grooves in which each of the plurality of battery cells is mounted, A battery cell assembly characterized in that a rib fixing portion protrudes toward the side of the battery cell accommodated in the inner surface of the above-mentioned mounting groove.

10. In paragraph 1, The above battery cell includes a positive terminal and a negative terminal, Further comprising a plurality of holder assemblies coupled to the housing and detachably provided with each of the plurality of battery cells, The above holder assembly, A positive bus bar provided to make direct contact with the positive terminal of the battery cell and electrically connect to it when combined with the battery cell; An anode mold having the above anode busbar built in; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a negative bus bar connected to the negative terminal of the battery cell and coupled to the positive mold.

11. In paragraph 10, The above anode mold, A battery cell assembly characterized in that it is electrically insulating and a portion of the positive electrode bus bar is bonded so as to be exposed to the outside.

12. In paragraph 10, The above negative bus bar is, A battery cell assembly characterized in that an anode exposure hole is formed so that the anode mold is combined with the anode mold and an exposed portion of the anode bus bar is exposed to the outside.

13. In paragraph 12, The above positive busbar, An anode plate portion located at the bottom of the above anode mold; An anode connection unit having a shape protruding from the anode plate portion toward the anode terminal and configured to flexibly press the anode terminal; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including an anode protrusion extending from the anode plate portion to be inserted into the anode exposure hole.

14. In paragraph 13, The above anode mold, A mold plate portion provided to cover the upper portion of the above-mentioned positive plate portion; and A battery cell assembly characterized by comprising a mold protrusion that protrudes upward from the mold plate portion to cover the side of the positive electrode protrusion and has an exposure hole formed therein so that the upper portion of the positive electrode protrusion of the coupled positive electrode bus bar is exposed to the outside.

15. In paragraph 10, The above negative bus bar is, A cathode plate portion coupled with the above housing; A cathode convex portion formed convexly upward from the cathode plate portion to form a receiving space in which the cathode mold is received; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a negative electrode connecting portion that is bent downward from the negative electrode plate portion and extends from the negative electrode plate portion so as to make direct contact with the positive electrode terminal.

16. In paragraph 10, The above housing, An upper cover provided to cover the upper portion of the plurality of battery cells; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a lower cover provided to cover the lower portion of the plurality of battery cells.

17. In paragraph 16, The above upper cover, A battery cell assembly characterized in that an anode opening is formed so that the anode bus bar is exposed to the outside, and a cathode opening is formed so that the cathode bus bar is exposed to the outside.

18. In paragraph 17, A battery cell assembly further comprising a plurality of connecting members mounted on the upper portion of the upper cover, each of which has at least one of a positive contact portion that contacts the positive bus bar through the positive opening, and a negative contact portion that contacts the negative bus bar through the negative opening.

19. At least one battery cell assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18; and A battery pack comprising a battery management system (BMS).

20. A means of transportation characterized by including a battery pack according to Article 19.

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