Battery cell and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween are wound about a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction, the second electrode includes a second uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction, and the first uncoated portion and the second uncoated portion are disposed on the same surface of the electrode assembly; a battery housing including an opening at one side and configured to accommodate the electrode assembly through the opening; an upper cover configured to cover the opening of the battery housing; and a cell terminal penetrating the upper cover and exposed to the outside of the upper cover, the cell terminal being electrically connected to the second uncoated portion and configured to be weldable to the second uncoated portion from the outside.

Description

Battery cells and battery packs and vehicles containing the same

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0098135, filed on July 24, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0049719, filed on April 16, 2025, the entire contents of which are disclosed in the specification and drawings of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Secondary batteries, which boast high electrical properties such as high energy density and high applicability across a wide range of product categories, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electrical power sources. These batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because they can dramatically reduce fossil fuel use, but also because they produce no byproducts from energy use.

[0004] 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 4.5 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, a number of 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 and / or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, in conventional battery cells, the positive and negative foil tabs of the jelly-roll-shaped electrode assembly are respectively positioned on the upper and lower sides of the battery can. In conventional battery cells with this structure, the negative electrode current path must pass through the entire body of the battery can in the height direction, which causes the internal resistance of the battery to increase.

[0006] In addition, in the case of a battery cell having such a structure, a non-conductive region is required for electrode safety in the direction of the foil tab. However, in the case of a conventional battery cell, due to this connection structure, the non-conductive region occupies a considerable volume at the top and bottom within the battery can, which is disadvantageous in terms of securing energy density.

[0007] The present invention aims to reduce internal resistance of a battery by shortening the movement path of electrons.

[0008] In addition, another object of the present invention is to improve energy density by reducing the volume occupied by the non-conductive portion of the electrode assembly.

[0009] 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.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery cell is provided, which comprises an electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction, and the second electrode includes a second uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction, and the first uncoated portion and the second uncoated portion include: an electrode assembly provided on the same side of the electrode assembly; a battery housing including an opening on one side and configured to receive the electrode assembly through the opening; an upper cover configured to cover the opening of the battery housing; and a cell terminal penetrating the upper cover and exposed to the outside of the upper cover, electrically connected to the second uncoated portion, and configured to be weldable to the second uncoated portion from the outside.

[0011] In one aspect of the present invention, the first unlined portion and the second unlined portion may be provided at an upper portion in the height direction of the electrode assembly.

[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, the first non-conductive portion can be electrically connected to the upper cover.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the first non-conductive portion and the upper cover are joined by welding to form a welded portion, and the welded portion can be formed in an area of ​​the upper cover excluding an area occupied by the cell terminal.

[0014] In one aspect of the present invention, the cell terminal may be located on one side of the center of the upper cover.

[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, at least a portion of the first non-woven portion includes a plurality of first segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, and at least a portion of the second non-woven portion includes a plurality of second segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, wherein the first segments and the second segments can be arranged at positions that do not overlap each other along the winding direction.

[0016] Preferably, the first segment and the second segment can be configured to be spatially separated.

[0017] In one aspect of the present invention, the electrode assembly may include a first segment region defined by a bending surface region in which a plurality of first segments are bent radially; and a second segment region defined by a bending surface region in which a plurality of second segments are bent radially.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, the first segmented region may be provided on one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly, and the second segmented region may be provided on the other side spaced apart from the one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly.

[0019] For example, the first segment region and the second segment region may each be provided in a semicircular ring shape.

[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, the first segment region and the second segment region can be radially arranged on the electrode assembly.

[0021] In another aspect of the present invention, the first segment region and the second segment region can be alternately arranged on the electrode assembly.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, the first segment region and the second segment region may be provided in a fan shape.

[0023] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising at least one battery cell according to the above-described embodiment.

[0024] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle including at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0025] According to the present invention, by shortening the electron movement path, the internal resistance of a battery can be reduced. This enables the implementation of a low-resistance battery.

[0026] In addition, according to the present invention, the energy density can be improved by reducing the volume occupied by the non-conductive portion of the electrode assembly.

[0027] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the degree of freedom in material selection is increased because the battery housing is not used as a current path.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode and a second electrode of an electrode assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of an area around a cell terminal of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the first electrode and the second electrode of the electrode assembly according to the embodiment of FIG. 6.

[0037] Fig. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a battery cell following the embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0038] Figure 9 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the first electrode and the second electrode of the electrode assembly according to the embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0040] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including the battery cell of FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 11.

[0042] 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 interpreted as limited to their typical or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted with meanings and concepts that conform to the technical spirit of the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term to best explain his or her own invention. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are only some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical spirit of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

[0043] Additionally, to facilitate understanding of the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to scale and some components may have exaggerated dimensions. Furthermore, identical components may be assigned the same reference numbers in different embodiments.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0046] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction along the longitudinal direction of the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10) wound in the form of a jelly roll is referred to as the axial direction. In addition, the direction surrounding the winding axis is referred to as the circumferential direction or the peripheral direction. In addition, the direction approaching or away from the winding axis is referred to as the radial direction. Among these, the direction approaching the winding axis is particularly referred to as the centripetal direction, and the direction away from the winding axis is referred to as the centrifugal direction.

[0051]

[0052] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode (11) and a second electrode (12) of an electrode assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, a cylindrical battery cell (1). The battery cell (1) includes an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), an upper cover (21), and a cell terminal (30).

[0054] In addition to the above-described components, the above-described battery cell (1) may further include an insulating gasket (40) and / or a first current collector (50) and / or a second current collector (60) and / or a lead tab (80). The present invention is not limited by the shape of the battery and can be applied to batteries of other shapes, such as square batteries.

[0055]

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electrode assembly (10) includes a first electrode (11) having a first polarity, a second electrode (12) having a second polarity, and a separator interposed between the first electrode (11) and the second electrode (12). The first electrode (11) is a cathode or an anode, and the second electrode (12) corresponds to an electrode having a polarity opposite to that of the first electrode (11).

[0057] The electrode assembly (10) may have, for example, a jelly-roll structure. That is, the electrode assembly (10) may be manufactured by stacking a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate having a sheet shape at least once with a separator interposed therebetween, and winding the stack in one direction with the center of the winding (C) as the standard.

[0058] The first electrode (11) includes a first electrode plate and a first electrode active material (11b) applied on one or both surfaces of the first electrode plate. The first electrode (11) includes a first uncoated portion (11a) on which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction. That is, a uncoated portion on which the first electrode active material (11b) is not applied exists at one end of the first electrode plate in the width direction (in the direction parallel to the Z-axis). The uncoated portion that functions as a first electrode tab is hereinafter referred to as a first uncoated portion (11a). The first uncoated portion (11a) may be provided on an upper portion in the height direction (in the direction parallel to the Z-axis) of the electrode assembly (10) accommodated in the battery housing (20). That is, the first electrode plate includes a first non-conductive portion (11a) that is not coated with an active material layer on a long end and is exposed to the outside of the separator, and a part of the first non-conductive portion (11a) is used as an electrode tab in itself. The first non-conductive portion (11a) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0059] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the first non-conductive portion (11a) may include a plurality of first segments (11c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the plurality of first segments (11c) may be bent along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The plurality of bent first segments (11c) may be overlapped in multiple layers.

[0060] The second electrode (12) includes a second electrode plate and a second electrode active material (12b) applied on one or both surfaces of the second electrode plate. At one end of the second electrode plate in the width direction (in the direction parallel to the Z-axis), there is a non-coated portion on which the second electrode active material (12b) is not applied. The non-coated portion that functions as a second electrode tab is hereinafter referred to as a second non-coated portion (12a). The second non-coated portion (12a) may be provided at an upper portion in the height direction (in the direction parallel to the Z-axis) of the electrode assembly (10) accommodated in the battery housing (20). That is, the second electrode plate includes a second non-coated portion (12a) on which an active material layer is not coated at a long end and which is exposed to the outside of the separator, and at least a portion of the second non-coated portion (12a) is used as an electrode tab in its own right. The second non-coated portion (12a) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0061] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the second non-conductive portion (12a) may include a plurality of second segments (12c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the plurality of second segments (12c) may be bent along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The plurality of bent second segments (12c) may be overlapped in multiple layers.

[0062] In the present invention, the positive electrode active material coated on the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode active material coated on the negative electrode plate can be used without limitation as long as they are active materials known in the art.

[0063]

[0064] In one aspect of the present invention, the first uncoated portion (11a) and the second uncoated portion (12a) may be provided on the same surface of the electrode assembly (10). Preferably, the first uncoated portion (11a) and the second uncoated portion (12a) may be provided at an upper portion in the height direction of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the first uncoated portion (11a) and the second uncoated portion (12a) may be provided on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10).

[0065] Preferably, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) can extend in the same direction along the height direction (parallel to the Z-axis) of the battery cell (1). The first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) can extend toward the upper cover (21).

[0066] This configuration enables the implementation of a low-resistance battery. For example, in a conventional cylindrical battery cell (1), electrons are moved through the outer wall of the battery housing (20). That is, the battery housing (20) itself functions as a negative terminal and as a passage for electrons. At this time, the negative tab starts from the opposite side of the positive tab and moves along the battery housing (20) to the surface of the battery housing (20) where the positive terminal is located. This structure has the disadvantage of increasing the internal resistance of the battery by increasing the distance that electrons move. In addition, the influence of the battery housing (20) on the internal resistance of the battery accounts for the largest proportion, approximately 40%, of the proportion that constitutes the internal resistance of a cylindrical battery. However, the present invention, unlike the structure of a conventional battery cell, positions the negative terminal in the same direction as the positive terminal, thereby making the movement path of electrons shorter, thereby enabling the implementation of a low-resistance battery cell (1).

[0067] Furthermore, according to the above configuration, since the non-conductive portion is positioned only at the upper portion of the electrode assembly, no non-conductive portion is provided at the lower portion. Accordingly, the volume occupied by the non-conductive portion of the electrode assembly is reduced compared to the conventional method, thereby improving energy density. Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the battery housing (20) is not used as a current path, the degree of freedom in material selection is increased.

[0068]

[0069] In another aspect of the present invention, the first non-conductive portion (11a) may be electrically connected to the upper cover (21). For example, the first non-conductive portion (11a) and the upper cover (21) may be joined by welding to form a welded portion. In this case, the welded portion may be formed in an area of ​​the upper cover (21) excluding an area occupied by the cell terminal (30). Accordingly, the upper cover (21) may function as a first electrode terminal.

[0070] Referring to Fig. 4, the cell terminal (30) may be positioned to one side with respect to the center of the upper cover (21). More specifically, the cell terminal (30) may be positioned to one side with respect to the center of the upper cover (21).

[0071] At this time, the welding portion of the first non-coated portion (11a) and the upper cover (21) can be formed in an area of ​​the upper cover (21) excluding the area occupied by the cell terminal (30). That is, the welding portion of the first non-coated portion (11a) and the upper cover (21) can be located on the other side with respect to the center of the upper cover (21). Meanwhile, since the welding portion of the first non-coated portion (11a) and the upper cover (21) can be formed in an area excluding the area occupied by the cell terminal (30) in the area of ​​the upper cover (21), the welding portion can be formed in a relatively wide area of ​​the upper cover (21).

[0072] With this structure, a wide welding area is secured between the first non-conductive portion (11a) and the upper cover (21), so that the internal resistance of the battery can be effectively reduced. Accordingly, the implementation of a low-resistance battery becomes possible.

[0073]

[0074] Referring back to FIGS. 2 and 3, at least a portion of the first non-coated portion (11a) may include a plurality of first segments (11c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). Preferably, the electrode assembly (10) may include a plurality of groups of first segments (11c) along the winding direction. One group of first segments (11c) includes a plurality of first segments (11c). At this time, the plurality of groups of first segments (11c) may be arranged at a predetermined distance apart from each other in the winding direction. Preferably, when the first electrode (11) is wound in the winding direction, the first segments (11c) may be arranged in a form that is biased toward one side of the electrode assembly (10). In other words, the first segments (11c) may be arranged in a form that is gathered at one side of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the first segment (11c) may be configured to be arranged in a form that is biased to one side based on an imaginary line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10). For example, referring to Fig. 2, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured to be provided on a left semicircle based on an imaginary line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) when the rolled electrode assembly (10) is viewed from above.

[0075] At least a portion of the second non-conductive portion (12a) may include a plurality of second segments (12c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). Preferably, the electrode assembly (10) may include a plurality of groups of second segments (12c) along the winding direction. One group of second segments (12c) includes a plurality of second segments (12c). At this time, the plurality of groups of second segments (12c) may be arranged at a predetermined distance apart from each other in the winding direction. Preferably, when the second electrode (12) is wound in the winding direction, the second segments (12c) may be arranged in a form that is biased toward the other side of the electrode assembly (10). In other words, the second segments (12c) may be arranged in a form that is gathered on the other side of the electrode assembly (10). Here, the other side means the opposite side to the side where the first segment (11c) is arranged. For example, the second segment (12c) may be configured to be arranged in a form that is biased toward the other side based on an imaginary line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10). For example, referring to Fig. 2, a plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured to be arranged on a right semicircle based on an imaginary line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) when the rolled electrode assembly (10) is viewed from above.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) may be arranged in positions that do not overlap each other along the winding direction. For example, the first segment (11c) group and the second segment (12c) group may be arranged in positions that do not overlap each other along the winding direction. That is, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) may be configured to be spatially separated.

[0077]

[0078] In one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of first segments (11c) and the plurality of second segments (12c) can be bent radially. Specifically, the plurality of first segments (11c) and the plurality of second segments (12c) can be bent toward the core side. The plurality of first segments (11c) and the plurality of second segments (12c) bent toward the core side form a bent surface area.

[0079] Referring again to FIG. 2, the electrode assembly (10) may include a first segment (11c) region defined as a bending surface region in which a plurality of first segments (11c) are bent radially; and a second segment (12c) region defined as a bending surface region in which a plurality of second segments (12c) are bent radially.

[0080] At this time, the first segment (11c) region may be provided on one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10), and the second segment (12c) region may be provided on the other side spaced apart from the one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the first segment (11c) may be arranged in a form that is biased toward one side of the electrode assembly (10), and the second segment (12c) may be arranged in a form that is biased toward the other side of the electrode assembly (10). For example, in the case of the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may each be provided in a semicircular ring shape. That is, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may be arranged symmetrically and spaced apart from each other.

[0081] Specifically, when an imaginary line is drawn passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10), a plurality of first segments (11c) may be arranged to gather on the left side of the electrode assembly (10), and a plurality of second segments (12c) may be arranged to gather on the right side of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured to be positioned in a semicircular region on one side of the electrode assembly (10). Meanwhile, the plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured to be positioned in a semicircular region on the other side of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the first segments (11c) and the second segments (12c) may be configured to be spatially separated. At this time, a predetermined gap may be interposed between the plurality of first segments (11c) and the plurality of second segments (12c) so as not to overlap each other.

[0082]

[0083] Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery housing (20) is a roughly cylindrical container with an opening formed on one side, and is made of a conductive material such as metal, for example. The material of the battery housing (20) may be, for example, steel, stainless steel, or nickel-plated iron. For example, the opening may be provided on the upper portion of the battery housing (20). The lower surface opposite the opening will be referred to as a closed portion. The side wall portion and the closed portion of the battery housing (20) may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the side wall portion and the closed portion of the battery housing (20) may be provided separately and joined to each other by welding or the like. The upper surface of the battery housing (20) (the surface parallel to the XY plane), i.e., the outer surface of the closed portion, may have a roughly flat shape. The battery housing (20) accommodates the electrode assembly (10) through the opening formed on one side.

[0084] In another aspect of the present invention, the opening of the battery housing (20) may be closed by the upper cover (21). That is, the upper cover (21) may be configured to cover the opening of the battery housing (20). The battery housing (20) may be configured in a roughly cylindrical can shape, and the opening provided at the top may be configured in a roughly circular shape. Accordingly, the upper cover (21) may be configured in a roughly circular shape.

[0085] In another aspect of the present invention, a cell terminal (30) may be mounted on the upper cover (21). That is, a hole for inserting the cell terminal (30) may be provided on the upper cover (21). The cell terminal (30) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 below.

[0086]

[0087] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of an area around a cell terminal (30) of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cell terminal (30) is made of a conductive metal material. Aluminum (Al) may be used as the material of the cell terminal (30). When the material of the cell terminal (30) is aluminum, 10-series aluminum having a relatively low electrical resistance may be used. The cell terminal (30) may be electrically connected to the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the cell terminal (30) has a second polarity. Therefore, the cell terminal (30) may function as a second electrode terminal in the battery cell (1) of the present invention.

[0089] In another embodiment of the present invention, copper (Cu) may be used as the material of the cell terminal (30). In this case, the cell terminal (30) may be electrically connected to the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the cell terminal (30) has a first polarity.

[0090] Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cell terminal (30) may include a terminal exposure portion (31), a terminal insertion portion (32), a terminal connection portion (33), and a terminal coupling portion (34).

[0091] The above terminal exposure portion (31) is exposed to the outside of the battery housing (20). The terminal exposure portion (31) may be provided at a position tilted toward one side of the upper cover (21). The terminal exposure portion (31) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the upper cover (21).

[0092] The terminal insertion portion (32) may have a shape that is curved toward the inner surface of the upper cover (21). Therefore, the maximum width of the terminal insertion portion (32) after the riveting process for fixing the cell terminal (30) is performed may be formed to be larger than the maximum width of the hole formed in the upper cover (21) through which the terminal insertion portion (32) passes.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the terminal connection portion (33) can connect the terminal exposure portion (31) and the terminal insertion portion (32). The terminal connection portion (33) can penetrate the upper cover (21). The terminal connection portion (33) can extend in a direction approximately parallel to the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10).

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cell terminal (30) includes a terminal coupling portion (34). The terminal coupling portion (34) may be provided on the lower surface of the cell terminal (30). The terminal coupling portion (34) may be provided in a region radially inner than the terminal insertion portion (32). The terminal coupling portion (34) may be later joined to the second current collector (60) or the second segment (12c) by welding. The terminal coupling portion (34) has a flat surface extending in a substantially horizontal direction. In addition, the flat surface of the terminal coupling portion (34) extends in a direction substantially parallel to the second current collector (60). Therefore, the terminal coupling portion (34) may be configured to interface with the second current collector (60) having the flat surface. The second current collector (60) may be positioned on the second non-conductive portion (12a). More specifically, the second current collector (60) may be configured to be seated on the folded surface area where the second segment (12c) of the second non-conductive portion (12a) is folded. Accordingly, the cell terminal (30) has the same electrode as the second electrode (12) through the second current collector (60).

[0095] The above cell terminal (30) may be configured to be weldable to the second non-conductive portion (12a) from the outside. Specifically, the cell terminal (30) may be configured to be weldable to the second current collector (60) or the second non-conductive portion (12a) from the outside of the battery cell (1).

[0096]

[0097] Fig. 6 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 7 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode (11) and a second electrode (12) of the electrode assembly (10) according to the embodiment of Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a battery cell (1) according to the embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0098] Referring to Fig. 6, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may be radially arranged on the electrode assembly (10). For example, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may be provided in multiple numbers and may be arranged in an X shape with respect to the center of the assembly. For example, the second segment (12c) region may be arranged in an X shape, and the remaining region of the bending surface region excluding the X shape may be configured as the first segment (11c) region.

[0099] In this way, in order to arrange the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region in an X shape with respect to the center of the assembly body, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) must be arranged so as not to overlap each other, as shown in FIG. 7. For example, the second segment (12c) region forming the X shape may be formed by a set of segment bundles having the same number of segments. Meanwhile, the first segment (11c) region forming the remaining region excluding the X shape may be formed by a set of segment bundles in which the number of segments gradually increases.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 8, a second current collector (60) may be coupled on a region of a second segment (12c) forming an X shape. At this time, the second current collector (60) may be formed in an X shape or a straight shape. Alternatively, it may be formed in another shape. The second current collector (60) may be electrically connected to a group of second segments (12c). At the same time, the second current collector (60) may be electrically connected to a cell terminal (30). At this time, the cell terminal (30) may be located in a central region of the upper cover (21).

[0101] Meanwhile, the first segment (11c) region may be electrically connected to the upper cover (21). At this time, the first segment (11c) region may be physically connected to the upper cover (21) by a lead tab (80). The lead tab (80) may extend from the first segment (11c) region and come into contact with the inner surface of the upper cover (21).

[0102] With this configuration, the segments can be distributed evenly. Accordingly, the internal resistance of the battery can be reduced. Specifically, in order for the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region to be arranged in an X shape with respect to the center of the assembly, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) must be arranged so as not to overlap each other, as shown in FIG. 7. At this time, the bundle of the first segment (11c) and the bundle of the second segment (12c) are arranged crosswise so as not to overlap each other. That is, the first segment (11c) does not lean toward either side of the first electrode (11), and the second segment (12c) also does not lean toward either side of the second electrode (12). Therefore, with the above configuration of the present invention, when electrons move from the electrode to the segment, the movement distance of the electrons is shortened. Accordingly, the internal resistance of the battery is reduced, making it possible to implement a low-resistance battery.

[0103]

[0104] FIG. 9 is a plan view from above of an electrode assembly (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode (11) and a second electrode (12) of the electrode assembly (10) according to the embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0105] Referring to Fig. 9, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may be alternately arranged on the electrode assembly (10). For example, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may be provided in a fan shape.

[0106] In this way, in order for the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region to be alternately arranged in a fan shape, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) must be arranged so as not to overlap each other, as shown in Fig. 10. For example, the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region may each be composed of a set of segment bundles in which the number of segments gradually increases.

[0107] With this configuration, the segments can be distributed evenly. Accordingly, the internal resistance of the battery can be reduced. Specifically, in order for the first segment (11c) region and the second segment (12c) region to be alternately arranged, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) must be arranged so as not to overlap each other, as shown in Fig. 10. At this time, the bundle of the first segment (11c) and the bundle of the second segment (12c) are arranged alternately so as not to overlap each other. That is, the first segment (11c) does not lean toward either side of the first electrode (11), and the second segment (12c) also does not lean toward either side of the second electrode (12). Therefore, with the above configuration of the present invention, when electrons move from the electrodes to the segments, the movement distance of the electrons is shortened. Accordingly, the internal resistance of the battery is reduced, making it possible to implement a low-resistance battery.

[0108]

[0109] Referring again to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the insulating gasket (40) may be provided on the upper cover (21). Specifically, the insulating gasket (40) may be interposed between the upper cover (21) and the cell terminal (30).

[0110] The above insulating gasket (40) may include a gasket exposure portion (41) and a gasket insertion portion (42). The gasket exposure portion (41) is interposed between the terminal exposure portion (31) of the cell terminal (30) and the upper cover (21). The gasket exposure portion (41) may extend longer than the terminal exposure portion (31), thereby being exposed to the outside of the terminal exposure portion (31) when the battery cell (1) is viewed from above. That is, the diameter of the gasket exposure portion (41) may be configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the terminal exposure portion (31).

[0111] The above gasket insertion portion (42) is interposed between the terminal insertion portion (32) of the cell terminal (30) and the upper cover (21). The gasket insertion portion (42) can be deformed together with the terminal insertion portion (32) during riveting so as to be in close contact with the inner surface of the upper cover (21). The insulating gasket (40) may include, for example, a resin material having insulating properties and elasticity. The diameter of the gasket insertion portion (42) may be configured to be larger than or equal to the diameter of the terminal insertion portion (32). Preferably, the gasket insertion portion (42) may be configured to at least partially surround the end of the terminal insertion portion (32). With this configuration, electrical insulation performance between the upper cover (21) and the cell terminal (30) can be effectively secured.

[0112]

[0113] Referring again to FIG. 4, a first current collector (50) and / or a second current collector (60) may be coupled to the folded surface area of ​​the electrode assembly (10).

[0114] Specifically, the battery cell (1) may further include a first current collector (50) configured to be electrically connected to the first electrode (11). The first current collector (50) may be coupled to the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the first current collector (50) may be coupled to the first segment (11c) of the electrode assembly (10). Referring to FIG. 4, the first current collector (50) may be coupled to the upper portion of the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (50) is made of a conductive metal material and is electrically connected to the first non-conductive portion (11a).

[0115] The above first current collector (50) is interposed between the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the upper cover (21), and can electrically connect the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the upper cover (21).

[0116] Meanwhile, the battery cell (1) may further include a second current collector (60) configured to be electrically connected to the second electrode (12). The second current collector (60) may be coupled to the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the second current collector (60) may be coupled to the second segment (12c) of the electrode assembly (10). Referring to FIG. 4, the second current collector (60) may be coupled to the upper portion of the electrode assembly (10). The second current collector (60) is made of a conductive metal material and is electrically connected to the second non-conductive portion (12a).

[0117] Meanwhile, the second current collector (60) may be coupled to the cell terminal (30). Specifically, at least a portion of the second current collector (60) may be coupled to the terminal coupling portion (34) of the cell terminal (30). At this time, the second current collector (60) and the terminal coupling portion (34) may be coupled by welding. The second current collector (60) may be interposed between the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the cell terminal (30), thereby electrically connecting the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the cell terminal (30).

[0118]

[0119] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 11, a battery pack (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery assembly in which a plurality of battery cells (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention are electrically connected, and a pack housing (2) accommodating the battery cells. 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.

[0121]

[0122] Fig. 12 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack (3) of Fig. 11.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 12, 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 (1) 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 (1) according to the present invention.

[0124]

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127]

[0128] [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 5: Car

[0130] 3: Battery pack

[0131] 2: Pack housing

[0132] 1: Battery cell

[0133]

[0134] 10: Electrode assembly

[0135] 11: First electrode

[0136] 11a: 1st Military Department

[0137] 11b: First electrode active material

[0138] 11c: First segment

[0139] 12: Second electrode

[0140] 12a: 2nd Muji Department

[0141] 12b: Second electrode active material

[0142] 12c: Second segment

[0143] C: Center of winding

[0144]

[0145] 20: Battery housing

[0146] 21: Top cover

[0147]

[0148] 30: Cell terminal

[0149] 31: Terminal exposure

[0150] 32: Terminal insertion part

[0151] 33: Terminal connection

[0152] 34: Terminal joint

[0153]

[0154] 40: Insulating gasket

[0155] 41: Gasket exposure area

[0156] 42: Gasket insert

[0157]

[0158] 50: First House

[0159] 60: Second House

[0160]

[0161] 80: Lead tab

Claims

1. An electrode assembly in which a first electrode and a second electrode and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction, and the second electrode includes a second uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction, and the first uncoated portion and the second uncoated portion are provided on the same surface of the electrode assembly; A battery housing comprising an opening on one side and configured to receive the electrode assembly through the opening; an upper cover configured to cover the opening of the battery housing; and A cell terminal that penetrates the upper cover and is exposed to the outside of the upper cover, is electrically connected to the second non-conductive part, and is configured to be weldable to the second non-conductive part from the outside. Battery cells containing .

2. In paragraph 1, A battery cell characterized in that the first non-conductive portion and the second non-conductive portion are provided at an upper portion in the height direction of the electrode assembly.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery cell characterized in that the first non-conductive portion is electrically connected to the upper cover.

4. In paragraph 1, The above first plain portion and the upper cover are joined by welding to form a welded portion, A battery cell characterized in that the above welding part is formed in an area of ​​the upper cover excluding an area occupied by the cell terminal.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery cell characterized in that the cell terminal is located on one side of the center of the upper cover.

6. In paragraph 1, At least a portion of the first non-conductive portion comprises a plurality of first segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, At least a portion of the second portion comprises a plurality of second segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, A battery cell characterized in that the first segment and the second segment are arranged in positions that do not overlap each other along the winding direction.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery cell characterized in that the first segment and the second segment are configured to be spatially separated.

8. In paragraph 6, The above electrode assembly, A first segment region defined as a folded surface region in which a plurality of first segments are folded in a radial direction; and A battery cell characterized in that the second segment area is defined by a folded surface area in which a plurality of second segments are folded in a radial direction.

9. In paragraph 8, The above first segment region is provided on one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly, A battery cell characterized in that the second segment region is provided on one side of the upper surface of the electrode assembly and the other side spaced apart from it.

10. In paragraph 8, A battery cell characterized in that the first segment region and the second segment region are each provided in a semicircular ring shape.

11. In paragraph 8, A battery cell, characterized in that the first segment region and the second segment region are radially arranged on the electrode assembly.

12. In paragraph 8, A battery cell, characterized in that the first segment region and the second segment region are alternately arranged on the electrode assembly.

13. In paragraph 8, A battery cell characterized in that the first segment region and the second segment region are provided in a fan shape.

14. A battery pack comprising at least one battery cell as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A vehicle characterized by including at least one battery pack as described in paragraph 14.

Images