Battery device

Abstract

A technical idea of the present invention provides a battery device comprising: a housing; a cell assembly which is provided in the housing and which includes a plurality of battery cells; a first thermally conductive adhesive layer for attaching a first area of the cell assembly to the housing; and a second thermally conductive adhesive layer for attaching a second area of the cell assembly to the housing, wherein the thermal conductivity of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is greater than the thermal conductivity of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer, and the adhesive strength of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is less than the adhesive strength of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

Description

Battery device

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery device. This application claims the benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2024-0122122, filed September 9, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

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

[0003] As secondary batteries become increasingly used in mobility, demand for their safety is increasing. Fires and other accidents involving secondary batteries used in mobility vehicles can endanger the lives of drivers, making research into technologies that enhance secondary battery safety essential.

[0004] The technical idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a battery device.

[0005] In order to solve the above-described problem, the technical idea of ​​the present invention provides a battery device including a housing; a cell assembly provided within the housing and including a plurality of battery cells; a first thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a first area of ​​the cell assembly to the housing; and a second thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a second area of ​​the cell assembly to the housing, wherein a thermal conductivity of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is greater than a thermal conductivity of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer, and an adhesive force of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is less than an adhesive force of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0006] In exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of battery cells includes a first portion relatively proximate to an electrode lead and a second portion relatively distal to the electrode lead, wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer contacts the first portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer contacts the second portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0007] In exemplary embodiments, the cell assembly further comprises a busbar frame supporting electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, the cell assembly further comprises a third thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a third region of the cell assembly between the first region and the second region of the cell assembly to the housing, wherein a thermal conductivity of the third thermally conductive adhesive layer is between the thermal conductivity of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the thermal conductivity of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer, and an adhesive strength of the third thermally conductive adhesive layer is between the adhesive strength of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and a second adhesive strength of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0009] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cells each include a first outer portion, a second outer portion, and a central portion between the first outer portion and the second outer portion, wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the central portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0010] In exemplary embodiments, the device further comprises a separation pad disposed between the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0011] In exemplary embodiments, the separation pad is characterized in that it contacts the plurality of battery cells.

[0012] In exemplary embodiments, the housing comprises a base frame supporting the cell assembly and including cooling channels configured to allow cooling fluid to flow; and a side frame disposed on the base frame; wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer are provided between the cell assembly and the base frame.

[0013] In exemplary embodiments, the base frame further comprises a separation pad in contact with the plurality of battery cells, wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is spaced apart from the second thermally conductive adhesive layer with the separation pad therebetween.

[0014] In exemplary embodiments, the housing includes a base frame supporting the cell assembly; and a side cooling frame disposed between two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer are in contact with at least one of the plurality of battery cells and the side cooling frame.

[0015] In exemplary embodiments, the side cooling frame is characterized by including cooling channels configured to allow cooling fluid to flow.

[0016] In exemplary embodiments, the side cooling frame further comprises a separation pad attached thereto, wherein the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is spaced apart from the second thermally conductive adhesive layer with the separation pad therebetween.

[0017] In exemplary embodiments, the housing further includes: a base frame supporting the cell assembly and attached to the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer; a side cooling frame disposed between two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; a first side thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a first area of ​​a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells to the cooling frame; and a second side thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a second area of ​​a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells to the cooling frame; wherein a thermal conductivity of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer is greater than a thermal conductivity of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0018] In exemplary embodiments, the adhesive strength of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer is characterized by being smaller than the second adhesive strength of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0019] In exemplary embodiments, the cell assembly further includes a pair of side beams spaced apart with the plurality of battery cells therebetween; and a lifting band fastened to the pair of side beams and extending along bottom surfaces of the plurality of battery cells; wherein the lifting band is characterized in that it is disposed between the second thermally conductive adhesive layer and the plurality of battery cells.

[0020] According to a battery device according to exemplary embodiments, a portion of each battery cell that generates relatively a large amount of heat may be attached to the housing using a thermally conductive adhesive layer having relatively high thermal conductivity, and a portion of each battery cell that is relatively vulnerable to vibration may be attached to the housing using a thermally conductive adhesive layer having relatively high adhesive strength. Accordingly, compared to a case where the battery cells are attached to the housing using a single thermally conductive adhesive layer, the temperature uniformity of the battery cells may be improved and the structural safety of the battery cells may be strengthened.

[0021] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0028] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a battery device along line Ⅶ-Ⅶ' of Fig. 6.

[0029] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery device taken along line Ⅷ-Ⅷ' of Fig. 6.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery device according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0035] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0036] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0037] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0038]

[0039] (Example 1)

[0040] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a battery device (10) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery device (10) may include a housing (100), a plurality of cell assemblies (200), and a base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310).

[0042] The housing (100) may have an internal space that accommodates a plurality of cell assemblies (200). The housing (100) may include a base frame (110), a side frame (120), a top frame (130), a first separation frame (141), and a second separation frame (143).

[0043] The base frame (110) can support a plurality of cell assemblies (200). The base frame (110) can have a flat plate shape extending approximately in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0044] The base frame (110) may include a base cooling channel (111) configured to allow a cooling fluid to flow therethrough. In exemplary embodiments, the base cooling channel (111) may extend in a first horizontal direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) within the base frame (110) and may be configured to guide the cooling fluid in the first horizontal direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The base frame (110) may be coupled with pipes (160) configured to convey the cooling fluid. An externally provided cooling fluid may sequentially flow along one of the pipes (160), the base cooling channel (111), and another of the pipes (160). While the cooling fluid flows along the base cooling channel (111), cooling of the plurality of cell assemblies (200) may be achieved. The cooling fluid may include a coolant and / or a refrigerant.

[0045] The side frame (120) can be coupled to the base frame (110). The side frame (120) can be coupled to the perimeter of the base frame (110) and can extend along the perimeter of the base frame (110). The side frame (120) can extend continuously along the perimeter of the base frame (110) to surround a plurality of cell assemblies (200). When viewed in a plan view, the side frame (120) can have an approximately square ring shape.

[0046] The top frame (130) can be coupled to the side frame (120) and can cover a plurality of cell assemblies (200). The top frame (130) can have a flat plate shape extending approximately in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0047] A first separation frame (141) and a second separation frame (143) may be provided on a base frame (110). The first separation frame (141) and the second separation frame (143) may partition or separate the internal space of the housing (100) into a plurality of sub-spaces. One cell assembly (200) may be arranged in each of the plurality of sub-spaces of the housing (100) defined by the first separation frame (141) and the second separation frame (143). The first separation frame (141) and the second separation frame (143) may extend in a direction intersecting each other. The first separation frame (141) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction), and the second separation frame (143) may extend in a first horizontal direction (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0048] A plurality of cell assemblies (200) may be mounted on a base frame (110). The plurality of cell assemblies (200) may be arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and / or a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) on the base frame (110). Each cell assembly (200) may correspond to a battery module or a cell-to-pack unit.

[0049] An individual cell assembly (200) may include a plurality of battery cells (210), a plurality of busbar frames (220), and a plurality of end frames (230).

[0050] An individual battery cell (210) is a basic unit of a lithium ion battery, i.e., a secondary battery. An individual battery cell (210) may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a cell case. The electrode assembly built into the cell case may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrode assembly may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type depending on the assembly form. A jelly-roll type electrode assembly may include a winding structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween. A stack type electrode assembly may include a plurality of sequentially stacked positive electrodes, a plurality of negative electrodes, and a plurality of separators interposed therebetween. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material. The negative electrode may include a negative electrode current collector and an negative electrode active material.

[0051] Each battery cell (210) may correspond to a pouch-type battery cell, a cylindrical battery cell, or a square battery cell. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is provided within a pouch case including an aluminum laminate sheet. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is provided within a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the square battery cell is provided within a square metal can.

[0052] A plurality of battery cells (210) provided in an individual cell assembly (200) may be connected in series and / or in parallel. For example, a plurality of battery cells (210) may be connected in series with each other. For example, a plurality of battery cells (210) may also be connected in parallel with each other. For example, when a set of two or more battery cells (210) connected in parallel with each other is defined as a bank, one bank composed of two or more battery cells (210) connected in parallel with each other and another bank composed of two or more battery cells (210) connected in parallel with each other may be connected in series.

[0053] In exemplary embodiments, a plurality of battery cells (210) may be arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction), and individual battery cells (210) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). An electrode lead (211) may be provided at at least one of both ends of an individual battery cell (210) along the second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). Electrode leads (211) of neighboring battery cells (210) among the plurality of battery cells (210) may be electrically and physically connected to each other.

[0054] Each of the plurality of busbar frames (220) can support electrode leads (211) of each of the plurality of battery cells (210). Each of the plurality of busbar frames (220) can include a plurality of slits into which the electrode leads (211) of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) are inserted. One of the plurality of busbar frames (220) can support the electrode leads (211) provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells (210), and another of the plurality of busbar frames (220) can support the electrode leads (211) provided on the other side of the plurality of battery cells (210).

[0055] Each busbar frame (220) can support a plurality of busbars (221). Each of the plurality of busbars (221) can be electrically and physically connected to at least one of the electrode leads (211) of the plurality of battery cells (210). The plurality of busbars (221) can include an inter-busbar for electrically connecting different battery cells (210) within a cell assembly (200) and a terminal busbar for electrically connecting battery cells (210) of a cell assembly (200) to battery cells (210) of another cell assembly (200).

[0056] A plurality of end frames (230) can be respectively coupled to a plurality of busbar frames (220). Each of the plurality of end frames (230) can cover busbars (221) mounted on a corresponding busbar frame (220).

[0057] A base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) can be disposed between each of the plurality of cell assemblies (200) and the base frame (110), and can attach each of the plurality of cell assemblies (200) to the base frame (110). The base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) can be in direct contact with the plurality of battery cells (210) of the cell assembly (200), and can attach the plurality of battery cells (210) of the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110). The plurality of battery cells (210) of the cell assembly (200) can be thermally and physically coupled to the base frame (110) through the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310). Heat generated in the plurality of battery cells (210) of the cell assembly (200) can be transferred to the base frame (110) through the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310). The base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) may include a thermal resin and / or a thermal interface material (TIM).

[0058] The base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) may include a plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers having different material compositions, different thermal conductivities, and / or different adhesive strengths. The plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) may be attached to different regions of individual cell assemblies (200). The plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) include a thermally conductive filler, but the content of the thermally conductive filler in the plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) may be different from each other. The thermally conductive filler may include, for example, alumina, boron nitride, aluminum nitride, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0059] In exemplary embodiments, the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310) may include a first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) in contact with a first region of the cell assembly (200) and a second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) in contact with a second region of the cell assembly (200). The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may attach the first region of the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110), and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) may attach the second region of the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110). The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) can attach portions of a plurality of battery cells (210) within a first region of the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110), and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) can attach portions of a plurality of battery cells (210) within a second region of the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110).

[0060] The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may have a first thermal conductivity and a first adhesive strength, and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) may have a second thermal conductivity and a second adhesive strength. The first thermal conductivity of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may be greater than the second thermal conductivity of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313). The first adhesive strength of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may be less than the second adhesive strength of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313). The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) having a relatively high thermal conductivity may be attached to a portion of the cell assembly (200) where a relatively large amount of heat is generated, thereby enhancing cooling of the cell assembly (200). The second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having relatively low thermal conductivity can be attached to a portion of the cell assembly (200) where relatively little heat is generated. Since the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) is attached to a portion of the cell assembly (200) where relatively much heat is generated and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) is attached to a portion of the cell assembly (200) where relatively little heat is generated, a temperature deviation within the cell assembly (200) can be reduced. The second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having relatively high adhesive strength can be attached to a portion of the cell assembly (200) that is relatively vulnerable to vibration, thereby enhancing the structural safety of the cell assembly (200).

[0061] In exemplary embodiments, the first thermal conductivity of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) can be between about 3 W / (m·k) and 10 W / (m·k), between about 4 W / (m·k) and 9 W / (m·k), between about 5 W / (m·k) and 8 W / (m·k), or between about 6 W / (m·k) and 7 W / (m·k). In exemplary embodiments, the second thermal conductivity of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) can be between about 20% and about 80%, between about 30% and about 70%, or between about 40% and about 60% of the first thermal conductivity of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311).

[0062] In exemplary embodiments, the second adhesive strength of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) can be between about 1 MPa and about 5 MPa, between about 1.5 MPa and about 4.5 MPa, between about 2 MPa and about 4 MPa, or between about 2.5 MPa and about 3.5 MPa. In exemplary embodiments, the first adhesive strength of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) can be between about 10% and about 90%, between about 20% and about 80%, between about 30% and about 70%, or between about 40% and about 60% of the second adhesive strength of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313).

[0063] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cells (210) may each include a first portion relatively proximate to the electrode lead (211) and a second portion relatively distal from the electrode lead (211). The first portions of the plurality of battery cells (210) may be within a first region of the cell assembly (200), and the second portions of the plurality of battery cells (210) may be within a second region of the cell assembly (200). The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may be in contact with the first portions of the plurality of battery cells (210), and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) may be in contact with the second portions of the plurality of battery cells (210). A first portion of the battery cell (210) that is relatively close to the electrode lead (211) is a portion where relatively much heat is generated when the battery cell (210) operates, and a second portion of the battery cell (210) that is relatively far from the electrode lead (211) is a portion where relatively little heat is generated when the battery cell (210) operates. A first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) having relatively high thermal conductivity may be attached to the first portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) to enhance cooling of the plurality of battery cells (210). A second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having relatively low thermal conductivity may be attached to the second portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210). As the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) is attached to the first portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) is attached to the second portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210), a temperature deviation can be reduced in each of the plurality of battery cells (210). In each battery cell (210), the first portion of the battery cell (210) is supported by the busbar frame (220) and the end frame (230) and thus has relatively high structural stability, and the second portion of the battery cell (210) is relatively far from the busbar frame (220) and the end frame (230) and thus has relatively low structural stability.A second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having a relatively high adhesive strength can attach the second portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) to the base frame (110), thereby enhancing the structural safety of the plurality of battery cells (210).

[0064] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cells (210) may each include a first outer portion connected to an electrode lead (211), a second outer portion connected to another electrode lead (211), and a center portion between the first outer portion and the second outer portion. The battery cell (210) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction), and the center portion of the battery cell (210) may be between the first outer portion of the battery cell (210) and the second outer portion of the battery cell (210) in the second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). The first outer portion and the second outer portion of an individual battery cell (210) may be within a first region of the cell assembly (200), and the center portion of an individual battery cell (210) may be within a second region of the cell assembly (200).

[0065] The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) can be in contact with the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each battery cell (210), and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) can be in contact with the center portion of each battery cell (210). The first outer portion and the second outer portion of each battery cell (210) are relatively close to the electrode leads (211), respectively, and are portions where relatively much heat is generated when the battery cell (210) operates, and the center portion of the battery cell (210) is relatively far from the electrode leads (211), and are portions where relatively little heat is generated when the battery cell (210) operates. The first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) having relatively high thermal conductivity can be attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210), thereby enhancing cooling for the plurality of battery cells (210). A second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having relatively low thermal conductivity may be attached to the central portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210). As the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) is attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) is attached to the central portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210), a temperature deviation in each of the plurality of battery cells (210) may be reduced. By adjusting the dimensions of the central portion of the battery cell (210) in contact with the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313), a temperature deviation between regions of the battery cell (210) may be more effectively controlled. For example, the length of the center of the battery cell (210) in contact with the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) along the second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) may be between about 10% and about 70%, between about 20% and about 60%, or between about 30% and about 50% of the length of the battery cell (210) along the second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0066] The first outer portion and the second outer portion of the battery cell (210) are supported by the busbar frame (220) and the end frame (230), respectively, and thus have relatively high structural stability, while the center portion of the battery cell (210) is relatively far from the busbar frame (220) and the end frame (230), and thus has relatively low structural stability. The second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having relatively high adhesive strength can attach the center portion of each of the plurality of battery cells (210) to the base frame (110), thereby enhancing the structural stability of the plurality of battery cells (210).

[0067] According to the battery device (10) according to exemplary embodiments, a portion of each battery cell (210) where a relatively large amount of heat is generated can be attached to the housing (100) with a thermally conductive adhesive layer having a relatively high thermal conductivity, and a portion of each battery cell (210) that is relatively vulnerable to vibration can be attached to the housing (100) with a thermally conductive adhesive layer having a relatively high adhesive strength. Accordingly, compared to a case where the battery cells (210) are attached to the housing (100) with a single thermally conductive adhesive layer, the temperature uniformity of the battery cells (210) can be improved, and the structural safety of the battery cells (210) can be strengthened.

[0068]

[0069] (Example 2)

[0070] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10A) according to exemplary embodiments. Hereinafter, the battery device (10A) illustrated in FIG. 4 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 4, in the battery device (10A), the base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310A) may include a first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) in contact with a first area of ​​the cell assembly (200), a second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) in contact with a second area of ​​the cell assembly (200), and a third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) in contact with a third area of ​​the cell assembly (200). The third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may attach portions of the battery cells (210) within the third area of ​​the cell assembly (200) to the base frame (110). The third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may be disposed between the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

[0072] The third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may have a third thermal conductivity and a third adhesive strength. The third thermal conductivity of the third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may be between the first thermal conductivity of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second thermal conductivity of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313). The third adhesive strength of the third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may be between the first adhesive strength of the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second adhesive strength of the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313).

[0073] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cells (210) may each include a first outer portion connected to an electrode lead (211), a second outer portion connected to another electrode lead (211), a central portion, a first middle portion between the central portion and the first outer portion, and a second middle portion between the central portion and the second outer portion. A first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) may be attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each battery cell (210), a second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) may be attached to the central portion of each battery cell (210), and a third base thermally conductive adhesive layer (315) may be attached to the first middle portion and the second middle portion of each battery cell (210).

[0074]

[0075] (Example 3)

[0076] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10B) according to exemplary embodiments. Hereinafter, the battery device (10B) illustrated in FIG. 5 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 5, the battery device (10B) may further include a separation pad (350) disposed between the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313). The separation pad (350) may be attached to the base frame (110). For example, the separation pad (350) may extend in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction), and the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) may be spaced apart in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) with the separation pad (350) therebetween. The separation pad (350) is disposed between the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313), and can prevent or suppress mixing between the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313).

[0078] In the process of mounting the cell assembly (200) on the housing (100), after applying the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) to the base frame (110), the cell assembly (200) can be mounted on the base frame (110). In the process of mounting the cell assembly (200) on the base frame (110), the material forming the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the material forming the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) can be pressed and spread on the cell assembly (200). At this time, the separation pad (350) is placed between the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313), so as to prevent or suppress mixing of the material forming the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and the material forming the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313).

[0079] The above separation pad (350) may include a material having a predetermined elasticity. When the cell assembly (200) is placed on the separation pad (350), the separation pad (350) is compressed, and the thickness of the separation pad (350) may be reduced from its initial thickness. In exemplary embodiments, the separation pad (350) may include a polyurethane resin, a silicone resin, or a combination thereof.

[0080]

[0081] (Example 4)

[0082] Fig. 6 is a plan view showing a portion of a battery device (10C) according to exemplary embodiments. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the battery device (10C) taken along line VII-VII' of Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the battery device (10C) taken along line VIII-VIII' of Fig. 6. Hereinafter, the battery device (10C) shown in Figs. 6 to 8 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10) described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, in the battery device (10C), the cell assembly (200A) may include a plurality of battery cells (210A) arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) on a base frame (110). Each of the plurality of battery cells (210A) may correspond to a square battery cell. The plurality of battery cells (210A) may be attached to the base frame (110) by a base thermally conductive adhesive layer (310). For example, individual battery cells (210A) may be attached to the base frame (110) by a first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) and a second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313).

[0084] The housing (100) of the battery device (10C) may include a plurality of side cooling frames (150) disposed on a base frame (110). Each of the side cooling frames (150) may be disposed between two adjacent battery cells (210A) among the plurality of battery cells (210A) and may be attached to side surfaces of the two battery cells (210A). In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of side cooling frames (150) may be spaced apart from each other in a second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction), and the plurality of side cooling frames (150) may extend in the second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction).

[0085] The side cooling frame (150) may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal. For example, the side cooling frame (150) may include aluminum, copper, gold, silver, tungsten, or a combination thereof.

[0086] The side cooling frame (150) may include a side cooling channel (151) configured to allow a cooling fluid to flow. In exemplary embodiments, the side cooling channel (151) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) within the side cooling frame (150) and may be configured to guide the cooling fluid in the second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). While an externally provided cooling fluid flows along the side cooling channel (151), cooling of the plurality of battery cells (210A) may be achieved. The cooling fluid may include a coolant and / or a refrigerant.

[0087] The battery device (10C) may include a side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) provided between the side cooling frame (150) and the battery cell (210A) and configured to attach the side cooling frame (150) to the battery cell (210A). The battery cell (210A) may be thermally and physically coupled to the side cooling frame (150) through the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330). Heat generated in the battery cell (210A) may be transferred to the side cooling frame (150) through the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330). The side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may include a thermal resin and / or a thermal interface material.

[0088] The side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may include a plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers having different material compositions, different thermal conductivities, and / or different adhesive strengths. The plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may be attached to different regions of the battery cell (210A). The plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may include a heat dissipating filler, but the content of the heat dissipating filler in the plurality of thermally conductive adhesive layers of the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may be different from each other. The heat dissipating filler may include, for example, alumina, boron nitride, aluminum nitride, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0089] In exemplary embodiments, the side thermally conductive adhesive layer (330) may include a first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) in contact with a first area of ​​the battery cell (210A) and a second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) in contact with a second area of ​​the battery cell (210A). The first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may attach the first area of ​​the battery cell (210A) to the side cooling frame (150), and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) may attach the second area of ​​the battery cell (210A) to the side cooling frame (150).

[0090] The first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may have a first thermal conductivity and a first adhesive strength, and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) may have a second thermal conductivity and a second adhesive strength. The first thermal conductivity of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may be greater than the second thermal conductivity of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333), and the first adhesive strength of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may be less than the second adhesive strength of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333). The first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) having a relatively high thermal conductivity may be attached to a portion of the battery cell (210A) where a relatively large amount of heat is generated, thereby enhancing cooling of the battery cell (210A).

[0091] In exemplary embodiments, the first thermal conductivity of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) can be between about 3 W / (m·k) and 10 W / (m·k), between about 4 W / (m·k) and 9 W / (m·k), between about 5 W / (m·k) and 8 W / (m·k), or between about 6 W / (m·k) and 7 W / (m·k). In exemplary embodiments, the second thermal conductivity of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) can be between about 20% and about 80%, between about 30% and about 70%, or between about 40% and about 60% of the first thermal conductivity of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331).

[0092] In exemplary embodiments, the second adhesive strength of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) can be between about 1 MPa and about 5 MPa, between about 1.5 MPa and about 4.5 MPa, between about 2 MPa and about 4 MPa, or between about 2.5 MPa and about 3.5 MPa. In exemplary embodiments, the first adhesive strength of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) can be between about 10% and about 90%, between about 20% and about 80%, between about 30% and about 70%, or between about 40% and about 60% of the second adhesive strength of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333).

[0093] In exemplary embodiments, a portion of an electrode lead (213) of a battery cell (210A) may be on an upper surface of the battery cell (210A). The battery cell (210A) may include an upper portion that is relatively close to the electrode lead (213) and a lower portion that is relatively far from the electrode lead (213). The first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may be in contact with the upper portion of the battery cell (210A), and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) may be in contact with the lower portion of the battery cell (210A). The upper portion of the battery cell (210A) that is relatively close to the electrode lead (213) is a portion where relatively more heat is generated when the battery cell (210A) operates, and the lower portion of the battery cell (210A) that is relatively far from the electrode lead (213) is a portion where relatively less heat is generated when the battery cell (210A) operates. A first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) having a relatively high thermal conductivity can be attached to the upper portion of a battery cell (210A) to enhance cooling for a plurality of battery cells (210A). A second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) having a relatively low thermal conductivity can be attached to the lower portion of the battery cell (210A). As the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) is attached to the upper portion of the battery cell (210A) and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) is attached to the lower portion of the battery cell (210A), a temperature deviation in the battery cell (210A) can be reduced.

[0094]

[0095] (Example 5)

[0096] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10D) according to exemplary embodiments. Hereinafter, the battery device (10D) illustrated in FIG. 9 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10C) described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery device (10D) may further include a separation pad (360) disposed between the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333). The separation pad (360) may be attached to the side cooling frame (150). For example, the separation pad (360) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction), and the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) may be spaced apart in a vertical direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) with the separation pad (360) therebetween. The separation pad (360) is disposed between the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333), so as to prevent or suppress mixing between the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333).

[0098] The above separation pad (360) may include a material having a predetermined elasticity. When the cell assembly (200) is placed on the separation pad (360), the separation pad (360) is compressed, and the thickness of the separation pad (360) may be reduced from its initial thickness. In exemplary embodiments, the separation pad (360) may include a polyurethane resin, a silicone resin, or a combination thereof.

[0099]

[0100] (Example 6)

[0101] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10E) according to exemplary embodiments. Hereinafter, the battery device (10E) illustrated in Fig. 10 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10C) described with reference to Figs. 6 to 8.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 10, in the battery device (10E), the battery cell (210) may include a first outer portion, a center portion, and a second outer portion arranged in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). The first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) may be attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of the battery cell (210), and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) may be attached to the center portion of the battery cell (210). The battery cell (210) may include a pair of electrode leads (211) provided on an upper surface of the battery cell (210), and one of the pair of electrode leads (211) may be at the first outer portion of the battery cell (210), and the other of the pair of electrode leads (211) may be at the second outer portion of the battery cell (210). A first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) having relatively high thermal conductivity can be attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of the battery cell (210), thereby enhancing cooling of the battery cell (210). A second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) having relatively low thermal conductivity can be attached to the center portion of the battery cell (210A). As the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer (331) is attached to the first outer portion and the second outer portion of the battery cell (210A), and the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer (333) is attached to the center portion of the battery cell (210A), a temperature deviation in the battery cell (210A) can be reduced.

[0103]

[0104] (Example 7)

[0105] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10F) according to exemplary embodiments. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery device (10F) according to exemplary embodiments. Hereinafter, the battery device (10F) illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12 will be described with a focus on differences from the battery device (10) described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in the battery device (10F), the cell assembly (200B) may include a pair of side beams (260) and a lifting band (240).

[0107] A pair of side beams (260) may be spaced apart in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) with a plurality of battery cells (210) therebetween. One of the pair of side beams (260) may be attached to an outermost battery cell (210) among the plurality of battery cells (210), and the other of the pair of side beams (260) may be attached to another outermost battery cell (210) among the plurality of battery cells (210). Each of the pair of side beams (260) may be fastened to a corresponding first separation frame (141) among the first separation frames (141) of the housing (100) through a fastening member (251) such as a bolt.

[0108] A lifting band (240) can be coupled to a pair of side beams (260) and can support a plurality of battery cells (210). The lifting band (240) can include a first flange portion (241) coupled to one of the pair of side beams (260), a second flange portion (243) coupled to the other of the pair of side beams (260), and a support plate (245) that supports the plurality of battery cells (210). The first flange portion (241) can be coupled to one end of the support plate (245), and the second flange portion (243) can be coupled to the other end of the support plate (245). The first flange portion (241) can be connected to one of the pair of side beams (260) by a fastening member (251), and the second flange portion (243) can be connected to the other of the pair of side beams (260) by another fastening member (251). The support plate (245) of the lifting band (240) can be in contact with the bottom surfaces of the plurality of battery cells (210) and support the plurality of battery cells (210). The lifting band (240) can have a single structure in which the first flange portion (241), the second flange portion (243), and the support plate (245) are integrally formed with each other. The lifting band (240) can include metal. When mounting a cell assembly (200B) on a housing (100) or separating it from the housing (100), a lifting jig is fastened to the cell assembly (200B) and then the lifting jig is lifted to move the cell assembly (200B). The lifting band (240) can support a plurality of battery cells (210) and prevent or suppress the battery cells (210) from sagging due to the load while the cell assembly (200B) is being transported by the lifting jig.

[0109] In exemplary embodiments, the support plate (245) of the lifting band (240) may be interposed between the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) and the base frame (110). The central portion of each battery cell (210) is attached to the base frame (110) by the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) having a relatively high adhesive strength, and the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each battery cell (210) are attached to the base frame (110) by the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) having a relatively low adhesive strength. Since the lifting band (240) is between the plurality of battery cells (210) and the base frame (110), the plurality of battery cells (210) do not directly contact the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313). The separation between the cell assembly (200B) and the base frame (110) is achieved by separating the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) from the plurality of battery cells (210) and the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313) from the lifting band (240). Since the plurality of battery cells (210) do not directly contact the second base thermally conductive adhesive layer (313), the battery cells (210) can be prevented from being damaged in the process of separating the cell assembly (200B) from the base frame (110). In addition, since the first base thermally conductive adhesive layer (311) directly attached to the plurality of battery cells (210) has a relatively small adhesive force, there is little concern about the plurality of battery cells (210) being damaged in the process of separating the cell assembly (200B) from the base frame (110).

[0110] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

[0111] 10: Battery device 100: Housing

[0112] 110: Base frame 120: Side frame

[0113] 130: Top frame 141: First separation frame

[0114] 143: Second separation frame 200: Cell assembly

[0115] 210: Battery cell 220: Busbar frame

[0116] 230: End frame 310: Base thermally conductive adhesive layer

[0117] 311: First base thermally conductive adhesive layer 313: Second base thermally conductive adhesive layer

Claims

1. Housing; A cell assembly provided within the housing and comprising a plurality of battery cells; a first thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a first region of the cell assembly to the housing; and A second thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a second region of the cell assembly to the housing; Including, The thermal conductivity of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is greater than the thermal conductivity of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer, A battery device, characterized in that the adhesive strength of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is smaller than the adhesive strength of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

2. In paragraph 1, Each of the plurality of battery cells includes a first portion relatively adjacent to the electrode lead and a second portion relatively distant from the electrode lead, The first thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the first portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, A battery device, characterized in that the second thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the second portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery device characterized in that the cell assembly further includes a busbar frame that supports electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

4. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a third thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a third region of the cell assembly between the first region and the second region of the cell assembly to the housing; The thermal conductivity of the third thermally conductive adhesive layer is between the thermal conductivity of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the thermal conductivity of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer, A battery device characterized in that the adhesive strength of the third thermally conductive adhesive layer is between the adhesive strength of the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second adhesive strength of the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

5. In paragraph 1, Each of the plurality of battery cells includes a first outer portion, a second outer portion, and a central portion between the first outer portion and the second outer portion, The first thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the first outer portion and the second outer portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, A battery device characterized in that the second thermally conductive adhesive layer is in contact with the central portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery device further comprising a separation pad disposed between the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery device characterized in that the above separation pad is in contact with the plurality of battery cells.

8. In paragraph 1, The housing comprises a base frame that supports the cell assembly and includes cooling channels configured to allow cooling fluid to flow; and A side frame arranged on the above base frame; Including, A battery device characterized in that the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer are provided between the cell assembly and the base frame.

9. In paragraph 8, further comprising a separation pad attached to the base frame and in contact with the plurality of battery cells; A battery device, characterized in that the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is spaced apart from the second thermally conductive adhesive layer with the separation pad interposed therebetween.

10. In paragraph 1, The above housing, a base frame supporting the above cell assembly; and A side cooling frame disposed between two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; Including, A battery device, characterized in that the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer are in contact with at least one of the plurality of battery cells and the side cooling frame.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery device characterized in that the side cooling frame includes a cooling channel configured to allow cooling fluid to flow.

12. In paragraph 10, Further comprising a separation pad attached to the above side cooling frame, A battery device, characterized in that the first thermally conductive adhesive layer is spaced apart from the second thermally conductive adhesive layer with the separation pad interposed therebetween.

13. In paragraph 1, The above housing, A base frame supporting the cell assembly and attached to the first thermally conductive adhesive layer and the second thermally conductive adhesive layer; A side cooling frame disposed between two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; A first side thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a first region of a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells to the cooling frame; and A second side thermally conductive adhesive layer configured to attach a second region of a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells to the cooling frame; Including more, A battery device characterized in that the thermal conductivity of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer is greater than the thermal conductivity of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer.

14. In paragraph 13, A battery device, characterized in that the adhesive strength of the first side thermally conductive adhesive layer is smaller than the second adhesive strength of the second side thermally conductive adhesive layer.

15. In paragraph 1, The above cell assembly, A pair of side beams spaced apart with the plurality of battery cells interposed therebetween; and A lifting band attached to the pair of side beams and extending along the bottom surface of the plurality of battery cells; Including more, A battery device characterized in that the lifting band is disposed between the second thermally conductive adhesive layer and the plurality of battery cells.

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