Unit cell assembly, battery module, battery pack, and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

A unit cell assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery cell erected in the vertical direction and having electrode leads protruding and extending from both ends thereof in the forward / backward direction; a cooling plate in surface contact with the battery cell and having at least a partial region coated with a thermal resin; and a connector block for binding the battery cell to the cooling plate.

Description

Unit cell assemblies, battery modules including the same, battery packs and vehicles

[0001] The present invention relates to a unit cell assembly, a battery module including the same, a battery pack, and a vehicle.

[0002] Secondary batteries, unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, are batteries that can be charged and discharged. They are used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that are driven by electrical power sources.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, i.e., unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.6 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common to first configure a battery module comprising at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module and add other components to configure the battery pack. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output, etc.

[0005] Meanwhile, conventional pouch-type battery cells primarily utilized edge cooling, utilizing the three-sided sealing of the battery cell. Specifically, indirect water cooling was employed, leading to a temperature differential across the entire surface of the battery cell. Furthermore, conventional battery cells had an upper venting structure, which, when thermal propagation occurred, resulted in flames erupting toward the passenger, posing a disadvantage to the driver.

[0006] The present invention aims to improve rapid charging performance and durability degradation performance through direct cooling of battery cells.

[0007] In addition, another object of the present invention is to achieve improved heat transfer delay performance and enhanced user safety through a lower venting structure of a battery cell.

[0008] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a unit cell assembly comprises: a battery cell in a vertically erected state, with electrode leads protruding and extending from both ends in the front-back direction; a cooling plate that contacts the battery cell and has thermal resin applied to at least a portion of the cooling plate; and a connector block for connecting the battery cell to the cooling plate.

[0010] In one aspect of the present invention, the battery cell may include: an electrode assembly; a receiving portion for receiving the electrode assembly; a sealing portion formed around the receiving portion; and a pair of electrode leads connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the sealing portion.

[0011] At this time, the sealing portion is configured in a form in which both ends and one side connecting them are bonded, and the one side can be provided in the lower direction of the battery cell.

[0012] Preferably, a taping member may be partially attached to the one side.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the connector block may be configured to be coupled to the cooling plate at both ends of the battery cell.

[0014] The above connector block can cover the electrode leads of the battery cell so that a portion of the electrode leads is exposed to the outside.

[0015] The connector block may be positioned adjacent to the electrode lead of the battery cell and configured to enable electrical connection with a battery cell adjacent to the battery cell.

[0016] The above connector block is electrically connected to the electrode lead of the above battery cell.

[0017] Here, the connector block may include at least one of a bus bar and a welding plate.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, the cooling plate may include a cooling body having a cooling channel through which a cooling liquid can flow therein; a first end member provided at one end of the cooling body and including a cooling liquid inlet configured to allow the cooling liquid to flow in; and a second end member provided at the other end of the cooling body and including a cooling liquid outlet configured to allow the cooling liquid introduced from the cooling liquid inlet to move through the cooling channel and flow out to the outside.

[0019] Here, the cooling body may include a main body portion configured to be in contact with a battery cell and configured to have a planar shape; an upper flange portion bent and extended from one end of the main body portion and configured to surround at least a portion of an upper end of the battery cell; and a lower flange portion bent and extended from the other end of the main body portion and configured to surround at least a portion of a lower end of the battery cell.

[0020] Preferably, the lower flange portion may have at least one lower groove with at least a portion thereof dug out.

[0021] In one aspect of the present invention, a taping member is partially attached to the battery cell, and the lower groove can be positioned to correspond to an area where the taping member attached to the battery cell is not located.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, the battery cell may further include a compression pad that is applied to one side of the battery cell.

[0023] Preferably, the compression pad may be interposed between the battery cell and the cooling plate.

[0024] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery module comprising a plurality of at least one unit cell assembly according to the above-described embodiment, wherein the plurality of unit cell assemblies are configured in a form in which they are stacked in one direction, and includes a welded portion formed by welding an electrode lead protruding from a first unit cell assembly and an electrode lead protruding from a second unit cell assembly adjacent to the first unit cell assembly, and an adhesive applied to at least one side of the unit cell assembly.

[0025] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising at least one battery cell or battery module according to the above-described embodiment.

[0026] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle including at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0027] According to the present invention, direct cooling of battery cells is possible.

[0028] In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to achieve improvement in rapid charging performance and improvement in durability degradation performance.

[0029] In addition, according to the present invention, heat transfer delay performance can be improved.

[0030] In addition, according to the present invention, user safety can be enhanced.

[0031] However, the effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0032] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a connector block according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a cooling plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the coupling relationship between the first end member or the second end member of the cooling plate and the cooling body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cooling plate according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a process of combining a unit cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a battery module including a unit cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including the battery module of FIG. 11.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 12.

[0046] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid ambiguity in the interpretation of the present invention. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0047] In order to clearly represent multiple layers and regions in the drawings, the thickness may be enlarged. Similar parts are designated by the same drawing reference numerals throughout the specification. When an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "over" another element, this includes not only the case where it is "directly over" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly over" another element, it can mean that there are no other elements in between. Furthermore, when an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "under" another element, this includes not only the case where it is "directly under" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly under" another element, it can mean that there are no other elements in between.

[0048] The statement that two compared objects are identical means "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" may include deviations considered low in the art, such as deviations of less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of a parameter over a given region may also mean uniformity on average.

[0049] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0050] Any configuration being placed "on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, but also that other configurations may intervene between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0051] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0052] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 1.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a unit cell assembly (10) according to the present invention includes a battery cell (100), a connector block (200), and a cooling plate (300). The unit cell assembly (10) may further include a compression pad (400).

[0055] According to the structure of the unit cell assembly (10) as described above, the unit design enables replacement of individual battery cells (100). For example, if a defect occurs during lead welding of a battery cell (100), according to the present invention, only the unit cell assembly (10) in which the defect occurred can be selectively replaced.

[0056] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Referring to Fig. 3, the battery cell (100) may be a secondary battery, and may be, for example, a pouch-type battery cell (100). The battery cell (100) may be provided in a vertically standing state. Referring to Fig. 3, the battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly (110), a receiving portion (130) for receiving the electrode assembly (110), a sealing portion (150) formed around the receiving portion (130), and a pair of electrode leads (170) connected to the electrode assembly (110) and extending outward from the sealing portion (150).

[0058] The above battery cell (100) may be provided in a form in which the electrode assembly (110) is accommodated in the receiving portion (130) and the two ends (150a, 150b) of the receiving portion (130) and one side (150c) connecting them are bonded. In other words, the battery cell (100) according to the present embodiment has a total of three sealing portions (150), and the sealing portions (150) have a structure in which they are sealed by a method such as heat fusion, and the remaining other side may be formed as a connecting portion (151). The receiving portion (130) may be formed of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0059] The pair of electrode leads (170) are coupled to electrode tabs (not shown) provided in the electrode assembly (110) and can be extended to the outside of the sealing portion (150) through the sealing portion (150). The pair of electrode leads (170) may have a shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (100). In this case, the longitudinal direction may mean the front-back direction. That is, the pair of electrode leads (170) may be extended in the same direction or in opposite directions. Preferably, the electrode leads (170) may protrude and extend to both ends in the front-back direction.

[0060] Meanwhile, the battery cell (100) may include a venting portion. In the pouch type battery cell (100), venting typically occurs in the sealing portion (150) of the battery cell (100) when abnormal heat generation occurs and internal pressure increases accordingly. That is, in the battery cell (100), when internal pressure increases, the one side portion (150c), which is the sealing portion (150) formed in the upper and lower directions of the battery cell (100), is often broken first than the two end portions, which are the sealing portions (150) formed in the direction in which the electrode lead (170) is pulled out. Therefore, the venting portion may be provided on the one side portion (150c) of the battery cell (100).

[0061] According to this configuration of the present invention, when venting gas or flames are generated in the battery cell (100) due to an event such as thermal runaway, the gas or flames can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell (100). Accordingly, explosion of the battery module including the battery cell (100) can be prevented.

[0062] In one aspect of the present invention, the one side (150c) may be provided in the lower direction of the battery cell (100).

[0063] Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, one side (150c) of the three sides of the sealing portion (150) may be provided in a direction facing downward of the battery cell (100). Since the venting portion is provided on one side (150c) of the sealing portion (150), the venting portion may be provided in the lower region of the battery cell (100).

[0064] For example, a conventional battery cell (100) is provided with a venting portion in the upper direction of the battery cell (100). In this case, a battery module or pack including the battery cell (100) may be included in the lower region of the vehicle. In this case, when thermal propagation (TP) occurs within the battery module or pack, the direction of flame eruption is directed toward the location of vehicle occupants, which may cause damage to the driver.

[0065] On the other hand, according to the present invention, since the venting portion of the battery cell (100) is provided in the lower region of the battery cell (100), the heat transfer delay performance can be improved through the lower venting of the battery cell (100). In addition, according to the above configuration, the safety of the user can be enhanced.

[0066] In another aspect of the present invention, a taping member (190) may be partially attached to the battery cell (100). For example, a taping member (190) may be partially attached to the one side (150c).

[0067] Referring to FIG. 3, the taping member (190) may be attached to the battery cell (100) by having an adhesive provided on at least one surface. Furthermore, the taping member (190) may be attached to the sealing portion (150) of the battery cell (100). In particular, the taping member (190) may be attached to one side (150c) of the battery cell (100), as illustrated in FIG. 3. More specifically, the taping member (190) may be attached to the lower region of the battery cell (100).

[0068] In order to reduce the space occupied by the battery cell (100) inside the battery module, a portion of the sealing portion (150) may be folded. For example, referring to FIG. 3, one side (150c) where the electrode lead (170) is not positioned may be folded.

[0069] According to the above configuration, the taping member (190) can stably maintain the folding shape. For example, the taping member (190) can be attached to the battery cell (100) in a form that fixes the upper sealing member (150) and the two side receiving members (130) when the sealing member (150) is folded twice. In addition, according to the above configuration, the space occupied by the battery cell (100) can be reduced, thereby improving the energy density.

[0070] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a connector block (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 4, the connector block (200) may be positioned adjacent to the electrode lead (170) of the battery cell (100). The connector block (200) may be configured to enable electrical connection with a battery cell (100) adjacent to the battery cell (100).

[0072] The connector block (200) may be configured to be coupled to the cooling plate (300) at both ends of the battery cell (100). For example, the connector block (200) may be coupled to the first end member (320) or the second end member (330) of the cooling plate (300), which will be described later. For example, the connector block (200) may be fixed by adhesion to the first end member (320) or the second end member (330). Alternatively, the connector block (200) may be fixed by a structural coupling method to the first end member (320) or the second end member (330).

[0073] In this way, the connector block (200) can keep the size of the unit cell assembly (10) in the thickness direction constant. Specifically, the connector block (200) can keep the width of the unit cell assembly (10) in the left-right direction constant by connecting the battery cell (100) and the cooling plate (300) constituting the unit cell assembly (10) into one. In a case where the unit cell assembly (10) further includes a compression pad (400), the connector block (200) can keep the width of the unit cell assembly (10) in the left-right direction constant by connecting the battery cell (100), the compression pad (400), and the cooling plate (300) constituting the unit cell assembly (10) into one. For example, the battery cell (100) may experience a swelling phenomenon in which the width in the left-right direction swells due to repeated charging and discharging. In this case, the compression pad (400) to be described later is compressed while compensating for the swelling phenomenon, and at this time, the connector block (200) restrains the unit cell assembly (10) in the left-right direction, thereby maintaining the left-right thickness of the unit cell assembly (10) constant.

[0074] Meanwhile, the connector block (200) may be configured to surround the electrode lead (170) while being spaced apart from the electrode lead (170). The connector block (200) may cover the electrode lead (170) so that a portion of the electrode lead (170) is exposed to the outside. The cooling plate (300) may be disposed on one surface of the battery cell (100), and the connector block (200) may be disposed on the other surface of the battery cell (100). More specifically, the connector block (200) may include a flat portion (210), an upper cover (220), and a lower cover (230). The flat portion (210) may have a flat shape that is provided approximately parallel to both ends (150a, 150b) of the sealing portion (150) of the battery cell (100). The above-mentioned flat portion (210) may be provided on one surface of both ends (150a, 150b) of the sealing portion (150) of the battery cell (100). The upper cover (220) may have a structure extending vertically from an upper edge of the flat portion (210) to the flat portion (210). The upper cover (220) may have an inner edge shape along the shape of the sealing portion (150) and the electrode lead (170). The lower cover (230) may have a structure extending vertically from a lower edge of the flat portion (210) to the flat portion (210). The lower cover (230) may have an inner edge shape along the shape of the sealing portion (150) and the electrode lead (170).

[0075] At this time, as can be confirmed in FIG. 4, the electrode lead (170) may have a shape that is tilted upward with respect to the center line of the battery cell (100). This may be a structure for securing a cooling liquid inflow path of the cooling plate (300) to be described later. Meanwhile, when the electrode lead (170) has a shape that is tilted upward with respect to the center line of the battery cell (100), the lower cover (230) of the connector block (200) may have a shape that is extended longer in the vertical direction than the upper cover (220).

[0076] In another aspect of the present invention, the connector block (200) may be configured to expand the electrical connection of the battery cell (100). For example, the connector block (200) may include at least one of a bus bar and a welding plate.

[0077] At this time, the bus bar may include a bus bar that serves as a welding connection between one battery cell (100) and an adjacent battery cell (100). That is, the connector block (200) may be configured for a HV (high voltage) connection for positive or negative connection.

[0078] Meanwhile, the connector block (200) may be configured for LV (low voltage) connection, such as a voltage sensing line for battery control. For example, the connector block (200) may include a welding plate for a voltage sensing line, etc.

[0079] The above configuration enables direct connection between leads, compared to the conventional cell-to-cell connection using a busbar frame assembly. This eliminates unnecessary connecting parts during welding, reducing material costs and improving energy density.

[0080] Fig. 5 is a drawing for explaining a cooling plate (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 6 is a drawing for explaining a coupling relationship between a first end member (320) or a second end member (330) of a cooling plate (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention and a cooling body (310). Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a cooling plate (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the cooling plate (300) may be contacted with the battery cell (100). Thermal resin (TR) may be applied to at least a portion of the cooling plate (300). The cooling plate (300) may include a cooling body (310), a first end member (320), and a second end member (330). The first end member (320) may be configured to be coupled to one end of the cooling body (310). The second end member (330) may be configured to be coupled to the other end of the cooling body (310).

[0082] Referring to Fig. 6, the cooling body (310) may be configured to have a planar shape extending approximately in the vertical and front-back directions. The cooling body (310) may be provided with a cooling channel (C) through which a coolant may flow therein. The cooling channel (C) may be provided in multiple numbers. The cooling channel (C) may be configured to have a pipe structure extending in the front-back direction. The plurality of cooling channels (C) may be arranged parallel to each other. The plurality of cooling channels (C) may be configured to be connected in parallel to each other. Accordingly, the receiving portion of the battery cell (100) contacting the cooling body (310) may be cooled as a whole simultaneously. As a result, the temperature deviation across the entire region of the battery cell (100) may be minimized.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first end member (320) may be provided at one end of the cooling body (310). The first end member (320) includes a cooling liquid inlet (P1) configured to allow cooling liquid to flow in. The cooling liquid flowing in from the cooling liquid inlet (P1) may move along an internal space formed within the first end member (320) and then flow into a cooling passage (C) of the cooling body (310) coupled with the first end member (320).

[0084] At this time, the coolant inlet (P1) may be provided on the lower surface of the cooling plate (300). More specifically, the coolant inlet (P1) may be provided on the lower surface of the first end member (320). That is, the coolant may flow into the interior of the first end member (320) through the lower surface of the first end member (320).

[0085] The internal space formed within the first end member (320) may have a structure that becomes narrower as it goes upward. That is, the internal space may be configured to have a tapered structure in which the flow area becomes narrower as it goes upward.

[0086] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the second end member (330) may be provided at the other end of the cooling body (310). The second end member (330) includes a cooling liquid outlet (P2) configured to allow cooling liquid to flow out. The cooling liquid flowing through the cooling passage (C) of the cooling body (310) may flow into the internal space of the second end member (330).

[0087] At this time, the coolant outlet (P2) may be provided on the lower surface of the cooling plate (300). More specifically, the coolant outlet (P2) may be provided on the lower surface of the second end member (330). That is, the coolant may be discharged toward the outside of the second end member (330) through the lower surface of the second end member (330). Thereafter, the discharged coolant may be re-cooled and circulated again through a separate external cooling process and may then be introduced into the coolant inlet (P1) of the first end member (320).

[0088] Meanwhile, the internal space formed within the second terminal member (330) may have a structure that becomes narrower as it goes upward. That is, the internal space may be configured to have a tapered structure in which the flow area becomes narrower as it goes upward.

[0089] In this regard, the conventional battery cell (100) is a water-cooled indirect cooling method that cools the edges of the sealing portions (150) on three sides of the battery cell (100), and thus, a temperature difference occurs on the entire surface of the battery cell (100). However, according to the present invention including the above configuration, effective cooling is possible through direct cooling of the battery cell (100). Specifically, according to the direct cooling structure as described above, the temperature difference can be minimized in the entire area of ​​the battery cell (100). Accordingly, the rapid charging performance of the battery cell (100) can be improved, and further, the durability degradation performance can also be improved.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 7, the cooling body (310) may include a body portion (311), an upper flange portion (313), and a lower flange portion (315).

[0091] The main body (311) is configured to contact the battery cell (100) and may be configured to have a planar shape. The main body (311) may be configured to have a planar shape extending approximately in the vertical direction and the front-back direction. The main body (311) may be provided with a cooling channel (C) through which a coolant may flow therein. The cooling channel (C) may be provided in plurality. The cooling channel (C) may be configured to have a pipe structure extending in the front-back direction. The plurality of cooling channels (C) may be arranged parallel to each other. The plurality of cooling channels (C) may be configured to be connected in parallel to each other. Accordingly, the receiving portion of the battery cell (100) contacting the main body (311) may be cooled as a whole at the same time.

[0092] The upper flange portion (313) may be bent and extended from one end of the main body portion (311). The upper flange portion (313) may be configured to surround at least a portion of the upper end of the battery cell (100).

[0093] The lower flange portion (315) may be bent and extended from the other end of the main body portion (311). The lower flange portion (315) may be configured to surround at least a portion of the lower end of the battery cell (100). At this time, the lower flange portion (315) may have at least one lower groove (G) with at least a portion of the groove dug out. It is preferable that the lower groove (G) be provided in multiple numbers.

[0094] According to this structure, the lower groove (G) is structured adjacent to the venting portion of the battery cell (100). Therefore, in the event of a thermal runaway or other event in the battery cell (100), when venting gas or flame is generated, such gas or flame can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell (100) through the lower groove (G).

[0095] In one aspect of the present invention, the lower groove (G) may be positioned to correspond to an area where the taping member (190) attached to the battery cell (100) is not located.

[0096] For example, referring to FIG. 3, the taping member (190) may be attached to one side (150c) of the battery cell (100). That is, the taping member (190) may be attached to the lower region of the battery cell (100). More specifically, the taping member (190) may be attached to a region adjacent to both ends in the front-back direction among the lower region of the battery cell (100).

[0097] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7, the lower groove (G) may be provided in an area excluding an area adjacent to both ends in the front-back direction among the lower region of the battery cell (100). More specifically, the lower groove (G) may be provided in multiple areas excluding an area adjacent to both ends in the front-back direction among the lower region of the battery cell (100).

[0098] According to this structure, when venting occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas and / or flame, etc. can be first released through the unattached section of the taping member (190). Therefore, when the lower groove (G) is formed in an area corresponding to the unattached section of the taping member (190), the gas or flame, etc. released from the battery cell (100) can be more easily discharged to the outside.

[0099] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 8, the unit cell assembly (10) may further include a compression pad (400). Preferably, the compression pad (400) may be configured to be interposed between the battery cell (100) and the cooling plate (300).

[0101] The compression pad (400) may be configured to contact one side of the battery cell (100). The compression pad (400) may be configured to compensate for swelling that occurs during charging and discharging of the battery cell (100). That is, the compression pad (400) may be configured to have compressibility. Preferably, the pad may be configured to be compressible and expandable.

[0102] According to this configuration, even if the battery cell (100) swells in the left-right direction due to repeated charging and discharging, the total thickness of the unit cell assembly (10) can be maintained constant by the compression of the compression pad (400). That is, the left-right thickness of the unit cell assembly (10) can be maintained constant by the compression pad (400).

[0103] Preferably, the compression pad (400) may include at least one of polyurethane and silicone. In particular, when the compression pad (400) includes silicone, the compression pad (400) may also have a heat transfer prevention function.

[0104] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a unit cell assembly (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 9, the thermal resin (TR) (thermally conductive resin) may be provided on at least a portion of the cooling plate (300). Preferably, the thermal resin (TR) may be applied to an upper portion of the cooling plate (300). The thermal resin (TR) may include a thermal interface material (TIM). The thermal interface material may include, for example, at least one of a thermal pad, a thermal sheet, a thermal grease, a thermally conductive adhesive, and a phase change material.

[0106] According to this configuration, heat dissipation function can be additionally improved through thermal resin (TR). More specifically, by thermally connecting the battery cell (100) and the cooling plate (300) through the thermal resin (TR), heat generated during charging and discharging of the battery cell (100) can be effectively cooled.

[0107] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a process of combining a unit cell assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery module (1) including a unit cell assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the battery module (1) may include a plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) may be configured in a form in which they are stacked in one direction. Specifically, the plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) may be stacked side by side in the left-right direction while being erected vertically.

[0109] Meanwhile, the electrode leads (170) protruding from the first unit cell assembly (10) and the electrode leads (170) protruding from the second unit cell assembly (10) adjacent to the first unit cell assembly (10) may be welded to each other to form a welded portion. The electrode leads (170) on both sides of the battery cell (100) may protrude outward on both sides of the unit cell assembly (10). More specifically, the connection of the unit cell assemblies (10) will be described as follows: two first and second unit cell assemblies (10) are arranged in a straight line along the longitudinal direction. Then, the electrode leads (170) of the first and second unit cell assemblies (10) arranged adjacent to each other are directly connected by welding. Therefore, a separate bus bar may not be required for the connection of the unit cell assemblies (10). In this way, after connecting the electrode leads (170) of the first and second unit cell assemblies (10), one unit cell assembly (10) can be stacked by overlapping the side of the remaining unit cell assemblies (10). At this time, the connected electrode leads (170) can be bent to stack two unit cell assemblies (10). Then, the electrode leads (170) of another unit cell assembly (10) can be connected to the two unit cell assemblies (10) to which the electrode leads (170) are connected, and the connected unit cell assemblies (10) can be stacked on the two stacked unit cell assemblies (10). As another example, connecting a plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) can be done by connecting all of the electrode leads (170) of the unit cell assemblies (10) and then bending the connected electrode leads (170) to stack the unit cell assemblies (10).

[0110] In this way, in the present embodiment, a plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) can be stacked to form a battery assembly or battery module (1). In the past, after stacking a plurality of battery cells (100), the electrode leads (170) were bent and welded, and when welding, the space behind the electrode leads was insufficient, making it difficult to confirm the welding adhesion, and when a defect occurred during welding, it was difficult to reuse the battery cells (100). However, in the present embodiment, after electrically connecting the battery cells (100), the electrode leads (170) are bent and the battery cells (100) are stacked, thereby solving the existing problems.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 10, an adhesive (A) may be applied to at least one side of the unit cell assembly (10). The adhesive (A) may serve to bond between a plurality of unit cell assemblies (10).

[0112] In Fig. 11, the connector block (200) of the unit cell assembly (10) arranged at the outermost left end and the outermost right end of the battery module (1) can serve as a terminal terminal. That is, the connector block (200) of the unit cell assembly (10) arranged at the outermost left and right end can serve as a (+) terminal terminal or a (-) terminal terminal of the battery module (1). The connector block (200) can be electrically connected to the electrode lead (170) of the battery cell (100). In addition, the connector block (200) can also be electrically connected to a sensing plate (sensing circuit board) for voltage sensing, etc.

[0113] Meanwhile, although the battery module housing is not separately illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, it is understood that the battery module housing may be further included in some cases. Alternatively, the battery module (1) may be accommodated in the pack housing (50) without a separate housing, thereby forming a cell-to-pack structure.

[0114] Fig. 12 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack (3) including the battery module (1) of Fig. 11.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 12, a battery pack (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery assembly or battery module (1) in which a plurality of unit cell assemblies (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention as described above are electrically connected, and a pack housing (50) accommodating the same. In the drawing of the present invention, components such as a bus bar, a cooling unit, and a power terminal for electrical connection are omitted for convenience of illustration. In addition, the battery pack (3) may further include various components, such as components of a battery pack (3) known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS, a pack case, a relay, and a current sensor.

[0116] Fig. 13 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle (5) including the battery pack (3) of Fig. 12.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 13, a vehicle (5) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and includes a battery pack (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (5) includes a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (5) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery cell (100) or the battery pack (3). For example, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include a body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc. in addition to the battery cell (100) according to the present invention.

[0118] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up and down are used in this specification, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer.

[0119] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0120] The present invention can provide a unit cell assembly capable of direct cooling of battery cells, and a battery module including the same.

Claims

1. A battery cell with electrode leads protruding and extending from both ends in the front-back direction, in a vertically erected state; A cooling plate having a thermal resin applied to at least a portion of the battery cell; and A connector block for connecting the battery cell to the cooling plate; A unit cell assembly comprising:

2. In paragraph 1, The above battery cell, electrode assembly; A receiving portion for receiving the above electrode assembly; A sealing portion formed around the perimeter of the above-mentioned receiving portion; and A pair of electrode leads connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the sealing portion; A unit cell assembly comprising:

3. In paragraph 2, A unit cell assembly characterized in that the sealing portion is configured in a form in which both ends and one side connecting them are bonded, and the one side is provided in the lower direction of the battery cell.

4. In paragraph 3, A unit cell assembly characterized in that a taping member is partially attached to the above one side.

5. In paragraph 1, A unit cell assembly, characterized in that the connector block is configured to be coupled to the cooling plate at both ends of the battery cell.

6. In paragraph 5, The above connector block is a unit cell assembly that covers the electrode leads of the battery cell so that a portion of the electrode leads are exposed to the outside.

7. In paragraph 1, A unit cell assembly wherein the connector block is positioned adjacent to the electrode lead of the battery cell and configured to enable electrical connection with a battery cell adjacent to the battery cell.

8. In paragraph 1, The above connector block is a unit cell assembly electrically connected to the electrode leads of the above battery cell.

9. In paragraph 1, A unit cell assembly, wherein the connector block comprises at least one of a bus bar and a welding plate.

10. In paragraph 1, The above cooling plate, A cooling body having a cooling passage through which a coolant can flow inside; A first end member provided at one end of the cooling body and including a cooling liquid inlet configured to allow cooling liquid to flow in; and A second end member including a cooling liquid outlet provided at the other end of the cooling body and configured to allow cooling liquid introduced from the cooling liquid inlet to move through the cooling channel and flow out to the outside; A unit cell assembly comprising:

11. In paragraph 10, The above cooling body, A main body configured to be interviewed by a battery cell and configured to have a flat shape; An upper flange portion extending from one end of the main body portion and configured to surround at least a portion of the upper end of the battery cell; and A lower flange portion that extends from the other end of the main body portion and is configured to surround at least a portion of the lower end of the battery cell. A unit cell assembly comprising:

12. In paragraph 11, The above lower flange portion, A unit cell assembly characterized by having at least one lower groove having at least a portion of the lower groove dug out.

13. In paragraph 12, The above battery cell is partially attached with a taping member, A unit cell assembly, characterized in that the lower groove is positioned to correspond to an area where the taping member attached to the battery cell is not located.

14. In paragraph 1, A unit cell assembly further comprising a compression pad that is applied to one side of the battery cell.

15. In paragraph 14, A unit cell assembly, characterized in that the compression pad is interposed between the battery cell and the cooling plate.

16. A battery module comprising a plurality of unit cell assemblies according to paragraph 1.

17. In paragraph 16, A plurality of the above unit cell assemblies are configured in a form that is stacked in one direction, It includes a welded portion formed by welding an electrode lead protruding from a first unit cell assembly and an electrode lead protruding from a second unit cell assembly adjacent to the first unit cell assembly, A battery module characterized by comprising an adhesive applied to at least one side of the unit cell assembly.

18. A battery pack characterized by comprising the unit cell assembly described in paragraph 1 or the battery module described in paragraph 16.

19. A vehicle characterized by including at least one battery pack as described in paragraph 18.

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