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

Abstract

A battery cell assembly related to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: multiple battery cells each having a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal; and multiple holder assemblies provided so that the battery cells can be attached thereto or detached therefrom, and including a positive electrode bus bar, a negative electrode bus bar, and a coupling mold, which are provided such that, when connected to the battery cells, the positive electrode bus bar is electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal, the negative electrode bus bar is connected to the negative electrode terminal, and the coupling mold is coupled to each of the positive electrode bus bar and the negative electrode bus bar, wherein a mold vent hole provided to discharge gas is formed through the coupling mold.

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 battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, which enable the replacement of a single battery cell in a battery assembly composed of a plurality of cylindrical battery cells and prevent ignition of the battery cell by smoothly discharging gas.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0054380, filed April 23, 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. In the future, secondary batteries are expected to be applied to a wider range of fields and products than currently.

[0004] In general, a secondary battery may have a plurality of battery cells. These battery cells are classified into cylindrical and prismatic battery cells in which the electrode assembly is housed in a cylindrical or prismatic metal can, depending on the shape of the battery case, and pouch-type battery cells in which the electrode assembly is housed in a pouch-type case made of aluminum laminate sheet. The electrode assembly housed in the battery case is a power plant capable of charging and discharging, consisting 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 up, 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] Meanwhile, when abnormal conditions such as overcharge, overdischarge, or external impact occur in a battery cell (30), the internal temperature and pressure rapidly increase. At this time, a large amount of gas is generated within the battery cell. If this gas is not quickly discharged to the outside, the battery cell may expand or, in severe cases, rupture. Rupture can lead to fire and explosion, making it extremely vulnerable to safety issues.

[0011] To prevent this, a cap assembly was previously provided that included a vent device that opened when the internal pressure of the battery cell increased above a predetermined level. This vent device allowed the gas generated in the event of abnormal behavior of the battery cell to be discharged to the outside. However, components such as bus bars connected to electrode terminals were located around the cap assembly, making it difficult for the gas to be discharged smoothly through the vent device. In other words, if the bus bar blocked the vent device or impeded the movement of the exhaust gas, the gas discharge efficiency decreased, and the risk of battery cell rupture due to delayed gas discharge and fire due to the gas increased.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need to develop a new type of battery assembly technology that allows easy replacement of individual battery cells while also allowing the battery cells within the housing to smoothly discharge gases to the outside.

[0013] The present invention aims to solve problems occurring in conventional battery assemblies.

[0014] Specifically, through one embodiment of the present invention, it is an object to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, in which individual battery cells can be easily removed and replaced when necessary.

[0015] In addition, the purpose is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, which have a structure in which gas generated inside the battery cell can be efficiently discharged to the outside without being obstructed by a bus bar or the like.

[0016] In addition, the purpose is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transportation including the same, which can prevent the risk of expansion, rupture, and ignition of the battery cell.

[0017] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell assembly is provided, including: a plurality of battery cells, each of which is provided with a positive terminal and a negative terminal; and a plurality of holder assemblies, each of which includes a positive bus bar, which is provided to be detachably connected to the positive terminal when connected to the battery cell, a negative bus bar, which is provided to be connected to the negative terminal, and a joining mold, which is provided to be joined to each of the positive bus bar and the negative bus bar; wherein a mold vent hole is formed in the joining mold, which is provided to allow gas to be discharged.

[0018] The above-mentioned bonding mold may include a mold plate portion in which the mold vent hole is formed, and a mold protrusion portion in which an exposure hole is formed that protrudes outward from the mold plate portion and exposes a portion of the positive electrode bus bar.

[0019] The above-mentioned bonding mold may have the anode busbar embedded therein such that a portion of the anode busbar is exposed to the outside.

[0020] The above anode bus bar may further include an anode plate portion positioned at the lower portion of the bonding mold, and an anode protrusion portion exposed to the outside through the exposure hole of the bonding mold and extending from the anode plate portion.

[0021] In addition, the battery cell includes a cap assembly provided at the top and configured to open at least a portion of the battery cell to discharge internal gas to the outside when an internal gas pressure higher than a predetermined pressure is generated inside the battery cell, and the cap assembly can be positioned to face the mold vent hole.

[0022] An insertion hole may be formed in the above cathode bus bar so that the above bonding mold can be inserted and bonded.

[0023] The above-mentioned combination mold may be provided with a slit in the mold plate portion into which the inner circumference of the insertion hole is inserted.

[0024] The above negative bus bar may be provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions on the inner periphery of the insertion hole, and the above joining mold may be formed with a plurality of fixing holes in which each of the plurality of fixing protrusions is inserted in the mold plate portion.

[0025] The plurality of holder assemblies may be combined, and an upper cover may be further provided to cover the plurality of battery cells, and a cover vent hole may be formed in the upper cover to communicate with the mold vent hole.

[0026] The above-described positive bus bar may include a positive connection unit that elastically presses the positive terminal, and the positive connection unit may include a pressing movable part that contacts the positive terminal and has electrical conductivity, and an elastic member that elastically supports the pressing movable part in the direction of the positive terminal.

[0027] The above negative bus bar may include a negative plate portion, and a negative connection portion extending downward from the negative plate portion and making contact with the negative terminal.

[0028] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack is provided including at least one battery cell assembly and further including a battery management system (BMS).

[0029] In addition, in order to achieve the aforementioned purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a means of transportation including the battery pack is provided.

[0030] In order to improve the problems in the prior art, the battery cell assembly, battery pack and means of transportation including the same of the present invention have the following effects.

[0031] Since the battery cells are detachably attached to the holder assembly, when replacement is required, only the specific battery cells can be selectively removed and replaced with new ones. This increases the recyclability of the battery cells and significantly reduces maintenance costs.

[0032] Furthermore, by configuring the holder assembly to allow gases generated by abnormal behavior of the battery cell to be discharged through the combined mold, gases generated due to excessive pressure within the battery cell can be quickly and effectively discharged to the outside through the mold vent hole. This minimizes the risk of battery cell expansion, rupture, or ignition due to delayed gas discharge.

[0033] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the welding process of a typical battery cell and bus bar.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell assembly including battery cells fixed using a conventional adhesive.

[0035] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell and a holder assembly of a battery cell assembly combined according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 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.

[0039] Fig. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 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.

[0041] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a moving means according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Fig. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a battery cell (110) and a holder assembly (160) of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention combined. And, Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the appearance of the components of the holder assembly (160) of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention separated.

[0046] 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 (110). However, the outer shape of the battery cells (110) is not necessarily limited to a cylindrical shape, and may be square battery cells having a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0047] 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, each battery cell (110) may include an electrode assembly, a battery can (116) containing the electrode assembly 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 on the upper portion of the cap assembly (115). In addition, the negative terminal (114) may be formed as at least a portion of the battery can (116). In addition, the battery cell (110) may be filled with an electrolyte therein.

[0048] For example, the cap assembly (115) may include 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 provided in a battery cell (110).

[0049] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of holder assemblies (160). The plurality of holder assemblies (160) are provided so that each of the plurality of battery cells (110) can be detachably mounted. For example, one holder assembly may be detachably mounted to one battery cell (110). For example, the holder assembly (160) may be temporarily fixed by pressing downward from the top of the battery cell (110), or conversely, may be provided so as to be detachably pulled upward. Meanwhile, various means such as a fitting joint may be utilized as a method of temporarily fixing the holder assembly (160) to the battery cell (110).

[0050] In addition, each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes a positive bus bar (130) configured to be electrically connected to a positive terminal (112) of a battery cell (110). The positive bus bar (130) is configured to be electrically connected by contacting the positive terminal (112). Each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes a negative bus bar (150) configured to be electrically connected to a negative terminal (114) of a battery cell (110). The negative bus bar (150) is configured to be connected to the negative terminal (114) when coupled with the battery cell (110).

[0051] In addition, each of the plurality of holder assemblies (160) includes a bonding mold (140). Each of these bonding molds (140) may be provided to be bonded to each of the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150). That is, the bonding mold (140) is bonded to each of the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150), thereby electrically insulating the two bus bars, and allowing the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150) to take appropriate positions that facilitate easy contact with the electrode terminals of the battery cell (110).

[0052] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be formed with at least one mold vent hole (148) provided to discharge gas into the bonding mold (140). This mold vent hole (148) can effectively discharge gas generated inside the battery cell (110) to the outside, thereby preventing rupture or ignition of the battery cell (110).

[0053] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention facilitates individual replacement of the battery cells (110) through a detachable structure of a plurality of battery cells (110) and a holder assembly (160), and enhances the safety of the battery cells (110) by inducing smooth discharge of internal gas through a vent hole.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, when a plurality of holder assemblies (160) and a plurality of battery cells (110) are combined, the positive terminal (112) and the positive bus bar (130) may be configured to contact each other, and the negative terminal (114) and the negative bus bar (150) may be configured to contact each other.

[0055] Specifically, when each holder assembly (160) is positioned on top of a battery cell (110), the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150) can be arranged to face the positive terminal (112) and the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110), respectively. In this state, when the holder assembly (160) is connected to the upper portion of the battery cell (110) by pressing the battery cell (110) against the holder assembly (160), the positive bus bar (130) can come into contact with the positive terminal (112) and the negative bus bar (150) can come into contact with the negative terminal (114).

[0056] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) of the present invention can more stably and efficiently implement an electrical connection between the battery cell (110) and the holder assembly (160) by allowing the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150) to come into contact with the terminal of the battery cell (110) when the holder assembly (160) and the battery cell (110) are combined.

[0057] In addition, the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be arranged so that when the holder assembly (160) is separated from the battery cell (110), the positive terminal (112) and the negative terminal (114) are sequentially separated from the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150).

[0058] Meanwhile, when a problem occurs in the battery cell (110) and individual battery cell (110) replacement is required, the holder assembly (160) is separated from the battery cell (110). At this time, when the holder assembly (160) is lifted from above the battery cell (110), the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150) can be released from contact with the positive terminal (112) and the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110).

[0059] Fig. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, in a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cap assembly (115) may be provided on the upper portion of a battery cell (110). In addition, a holder assembly (160) may be detachably coupled to the cap assembly (115). Specifically, the cap assembly (115) may serve to seal and protect the battery can (116) and the electrode assembly.

[0061] In addition, the cap assembly (115) of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be provided so that, when an internal gas pressure higher than a predetermined pressure occurs inside the battery cell (110), at least a portion thereof is opened to discharge the internal gas to the outside.

[0062] In general, when a battery cell (110) is subjected to abnormal conditions such as overcharge, overdischarge, or exposure to high temperatures, a large amount of gas is generated inside the battery cell (110). If the internal pressure of the battery cell (110) excessively increases due to the generated gas, this may lead to expansion or rupture of the battery cell (110), posing a significant safety risk. Therefore, in such situations, it is very important to quickly discharge the gas inside the battery cell (110) to the outside to lower the internal pressure.

[0063] To this end, the present invention provides a structure that opens when the internal pressure rises in the cap assembly (115), thereby allowing gas inside the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside. Specifically, when an internal pressure higher than a certain pressure is applied, the cap assembly (115) can be opened by fracturing or rupturing a specific portion, thereby providing a passage for gas discharge. This open structure of the cap assembly (115) can be implemented in various forms. For example, a fracture structure and an open structure that are fractured or opened by the internal pressure can be provided in a portion of the cap assembly (115).

[0064] Additionally, the cap assembly (115) can be positioned to face the mold vent hole (148).

[0065] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) includes a cap assembly (115) having a rupture structure or an open structure that opens when a predetermined internal pressure or higher is present, so that internal gas can be quickly discharged to the outside when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (110), thereby ensuring safety.

[0066] In addition, the bonding mold (140) may include a mold plate portion (147). The mold plate portion (147) may be provided to cover the upper portion of the positive electrode plate portion (132). That is, the mold plate portion (147) may be bonded to the upper portion of the positive electrode plate portion (132). The mold plate portion (147) may be electrically insulating. For example, the mold plate portion (147) may be formed of an insulating material and may be formed of a resin material. The mold plate portion (147) may be circular in plan.

[0067] In addition, the bonding mold (140) may include a mold protrusion (144). This mold protrusion (144) may have a shape that protrudes upward from the mold plate portion (147). The mold protrusion (144) may have an exposure hole (146) formed therein. The exposure hole (146) may be provided at the center of the mold protrusion (144) so ​​that the upper portion of the positive protrusion (136) of the bonded positive bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside. Since the upper surface of the positive bus bar (130) is opened through this exposure hole (146), the electrical connection between the positive bus bar (130) and the connecting member (180) becomes easy. Therefore, the structure of the bonding mold (140) can ensure effective insulation and fixation of the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150), while also facilitating electrical connection with the connecting member (180).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a bonding mold (140) of a battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a positive electrode bus bar (130) built into it. For example, the positive electrode bus bar (130) may be placed in a state of being built into the bonding mold (140). At this time, the bonding mold (140) may be arranged such that a portion of the positive electrode bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside. This facilitates electrical connection between the positive electrode bus bar (130) and other electrical components (connecting members).

[0069] Additionally, the positive bus bar (130) may include a positive plate portion (132). The positive plate portion (132) may be positioned at the bottom of the bonding mold (140) so as to be exposed in a downward direction (in the direction toward the battery cell (110). The positive plate portion (132) may have a flat plate shape with a circular outer portion.

[0070] Additionally, the anode bus bar (130) may include an anode protrusion (136). 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 to the connecting member (180) (external bus bar) described below by being joined to the connecting member (180).

[0071] Additionally, the positive protrusion (136) of the positive bus bar (130) may be built into the mold protrusion (144). Referring to Fig. 7, the mold plate portion (147) may be provided with an insertion groove (149). The insertion groove (149) may be provided to accommodate the body portion (138) of the positive connection unit (134).

[0072] Additionally, an insertion hole (159) may be formed in the negative bus bar (150) of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, the insertion hole (159) may have a roughly circular shape. The insertion hole (159) may have a size into which a bonding mold (140) described below may be inserted.

[0073] In addition, the insertion hole (159) can be formed in an appropriate size and shape considering the capacity of the battery cell (110) or the amount of gas generated. For example, the insertion hole (159) can have a shape such as a circle, an ellipsoid, or a square.

[0074] Therefore, by forming an insertion hole (159) in the negative bus bar (150), it is possible to induce more rapid and efficient gas discharge when the internal pressure of the battery cell (110) increases. This can further enhance the safety of the battery pack.

[0075] Additionally, the mold vent hole (148) formed in the bonding mold (140) may be in communication with the insertion hole (159). For example, the insertion hole (159) may be circular. That is, gas generated inside the battery cell (110) may pass through the mold vent hole (148) formed in the bonding mold (140) inserted into the insertion hole (159) and then be discharged to the outside.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the bonding mold (140) can be coupled to the insertion hole (159). At this time, the mold plate portion (147) may be provided with a slit (S) into which the inner periphery of the insertion hole (159) is inserted. For example, a linear slit (S) inserted to a predetermined depth may be formed in a circular shape along the side of the mold plate portion (147).

[0077] Accordingly, the bonding mold (140) can stably bond the negative bus bar (150) and the insertion hole (159) by inserting the inner portion of the insertion hole (159) into the slit (S) provided in the mold plate portion (147).

[0078] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) may be provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions (157) each designed to be inserted into a slit (S) formed in the mold plate portion (147) on the inner periphery of the insertion hole (159). In addition, the bonding mold (140) may include a plurality of fixing holes (143) each designed to be inserted into the mold plate portion (147) of the plurality of fixing protrusions (157). For example, the inner space of the fixing hole (143) may have a shape corresponding to the fixing protrusions (157).

[0079] Accordingly, a plurality of fixing protrusions (157) are provided on the inner periphery of the insertion hole (159), and a plurality of fixing holes (143) are formed in the mold plate portion (147) so that each of the plurality of fixing protrusions (157) is inserted therein, so that the negative bus bar (150) and the joining mold (140) can be precisely and stably fixed to the set joining position. Accordingly, the holder assembly (160) can make a reliable connection (contact) with the electrode terminals (112, 114) of the battery cell (110).

[0080] In addition, the connection between the positive bus bar (130), the negative bus bar (150), and the joining mold (140) can be made in various ways. For example, after the positive bus bar (130) is embedded in the joining mold (140) using a method such as insert injection, the joining mold (140) combined with the positive bus bar (130) can be inserted into the insertion hole (159) of the negative bus bar (150) to be joined. At this time, the joining mold (140) can function as an insulator that electrically insulates the positive bus bar (130) and the negative bus bar (150).

[0081] Additionally, the positive bus bar (130) may be provided with a plurality of coupling protrusions (137) so as to be stably fixed while embedded within the coupling mold (140). The coupling mold (140) may be formed with a coupling hole (145) into which the coupling protrusions (137) of the positive bus bar (130) are inserted.

[0082] FIG. 8 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 the connecting member.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 8, a battery cell assembly (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an upper cover (120) provided to cover a plurality of battery cells (110). The upper cover (120) may be provided to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (110) therein. The upper cover (120) may be provided to accommodate a plurality of holder assemblies (160) while the plurality of battery cells (110) are accommodated therein. An accommodation portion (126) may be provided in the accommodation portion (126) inside the upper cover (120) to accommodate the holder assembly (160). For example, the accommodation portion (126) may have a groove shape into which the holder assembly (160) may be inserted and seated. For example, the accommodation portion (126) may have an inner space corresponding to the outer shape of the holder assembly (160).

[0084] Additionally, a cover vent hole (123) may be formed in the upper cover (120) so as to be in communication with at least one of the insertion hole (159) and the mold vent hole (148). That is, the upper cover (120) can protect the battery cell (110) and the holder assembly (160) from the external environment and discharge gas generated from the battery cell (110) to the outside.

[0085] For example, the cover vent hole (123) may be formed to have a size similar to that of the mold vent hole (148), or a size larger than that of the mold vent hole (148). In this structure, the gas that has passed through the lower mold vent hole (148, 159) can smoothly escape through the cover vent hole (123) of the upper cover (120). If the cover vent hole (123) is small, a bottleneck may occur during gas discharge, which may rather cause gas stagnation. Therefore, by providing the cover vent hole (123) in the upper cover (120), the gas generated from the battery cell (110) can be smoothly discharged.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 8, the battery cell assembly (100) may include a plurality of connecting members (180). The connecting members (180) may be mounted on the upper portion 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).

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 7, an anode opening (122) may be formed in the upper cover (120) for contact between the anode bus bar (130) and the connecting member (180). Specifically, the anode opening (122) may have an open shape so that the anode bus bar (130) is exposed to the outside.

[0088] Additionally, a cathode opening (124) may be formed in the upper cover (120) for contact between the cathode bus bar (150) and the connecting member (180). Specifically, the cathode opening (124) may have an open shape so that the cathode bus bar (150) is exposed to the outside.

[0089] 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).

[0090] Additionally, the positive contact portion (182) may be arranged to contact the positive plate portion (132) of the positive bus bar (130) through the positive opening (122).

[0091] 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, among the plurality of connecting members (180), the connecting member (180) 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).

[0092] Additionally, the housing (190) may include a lower cover (170). The lower cover (170) of the battery cell assembly (100) may be 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 fastening bolts. Additionally, the lower cover (170) may be provided to cover the lower portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, 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 varies depending on the distance between the positive bus bar (130) and the positive terminal (112).

[0094] In addition, a through hole (135) may be formed in the positive electrode bus bar (130) of the battery cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, into which a positive electrode connection unit (134) is inserted. For example, the positive electrode bus bar (130) may be formed with four through holes (135) into which four positive electrode connection units (134) are inserted, respectively. A plurality of through holes (135) may be formed in a circular shape in the positive electrode bus bar (130).

[0095] In addition, 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 a joining mold (140). That is, the body portion (138) of the anode connection unit (134) may be joined inside the joining mold (140) using an insert injection method.

[0096] In addition, the positive electrode connection unit (134) may include a pressurized moving part (133). The pressurized moving part (133) may be electrically conductive. That is, the pressurized moving part (133) may include an electrically conductive metal material. The pressurized moving part (133) may be provided at the lower portion of the body part (138). That is, the pressurized moving part (133) may be provided to be in direct contact with the positive electrode terminal (112). To this end, the pressurized moving part (133) may be provided to be movable in a direction that pressurizes the positive electrode terminal (112). At this time, the pressurized moving part (133) 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.

[0097] 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 part (133) toward the positive electrode terminal (112). The elastic member (139) is installed inside the body portion (138) to elastically support the pressurizing moving part (133), thereby stably maintaining the pressing force against the positive electrode terminal (112). Through the 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. For example, the elastic member (139) may be a spring member.

[0098] By including the positive electrode connection unit (134) of this structure, the positive electrode terminal (112) and the positive electrode bus bar (130) can be reliably electrically connected. In addition, since the positive electrode connection unit (134) elastically presses the positive electrode terminal (112), deformation or damage of the positive electrode connection unit (134) or the positive electrode terminal (112) can be prevented. Accordingly, connection failure due to deformation or damage of the positive electrode connection unit (134) or the positive electrode terminal (112) that occurs during the connection process of the prior art can be effectively prevented.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the negative bus bar (150) may include a negative plate portion (152) having a ring shape. The negative bus bar (150) may include a negative connection portion (156). The negative connection portion (156) may have a shape bent downward from the negative plate portion (152). The negative connection portion (156) may have a shape extended from the negative plate portion (152) so as to be in direct contact with the negative terminal (114). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the negative bus bar (150) may have four negative connection portions (156). The four negative connection portions (156) may have a shape 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 electrode connection portion (156) is formed to extend downward from the opposite side of the negative electrode plate portion (152) and comes into direct contact with the negative electrode terminal (114) of the battery cell (110). At this time, the negative electrode connection portion (156) may have a structure capable of providing elasticity so that it can stably come into contact with the negative electrode terminal (114).

[0100] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) may be arranged to be coupled to the upper cover (120). For example, the negative plate portion (152) may be coupled 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 method of coupling is not necessarily limited to this method, and for example, the negative plate portion (152) may be coupled to the upper cover (120) by a forced fit method or an insert injection method.

[0101] In addition, the negative bus bar (150) may include a negative connection portion (156) provided to be in contact with the negative terminal (114). The negative bus bar (150) may have a structure in which the negative plate portion (152) serves as a basic body, and the negative connection portion (156) is integrally extended from the negative plate portion (152). Specifically, the negative connection portion (156) may have a shape extending downward from the negative plate portion (152). In addition, the negative connection portion (156) may be provided with a connection protrusion (158) protruding toward the negative terminal (114). The connection protrusion (158) may be provided to have elasticity so as to enable elastic pressing. The connection 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 flexibly pressurize the negative terminal (114).

[0102] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) related to one embodiment of the present invention includes a negative terminal (156), thereby being able to directly connect to the negative terminal (114) of the battery cell (110) coupled to the lower portion of the holder assembly (160). This negative bus bar (150) can implement a compact holder assembly (160), thereby effectively increasing the energy density of the battery cell assembly (100).

[0103] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a battery pack (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 9, the present invention provides a battery pack (200) including the aforementioned battery cell assembly. The battery pack (200) may include at least one battery cell assembly (100) and a battery management system (BMS) (210). Specifically, the battery management system (210) may perform overcharge / overdischarge prevention and temperature management of the battery cell (110). The battery management system (210) may be built into the battery pack (200). The battery management system (210) may be electrically connected to each battery cell.

[0105] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a moving means (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 10, a means of transportation (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery pack (200) of the present invention. That is, the means of transportation (300) may have the battery pack (200) built into its interior. The means of transportation (300) may use the battery pack (200) as a power source for movement. For example, the means of transportation (300) may be an electric vehicle, an electric bicycle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, an unmanned robot, an unmanned aerial vehicle, etc.

[0107] 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.

[0108] According to a battery cell assembly, a battery pack and a means of transportation including the same related to one embodiment of the present invention, when replacement of a battery cell is required, only the battery cell can be selectively separated and replaced with a new battery cell.

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells each having a positive terminal and a negative terminal; and A plurality of holder assemblies are provided, each of which is provided so that the battery cell is detachable, and includes a positive bus bar configured to be electrically connected to the positive terminal when connected to the battery cell, a negative bus bar configured to be connected to the negative terminal, and a joining mold configured to be joined to each of the positive bus bar and the negative bus bar; A battery cell assembly characterized in that a mold vent hole is formed in the above-mentioned combined mold to allow gas to be discharged.

2. In paragraph 1, The above combined mold is, A mold plate portion in which the mold vent hole is formed; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a mold protrusion formed with an exposure hole that protrudes outward from the mold plate portion and exposes a portion of the positive electrode bus bar.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the above-mentioned bonding mold embeds the positive electrode bus bar such that a portion of the positive electrode bus bar is exposed to the outside.

4. In paragraph 2, The above positive busbar, A positive electrode plate portion located at the bottom of the above-mentioned bonding mold; and A battery cell assembly further comprising a positive electrode protrusion that is exposed to the outside through the exposure hole of the above-mentioned bonding mold and extends from the positive electrode plate portion.

5. In paragraph 1, The above battery cell includes a cap assembly provided at the top and configured to open at least a portion of the cap assembly to discharge internal gas to the outside when an internal gas pressure higher than a predetermined pressure is generated inside the battery cell. A battery cell assembly characterized in that the cap assembly is positioned to face the mold vent hole.

6. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly characterized in that an insertion hole is formed in the negative bus bar so that the above-mentioned bonding mold is inserted and bonded.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the above-mentioned combination mold has a slit in the mold plate portion into which the inner peripheral portion of the insertion hole is inserted.

8. In paragraph 6, The above negative bus bar is provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions on the inner periphery of the above insertion hole, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the above-mentioned bonding mold has a plurality of fixing holes formed in the mold plate portion, each of which is provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions for insertion.

9. In paragraph 6, A plurality of holder assemblies are combined, and further comprising an upper cover provided to cover the plurality of battery cells, A battery cell assembly characterized in that a cover vent hole is formed in the upper cover to communicate with the mold vent hole.

10. In paragraph 1, The above positive busbar, A battery cell assembly characterized by including a positive electrode connection unit that flexibly presses the positive electrode terminal.

11. In paragraph 10, The above positive electrode connection unit is, A pressurized moving part having electrical conductivity in contact with the positive terminal; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including an elastic member that elastically supports the pressurized moving part in the direction of the positive terminal.

12. In paragraph 1, The above negative bus bar is, cathode plate portion; and A battery cell assembly characterized by including a negative electrode connecting portion extending downward from the negative electrode plate portion and making contact with the negative electrode terminal.

13. A battery pack comprising a battery cell assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A means of transportation including a battery pack according to Article 13.

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