Battery cell assembly and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention to address the above-described issue, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack comprises: a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction; a plurality of cooling fins interposed between the plurality of battery cells; a plurality of pads interposed between the plurality of battery cells; a first integrated circuit assembly electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a second integrated circuit assembly electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the first integrated circuit assembly in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and a flat flexible cable (FFC) assembly interposed between the first and second integrated circuit assemblies, wherein the FFC assembly includes an intermediate portion overlapping with the plurality of battery cells in the first direction.

Description

Battery cell assembly and battery pack including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell assembly and a battery pack including the same. This application claims the benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2024-0069450, filed May 28, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0003] In the current trend emphasizing secondary batteries for mobility, the primary direction of secondary battery technology development is to reduce production costs and enhance safety. Secondary batteries account for the largest portion of BEV manufacturing costs. Therefore, the most crucial factor in increasing the market share of BEVs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles is secondary battery production costs. Reducing production costs can be achieved by reducing raw materials, reducing the number of steps in the production process, and shortening takt time. The safety of secondary batteries is crucial, as it directly impacts the lives of vehicle occupants. A key challenge in enhancing secondary battery safety is providing a cooling solution for the battery pack.

[0004] The technical idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a battery cell assembly with improved cooling efficiency and a battery pack including the same.

[0005] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes: a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction; a plurality of cooling fins interposed between the plurality of battery cells; a plurality of pads interposed between the plurality of battery cells; a first integrated circuit assembly configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a second integrated circuit assembly configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the first integrated circuit assembly in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and an FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) assembly interposed between the first and second integrated circuit assemblies, and the FFC assembly includes a middle portion overlapping the plurality of battery cells in the first direction.

[0006] The FFC assembly includes a first battery cell, which is one of the plurality of battery cells, and a first connector overlapping in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

[0007] The first connection portion is connected to the first integrated circuit assembly.

[0008] The above FFC assembly further includes a second connector overlapping the first battery cell in the third direction.

[0009] The second connection portion is connected to the second integrated circuit assembly.

[0010] The second connecting portion is spaced apart from the first connecting portion with the middle portion therebetween.

[0011] Each of the plurality of cooling fins includes a contact portion overlapping the plurality of battery cells in the first direction and a heat dissipation portion overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells in the third direction, and each of the first and second contact portions is interposed between the first battery cell and the heat dissipation portion of one of the plurality of cooling fins.

[0012] The FFC assembly further includes a first sensor support spaced apart from the intermediate portion in the first direction and a second sensor support spaced apart from the intermediate portion in the first direction, and the first sensor support and the second sensor support are spaced apart from the intermediate portion in the second direction.

[0013] The first sensor support is connected to the first connection portion, and the second sensor support is connected to the second connection portion.

[0014] The FFC assembly further includes a first temperature sensor on the first sensor support and a second temperature sensor on the second sensor support.

[0015] Each of the first and second temperature sensors is spaced apart from each of the plurality of cooling fins.

[0016] The first and second temperature sensors are interposed between the first battery cell and one of the plurality of pads.

[0017] The intermediate portion includes first and second portions extending in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions, and a third portion interposed between the first and second portions.

[0018] The third portion extends in the second direction.

[0019] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) assembly may include a portion interposed between a battery cell and a pad. Accordingly, an increase in thermal resistance due to the FFC assemblies and damage to the FFC assemblies due to cooling fins can be prevented, and the reliability of the battery cell assembly and the battery pack including the same can be improved.

[0020] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0024] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3I-3I' of Figure 3.

[0025] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3II-3II' of Figure 3.

[0026] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3III-3III' of Figure 3.

[0027] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3IV-3IV' of Figure 3.

[0028] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3V-3V' of Figure 3.

[0029] Figure 9 shows the combination of a battery cell and an FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) assembly.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an FFC assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating an FFC assembly according to other exemplary embodiments.

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0033] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0034] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0035] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0036]

[0037] (Embodiments 1 and 2)

[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery pack (100) may include a housing (110), a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120), first TIM (Thermal Interface Material) layers (131), second TIM layers (133), a gasket (140), a lid (150), a lower injection pipe (161), an upper injection pipe (163), a lower recovery pipe (171), and an upper recovery pipe (173). The battery pack (100) is the final form of a battery system mounted on mobility, etc.

[0041] The housing (110) may provide a space for arranging a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The housing (110) may include a base plate (111), side walls (112, 113, 114, 115), and a center beam (116).

[0042] Two directions substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) is defined as the Z direction. Each of the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction can be substantially perpendicular to each other. Unless otherwise stated, the definitions of directions are the same for the drawings below.

[0043] Each of the base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of each of the base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be the X direction. That is, the YZ cross-section of each of the base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be constant depending on the position in the X direction except for deformation due to additional tooling. Here, the YZ cross-section may be substantially parallel to the Y direction and the Z direction, and substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may be arranged in the Y direction. The side walls (114, 115) may also be provided by an extrusion process.

[0044] According to exemplary embodiments, the base plate (111) and side walls (112, 113) may be joined by friction stir welding. The base plate (111) may include a plurality of unit plates joined by friction stir welding.

[0045] The pack housing (110) may include a center beam (116). The center beam (116) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) may be interposed between the side walls (112, 113). The center beam (116) may be included in a center plate that is positioned at the center of a plurality of unit plates that are friction stir welded to each other. Accordingly, the center beam (116) may be formed together with the center plate in an extrusion process, and the center beam (116) may be a continuous element integral with the center plate.

[0046] The base plate (111) may include a plurality of first cooling channels. The plurality of first cooling channels may provide passages for the movement of a coolant, such as water, for example. The plurality of first cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The plurality of first cooling channels may extend in the X direction. The plurality of first cooling channels may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction.

[0047] The first cooling channels of the base plate (111) can be connected to a lower injection pipe (161) and a lower recovery pipe (171). Cooling fluid introduced through the lower injection pipe (161) can flow through the first cooling channels and be recovered by the lower recovery pipe (171).

[0048] A plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be arranged on a base plate (111) of a housing (110). The base plate (111) may support the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). Side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may horizontally surround the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120).

[0049] First TIM layers (131) may be interposed between a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and a base plate (111). The first TIM layers (131) may include a resin composition. The first TIM layers (131) may be provided by a thermal resin application process. The first TIM layers (131) may prevent an air layer from being formed between the base plate (111) and the battery cells (121), thereby promoting cooling of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The first TIM layers (131) may be in contact with the plurality of battery cells (121) of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the base plate (111).

[0050] The resin composition may be a room temperature curable composition. That is, the curing reaction of the resin composition may be initiated and proceed at room temperature. The curing reaction of the resin composition may be accelerated at a temperature higher than room temperature. The curing reaction rate of the resin composition at a temperature higher than room temperature may be faster than the curing reaction rate of the resin composition at room temperature. As a non-limiting example, the subject of the resin composition may be any one of a silicone resin, a polyol resin, an epoxy resin, and an acrylic resin.

[0051] The center beam (116) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (116) may be at the center of the base plate. The center beam (116) may isolate the battery cell assemblies (120) from each other. The center beam (116) may be interposed between the battery cell assemblies (120).

[0052] In this example, the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) are arranged in two rows and three columns. Accordingly, the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) can be said to be arranged in a 3 * 2 configuration. A person skilled in the art will easily arrive at a battery pack including a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) arranged in an M * N configuration based on the description herein. Here, M and N are each any integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0053] The lead (150) can be coupled to the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). The lead (150) can be fixed to the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) by mechanical means such as bolts. The lead (150) can cover elements disposed inside the battery pack (100), such as battery cell assemblies (120) and electrical components. A gasket (140) can be interposed between the lead (150) and the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). The gasket (140) can provide a liquid-tight seal to the battery pack (100).

[0054] According to exemplary embodiments, the lid (150) may be provided by an extrusion process. The lid (150) may include a plurality of second cooling channels. The plurality of second cooling channels may provide passages for the movement of a coolant, such as water, for example. The plurality of second cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The plurality of second cooling channels may extend in the X direction. The plurality of second cooling channels may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction.

[0055] The second cooling channels of the lead (150) can be connected to the upper injection pipe (163) and the upper return pipe (173). Cooling fluid introduced through the upper injection pipe (163) can flow through the second cooling channels and be recovered by the upper return pipe (173).

[0056] Second TIM layers (133) may be interposed between the lead (150) and the battery cell assemblies (120). The second TIM layers (133) may be thermal transfer pads. Each of the second TIM layers (133) may be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells (121). Each of the second TIM layers (133) may be in contact with the plurality of cooling fins (122, see FIG. 3). Each of the second TIM layers (133) may be in contact with the heat dissipating portions (122D, see FIG. 3) of the plurality of cooling fins (122, see FIG. 3). Each of the second TIM layers (133) may be in contact with the lead (150). The heat dissipation portion (122D, see FIG. 5) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122, see FIG. 3) may be spaced apart from the lead (150) with the second TIM layers (133) therebetween.

[0057] According to exemplary embodiments, a plurality of cooling fins (122, see FIG. 4) are provided that come into contact with a plurality of battery cells (121, see FIG. 4) and cover terrace portions of the plurality of battery cells (121). Accordingly, the formation of an air layer between the plurality of battery cells (121, see FIG. 4) and the second TIM layers (133) due to the terraces of the plurality of battery cells can be prevented, and the cooling efficiency of the battery pack (100) can be improved. Here, the terrace is a sealing portion of the case of the plurality of battery cells (121).

[0058] According to exemplary embodiments, the lower portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (121) (i.e., the portion adjacent to the base plate (111) of each of the plurality of battery cells (121)) is in direct contact with the first TIM layers (131), so that an air layer can be prevented from forming between the base plates (111), and the cooling efficiency of the battery pack (100) can be improved.

[0059] The battery pack (100) may further include exhaust devices coupled to the sidewall (115). The exhaust devices may delay heat propagation by exhausting high temperature gases and flames inside the battery pack (100) when a thermal runaway event occurs within the battery pack (100).

[0060] Here, thermal runaway of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) is a state in which temperature changes of multiple battery cell assemblies (120) further accelerate the temperature change, which is an uncontrollable positive feedback. Multiple battery cell assemblies (120) in a state of thermal runaway exhibit a rapid temperature increase and emit a large amount of high-pressure gas and combustion debris.

[0061] The battery pack (100) may further include electrical components. The electrical components may include any electronic components necessary to operate the battery pack. The electrical components may be positioned on an electrical component mounting area (EMR).

[0062] The electrical components may include, for example, a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS may be configured to monitor, balance, and control the battery pack. Monitoring of the battery pack (100) may include measuring voltage and current of specific nodes within a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and measuring temperature of set locations within the battery pack (100). The battery pack (100) may include measuring instruments for measuring the voltage, current, and temperature described above.

[0063] Balancing of a battery pack (100) is an operation that reduces the deviation between multiple battery cell assemblies (120). Control of the battery pack (100) includes preventing overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack (100) can operate under optimal conditions, thereby preventing shortening of the lifespan of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies (120).

[0064] The electrical components may further include a cooling device, a PRA (Power Relay Assembly), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan may prevent overheating of each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) by circulating air inside the battery pack (100). The PRA may be configured to supply or cut off power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor). The PRA may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the external load (e.g., the vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., the vehicle motor) in a situation where an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, occurs.

[0065] The battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of exhaust devices. The plurality of exhaust devices may be installed in any one of the lid (150) and the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). The plurality of exhaust devices may provide a path for discharging high-temperature gases inside the battery pack (100) to the outside when a thermal runaway event occurs in some of the battery cell assemblies (120). Accordingly, thermal propagation may be delayed, and the stability of the battery pack (100) may be improved.

[0066]

[0067] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0068] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3I-3I' of Figure 3.

[0069] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3II-3II' of Figure 3.

[0070] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3III-3III' of Figure 3.

[0071] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3IV-3IV' of Figure 3.

[0072] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 3V-3V' of Figure 3.

[0073] Figure 9 shows the combination of a battery cell and an FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) assembly.

[0074] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an FFC assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 10, each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may include a plurality of battery cells (121), a plurality of cooling fins (122), a plurality of pads (123), a first circuit assembly (124), a second circuit assembly (125), and side beams (126).

[0076] Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be a lithium ion battery. Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) includes an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a case. Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be any one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The case of the cylindrical battery cell may be a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is housed in the cylindrical metal can. The case of the prismatic battery cell may be a prismatic metal case. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is housed in the prismatic metal can. The case of the pouch-type battery cell may be a pouch sheet. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is housed in a pouch case including an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0077] The electrode assembly may include an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode. The electrode assembly may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type. The jelly-roll type electrode assembly may include a winding structure of the anode, the cathode, and the separator interposed therebetween. The stack type electrode assembly may include a plurality of sequentially stacked anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and a plurality of separators interposed therebetween.

[0078] The positive lead (121P) of each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be connected to the positive tab of the positive electrode. The positive lead (121P) may be welded to the positive tab of the positive electrode. The negative lead (121N) of each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be connected to the negative tab of the negative electrode. The negative lead (121N) may be welded to the negative tab of the negative electrode.

[0079] Each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be a bidirectional cell, and the positive lead (121P) and the negative lead (121N) of each of the plurality of battery cells (121) may protrude in opposite directions from the case (121C) of each of the plurality of battery cells (121). The positive lead (121P) and the negative lead (121N) may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction.

[0080] A plurality of battery cells (121) may constitute a plurality of banks. Each of the plurality of banks may include one or more battery cells (121). One or more battery cells (121) of each of the plurality of banks may be connected in parallel with each other. The plurality of banks may be connected in series with each other. The number of series-connected banks and the number of battery cells (121) included in the plurality of banks may be determined according to the magnitude of voltage and current to be output from each of the battery cell assemblies (120).

[0081] A plurality of cooling fins (122) may be interposed between a plurality of battery cells (121). The plurality of cooling fins (122) may alternate with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. One of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be interposed between adjacent battery cells (121). One of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be interposed between adjacent cooling fins (122).

[0082] Each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may have high thermal conductivity. Each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may include a metal material such as, for example, aluminum and stainless steel.

[0083] Each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may have a Γ shape. Each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may include a contact portion (122C) perpendicular to the base plate (111), a heat dissipation portion (122D) connected to the contact portion (122C) and facing the lead (150), and a bending portion (122BD) connecting the contact portion (122C) and the heat dissipation portion (122D).

[0084] The contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be oblique to the X direction. The heat dissipation portion (122D) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. The heat dissipation portion (122D) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be oblique to the Z direction.

[0085] The contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be interposed between the plurality of battery cells (121). The contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may overlap the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. The contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may come into contact with a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121). Accordingly, heat emitted from the plurality of battery cells (121) may be emitted through a corresponding one of the plurality of cooling fins (122).

[0086] Each contact portion (122C) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may include a hollow portion (122H). Each hollow portion (122H) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may have an approximately square shape. Each contact portion (122C) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be a plate having an approximately square shape, but is not limited thereto. The shape of each contact portion (122C) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) and the shape of each hollow portion (122H) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be any one of a cross shape, a star shape, and a polygon shape. Each hollow portion (122H) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may include rounded corners. The position, shape and size of the hollow body (122H) can be determined based on conditions for absorption of swelling of the plurality of battery cells (121) and cooling efficiency of the plurality of battery cells (121).

[0087] In general, when a battery cell is in operation, the temperature of the edge portion of the battery cell may be higher than the temperature of the center portion of the battery cell. Accordingly, even though the contact portion (122C) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (122) is in contact only with the edge portions of one of the first surface (121S1) and the second surface (121S2) due to the hollow portion (122H), the battery cell assembly (120) may have high cooling performance.

[0088] Each heat dissipation portion (122D) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may face the lead (150, see FIG. 2). Each heat dissipation portion (122D) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may contact a corresponding one of the second TIM layers (133, see FIG. 2). Each heat dissipation portion (122D) of the plurality of cooling fins (122) may overlap a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121) in the Z direction. The heat dissipation portion (122D) may be substantially perpendicular to the contact portion (122C). The heat dissipation portion (122D) may be beaded with the contact portion (122C). The heat dissipation portion (122D) may protrude in the X direction from an end of the contact portion (122C). The length in the X direction of the heat dissipation portion (122D) may be substantially the same as the length in the X direction of each of the plurality of battery cells (121), but is not limited thereto.

[0089] A plurality of pads (123) may be interposed between a plurality of battery cells (121). The plurality of pads (123) may alternate with the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction. One of the pads (123) may be interposed between adjacent battery cells (121). One of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be interposed between adjacent pads (123).

[0090] Each of the plurality of pads (123) may have an approximately square shape. The plurality of pads (123) may absorb a change in the width of the plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction due to swelling of the plurality of battery cells (121). According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of pads (123) may include an elastic material. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of pads (123) may include PU (Poly Urethane). According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of pads (123) may also include a fire-resistant material.

[0091] According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cells (121), the plurality of cooling fins (122), and the plurality of pads (123) may alternate in the X direction. Each of the plurality of pads (123) may be followed by one of the plurality of battery cells (121), which may be followed by one of the plurality of cooling fins (122), which may in turn be followed by another of the plurality of pads (123). The arrangement of the plurality of battery cells (121), the plurality of pads (123), and the plurality of cooling fins (122) described above may be repeated. That is, the plurality of battery cells (121), the plurality of pads (123), and the plurality of cooling fins (122) may be repeated in the order of pad (123) - battery cell (121) - cooling fin (122). A person skilled in the art will readily be able to arrive at any example in which the pad (123) - battery cell (121) - cooling fin (122) is repeated in any permutation. An example of a permutation different from that of FIG. 2 includes the repetition of battery cell (121) - pad (123) - cooling fin (122).

[0092] A plurality of cooling fins (122) and a plurality of pads (123) may be coupled to a plurality of battery cells (121). The plurality of cooling fins (122) and the plurality of pads (123) may be fixed to the plurality of battery cells (121), for example, by an adhesive.

[0093] A first integrated circuit assembly (124) and a second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction with a plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween. The first integrated circuit assembly (124) may include an insulating frame (124F), a first integrated circuit (not shown), bus bars (124P, 124N), and an insulating cover (124C). The second integrated circuit assembly (125) may include an insulating frame (125F), a second integrated circuit (not shown), and an insulating cover (125C). The second integrated circuit assembly (125) is generally similar to the first integrated circuit assembly (124) except that it does not include bus bars.

[0094] The insulating frame (124F) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame (124F) may cover the front of a plurality of battery cells (121). The insulating frame (124F) may support the first integrated circuit, bus bars (124P, 124N), and sensing plates.

[0095] The bus bar (124P) may be short-circuited to the positive lead (121P) of each of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank, and the bus bar (124N) may be short-circuited to the negative lead (121N) of each of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank. The bus bar (124P) may be short-circuited to the positive lead (121P) of each of one or more battery cells (121) of the first bank, and the bus bar (124N) may be welded to the negative lead (121N) of each of one or more battery cells (121) of the last bank. The resulting voltages of the plurality of battery cells (121) may be output through the bus bars (124P, 124N). The bus bars (124P, 124N) may be fixed to the insulating frame (124F).

[0096] The first integrated circuit may be mounted on an insulating frame (124F). The positive and negative leads welded to each other may form nodes within the battery cell assembly (120). The first integrated circuit may be configured to measure the voltages of the nodes.

[0097] The insulating cover (124C) may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating cover (124C) may be fitted to the insulating frame (124F). The insulating cover (124C) may cover the first integrated circuit, thereby protecting the electrical components of the first integrated circuit assembly (124).

[0098] The insulating frame (125F) may be generally similar to the insulating frame (124F). The insulating frame (125F) may support a second integrated circuit and sensing plates. The second integrated circuit may be mounted on the insulating frame (124F). The second integrated circuit may be configured to measure voltages of nodes within the battery cell assembly (120). The insulating cover (125C) may include an insulating material, such as plastic. The insulating cover (125C) may be fitted to the insulating frame (125F).

[0099] The side beams (126) may be spaced apart from each other with a plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween. The side beams (126) may cover the plurality of battery cells (121). The side beams (126) may horizontally support the plurality of battery cells (121). The side beams (126) may be fixed to the plurality of battery cells (121) by an adhesive material or the like.

[0100] According to exemplary embodiments, the side beams (126) may have the same shape. According to exemplary embodiments, the side beams (126) may be arranged symmetrically. The pack housing (110, see FIG. 2) may include supporting beams extending in the Y direction, and the side beams (126) may be coupled to corresponding ones of the supporting beams of the pack housing (110, see FIG. 2) when loaded onto the pack housing (110, see FIG. 2). The side beams (126) may be fastened to corresponding ones of the supporting beams through a mechanical method such as bolting.

[0101] The FFC assemblies (127) may be interposed between the first integrated circuit assembly (124) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125). The FFC assemblies (127) may be connected to the integrated circuit of the first integrated circuit assembly (124) and the second integrated circuit of the second integrated circuit assembly (125). Accordingly, the measured values ​​(e.g., voltage and / or current of each of the plurality of nodes) sensed by the second integrated circuit of the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be transmitted to the first integrated circuit of the first integrated circuit assembly (124) through the FFC assembly (127).

[0102] Each of the FFC assemblies (127) may include a first connection portion (127U1), a second connection portion (127U2), an intermediate portion (127I), temperature sensors (127T1, 127T2), and sensor supports (127TS1, 127TS2).

[0103] Each of the first and second connectors (127U1, 127U2) may include a terminal for external connection. The first connector (127U1) may include a connection port for connection with the first integrated circuit of the first integrated circuit assembly (124). The second connector (127U2) may include a connection port for connection with the second integrated circuit of the second integrated circuit assembly (125).

[0104] The first connecting portion (127U1) may extend in the Y direction. The first connecting portion (127U1) may be approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. The length of the first connecting portion (127U1) in the Y direction may be greater than the width of the first connecting portion (127U1) in the X direction. The length of the first connecting portion (127U1) in the Y direction may be greater than the thickness of the first connecting portion (127U1) in the Z direction. The first connecting portion (127U1) may be on one of the plurality of battery cells (121). The first connecting portion (127U1) may be interposed between one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and a heat dissipation portion (122D) of a corresponding cooling fin (122).

[0105] The second connecting portion (127U2) may extend in the Y direction. The second connecting portion (127U2) may be approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. The length of the second connecting portion (127U2) in the Y direction may be greater than the width of the second connecting portion (127U2) in the X direction. The length of the second connecting portion (127U2) in the Y direction may be greater than the thickness of the second connecting portion (127U2) in the Z direction. The second connecting portion (127U2) may be on one of the plurality of battery cells (121). The second connecting portion (127U2) may be interposed between one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and a heat dissipation portion (122D) of a corresponding cooling fin (122).

[0106] The intermediate portion (127I) may include first to third portions (127I1, 127I2, 127I3). The third portion (127I3) may be interposed between the first and second portions (127I1, 127I2). The first and second portions (127I1, 127I2) may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. The first and second portions (127I1, 127I2) may overlap in the Y direction.

[0107] The first portion (127I1) may be connected to the first connecting portion (127U1). The first portion (127I1) may extend in the Z direction. The first portion (127I1) may be approximately perpendicular to the X direction. The length of the first portion (127I1) in the Z direction may be greater than the width of the first portion (127I1) in the Y direction. The length of the first portion (127I1) in the Z direction may be greater than the thickness of the first portion (127I1) in the X direction.

[0108] The second portion (127I2) may be connected to the first connecting portion (127U1). The second portion (127I2) may extend in the Z direction. The second portion (127I2) may be approximately perpendicular to the X direction. The length of the second portion (127I2) in the Z direction may be greater than the width of the second portion (127I2) in the Y direction. The length of the second portion (127I2) in the Z direction may be greater than the thickness of the second portion (127I2) in the X direction.

[0109] The third portion (127I3) may be connected to each of the first and second portions (127I1, 127I2). The third portion (127I3) may extend in the Y direction. The third portion (127I3) may be approximately perpendicular to the X direction. The length of the third portion (127I3) in the Y direction may be greater than the width of the third portion (127I3) in the Z direction. The length of the third portion (127I3) in the Y direction may be greater than the thickness of the third portion (127I3) in the X direction. The third portion (127I3) may be on the battery cell (121). The third portion (127I3) may be interposed between the battery cells (121) and the contact portion (122C) of the cooling fin (122).

[0110] The length in the Y direction of the third portion (127I3) may be different from the length in the Y direction of each of the first and second connecting portions (127U1, 127U2). The length in the Y direction of the third portion (127I3) may be greater than the length in the Y direction of each of the first and second connecting portions (127U1, 127U2), but is not limited thereto.

[0111] A first sensor support (127TS1) may be connected to a first connection portion (127U1). A first temperature sensor (127T1) may be provided on the first sensor support (127TS1). The first temperature sensor (127T1) may be coupled to the first sensor support (127TS1), and the temperature of the battery cell (121) measured by the first temperature sensor (127T1) may be collected by an integrated circuit of the first direct circuit assembly (124).

[0112] The first temperature sensor (127T1) may be interposed between a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and a corresponding one of the plurality of pads (123). The first temperature sensor (127T1) may contact a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121). Accordingly, the first temperature sensor (127T1) may be interposed between a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and the first sensor support (127TS1).

[0113] The first temperature sensor (127T1) may be spaced apart from each of the plurality of cooling fins (122). One of the plurality of battery cells (121) and the plurality of pads (123) may be interposed between the first temperature sensor (127T1) and the plurality of cooling fins (122). Accordingly, the first temperature sensor (127T1) may be prevented from sensing an inaccurate temperature value due to the high thermal conductivity of the plurality of cooling fins (122).

[0114] The first sensor support (127TS1) may overlap with the first part (127I1) of the middle part (127I) in the X direction. The first sensor support (127TS1) may be spaced apart from the first part (127I1) of the middle part (127I) with the first connection part (127U1) therebetween. The first sensor support (127TS1) may be spaced apart from the first part (127I1) of the middle part (127I) with one of the plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween.

[0115] The first sensor support (127TS1) can be connected to the first connection portion (127U1). The first sensor support (127TS1) can protrude in the Z direction from the first connection portion (127U1). The length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction can be greater than the thickness of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the X direction.

[0116] According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction may be different from the length of the first part (127I1) of the intermediate part (127I) in the Z direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction may be smaller than the length of the first part (127I1) of the intermediate part (127I) in the Z direction.

[0117] According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction may be determined according to the temperature monitoring position of the battery cell (121). Accordingly, the length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction may be equal to the length of the first part (127I1) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction, or the length of the first sensor support (127TS1) in the Z direction may be greater than the length of the first part (127I1) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction.

[0118] A second sensor support (127TS2) may be connected to a second connector (127U2). A second temperature sensor (127T2) may be provided on the second sensor support (127TS2). The second temperature sensor (127T2) may be coupled to the second sensor support (127TS2), and the temperature of the battery cell (121) measured by the second temperature sensor (127T2) may be collected by an integrated circuit of the first direct circuit assembly (124).

[0119] The second temperature sensor (127T2) may be interposed between a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and a corresponding one of the plurality of pads (123). The second temperature sensor (127T2) may contact a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121). Accordingly, the second temperature sensor (127T2) may be interposed between a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells (121) and the second sensor support (127TS2).

[0120] The second temperature sensor (127T2) may be spaced apart from each of the plurality of cooling fins (122). One of the plurality of battery cells (121) and the plurality of pads (123) may be interposed between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the plurality of cooling fins (122). Accordingly, the second temperature sensor (127T2) may be prevented from sensing an inaccurate temperature value due to the high thermal conductivity of the plurality of cooling fins (122).

[0121] The second temperature sensor (127T2) may be closer to the second integrated circuit assembly (125) than the first temperature sensor (127T1). The first temperature sensor (127T1) may be closer to the first integrated circuit assembly (124) than the second temperature sensor (127T2).

[0122] The distance in the Y direction between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be smaller than the distance in the Y direction between the first temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125). The distance in the Y direction between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124) may be larger than the distance in the Y direction between the first temperature sensor (127T2) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124).

[0123] Each of the first and second temperature sensors (127T1, 127T2) may be spaced apart from the center of the battery cell (121) in the Y direction. The distance in the Y direction between the first temperature sensor (127T1) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124) may be different from the distance in the Y direction between the center of the battery cell (121) in the Y direction and the first integrated circuit assembly (124). The distance in the Y direction between the first temperature sensor (127T1) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124) may be smaller than the distance in the Y direction between the center of the battery cell (121) in the Y direction and the first integrated circuit assembly (124).

[0124] The Y-direction distance between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be different from the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125). The Y-direction distance between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be smaller than the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125).

[0125] The Y-direction distance between the first temperature sensor (127T1) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124) may be different from the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the first temperature sensor (127T1). The Y-direction distance between the first temperature sensor (127T1) and the first integrated circuit assembly (124) may be smaller than the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the first temperature sensor (127T1).

[0126] The Y-direction distance between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be different from the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the second temperature sensor (127T2). The Y-direction distance between the second temperature sensor (127T2) and the second integrated circuit assembly (125) may be smaller than the Y-direction distance between the Y-direction center of the battery cell (121) and the second temperature sensor (127T2).

[0127] The second sensor support (127TS2) may overlap the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) in the X direction. The second sensor support (127TS2) may be spaced apart from the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) with the second connection part (127U2) therebetween. The second sensor support (127TS2) may be spaced apart from the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) with one of the plurality of battery cells (121) therebetween.

[0128] The second sensor support (127TS2) may be connected to the second connection portion (127U2). The second sensor support (127TS2) may protrude in the Z direction from the second connection portion (127U2). The length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be greater than the thickness of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the X direction.

[0129] According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be different from the length of the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be smaller than the length of the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction.

[0130] According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be determined according to the temperature monitoring position of the battery cell (121). Accordingly, the length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be equal to the length of the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction, or the length of the second sensor support (127TS2) in the Z direction may be greater than the length of the second part (127I2) of the middle part (127I) in the Z direction.

[0131] According to exemplary embodiments, each of the FFC assemblies (127) may include a middle portion (127I) that overlaps a plurality of battery cells (121) in the X direction and is approximately perpendicular to the X direction. Accordingly, an increase in thermal resistance due to the FFC assemblies (127) and damage to the FFC assemblies (127) due to the cooling fins (122) can be prevented, and the reliability of the battery cell assembly (120) and the battery pack (100) including the same can be improved.

[0132]

[0133] (Example 3)

[0134] Fig. 11 illustrates an FFC assembly (127') according to other exemplary embodiments. The FFC assembly (127') can replace the FFC assembly (127) of Fig. 9.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 11, according to exemplary embodiments, the FFC assembly (127') may include a first connection portion (127U1), a second connection portion (127U2), and a middle portion (127I). That is, the FFC assembly (127') is identical to the FFC assembly (127) of FIG. 9, except that it does not include sensor supports (127TS1, 127TS2), the first temperature sensor (127T1) is on the first portion (127I1) of the middle portion (127I), and the second temperature sensor (127T2) is on the second portion (127I2) of the middle portion (127I).

[0136]

[0137] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction; A plurality of cooling fins interposed between the plurality of battery cells; A plurality of pads interposed between the plurality of battery cells; A first integrated circuit assembly configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; A second integrated circuit assembly configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the first integrated circuit assembly in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and Including an FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) assembly interposed between the first and second integrated circuit assemblies, and A battery cell assembly characterized in that the FFC assembly includes a middle portion overlapping the plurality of battery cells in the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the FFC assembly includes a first battery cell, which is one of the plurality of battery cells, and a first connecting portion overlapping in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the first connecting portion is connected to the first integrated circuit assembly.

4. In paragraph 3, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the FFC assembly further includes a second connecting portion overlapping the first battery cell in the third direction.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the second connecting portion is connected to the second integrated circuit assembly.

6. In paragraph 4, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the second connecting portion is spaced apart from the first connecting portion with the middle portion therebetween.

7. In paragraph 4, Each of the plurality of cooling fins includes a contact portion overlapping the plurality of battery cells in the first direction and a heat dissipation portion overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells in the third direction, and A battery cell assembly, wherein each of the first and second connecting portions is interposed between the first battery cell and the heat dissipation portion of one of the plurality of cooling fins.

8. In paragraph 4, The FFC assembly further includes a first sensor support portion spaced apart from the middle portion and the first direction, and a second sensor support portion spaced apart from the middle portion and the first direction, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the first sensor support and the second sensor support are spaced apart in the second direction.

9. In paragraph 8, The first sensor support is connected to the first connecting portion, and A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the second sensor support is connected to the second connecting portion.

10. In paragraph 8, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the FFC assembly further comprises a first temperature sensor on the first sensor support and a second temperature sensor on the second sensor support.

11. In Article 10 A battery cell assembly, wherein each of the first and second temperature sensors is spaced apart from each of the plurality of cooling fins.

12. In Article 10 A battery cell assembly characterized in that the first and second temperature sensors are interposed between the first battery cell and one of the plurality of pads.

13. In paragraph 1, A battery cell assembly characterized in that the intermediate portion includes first and second portions extending in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions, and a third portion interposed between the first and second portions.

14. In paragraph 13, A battery cell assembly, characterized in that the third portion extends in the second direction.

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