Cover-cell assembly, battery cell assembly comprising same, and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a cover-cell assembly is provided. The cover-cell assembly comprises: an electrode assembly including a positive electrode and a negative electrode stacked in a first direction; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; a cell cover coupled to the case; and an air pocket between one surface of the cell cover and the case, wherein the cell cover may include a phase change material (PCM).

Description

Cover-cell assembly, battery cell assembly including the same, and battery pack including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a cover-cell assembly, a battery cell assembly including the same, and a battery pack including the same.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2024-0093498, filed July 6, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] 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.

[0004] The technological development trend for secondary batteries for mobility is improving energy density and safety. The safety of secondary batteries for mobility is crucial, as it directly impacts the lives of passengers. Safety in secondary batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, reliable electrical insulation, and delayed heat transfer in the event of thermal runaway.

[0005] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a cover-cell assembly with enhanced safety.

[0006] The technical idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a cover-cell assembly with improved performance and reliability.

[0007] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a battery cell assembly with improved safety.

[0008] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a battery cell assembly with improved performance and reliability.

[0009] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a battery pack with improved safety.

[0010] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a battery pack with improved performance and reliability.

[0011] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a cover-cell assembly is provided. The cover-cell assembly includes an electrode assembly including a positive electrode and a negative electrode stacked in a first direction; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; a cell cover coupled to the case; and an air pocket between one surface of the cell cover and the case, wherein the cell cover may include a phase change material (PCM).

[0012] The electrode assembly and the case constitute a battery cell, and the cell cover includes a first portion overlapping a main surface of the battery cell in the first direction and a second portion connected to the first portion and overlapping the battery cell in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the air pocket is disposed between the battery cell and the second portion of the cell cover, and the main surface of the battery cell and the first portion of the cell cover can be in close contact.

[0013] The first portion of the cell cover can completely cover the main surface of the battery cell.

[0014] The first portion of the cell cover may not cover at least a portion of the main surface of the battery cell.

[0015] The case and the cell cover can be spaced apart in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0016] The above cell cover may include a pad case and the phase change material packaged by the pad case.

[0017] The above pad case may comprise one selected from silicone, polyurethane, polypropylene, metal, and stainless steel.

[0018] The above cell cover comprises a sheet and a coating layer applied on the sheet, and the coating layer may comprise a capsule containing the phase change material and a binder mixed with the capsule.

[0019] The above cell cover may include a polymer film that seals the phase change material.

[0020] The above cell cover may include a thermally conductive compound layer and a capsule containing the phase change material dispersed within the thermally conductive compound layer.

[0021] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes: a pack housing; a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction within the pack housing; and a plurality of cell covers coupled to corresponding ones of the plurality of battery cells, wherein a first portion of each of the plurality of cell covers is in close contact with a main surface of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction, a second portion of each of the plurality of cell covers is spaced apart from upper portions of the plurality of battery cells in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the cell covers may include a phase change material (PCM).

[0022] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a cover-cell assembly with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0023] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a cover-cell assembly with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0024] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery cell assembly with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0026] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery pack with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0027] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a battery pack with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0028] 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.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery cell for explaining a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly including a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a battery pack including a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a battery pack including a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044]

[0045] (Example 1)

[0046] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery cell (121) for explaining a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0048]

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a battery cell (121) and a cell cover (121F) coupled to the battery cell (121). Specifically, the cell cover (121F) may be coupled to a case (121C) of the battery cell (121).

[0050] In some embodiments, the battery cell (121) may include an electrode assembly (121EA) including a positive electrode and a negative electrode arranged in a first direction (X direction), a case (121C) accommodating the electrode assembly (121EA), and a positive terminal (121P) and a negative terminal (121N) protruding in a second direction (Y direction). The second direction (Y direction) may intersect the first direction (X direction). The second direction (Y direction) may be substantially parallel to each of the plurality of positive electrodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) and each of the plurality of negative electrodes of the electrode assembly (121EA). The battery cell (121) may further include an electrolyte.

[0051] The case (121C) may have an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) of the case (121C) may be widest surfaces of the case (121C). The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may be substantially parallel to at least one of the electrode assembly (121EA) or the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes included in the electrode assembly (121EA). The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may be opposite to each other. The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may extend in the second direction (Y direction) and the third direction (Z direction). The first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction (X direction).

[0052] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121F) may cover the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). The cell cover (121F) may cover the main surfaces (121FS1, 121FS2) of the battery cell (121).

[0053] Specifically, the cell cover (121F) may include a first portion (121F_1) covering the first main surface (121FS1) and a second portion (121F_2) covering the second main surface (121FS2). The cell cover (121F) may be connected to the first and second portions (121F_1, 121F_2) and may include a third portion (121F_3) covering the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). For example, the first portion (121F_1) and the second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may overlap the battery cell (121) in the first direction (X direction), respectively. The first part (121F_1) and the second part (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) can overlap the first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2) in a first direction (X direction), respectively. For example, the third part (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) can overlap the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction). The third part (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) can overlap the upper part (121U) of the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction). The third direction (Z direction) can intersect the first direction (X direction) and the second direction (Y direction).

[0054] For example, the cell cover (121F) may include curved portions. For example, the cell cover (121F) may include two curved portions, and thus may have an approximate n-shape, but is not limited thereto. The cell cover (121F) may also have a shape deformed from the n-shape as a result of the progress of the process and use after shipment.

[0055] In some embodiments, the third portion (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) may be spaced apart from the battery cell (121). The third portion (121F_3) may be spaced apart from the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction). For example, the third portion (121F_3) may be spaced apart from the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121) in the third direction (Z direction).

[0056] In some embodiments, an air pocket (121AP) may be positioned between one surface of the cell cover (121F) and the battery cell (121). Specifically, the air pocket (121AP) may be positioned in the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). For example, the air pocket (121AP) may be positioned between the third portion (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) and the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). The air pocket (121AP) may be a space where the battery cell (121) and the cell cover (121F) are not positioned.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first portion (121F_1) of the cell cover (121F) may be in contact with the first main surface (121FS1). Specifically, the first portion (121F_1) of the cell cover (121F) may be in close contact with the first main surface (121FS1). The second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may be in close contact with the second main surface (121FS2). The second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may be in close contact with the second main surface (121FS2).

[0058] In some embodiments, the first portion (121F_1) of the cell cover (121F) may not completely cover the first main surface (121FS1). The first portion (121F_1) of the cell cover (121F) may partially cover the first main surface (121FS1). The first portion (121F_1) of the cell cover (121F) may not cover at least a portion of the first main surface (121FS1). The first main surface (121FS1) may include at least a portion that does not overlap with the cell cover (121F) in the first direction (X direction).

[0059] Similarly, the second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may not completely cover the second main surface (121FS2). The second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may partially cover the second main surface (121FS2). The second portion (121F_2) of the cell cover (121F) may not cover at least a portion of the second main surface (121FS2). The second main surface (121FS2) may include at least a portion that does not overlap with the cell cover (121F) in the first direction (X direction).

[0060] According to some embodiments, the battery cell (121) may include one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch-type battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is housed in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is housed in a pouch case including an aluminum laminate sheet. Although the technical idea of ​​the present invention is described herein based on an example in which the battery cell (121) includes a pouch-type battery cell, one of ordinary skill in the art will easily arrive at an example in which the battery cell (121) includes one of a cylindrical battery cell and a prismatic battery cell based on the description herein.

[0061] The electrode assembly (121EA) may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrode assembly (121EA) may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type. The jelly-roll type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a winding structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between them. The stack type electrode assembly (121EA) may include a plurality of sequentially stacked positive electrodes, a plurality of negative electrodes, and a plurality of separators interposed between them.

[0062] In the stack type electrode assembly (121EA), a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes can be arranged in a first direction (X direction). In the stack type electrode assembly (121EA), a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes can be stacked in a first direction (X direction).

[0063] Each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include an anode tab (not shown). The anode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with the anode terminal (121P). The anode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of anodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with the anode terminal (121P).

[0064] Each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may include a cathode tab (121NT). The cathode tab (121NT) of each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be short-circuited with the cathode terminal (121N). The cathode tab (121NT) of each of the plurality of cathodes of the electrode assembly (121EA) may be welded with the cathode terminal (121N).

[0065] The case (121C) may include an inner resin layer, a metal layer, and an outer resin layer. An adhesive and an anti-corrosion layer may further be provided between the inner resin layer and the metal layer and between the outer resin layer and the metal layer.

[0066] The inner resin layer may have heat-sealing properties and may be referred to as a sealant layer. The inner resin layer enables sealing of the case (121C). The inner resin layer may include a polyolefin-based resin, such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The metal layer may include any one of an alloy of iron, carbon, chromium, and manganese, an alloy of iron, chromium, and nickel, and aluminum. The metal layer may be a gas barrier. The metal layer may block the ingress and egress of gas through the case (121C). The outer resin layer may be a surface protection layer. The outer resin layer may include a material having wear resistance and heat resistance, such as a nylon resin.

[0067] The case (121C) may be provided by joining a first case (121C1) and a second case (121C2). In this example, the first case (121C1) may be substantially flat. The first case (121C1) may not include a receiving portion. The second case (121C2) may include a receiving portion (121R). The receiving portion (121R) may be formed by a pouch forming process. The receiving portion (121R) is a portion of the second case (121C2) formed into a bowl shape to receive the electrode assembly (121EA).

[0068] The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can surround the receiving portion (121R). The terrace (121T) of the second case (121C2) can be joined to the edge of the first case (121C1), and thus, the case (121C) can be provided.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 2, among the first and second cases (121C1, 121C2), a receiving portion may be formed only in the second case (121C2). Unlike the illustration in FIG. 2, each of the first case (121C1) and the second case (121C2) may include a receiving portion (121R) formed by a pouch forming process.

[0070] An insulating tape (121I) may be applied on the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may protrude outside the case (121C). The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may protrude in a second direction (Y direction) from the case (121C). Accordingly, the resulting voltage and current of the battery cell (121) may be output through the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N). The positive terminal (121P) may be a positive lead. The negative terminal (121N) may be a negative lead.

[0071] In this specification, the technical concept of the present invention will be explained by focusing on an example of a bidirectional cell in which the positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) of a battery cell (121) are formed on opposite sides. Those skilled in the art will readily achieve a unidirectional cell based on the description herein. The positive terminal (121P) and the negative terminal (121N) may be spaced apart in the second direction (Y direction).

[0072] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121F) may include a phase change material (PCM). A phase change material may refer to a material that changes phase by absorbing or releasing heat. For example, a phase change material may change phase by absorbing heat. For example, a phase change material may change phase by releasing heat.

[0073] The cell cover (121F) may be based on voice feedback. Specifically, when the temperature of the battery cell (121) rises, the cell cover (121F) may act to lower it. Conversely, when the temperature of the battery cell (121) falls, the cell cover (121F) may act to raise it. For example, heat may be transferred between the battery cell (121) and the cell cover (121F).

[0074] In some embodiments, when the battery cell (121) emits heat, the cell cover (121F) may absorb the heat. For example, when the battery cell (121) emits heat, the heat may be transferred to the cell cover (121F) positioned adjacent to the battery cell (121). As described above, the cell cover (121F) may include a phase change material, and the phase change material may absorb heat and change phase. For example, the phase change material may change from a solid to a liquid or a gas, or from a liquid to a gas. As a result, the temperature of the battery cell (121) may decrease.

[0075] For example, when the temperature of the battery cell (121) exceeds a reference temperature, the cell cover (121F) can absorb the heat. For example, the cell cover (121F) can absorb the heat generated from the battery cell (121) to lower the temperature of the battery cell (121). The reference temperature may be a value preset for the stability of the battery cell (121). Alternatively, the reference temperature may not be a specific value, but may refer to the initial temperature of the battery cell (121).

[0076] In particular, when a thermal runaway event occurs in a battery cell (121), heat may be transferred to an adjacent battery cell (121), and the cell cover (121F) may absorb the heat, thereby delaying the heat transfer.

[0077] In other embodiments, the cell cover (121F) may release heat and transfer it to the battery cell (121). As described above, the cell cover (121F) may include a phase change material, which releases heat and can change phase. For example, the phase change material may change from a gas to a liquid or solid, or from a liquid to a solid. This may increase the temperature of the battery cell (121).

[0078] For example, if the temperature of the battery cell (121) is below the reference temperature, the cell cover (121F) may release heat. For example, the cell cover (121F) may release heat to increase the temperature of the battery cell (121).

[0079] In some embodiments, an air pocket (121AP) may be disposed between the third portion (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) and the battery cell (121) as the third portion (121F_3) of the cell cover (121F) is not in close contact with the battery cell (121) but is spaced apart from it. Heat emitted from the battery cell (121) may be transferred to the air pocket (121AP). For example, heat emitted from the battery cell (121) may be transferred to the air within the air pocket (121AP). Flame and / or gas generated in the battery cell (121) may be transferred to the air pocket (121AP). Heat transferred to the air pocket (121AP) may be transferred back to the cell cover (121F) that is in contact therewith. Heat transferred to the cell cover (121F) may be absorbed by the phase change material and undergo a phase change as described above. By this, the temperature of the battery cell (121) can be lowered.

[0080] As heat, generated flame, and / or gas emitted from a battery cell (121) are transferred to the air pocket (121AP) above the battery cell (121), the transfer of the heat, flame, and / or gas to other adjacent battery cells (121) may be delayed. As a result, safety may be improved.

[0081]

[0082] The cover-cell assembly (122) described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 covers a battery cell (121) and may include a cell cover (121F) containing a phase change material. As a result, the temperature of the cover-cell assembly (122) can be managed by absorbing or releasing heat through phase change.

[0083] In particular, the cover-cell assembly (122) described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 may further include an air pocket (121AP) between the battery cell (121) and the cell cover (121F). This delays the transfer of heat, flame, and / or gas to adjacent battery cells (121), thereby improving the safety of the cover-cell assembly (122).

[0084] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a cover-cell assembly (122) with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0085] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a cover-cell assembly (122) with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0086]

[0087] (Example 2)

[0088] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a cover-cell assembly (122') according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Hereinafter, the differences from the cover-cell assembly (122) described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 will be mainly described.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 3, the cover-cell assembly (122') may include a battery cell (121) and a cell cover (121F') coupled to the battery cell (121). Specifically, the cell cover (121F') may be coupled to a case of the battery cell (121).

[0090] Specifically, the cell cover (121F') may include a first portion (121F'_1) covering the first main surface (121FS1) and a second portion (121F'_2) covering the second main surface (121FS2). The cell cover (121F') may be connected to the first and second portions (121F'_1, 121F'_2) and may include a third portion (121F'_3) covering the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121).

[0091] For example, the first part (121F'_1) and the second part (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') may overlap the battery cell (121) in a first direction (X direction), respectively. The first part (121F'_1) and the second part (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') may overlap the first main surface (121FS1) and the second main surface (121FS2), respectively, in the first direction (X direction). For example, the third part (121F'_3) of the cell cover (121F') may overlap the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction). The third part (121F'_3) of the cell cover (121F') may overlap the upper part (121U) of the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction).

[0092] In some embodiments, the third portion (121F'_3) of the cell cover (121F') may be spaced apart from the battery cell (121). The third portion (121F'_3) may be spaced apart from the battery cell (121) in a third direction (Z direction). For example, the third portion (121F'_3) may be spaced apart from the upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121) in the third direction (Z direction).

[0093] In some embodiments, an air pocket (121AP) may be disposed between one surface of a cell cover (121F') and a battery cell (121). Specifically, the air pocket (121AP) may be disposed in an upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). For example, the air pocket (121AP) may be disposed between a third portion (121F'_3) of the cell cover (121F') and an upper portion (121U) of the battery cell (121). The air pocket (121AP) may be a space where the battery cell (121) and the cell cover (121F') are not disposed.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first portion (121F'_1) of the cell cover (121F') may be in contact with the first main surface (121FS1). Specifically, the first portion (121F'_1) of the cell cover (121F') may be in close contact with the first main surface (121FS1). The second portion (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') may be in close contact with the second main surface (121FS2). The second portion (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') may be in close contact with the second main surface (121FS2).

[0095] In some embodiments, the first portion (121F'_1) of the cell cover (121F') may completely cover the first main surface (121FS1). The first portion (121F'_1) of the cell cover (121F') may entirely cover the first main surface (121FS1).

[0096] Likewise, the second part (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') can completely cover the second main surface (121FS2). The second part (121F'_2) of the cell cover (121F') can entirely cover the second main surface (121FS2).

[0097] The cover-cell assembly (122') described with reference to FIG. 3 covers the battery cell (121) and may include a cell cover (121F') containing a phase change material. As a result, the temperature of the cover-cell assembly (122') can be managed by absorbing or releasing heat through phase change.

[0098] In particular, the cover-cell assembly (122') described with reference to FIG. 3 may further include an air pocket (121AP) between the battery cell (121) and the cell cover (121F'). This may delay the transfer of heat, flame, and / or gas to the adjacent battery cell (121), thereby improving the safety of the cover-cell assembly (122').

[0099] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a cover-cell assembly (122') with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0100] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a cover-cell assembly (122') with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0101]

[0102] (Example 3)

[0103] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0104] Specifically, FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to area A of FIG. 1, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cell cover (121FA).

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a cell cover (121FA) that covers a battery cell (121).

[0106] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121FA) may be in the form of a pad that covers the battery cell (121). Specifically, the cell cover (121FA) may include a pad case (121FA_1) and a phase change material (121FA_2). The phase change material (121FA_2) may be packaged by the pad case (121FA_1). The phase change material (121FA_2) may be surrounded by the pad case (121FA_1) and may not leak out of the pad case (121FA_1). In particular, even if the phase of the phase change material (121FA_2) changes by absorbing or releasing heat, it may not leak out of the pad case (121FA_1).

[0107] For example, the pad case (121FA_1) may include one selected from silicone, polyurethane, polypropylene, metal, and stainless steel.

[0108]

[0109] (Example 4)

[0110] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0111] Specifically, FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to area A of FIG. 1, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cell cover (121FB).

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a cell cover (121FB) that covers a battery cell (121).

[0113] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121FB) may include a coating layer applied on a sheet. Specifically, the cell cover (121FB) may include a sheet covering a battery cell (121) and a coating layer applied on the sheet.

[0114] Specifically, the cell cover (121FB) may include a capsule (121FB_1) containing a phase change material and a binder (121FB_2) mixed with the capsule (121FB_1). The capsule (121FB_1) may include a polymer shell (121FB_11) and a phase change material (121FB_12). The capsule (121FB_1) may have a spherical shape and may be composed of a phase change material (121FB_12) therein and a polymer shell (121FB_11) surrounding the phase change material. The capsule (121FB_1) may be mixed with a binder (121FB_2) and applied to a location to be coated, and the mixture may be dried to form a coating layer. For example, a mixture of a capsule (121FB_1) and a binder (121FB_2) can be applied onto the sheet covering the battery cell (121), which can be dried to form a cell cover (121FB).

[0115] The phase change material (121FB_12) may be encapsulated by the polymer shell (121FB_11) and may not leak out of the capsule (121FB_1). In particular, even if the phase of the phase change material (121FB_12) changes by absorbing or releasing heat, it may not leak out of the capsule (121FB_1).

[0116] The capsule (121FB_1) may have adhesive and / or fixing properties by the binder (121FB_2). For example, the capsule (121FB_1) containing the phase change material (121FB_12) may be adhered or fixed on the sheet by the binder (121FB_2).

[0117]

[0118] (Example 5)

[0119] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0120] Specifically, FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to area A of FIG. 1, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cell cover (121FC).

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a cell cover (121FC) that covers a battery cell (121).

[0122] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121FC) may include a laminated form of a plurality of polymer films. Specifically, the cell cover (121FC) may include a plurality of first films (121FC_1) and second films (121FC_2) that are alternately laminated. The first film (121FC_1) may be a polymer film and may be formed by alternately laminating the second film (121FC_2) that includes a phase change material. The first film (121FC_1) may not include a phase change material. In other embodiments, the first film (121FC_1) may include a phase change material. The second film (121FC_2) may be sealed to prevent the phase change material from leaking.

[0123]

[0124] (Example 6)

[0125] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly (1222) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0126] Specifically, FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to area A of FIG. 1, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cell cover (121FD).

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 7, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a cell cover (121FD) that covers a battery cell (121).

[0128] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121FD) may include an outer layer (121FD_1) and an inner layer (121FD_2) in the form of a polymer film. Specifically, the inner layer (121FD_2) may be formed by including a phase change material. For example, the inner layer (121FD_2) may be a polymer film including a phase change material. The outer layer (121FD_1) does not include a phase change material and may be a layer for laminating the inner layer (121FD_2). The outer layer (121FD_1) may laminate the phase change material therebetween to prevent leakage of the phase change material.

[0129]

[0130] (Example 7)

[0131] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cover-cell assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0132] Specifically, FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to area A of FIG. 1, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cell cover (121FE).

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 8, the cover-cell assembly (122) may include a cell cover (121FE) that covers a battery cell (121).

[0134] In some embodiments, the cell cover (121FE) may include a compound layer (121FE_1) and a phase change material (121FE_2) dispersed within the compound layer (121FE_1). For example, the compound layer (121FE_1) may include a high viscosity grease or paste. The phase change material (121FE_2) may include a capsule shape.

[0135] Specifically, a compound layer (121FE_1) in which a phase change material (121FE_2) is dispersed may be applied to the outside of the battery pack (100) to form a cell cover (121FE). By virtue of the compound layer (121FE_1), the phase change material (121FE_2) may not leak. In particular, even if the phase of the phase change material (121FE_2) changes by absorbing or releasing heat, the phase change material (121FE_2) may not leak.

[0136]

[0137] (Example 8)

[0138] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a battery cell assembly (120) including a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery cell assembly (120) may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1, 122_2, 122_3, 122_4, 122_5, 122_6, 122_7, 122_8, 122_9, 122_10, 122_11, 122_12, hereinafter, 122_1 to 122_12). Each of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) is substantially the same as the cover-cell assembly (122) described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0140] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) can be arranged in a first direction (X direction). The plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) can be joined by, for example, an adhesive.

[0141] A plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) can form a plurality of banks. For example, cover-cell assemblies (122_1, 122_2, 122_3) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a first bank. Cover-cell assemblies (122_4, 122_5, 122_6) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a second bank. Cover-cell assemblies (122_7, 122_8, 122_9) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a third bank. Cover-cell assemblies (122_10, 122_11, 122_12) can be connected in parallel to each other and form a fourth bank. The plurality of banks can be connected in series to each other.

[0142] The resulting connection configuration of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) may be referred to as 3-parallel-4-series (3P-4S), but this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the technical spirit of the present invention in any sense. The number of series-connected banks and the number of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) included in the plurality of banks may be determined depending on the magnitude of the voltage and current to be output from the battery cell assembly (120).

[0143] The battery cell assembly (120) may further include pads, a first integrated circuit assembly, a second integrated circuit assembly, and an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) assembly.

[0144] The pads can absorb swelling of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12). Each of the pads can include polyurethane (PU). Each of the pads can include a refractory material such as silicone.

[0145] The first integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover. The second integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, sensing plates, temperature sensors, wiring, and an insulating cover.

[0146] The first and second integrated circuit assemblies may include physical and functional components for providing electrical connections between the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12), outputting resulting voltages of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12), and measuring voltages (or currents) of nodes within a circuit comprised of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12).

[0147] The insulating frame may include an insulating material such as plastic. The insulating frame may cover the front of a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12). The insulating frame may support integrated circuits, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, temperature sensors, and wiring.

[0148] The bus bars may be short-circuited to the positive leads (121P) of the cover-cell assemblies (122_1, 122_2) of the first bank and to the negative leads (121N) of one or more cover-cell assemblies (122_11, 122_12) of the last bank. The bus bars may be welded to the positive leads (121P) of the cover-cell assemblies (122_1, 122_2, 122_3) of the first bank and to the negative leads (121N) of one or more cover-cell assemblies (122_10, 122_11, 122_12) of the last bank. The resulting voltages of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12) of the battery cell assembly (120) may be output through the bus bars. The bus bars may be fixed to the insulating frame.

[0149] The integrated circuit may be mounted on an insulating frame. The positive leads (121P) and negative leads (121N) welded to each other may form nodes within the battery cell assembly (120). The integrated circuit may be configured to measure the voltages of the nodes via sensing plates and sensing bars.

[0150] The sensing bars may include a conductive material. The sensing bars may have a rod-like shape. The sensing bars may be short-circuited to the bus bars. The sensing bars may be coupled to the bus bars. The voltage of the bus bars may be measured through the sensing bars.

[0151] Each of the plurality of sensing plates may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The plurality of sensing plates may include a conductive material. The plurality of sensing plates may be short-circuited to corresponding ones of the positive lead (121P) and the negative lead (121N) of the plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122_1 to 122_12).

[0152] Each of the plurality of sensing plates can be connected to an integrated circuit. Through the plurality of sensing plates, the voltages of the plurality of nodes within the battery cell assembly (120) can be measured.

[0153] The temperature sensors may be configured to measure the temperature of multiple points of the battery cell assembly (120). The temperature sensors may be spatially arranged, thereby allowing the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly (120) to be measured.

[0154] The insulating cover may include an insulating material, such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted to the insulating frame. The insulating cover may cover the integrated circuit, bus bars, sensing plates, sensing bars, and temperature sensors, thereby protecting the electrical components of the first and second integrated circuit assemblies.

[0155] The battery cell assembly (120) described with reference to FIG. 9 may include a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122) each of which covers a battery cell (121) and includes a cell cover (121F) containing a phase change material. As a result, the temperature of the battery cell assembly (120) can be managed by absorbing or releasing heat through phase change.

[0156] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a battery cell assembly (120) with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0157] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a battery cell assembly (120) with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0158]

[0159] (Example 9)

[0160] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a battery pack (100) including a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0161] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a battery pack (100) including a cover-cell assembly (122) according to exemplary embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX of FIG. 10.

[0162] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a battery pack (100) may include a pack housing (110) and a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The battery pack (100) may be a final product mounted in an application such as a vehicle.

[0163] The pack housing (110) may provide a space for mounting battery cell assemblies (120). The pack housing (110) may include a base plate (111), side walls (112, 113, 114, 115), a center beam (116), and cross beams (117).

[0164] Here, the first direction (X direction) and the second direction (Y direction) may be substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the base plate (111) (i.e., the surface facing the battery cell assembly (120)), and the third direction (Z direction) may be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate (111).

[0165] The base plate (111) and the side walls (112, 113) may each 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 first direction (X direction). The side walls (114, 115) may also be provided by an extrusion process. The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (111).

[0166] 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.

[0167] The center beam (116) can extend in the first direction (X direction). The center beam (116) can be interposed between the side walls (112, 113). The center beam (116) can be included in a center plate, which is one of a plurality of unit plates that are friction stir welded to each other. Accordingly, the center beam (116) can be formed together with the center plate, and the center beam (116) can be a continuous element integrally formed with the center plate.

[0168] The cross beams (117) can extend in the second direction (Y direction). The cross beams (117) can be interposed between the side walls (114, 115).

[0169] The base plate (111) may include a plurality of cooling channels. The plurality of cooling channels may provide passages for the movement of a coolant, such as water, for example. The plurality of cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The plurality of cooling channels may extend in a first direction (X direction). The plurality of cooling channels may be spaced apart in a second direction (Y direction).

[0170] A plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be arranged on a base plate (111) of a pack 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). The side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) may protect the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be arranged in a space defined by cross beams (117) on the base plate (111).

[0171] The battery cell assembly (120) may further include a plurality of battery cells (121) arranged in a first direction (X direction) and pads (not shown) arranged between the plurality of battery cells (121). The pads are arranged between the plurality of battery cells (121) in the first direction (X direction) and may overlap the plurality of battery cells (121) in the first direction (X direction).

[0172] The pad can absorb swelling of multiple battery cells (121). The pad can include an elastic material. The pad can include PU (Poly Urethane). The pad can also include a fire-resistant material.

[0173] The battery cell assembly (120) may further include a cell cover (121F) that covers each of the plurality of battery cells (121). As described above, the cell cover (121F) may include a phase change material.

[0174] The battery pack (100) may further include a pack lead (119) coupled to side walls (112, 113, 114, 115) of the pack housing (110). The pack lead (119) may cover elements mounted inside the battery pack (100), such as a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and electrical components. The pack lead (119) may be fixed to the pack housing (110) by a mechanical coupling means, such as bolting.

[0175] The arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) in FIG. 10 can be said to be a 3 * 2 arrangement. The arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) disclosed in FIG. 10 is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention in any sense. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) arranged in M ​​* N (wherein, M and N are each integers greater than or equal to 2) based on the description herein.

[0176] The battery pack (100) may further include a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS may be configured to monitor, balance, and control the battery pack (100). 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.

[0177] 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).

[0178] The battery pack (100) may further include additional electrical components, such as 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., a vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) in a situation where an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, occurs. Additional electrical components may be interposed between the plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115). The space between the battery cell assemblies (120) and the sidewall (115) may also be referred to as an electrical component mounting area.

[0179] The battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of inter-busbars configured to electrically connect a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120). The plurality of battery cell assemblies (120) may be connected in series by the plurality of inter-busbars. Accordingly, the battery pack (100) may be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor).

[0180] The battery pack (100) described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 may include a plurality of battery cell assemblies (120), each of which covers a battery cell (121) and is composed of a plurality of cover-cell assemblies (122) including a cell cover (121F) containing a phase change material. As a result, the temperature of the battery pack (100) can be managed by absorbing or releasing heat by phase change.

[0181] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a battery pack (100) with improved safety can be provided.

[0182] According to embodiments of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, a battery pack (100) with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0183]

[0184] 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. An electrode assembly comprising an anode and a cathode stacked in a first direction; A case accommodating the above electrode assembly; a cell cover coupled to the above case; and Including an air pocket between one side of the cell cover and the case, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the cell cover includes a phase change material (PCM).

2. In paragraph 1, The above electrode assembly and the above case constitute a battery cell, The cell cover includes a first portion overlapping the main surface of the battery cell in the first direction and a second portion connected to the first portion and overlapping the battery cell in a second direction intersecting the first direction, The air pocket is disposed between the battery cell and the second portion of the cell cover, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the main surface of the battery cell and the first part of the cell cover are in close contact.

3. In paragraph 2, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the first portion of the cell cover completely covers the main surface of the battery cell.

4. In paragraph 2, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the first portion of the cell cover does not cover at least a portion of the main surface of the battery cell.

5. In paragraph 1, A cover-cell assembly, wherein the case and the cell cover are spaced apart in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

6. In paragraph 1, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the cell cover comprises a pad case and the phase change material packaged by the pad case.

7. In paragraph 6, A cover-cell assembly characterized in that the pad case comprises one selected from the group consisting of silicone, polyurethane, polypropylene, metal, and stainless steel.

8. In paragraph 1, The above cell cover comprises a sheet and a coating layer applied on the sheet, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the coating layer comprises a capsule containing the phase change material and a binder mixed with the capsule.

9. In paragraph 1, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the cell cover comprises a polymer film that seals the phase change material.

10. In paragraph 1, A cover-cell assembly, characterized in that the cell cover comprises a thermally conductive compound layer and a capsule containing the phase change material dispersed within the thermally conductive compound layer.

11. Pack housing; A plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction within the pack housing; and comprising a plurality of cell covers coupled to corresponding ones of the plurality of battery cells; The first part of each of the plurality of cell covers is in close contact with the main surface of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction, The second portion of each of the plurality of cell covers is spaced apart from the upper portion of the plurality of battery cells in a second direction intersecting the first direction, A battery pack characterized in that the above cell cover includes a phase change material (PCM).

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