Battery assembly and battery pack including same

Abstract

A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; and a cell frame in which the battery cells are accommodated. The cell frame includes an inlet port and an outlet port which are in direct contact with the battery cells, and through which a coolant circulating inside the cell frame is introduced and discharged. A distribution mechanism for dividing the coolant into a plurality of cooling channels is provided at the inlet port and / or the outlet port.

Description

Battery assembly and battery pack including the same

[0001] Cross-citation with related application(s)

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0153475 filed November 1, 2024 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0156887 filed October 27, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the documents of said Korean patent applications are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery assembly and a battery pack including the same, and more specifically, to an immersion cooling type battery assembly and a battery pack including the same.

[0004] Secondary batteries, which have high applicability across product groups and electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by electric power sources. These secondary batteries are widely used as an energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because of the primary advantage of being able to drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, but also because they do not generate any by-products from energy use.

[0005] Types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, that is, unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack may be formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Additionally, a battery pack may be formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common to first form a battery module by creating a battery cell assembly containing multiple battery cells and housing it in a module case, and then configuring a battery pack by assembling one or more of these battery modules and adding other components, or by arranging multiple battery cells within a pack frame and adding other components.

[0007] Since these battery cells consist of rechargeable secondary batteries, such high-output, high-capacity secondary batteries generate a significant amount of heat during the charging and discharging process. In this case, the heat emitted from multiple battery cells is aggregated within a confined space, causing the temperature to rise rapidly and severely. In other words, while battery packs containing multiple cells can achieve high output, it is not easy to dissipate the heat generated by the cells during charging and discharging. If heat dissipation from the battery cells is not properly carried out, the cells degrade rapidly, shortening their lifespan and increasing the risk of explosion or ignition.

[0008] Furthermore, automotive battery packs are frequently exposed to direct sunlight and may be subjected to high-temperature conditions, such as during the summer or in desert regions. Additionally, because multiple battery cells are densely packed to extend a vehicle's driving range, flames or heat generated in a single battery cell can easily spread to neighboring cells, ultimately leading to the ignition or explosion of the battery pack itself.

[0009] In conventional battery modules, bottom cooling or side cooling methods have been used, in which a heat sink is mounted on the module case of the battery module to cool it.

[0010] However, in the case of battery modules using this cooling method, heat generated from the battery cells is transferred to a heat sink on one side of the module case for cooling, making it difficult to establish a heat transfer path to the other side of the module case. Consequently, there are limitations, such as intensified temperature differences between one end and the other of the battery cell assembly, or unsatisfactory overall cooling efficiency. If these temperature differences are not resolved, issues regarding the safety and durability of the battery module arise. Poor cooling efficiency can accelerate the degradation of battery cells or lead to the spread of thermal runaway if a rapid response is not possible when it occurs in some cells. This can result in disasters such as ignition and explosion of the battery module or the battery pack containing it, causing not only property damage but also safety issues.

[0011] To solve this problem, it has been proposed to use a method of directly cooling the battery cells by filling the inside of the battery pack with a coolant, such as cooling water or insulating oil, without relying on bottom cooling or side cooling. In other words, to effectively cool high-capacity battery packs, an immersion cooling method is used in which the coolant directly cools the battery cells inside the battery pack.

[0012] In the case of such immersion cooling methods, the battery assembly must be equipped with an inlet port for the inflow of refrigerant and an outlet port for the outflow of refrigerant to facilitate refrigerant circulation. However, as battery assemblies and battery packs containing them become larger, the number of battery cells increases, and the number of components required for the battery assembly and battery pack grows, leading to variations in refrigerant flow rates in different zones and uneven overall refrigerant flow. In this case, the degree of cooling by the refrigerant varies among battery cells, resulting in cooling variations and potentially reducing the overall cooling efficiency of the battery assembly. Since reduced cooling efficiency can lead to performance degradation and safety issues, ensuring a uniform flow of refrigerant and maintaining its flow rate in immersion cooling methods is a critical development issue.

[0013] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery assembly with improved cooling efficiency by securing a uniform flow of refrigerant and maintaining the flow rate of the refrigerant, and a battery pack including the same.

[0014] However, the problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to the problems described above and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention.

[0015] A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of battery cells; and a cell frame in which the battery cells are housed. The cell frame includes an inlet port and an outlet port through which a refrigerant circulating inside the cell frame, which is in direct contact with the battery cells, is introduced and discharged. A distribution mechanism for dividing the refrigerant into a plurality of cooling channels is provided at least one of the inlet port or the outlet port.

[0016] The above distribution mechanism may include a plurality of distribution holes.

[0017] The above distribution mechanism may include a partition wall in which a plurality of distribution holes are formed.

[0018] The above distribution mechanism may include a plurality of distribution holes corresponding to the cooling channels. The distribution holes may have a shape that is square, circular, semicircular, or a combination of a square and a semicircle.

[0019] The battery cells may be arranged to have a plurality of rows, and any one of the cooling channels may be provided to correspond to any one of the rows of the battery cells.

[0020] The center of the above cooling channel may be located within the range of the width of the battery cells of heat corresponding to the cooling channel.

[0021] The above distribution mechanism may include an inlet distribution mechanism provided near the inlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port; and an outlet distribution mechanism provided near the outlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0022] The inlet distribution mechanism may be located between the inlet port and the battery cells, and the outlet distribution mechanism may be located between the outlet port and the battery cells.

[0023] Each of the inlet distribution mechanism and the outlet distribution mechanism may include distribution holes. The distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism may have a larger opening area than the distribution hole formed in the outlet distribution mechanism.

[0024] The opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism may be 250% or more and 350% or less of the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the outlet distribution mechanism.

[0025] The above distribution mechanism may include an inlet distribution mechanism provided near the inlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port, and a distribution hole may be formed in the inlet distribution mechanism, and the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism may be equal to or smaller than the opening area of ​​the inlet port.

[0026] A distribution hole may be formed in each of the inlet distribution mechanism and the outlet distribution mechanism. The opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism may be 70% or more and 100% or less of the opening area of ​​the inlet port.

[0027] The above battery cells may be fitted inside the cell frame.

[0028] The above refrigerant may be insulating oil or cooling water.

[0029] The above battery cells can be directly mounted on a vehicle or chassis while housed in the cell frame.

[0030] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: at least one battery assembly; a pack frame housing at least one battery assembly and having one side open; and a pack cover covering the open side of the pack frame.

[0031] According to embodiments of the present invention, a distribution mechanism for dividing the refrigerant into a plurality of cooling channels is provided at least one of the inlet port or the outlet port, thereby ensuring a uniform flow of the refrigerant within the battery assembly and maintaining a uniform flow rate of the refrigerant in each zone. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency resulting from the direct cooling of the refrigerant within the battery assembly can be further increased.

[0032] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the battery assembly of Figure 1 as viewed along the -z axis direction in the xy plane.

[0035] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of Figure 1.

[0036] FIG. 4 (a) and (b) are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-section cut along the cutting line C-C' in Figure 4 (a).

[0038] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the battery assembly of FIG. 1.

[0040] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section cut along the cutting line A-A' of Figure 2.

[0041] Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of section “D” of Figure 8.

[0042] Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of section “E” of Figure 8.

[0043] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section cut along the cutting line B-B' of Figure 2.

[0044] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a middle cell frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the cut along the cutting line F-F' of FIG. 12.

[0046] Fig. 14 is a front view of the middle cell frame of Fig. 13 as seen from the front.

[0047] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section cut along the cutting line G-G' of Figure 12.

[0048] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a top cell frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the cut along the cutting line H-H' of FIG. 16.

[0050] Fig. 18 is a front view of the top cell frame of Fig. 17 as seen from the front.

[0051] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section cut along the cutting line I-I' of FIG. 16.

[0052] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing battery cells mounted on a middle cell frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section cut along the cutting line J-J' of FIG. 20.

[0054] FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing battery cells mounted on a top cell frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section cut along the cutting line K-K' of FIG. 22.

[0056] FIG. 24 is a plan view of the “L” portion of FIG. 20.

[0057] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing one cross-section of a battery assembly in which an inlet distribution mechanism and an outlet distribution mechanism are shown together in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIGS. 26 (a) to (d) are drawings showing the shapes of distribution holes according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including an inlet port in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27.

[0061] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including a connection hole in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27.

[0062] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including an outlet port in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27.

[0063] FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing a middle cell frame included in the battery assembly of FIG. 27.

[0064] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a cross section cut along the cutting line M-M' of FIG. 31.

[0065] FIGS. 33 and FIGS. 34 are exploded perspective views of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0067] To clearly explain the present invention, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0068] Furthermore, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated. Thicknesses have been enlarged in the drawings to clearly represent various layers and regions. Additionally, for convenience of explanation, the thickness of some layers and regions has been exaggerated in the drawings.

[0069] Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is said to be "on" or "on" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly on" another part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is said to be "directly on" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Also, saying that a part is "on" or "on" a reference part means that it is located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that it is located "on" or "on" facing the opposite direction of gravity.

[0070] Furthermore, throughout the specification, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0071] Additionally, throughout the specification, "planar" means when the subject part is viewed from above, and "cross-sectional" means when the cross-section obtained by vertically cutting the subject part is viewed from the side.

[0072] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the battery assembly of FIG. 1 viewed along the -z axis direction in the xy plane. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of FIG. 1.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of battery cells (110); and a cell frame (120) in which the battery cells (110) are housed. The cell frame (120) includes an inlet port (121) into which a coolant circulating inside the cell frame (120) in direct contact with the battery cells (110) is introduced, and an outlet port (122) into which the coolant is discharged. The coolant circulates inside the cell frame (120) in direct contact with the battery cells (110). That is, an immersion cooling method in which the coolant directly cools the battery cells is applied to the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment. In the present invention, at least a portion of the battery cells (110) may be cooled by contacting the coolant. That is, in one embodiment, a portion of the outer surface of the battery cell (110) may be in contact with the refrigerant, and in another embodiment, the entire outer surface of the battery cell (110) may be in contact with the refrigerant.

[0074] A distribution mechanism for dividing the refrigerant into a plurality of cooling channels is provided at least one of the inlet port (121) or outlet port (122). This distribution mechanism will be described later.

[0075] Hereinafter, the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. The battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment can be any type of secondary battery, such as a prismatic, cylindrical, or pouch-type battery cell. However, below, as an example, the battery cell (110) which is a cylindrical cell will be described.

[0076] FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b) are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section cut along the cutting line C-C' in FIG. 4(a). FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the battery cell (110) according to the embodiments may be a cylindrical cell and may have a vent portion (110V). The vent portion (110V) is a general term for a component or mechanism provided in the battery cell (110) to discharge venting gas, etc., inside the battery cell (110). In addition, each battery cell (110) may be provided with a first electrode terminal (111) and a second electrode terminal (112) as positive and negative electrode terminals.

[0078] For example, the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may be a cylindrical battery cell. Specifically, the battery cell (110) may include an electrode assembly (10); a battery can (20) that houses the electrode assembly (10) and has an open top; and a cap assembly (30) that is coupled to the open top of the battery can (20). A gasket (50) may be interposed between the battery can (20) and the cap assembly (30). An exemplary structure of the battery cell (110) is described below, but the battery cell of the present invention is not limited to such a structure.

[0079] The battery can (20) according to the present embodiment may be a cylindrical case with an open top, and may contain an electrode assembly (10) and an electrolyte (not shown) in an internal storage space, and may include a metal material such as aluminum (Al).

[0080] The cap assembly (30) according to the present embodiment may include a top cap (31) having a plate shape and a connecting plate (32) electrically and mechanically coupled to the top cap (31). The top cap (31) may include an electrically conductive metal material and may cover the open top of the battery can (20). The top cap (31) may be electrically connected to a first segment (11) connected to a first electrode of the electrode assembly (10), and at the same time may be electrically insulated from the battery can (20) by a gasket (50). Accordingly, the cap assembly (30) according to the present embodiment including the top cap (31) may function as a first electrode terminal (111), which is an external terminal of the first electrode included in the electrode assembly (10).

[0081] To specifically describe the electrical connection between the top cap (31) and the first segments (11), the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may further include a first current collector plate (41) located on the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector plate (41) may include a conductive metal material such as aluminum, copper, steel, nickel, etc., and may be electrically connected to the first segments (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The electrical connection may be made through welding. A lead (60) may be connected to this first current collector plate (41). The lead (60) may extend in the upward direction of the electrode assembly (10) and be connected to the connecting plate (32). In another embodiment, the lead (60) may be directly connected to the lower surface of the top cap (31). The connection between the lead (60) and other parts may be made through welding. Additionally, the first collector plate (41) may be formed integrally with the lead (60). In this case, the lead (60) may have an elongated plate shape extending outward from near the center of the first collector plate (41).

[0082] The first collector plate (41) may have a plurality of irregularities (not shown) formed radially on its lower surface. When radial irregularities are provided, the first collector plate (41) can be pressed to press the irregularities into the bent first segments (11). The connection between the first collector plate (41) and the first segments (11) can be achieved, for example, by laser welding. Laser welding can be performed by partially melting the base material of the first collector plate (41). In a modified example, welding between the first collector plate (41) and the first segments (11) can be performed with solder interposed. In this case, the solder may have a lower melting point compared to the first collector plate (41) and the first segments (11). Laser welding can be replaced by resistance welding, ultrasonic welding, spot welding, etc.

[0083] Meanwhile, the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may further include a second current collector plate (42) located at the bottom of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the second current collector plate (42) may be located between the electrode assembly (10) and the bottom portion (20F) of the battery can (20). The second current collector plate (42) may include a conductive metal material such as aluminum, copper, steel, nickel, etc., and may be electrically connected to the second segments (12) of the electrode assembly (10). One side of the second current collector plate (42) may be connected to the second segments (12), and the opposite side of the second current collector plate (42) may be connected to the bottom portion (20F) of the battery can (20). Welding may be applied to the connection of the second current collector plate (42). Accordingly, the battery can (20) according to the present embodiment can function as a second electrode terminal (112), which is an external terminal of the second electrode included in the electrode assembly (10).

[0084] Meanwhile, the secondary battery according to the present embodiment may include an insulating plate (70). The insulating plate (70) may cover the first current collector plate (41). By covering the first current collector plate (41) on the upper surface of the first current collector plate (41), the insulating plate (70) can block the first current collector plate (41) from contacting the battery can (20), particularly the beading part (20B) of the battery can (20) described later. Additionally, the insulating plate (70) may be provided with a separate lead hole so that a lead (60) extending upward from the first current collector plate (41) can be drawn out. The lead (60) can be drawn out upward through the lead hole of the insulating plate (70) and coupled to the lower surface of the connecting plate (32) or the lower surface of the top cap (31).

[0085] The perimeter area of ​​the insulating plate (70) is interposed between the first current collector plate (41) and the beading portion (20B) of the battery can (20) to fix the combination of the electrode assembly (10) and the first current collector plate (41). Accordingly, the movement of the combination of the electrode assembly (10) and the first current collector plate (41) in the axial direction of the electrode assembly (10) is restricted, thereby improving the assembly stability of the secondary battery. The insulating plate (70) may be made of an insulating polymer resin. In one example, the insulating plate (70) may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyimide, or polybutylene terephthalate.

[0086] Meanwhile, the battery can (20) according to the present embodiment may include a crimping part (20C) and a beading part (20B). The crimping part (20C) is a part of the battery can (20) that surrounds the cap assembly (30) and the gasket (50). Specifically, the battery can (20) and the cap assembly (30) may be crimped together with the gasket (50) in between. That is, a crimping connection may be applied to the connection between the battery can (20) and the cap assembly (30). Accordingly, the crimping part (20C) may be formed on the battery can (20). More specifically, the crimping connection is achieved by placing the gasket (50) between the battery can (20) and the cap assembly (30), and then bending the upper end of the battery can (20) in the direction where the cap assembly (30) is located.

[0087] The beading portion (20B) refers to a portion of the battery can (20) that is indented towards the center in an area above the electrode assembly (10) among the side portions of the battery can (20), and is intended for stable placement of the cap assembly (30) and prevention of movement of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the cap assembly (30) and the gasket (50) surrounding it according to the present embodiment can be seated on the beading portion (20B) of the battery can (20). With the cap assembly (30) and the gasket (50) surrounding it seated on the beading portion (20B), the crimping coupling described above can be performed.

[0088] The gasket (50) according to the present embodiment is positioned between the battery can (20) and the cap assembly (30) to improve the sealing performance of the secondary battery. Additionally, the gasket (50) may include an electrically insulating material and can block a short circuit from occurring between the battery can (20), which functions as a second electrode terminal (112), and the cap assembly (30), which functions as a first electrode terminal (111). This gasket (50) may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA).

[0089] The vent portion (110V) according to the present embodiment may be formed on the lower surface of the battery cell (110). That is, it may be formed on the bottom portion (20F, see FIG. 6) of the battery can (20).

[0090] If a thermal event or thermal runaway occurs inside a battery cell (110), high-temperature venting gas or particles may be generated. The vent section (110V) is a general term for a component or mechanism capable of discharging such high-temperature venting gas or particles. For example, a notch section (110N) with a thickness relatively thinner than the adjacent area may be formed on the bottom of the battery cell (110), specifically on the bottom of the battery can. The notch section (110N) may form a certain circumference. If the internal pressure of the battery cell (110) increases due to high-temperature venting gas generated inside the battery cell (110), the notch section (110N), which has weak rigidity due to its thin thickness, may rupture first. Due to the rupture of the notch (110N), the vent (110V) is opened, and high-temperature venting gas or particles can be discharged through the vent (110V) thus opened.

[0091] However, the structure of such a vent section (110V) is merely one example, and there are no special restrictions on the shape of the vent section (110V) as long as it is a component or mechanism capable of discharging internal venting gas during a thermal event or thermal runaway.

[0092] Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated, the battery cell according to the present invention may be a prismatic battery cell in which an electrode assembly is housed in a prismatic can. That is, although the battery cell according to the present embodiment is depicted in the drawings as a cylindrical battery cell, this is merely one example of the structure of the battery cell of the present invention, and the battery cell according to other embodiments of the present invention may be a prismatic battery cell.

[0093] Battery cells (110) can be arranged in columns and rows within a cell frame (120), and the battery cells (110) can be electrically connected to each other via a busbar, etc., described later.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the battery assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 2. FIG. 9 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing section “D” of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing section “E” of FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 2.

[0095] Referring together to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIGS. 7 to 11, as described above, the battery assembly (100) includes a cell frame (120) in which battery cells (110) are housed, and a refrigerant flows inside the cell frame (120). The cell frame (120) may include a bottom cell frame (120c) on which the battery cells (110) are seated. Additionally, the cell frame (120) may include a middle cell frame (120b) and a top cell frame (120a) that cover the battery cells (110) on the bottom cell frame (120c). As will be described later, although the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) are depicted as two separate components in the drawings, in other embodiments of the present invention, the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) may be a single injection-molded part.

[0096] A top cell frame (120a), a middle cell frame (120b), and a bottom cell frame (120c) are assembled to form a cell frame (120) having an internal space, and battery cells (110) can be located in the internal space of the cell frame (120), and a coolant (CL) can also circulate along the internal space to directly cool the battery cells (110).

[0097] The refrigerant (CL) circulates inside the cell frame (120) while in direct contact with the battery cells (110). The cell frame (120) includes an inlet port (121) through which the refrigerant (CL) flows into the interior of the cell frame (120) and an outlet port (122) through which the refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120). That is, the refrigerant (CL) flows into the interior of the cell frame (120) through the inlet port (121), and the refrigerant (CL) flows along the interior space of the cell frame (120) and comes into direct contact with the battery cells (110). Subsequently, the refrigerant (CL) circulating in the interior space of the cell frame (120) can be discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120) through the outlet port (122). That is, a cooling channel (300) through which the refrigerant (CL) flows can be provided inside the cell frame (120). These cooling channels (300) may have a multi-layer cooling structure, which will be described later.

[0098] The inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122) may be located on the same side of the cell frame (120) or on opposite sides. That is, there are no specific restrictions on the location of the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122) in the cell frame (120). For example, the inlet port (121) may be formed in the middle cell frame (120b) of the cell frame (120), and the outlet port (1220) may be formed in the top cell frame (120a) of the cell frame (120).

[0099] Meanwhile, the refrigerant (CL) according to the present embodiment may be a fluid as a cooling medium. Since the refrigerant (CL) comes into direct contact with the battery cells (110) within the battery assembly (100), the refrigerant (CL) may be electrically insulated. The refrigerant (CL) may be a material having insulating properties. For example, the refrigerant (CL) may be insulating oil. However, in the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, general cooling water may also be used as the refrigerant (CL) because leakage of the refrigerant (CL) to the outside of the top cell frame (120a) is prevented.

[0100] Hereinafter, a distribution mechanism provided in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0101] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a middle cell frame according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the view taken along the cutting line F-F' of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a front view of the middle cell frame of FIG. 13 as seen from the front. In particular, FIG. 14 shows the cross-sectional perspective view of FIG. 13 as seen along the y-axis direction in the xz plane. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the view taken along the cutting line G-G' of FIG. 12. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a top cell frame according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the view taken along the cutting line H-H' of FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a front view of the top cell frame of FIG. 17 as seen from the front. In particular, FIG. 18 shows the cross-sectional perspective view of FIG. 17 as seen along the y-axis direction in the xz plane. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section cut along the cutting line I-I' of FIG. 16.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 1, 7, 9, and FIGS. 12 through 19, as described above, the cell frame (120) includes an inlet port (121) through which a refrigerant (CL) flows into the interior of the cell frame (120) and an outlet port (122) through which the refrigerant is discharged to the exterior of the cell frame (120). In the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, a distribution mechanism (200) for dividing the refrigerant (CL) into a plurality of cooling channels (CH) is provided at at least one of the inlet port (121) or the outlet port (122). In one embodiment of the present invention, distribution mechanisms (200) may be provided at each of the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122). In another embodiment of the present invention, a distribution mechanism (200) may be provided at either the inlet port (121) or the outlet port (122).

[0103] The distribution mechanism (200) may include a plurality of distribution holes (200H). The distribution mechanism (200) may include a partition wall (200W) in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed. The distribution holes (200H) may be spaced apart at a predetermined interval along the direction in which the partition wall (200W) extends (a direction parallel to the x-axis).

[0104] The refrigerant (CL) introduced into the inlet port (121) can flow through the interior of the cell frame (120) while being divided into multiple cooling channels (CH) through the distribution mechanism (200) provided in the inlet port (121). Specifically, the refrigerant (CL) introduced into the inlet port (121) can be distributed into multiple cooling channels (CH) while passing through the distribution holes (200H) of the distribution mechanism (200) provided in the inlet port (121).

[0105] The refrigerant (CL) distributed through multiple cooling channels (CH) can flow along the interior of the cell frame (120), pass through the distribution mechanism (200) provided in the outlet port (122), and finally be discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120) through the outlet port (122). Specifically, the refrigerant (CL) distributed through the cooling channels (CH) can flow while in contact with the battery cells (110), pass through the distribution holes (200H) of the distribution mechanism (200) provided in the outlet port (122), and be discharged through the outlet port (122).

[0106] As the battery assembly (100) becomes larger, the number of battery cells (110) included therein increases, and as the number of parts required for the battery assembly (100) increases, there is a problem in that the flow rate of the refrigerant varies in each zone when applying the immersion cooling method, and the refrigerant does not flow uniformly when viewed as a whole. In this case, the degree of cooling by the refrigerant varies for each battery cell (110), causing a cooling variation between the battery cells (110), which can lead to a decrease in the cooling efficiency of the entire battery assembly (100). A decrease in the cooling efficiency of the battery assembly can be a cause of performance degradation and safety issues of the battery assembly.

[0107] In the present invention, the cooling efficiency of the battery cells (110) inside the battery assembly (100) is improved by providing a distribution mechanism (200) that divides the refrigerant (CL) into a plurality of cooling channels (CH) at least one of the inlet port (121) or the outlet port (122). Specifically, the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet port (121) does not enter the space where the battery cells (110) are located directly, but can be introduced into the space where the battery cells (110) are located after being distributed through the distribution hole (200H). Since the refrigerant (CL) is distributed into a plurality of cooling channels (CH) through the distribution mechanism (200) and flows inside the battery assembly (100), the refrigerant (CL) is not concentrated in only some of the large number of battery cells (110), but the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) can be uniformly distributed throughout the battery assembly (100). Therefore, a uniform flow of refrigerant (CL) can be achieved throughout the interior of the battery assembly (100), and the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) can be maintained at a constant level in each zone. Through this, uniform cooling of all battery cells (110) is possible, thereby minimizing cooling variations between battery cells (110) and improving the cooling efficiency of the entire battery assembly (100).

[0108] The distribution mechanism (200) according to the present embodiment may include an inlet distribution mechanism (210) provided near the inlet port (121) among the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122). The distribution mechanism (200) may include an outlet distribution mechanism (220) provided near the outlet port among the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122). The inlet distribution mechanism (210) may correspond to the distribution mechanism (200) provided at the inlet port (121) described above, and the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may correspond to the distribution mechanism (200) provided at the outlet port (122) described above. An exemplary structure of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, and an exemplary structure of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) is illustrated in FIGS. 16 to 19.

[0109] Each of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may include a plurality of distribution holes (200H). Each of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may include a partition wall (200W) in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed.

[0110] Regarding the positions of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the outlet distribution mechanism (220), the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be located between the inlet port (121) and the battery cells (110). The outlet distribution mechanism (220) may be located between the outlet port (122) and the battery cells (110). The refrigerant (CL) introduced into the inlet port (121) may flow through the interior of the cell frame (120) while being divided into multiple cooling channels (CH) through the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210). After the multiple cooling channels (CH) flow through the interior of the cell frame (120) while in contact with the battery cells (110), they pass through the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) and are finally discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120) through the outlet port (122).

[0111] In this embodiment, the inlet port (121) may be formed in the middle cell frame (120b) of the cell frame (120), and accordingly, the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may also be provided in the middle cell frame (120b). Additionally, the outlet port (122) may be formed in the top cell frame (120a) of the cell frame (120), and accordingly, the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may also be formed in the top cell frame (120a). However, this is an exemplary structure, and there are no special restrictions on the location of the inlet port (121), outlet port (122), inlet distribution mechanism (210), and outlet distribution mechanism (220) within the cell frame (120). As described above, in another embodiment of the present invention, the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) may be a single part formed integrally, and in that case, the inlet port (121), outlet port (122), inlet distribution mechanism (210), and outlet distribution mechanism (220) may be positioned without separate limitations.

[0112]

[0113] While the inlet distribution mechanism (210) can distribute the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet port (121) to a plurality of cooling channels (CH), the outlet distribution mechanism (220) does not perform the function of directly distributing the refrigerant (CL) to a plurality of cooling channels (CH).

[0114] However, if the outlet distribution mechanism (220) is not provided, the refrigerant (CL) separated into multiple cooling channels (CH) is discharged directly through the outlet port (122). The refrigerant (CL) flowing around the battery cell (110) located at a certain distance from the outlet port (122) may become stagnant and not flow, or a vortex may be formed, causing the refrigerant (CL) to not flow properly and to linger nearby. In this case, the refrigerant (CL) is not properly discharged through the outlet port (122), and the loss of flow of the refrigerant (CL) occurs, resulting in a problem where the cooling efficiency is reduced.

[0115] Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present invention, an inlet distribution mechanism (210) is provided in the inlet port (121), and an outlet distribution mechanism (220) is provided in the outlet port (122) to prevent the problem of the refrigerant (CL) becoming stagnant and not flowing, or the refrigerant (CL) forming a vortex. The outlet port (122) does not perform the function of directly distributing the refrigerant (CL) to a plurality of cooling channels (CH), but by inducing the plurality of cooling channels (CH) to be smoothly discharged through the outlet port (122) at the end, the flow loss of the refrigerant (CL) can be minimized and the cooling efficiency can be increased.

[0116] However, the outlet distribution mechanism (220) is not essential in the present invention, and not only a battery assembly equipped with both an inlet distribution mechanism (210) and an outlet distribution mechanism (220) but also a battery assembly equipped with only an inlet distribution mechanism (210) can be applied to the present invention.

[0117]

[0118] As described above, the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may include a partition wall (200W) in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed. The inlet distribution mechanism (210) according to the present embodiment may be in a form in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed in the partition wall (200W). Through this structure, the refrigerant (CL) can be guided to flow uniformly throughout the entire internal area of ​​the battery assembly (100). Since the refrigerant (CL) is distributed through the multiple distribution holes (200H) while the space between the inlet port (121) and the partition wall (200W) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is filled to some extent with refrigerant (CL), the amount of refrigerant (CL) passing through each of the distribution holes (200H) becomes equal, and consequently, the refrigerant (CL) can be evenly distributed throughout the entire internal area of ​​the battery assembly (100). If the refrigerant (CL) is distributed to multiple cooling channels through multiple pipes, it is difficult to distribute the refrigerant evenly across the entire internal area of ​​the battery assembly because the amount of refrigerant passing through each of the pipes is likely to vary. Unlike this pipe type, the inlet distribution mechanism (210) according to the present embodiment is in a form in which multiple distribution holes (200H) are formed in the partition wall (200W), so the amount of refrigerant (CL) passing through each of the distribution holes (200H) can be set evenly.

[0119] Additionally, the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may include a partition wall (200W) in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed. The outlet distribution mechanism (220) according to the present embodiment may be in the form in which a plurality of distribution holes (200H) are formed in the partition wall (200W). Through this structure, the refrigerant (CL) flowing through a plurality of cooling channels (CH) can be introduced through each of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220), and then move through the outlet port (122) while being collected in the space between the outlet port (122) and the partition wall (200W) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220). Compared to the case where the refrigerant (CL) is recovered through multiple pipes, the structure according to the present embodiment can reduce the problem of the refrigerant (CL) becoming stagnant or the problem of the refrigerant (CL) forming a vortex.

[0120]

[0121] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 8 to 11, in the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, since an immersion cooling method using a refrigerant (CL) for direct cooling is applied, a stable waterproof sealing structure is essential to prevent the refrigerant (CL) from leaking to the outside. If the refrigerant (CL) leaks to the outside of the cell frame (120) of the battery assembly (100), the amount of refrigerant (CL) inside the cell frame (120) becomes insufficient and the circulation of the refrigerant (CL) is not properly carried out, so the cooling performance may be degraded. In addition, the leaked refrigerant (CL) may have an adverse effect on other electrical components other than the battery assembly (100). The cell frame (120) is in the form of a top cell frame (120a), a middle cell frame (120b), and a bottom cell frame (120c) being assembled, and there is a risk that the refrigerant (CL) may leak through the gap between them. When each of the top cell frame (120a), middle cell frame (120b), and bottom cell frame (120c) is assembled, the grooves and ribs can be joined. The joined grooves and ribs can prevent the refrigerant (CL) from leaking through the gaps between each of the top cell frame (120a), middle cell frame (120b), and bottom cell frame (120c).

[0122] In the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, the cell frame (120) must be able to withstand the internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL) inside. The internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL) can increase to a significant level due to the pressure required for the refrigerant (CL) to move from the inlet port (121) to the outlet port (122). If the cell frame (120) deforms because it cannot withstand the internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL), the refrigerant (CL) may easily leak. Therefore, it is an important issue that the cell frame (120) withstands the internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL). In the present embodiment, an anti-slip assembly structure can be implemented by a locking connection in which the groove and the rib are joined in an alternating manner. Accordingly, the cell frame (120) can stably withstand the internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL).

[0123] According to the present embodiment, a waterproof adhesive (500) may be applied to the bottom cell frame (120c). At least a portion of the waterproof adhesive (500) may be located between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b). There are no special restrictions on the material of the waterproof adhesive (500), as long as it exhibits waterproof performance and possesses impact resistance, adhesion, electrical insulation, etc. For example, the waterproof adhesive (500) may include a two-component epoxy-based material in which a curing agent is mixed with the main component.

[0124] In the present invention, the waterproof adhesive (500) applied to the bottom cell frame (120c) is referred to as the third waterproof adhesive (500c). The first and second waterproof adhesives (500a, 500b) will be described later.

[0125] Additionally, at least a portion of the third waterproof adhesive (500c) may be located between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b). The third waterproof adhesive (500c) can bond the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) together. Additionally, at least a portion of the third waterproof adhesive (500c) can prevent the refrigerant (CL) from leaking through the gap between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b). Furthermore, due to the third waterproof adhesive (500c), the degree of bonding between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) is improved, allowing the cell frame (120) to better withstand the internal pressure resulting from the circulation of the refrigerant (CL).

[0126] Meanwhile, according to the present embodiment, a waterproof sealing structure can be implemented by providing grooves and ribs and applying a waterproof adhesive (500). Therefore, silicone rubber material parts such as waterproof foam tape, sealant, and O-rings may not be required. Accordingly, the manufacturing process of the battery assembly (100) is very simple and cost is reduced. However, this is an explanation of one example, and additional sealing members such as the aforementioned foam tape, sealant, and O-rings may be provided in the battery assembly as needed.

[0127] In addition, the third waterproof adhesive (500c) can securely fix the battery cells (110) on the bottom cell frame (120c).

[0128] Referring together to FIGS. 4, FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 8 through 11, the third waterproof adhesive (500c) can cover the vent portion (110V) of the battery cell (110). As described above, the vent portion (110V) corresponds to a member or mechanism provided in the battery cell (110) to discharge venting gas, etc., inside the battery cell (110). The vent portion (110V) can be formed on the lower surface of the battery cell (110), and the third waterproof adhesive (500c) applied on the bottom cell frame (120c) can cover this vent portion (110V). Additionally, the third waterproof adhesive (500c) can cover a portion of the side of the battery cell (110) adjacent to the lower surface of the battery cell (110).

[0129] If a thermal event or thermal runaway occurs inside the battery cell (110), high-temperature venting gas or particles may be discharged through the open vent section (110V). Generally, when gas is ejected from the battery cell (110), pieces of electrode plates or active materials inside the battery cell (110) may be discharged to the outside while heated to a high temperature, and these high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks. The high-temperature venting gas or particles discharged through the vent section (110V) may tear through the bottom cell frame (120c) and be discharged to the outside of the bottom cell frame (120c). Although not specifically illustrated, the high-temperature venting gas or particles may be discharged to the outside through a separate venting channel provided below the bottom cell frame (120c).

[0130] Since the third waterproof adhesive (500c) covers the vent portion (110V) of the battery cell (110) and a portion of the side of the battery cell (110) adjacent to the bottom surface of the battery cell (110), the vent portion (110V) is not exposed. Accordingly, even if there is a thermal runaway due to an abnormality in one of the battery cells (110), high-temperature venting gas or particles are not transmitted to surrounding battery cells (110), so it is not vulnerable to chain ignition.

[0131] Additionally, the venting path of the battery cell (110) and the refrigerant (CL) can be separated from each other by the third waterproof adhesive (500c). As described above, insulating oil may be applied to the refrigerant (CL). Since insulating oil is an oil component, it can cause additional thermal runaway, ignition, and explosion when it comes into contact with venting gas or particles. The third waterproof adhesive (500c) can cover the vent section (110V) so that the vent section (110V) is not exposed to the refrigerant (CL). The third waterproof adhesive (500c) blocks high-temperature venting gas and particles discharged from the vent section (110V) of the battery cell (110) from coming into contact with the refrigerant (CL), thereby preventing thermal runaway of the battery cell (110) from leading to ignition or explosion of the entire battery assembly (100).

[0132] Referring together to FIGS. 3, FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 8 through 11, the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment may include a busbar frame assembly (130). The busbar frame assembly may include a busbar frame on which busbars (131) are arranged. The busbar frame assembly may include at least one busbar (131) connected to an electrode terminal. Additionally, the busbar frame assembly may include a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board is provided to sense voltage data or thermal data of the battery cells (110). For example, the printed circuit board may be connected to the electrode terminals (111, 112) of the battery cells (110) or to the busbar (131). Accordingly, voltage data of each battery cell (110) can be sensed and transmitted externally. The busbar frame assembly (130) may electrically connect the battery cells (110) in a series or parallel form.

[0133] A battery cell (110) may be provided with a first electrode terminal (111) and a second electrode terminal (112) as positive and negative electrode terminals. These first electrode terminal (111) and second electrode terminal (112) of the battery cell (110) may be provided on the upper surface of the battery cell (110). However, the location of the first electrode terminal (111) and the second electrode terminal (112) in the battery cell (110) may vary depending on the design and is not necessarily limited to the upper surface of the battery cell (110). Electrical connection between the battery cells (110) may be made by a bus bar (131) connecting the first electrode terminal (111) and the second electrode terminal (112). For example, a busbar (131) can electrically connect the first electrode terminal (111) of one battery cell (110) and the second electrode terminal (112) of another battery cell (110). In this form, a high voltage (HV) connection between battery cells (110) can be implemented. An HV connection is a connection that serves as a power source to supply power requiring high voltage, and refers to an electrical connection between battery cells or an electrical connection between a battery pack and a device.

[0134]

[0135] Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-layer cooling structure of a battery assembly will be described in detail.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 3, 7 to 11, as described above, a refrigerant (CL) is introduced into the interior of the cell frame (120) through an inlet port (121) and then discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120) through an outlet port (122). A cooling channel (300) through which the refrigerant (CL) flows is provided inside the cell frame (120). At this time, the cooling channel (300) may be a multi-layer cooling structure.

[0137] Specifically, the cooling channel (300) through which the refrigerant (CL) flows may include a first cooling channel (300a) and a second cooling channel (300b). The first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) may be positioned sequentially along the height direction of the battery cell (110). Here, the height direction of the battery cell (110) refers to the direction between the upper surface and the lower surface of the battery cell (110), meaning a direction parallel to the z-axis. For example, the first cooling channel (300a) may be located above the second cooling channel (300b). The multilayer cooling structure of the cooling channel (300) mentioned in the present invention means that layered cooling channels are implemented that are distinct from each other based on the upper and lower directions of the battery cell (110). Additionally, the height direction of the battery cell (110) may be a direction between one side of the battery cell (110) and another side facing said one side, and at least one of the electrode terminals of said battery cell may be located on said one side of the battery cell.

[0138] Based on the midpoint of the battery cell (110) along the height direction of the battery cell (110), the portion of the battery cell (110) below the midpoint may be immersed in the second cooling channel (300b), and the portion of the battery cell (110) above the midpoint may be immersed in the first cooling channel (300a).

[0139] The second cooling channel (300b) can be connected to an inlet port (121), and the first cooling channel (300a) can be connected to an outlet port (122). Also, as shown in FIG. 10, the cell frame (120) may include a connecting hole (123) connecting the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b). The refrigerant (CL) may flow along the second cooling channel (300b) after being introduced through the inlet port (121). The refrigerant (CL) flowing along the second cooling channel (300b) may be introduced into the first cooling channel (300a) through the connecting hole (123). The refrigerant (CL) flowing along the first cooling channel (300a) may be discharged to the outside of the cell frame (120) through the outlet port (122). Each of the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) may be in a state that includes a plurality of cooling channels (CH) by means of a distribution mechanism (200).

[0140] It is preferable that the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) are not connected to each other until the refrigerant (CL) reaches the connection hole (123). That is, the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) can be connected to each other only through the connection hole (123). The direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows in the first cooling channel (300a) and the direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows in the second cooling channel (300b) may be opposite to each other. For example, the refrigerant (CL) may flow along the +y-axis direction in the second cooling channel (300b) connected to the inlet port (121), and the refrigerant (CL) may flow along the -y-axis direction in the first cooling channel (300a) connected to the outlet port (122).

[0141] There is no particular limit to the number of connection holes (123), but they may be provided in multiple numbers to correspond to the cooling channels (CH). The number of connection holes (123) may be provided to correspond one-to-one with the multiple cooling channels (CH) distributed by the distribution mechanism (200). This will be described later.

[0142] Based on the positions of the battery cells (110), the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122) may be located on the same side, and the connection hole (123) may be located on the opposite side from where the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122) are located. However, this is an exemplary structure, and the positions of the inlet port (121), the outlet port (122), and the connection hole (123) are not particularly limited.

[0143] Meanwhile, in the drawing, the cooling channel (300) is depicted as a two-layer cooling structure including a first cooling channel (300a) and a second cooling channel (300b), but there is no particular limitation on the number of cooling channels, and a cooling structure of three or more layers is also possible. That is, the cooling channel according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a third cooling channel in addition to the first and second cooling channels along the height direction of the battery cell (110). In addition, the cooling channel may include a fourth cooling channel as needed.

[0144] Below, we will explain why the cooling channel (300) according to the present embodiment has a multi-layer cooling structure.

[0145] If the cooling channel is formed as a single layer and the refrigerant (CL) flows in only one direction, there will be a difference in the performance of the refrigerant (CL) acting on multiple battery cells (110), and cooling imbalance may occur among the battery cells (110). As a comparative example of the present invention, a single-layer cooling channel can be considered in which the inlet port and the outlet port are located on opposite sides and the refrigerant (CL) flows in only one direction. In this comparative example, the battery cell adjacent to the inlet port comes into direct contact with the refrigerant (CL), so heat dissipation occurs well, but the battery cell adjacent to the outlet port comes into contact with the refrigerant (CL) that has already been heated by the battery cells, so heat dissipation does not occur well. Therefore, cooling imbalance occurs among the battery cells (110), which may lead to a decrease in the performance of the entire battery assembly.

[0146] On the other hand, the present embodiment having a cooling channel (300) of a multi-layer cooling structure can significantly reduce the cooling variation between these battery cells (110). The key to the multi-layer cooling structure is to create a time difference in the parts of each battery cell (110) that come into contact with the refrigerant (CL) through the multi-layer cooling structure. Referring again to FIGS. 9 and 11, in the case of the battery cell (110, the leftmost battery cell in FIGS. 9 and 11) closest to the inlet port (121) and outlet port (122), the part of the battery cell (110) located in the second cooling channel (300b) comes into contact with the refrigerant (CL) first, and the part of the battery cell (110) located in the first cooling channel (300a) comes into contact with the refrigerant (CL) last. That is, in the case of the battery cell (110) closest to the inlet port (121) and outlet port (122), one part of the battery cell (110) may come into contact with the coldest refrigerant (CL) and another part of the battery cell (110) may come into contact with the hottest refrigerant (CL). On the other hand, in the case of the battery cell (110, the battery cell located furthest to the right in FIG. 10) located furthest from the inlet port (121) and outlet port (122) and closest to the connection hole (123), the part of the battery cell (110) located in the second cooling path (300b) comes into contact with the refrigerant (CL) relatively late, but this refrigerant (CL) may pass through the connection hole (123) immediately and come into contact with the part of the battery cell (110) located in the first cooling path (300a). That is, in the case of the battery cell (110) located closest to the connection hole (123), it can be interpreted that all parts of the battery cell (110) come into contact with a medium temperature refrigerant (CL). In this way, by implementing a cooling channel (300) of a multi-layer cooling structure, a difference in the order of contact with the refrigerant (CL) can be created for each part of the multiple battery cells (110).Therefore, the problem of cooling imbalance between battery cells can be resolved, thereby minimizing the cooling variation of the battery cells. As described above, in order to resolve the cooling variation between battery cells (110), in another embodiment of the present invention, a multi-layer cooling structure such as three layers, four layers, etc., beyond a two-layer cooling structure may be provided.

[0147] The top cell frame (120a) and the middle cell frame (120b) according to the present embodiment may be an exemplary structure for implementing a cooling channel (300) of a multilayer cooling structure. Each of the top cell frame (120a) and the middle cell frame (120b) may be a member including an upper surface and a side portion extending downward from the edge of the upper surface, and the top cell frame (120a) may be located on top of the middle cell frame (120b).

[0148] The space between the middle cell frame (120b) and the bottom cell frame (120c) can be a second cooling channel (300b), and the space between the top cell frame (120a) and the middle cell frame (120b) can be a first cooling channel (300a). An inlet port (121) can be provided in the middle cell frame (120b), and an outlet port (122) can be provided in the top cell frame (120a).

[0149] Although not specifically illustrated, it is also possible for the top cell frame (120a) and the middle cell frame (120b) to be integrated so that the cover cell frame is made of only one component.

[0150] The battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment is configured to include a plurality of battery cells (110) and a cell frame (120), and such battery assembly (100) can be treated as a single structure. Since the battery cells (110) and the cell frame (120) for implementing a multi-layer cooling structure are combined with each other and treated as a single structure, the usability of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment can be expanded.

[0151] Referring again to FIGS. 3, FIGS. 9 to 13, FIGS. 16, and FIGS. 17, the battery cells (110) according to the present embodiment may be fitted inside a cell frame (120). For example, a plurality of holes (120h) may be formed inside the cell frame, and each of the battery cells (110) may be fixed inside the cell frame (120) by being fitted into the holes (120h).

[0152] For example, a plurality of holes (120h) of the cell frame (120) may include a top cell frame hole (120ah), a middle cell frame hole (120bh), and a bottom cell frame hole (120ch). The top cell frame hole (120ah) may be formed in the top cell frame (120a), the middle cell frame hole (120bh) may be formed in the middle cell frame (120b), and the bottom cell frame hole (120ch) may be formed in the bottom cell frame (120c).

[0153] The battery cell (110) can be mounted in the bottom cell frame hole (120ch, see FIG. 3) and seated on the bottom cell frame (120c). However, in another embodiment of the present invention, there is no separate bottom cell frame hole, and the battery cell can be seated and fixed on the bottom cell frame (120c) by a third waterproof adhesive (500c, see FIG. 9 to 11) applied on the bottom cell frame (120c).

[0154] The battery cell (110) can be mounted and secured to the middle cell frame (120b) by being inserted into the middle cell frame hole (120bh). Additionally, the battery cells (110) can be mounted and secured to the top cell frame (120a) by being inserted into the top cell frame hole (120ah).

[0155] Meanwhile, as described above, the waterproof adhesive (500) according to the present embodiment may include a third waterproof adhesive (500c) applied on the bottom cell frame (120c). Additionally, the waterproof adhesive (500) may include a first waterproof adhesive (500a) applied on the top cell frame (120a). Due to the first waterproof adhesive (500a) applied on the top cell frame (120a), the refrigerant (CL) may be prevented from leaking beyond the top cell frame (120a) to the upper region of the top cell frame (120a). With the battery cell (110) mounted in the top cell frame hole (120ah) of the top cell frame (120a), the first waterproof adhesive (500a) may be applied to the upper surface of the top cell frame (120a) and the upper region of the battery cell (110).

[0156] As previously explained, electrical connection between battery cells (110) can be made by a bus bar (131) connecting the first electrode terminal (111) and the second electrode terminal (112). Electrical connection by the bus bar (131) can be made at the top of the cell frame (120), that is, at the top of the top cell frame (120a). The bus bar (131) can be located at the top of the cell frame (120), that is, at the top of the top cell frame (120a).

[0157] At least a portion of the busbar (131) may be surrounded by the first waterproof adhesive (500a). Additionally, the surrounding space of the busbar (131) may be filled with the first waterproof adhesive (500a). Additionally, the first electrode terminal (111) and the second electrode terminal (112) of the battery cell (110) may be surrounded by the first waterproof adhesive (500a). Additionally, the gap between the top cell frame hole (120ah) and the battery cell (110) fitted therein may be filled with the first waterproof adhesive (500a). Due to the first waterproof adhesive (500a), the refrigerant (CL) may be prevented from leaking into the upper region of the cell frame (120). In the battery assembly (100), the waterproof sealing structure at the top thereof may be implemented by the first waterproof adhesive (500a).

[0158] The refrigerant (CL) may be insulating oil or cooling water. If the refrigerant (CL), which is cooling water, comes into contact with the HV connection part, a short circuit may occur, causing serious safety issues. Furthermore, even if the refrigerant (CL) is insulating oil, if the refrigerant (CL) comes into contact with the part where the electrical connections of the battery cells (110) are made, it may adversely affect the electrical connections of the battery cells (110). Accordingly, in this embodiment, the influence of the refrigerant (CL) on the electrical connections of the battery cells (110) can be minimized by the first waterproof adhesive (500a) applied to the upper part of the cell frame (120).

[0159] The waterproof adhesive (500) may include a second waterproof adhesive (500b) applied on the middle cell frame (120b). As described above, in the cooling channel (300) of the multi-layer cooling structure, it is preferable that the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) are not connected to each other until the refrigerant (CL) reaches the connection hole (123). That is, the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) can be connected to each other only through the connection hole (123). This is because it creates a difference in the order of contact with the refrigerant (CL) for each part of the multiple battery cells (110) and reduces the cooling variation of the battery cells. The second waterproof adhesive (500b) can prevent the refrigerant (CL) of the first cooling channel (300a) from moving to the second cooling channel (300b) or the refrigerant (CL) of the second cooling channel (300b) from moving to the first cooling channel (300a) in the portion excluding the connection hole (123). A waterproof airtight structure between the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b), excluding the connection hole (123), can be formed by the second waterproof adhesive (500b). The gap between the middle cell frame hole (120bh) and the battery cell (110) fitted therein can be filled with the second waterproof adhesive (500b).

[0160]

[0161] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing battery cells mounted on a middle cell frame according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section cut along the cutting line J-J' of FIG. 20. FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing battery cells mounted on a top cell frame according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section cut along the cutting line K-K' of FIG. 22. FIG. 24 is a plan view looking at the “L” portion of FIG. 20.

[0162] Referring together to FIGS. 12 to 24, in the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, battery cells (110) can be arranged to have a plurality of rows (R1-R10). FIGS. 21 and 23 show battery cells (110) arranged to form 10 rows (R1-R10). The rows (R1-R10) in which the battery cells (110) are arranged can be positioned sequentially along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows. Additionally, within each row (R1-R10), the battery cells (110) can be arranged along the direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows. The direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows is a direction parallel to the y-axis, and each row (R1-R10) can be positioned sequentially along a direction parallel to the x-axis. Additionally, within one column (R1-R10), the battery cells (110) can be positioned along a direction parallel to the y-axis.

[0163] One of the plurality of cooling channels (CH) divided by the distribution mechanism (200) may be arranged to correspond to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). Here, "corresponding" means that there is a portion of one of the cooling channels (CH) that overlaps with one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), and the location of the cooling channel (CH) does not necessarily have to correspond to the center of one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0164] As shown in FIG. 21, the refrigerant introduced into the inlet port (121) is distributed into a plurality of cooling channels (CH) by a plurality of distribution holes (200H) provided in the partition wall (200W) in the inlet distribution mechanism (210), and any one of the plurality of cooling channels (CH) may correspond to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). As shown in FIG. 23, the plurality of cooling channels (CH) are discharged through the outlet port (122) after passing through each of the plurality of distribution holes (200H) provided in the partition wall (200W) in the outlet distribution mechanism (220), and any one of the plurality of cooling channels (CH) may correspond to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0165] Since the cooling channel (CH) distributed by the distribution mechanism (200) corresponds to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), the refrigerant (CL) is not concentrated in only some of the battery cells (110), but rather the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) can be uniformly distributed among the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) and between them. Through this, uniform cooling of the entire battery cell (110) is possible, thereby minimizing cooling deviations between the battery cells (110) and improving the cooling efficiency of the entire battery assembly (100).

[0166] Any one of the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be arranged to correspond to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). For example, when viewed along the y-axis direction, any one of the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may overlap with any row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0167] Additionally, any of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may be arranged to correspond to any of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). For example, when viewed along the y-axis direction, any of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may overlap with any row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0168] Meanwhile, the multiple cooling channels (CH) divided by the distribution mechanism (200) may correspond one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). The number of cooling channels (CH) may be equal to the number of each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), and one cooling channel (CH) may correspond to one row of the battery cells (110). As described above, the meaning of correspondence here is that there is a part where one of the cooling channels (CH) overlaps with one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), and the location of the cooling channel (CH) does not necessarily have to correspond to the center of one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). The distribution holes (200H) formed in the partition wall (200W) can correspond one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), the number of distribution holes (200H) can be equal to the number of each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), and one distribution hole (200H) can correspond to one row of the battery cell (110).

[0169] The distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) can be arranged to correspond one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). For example, when viewed along the y-axis direction, each of the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) can overlap with each of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0170] Additionally, the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) can be arranged to correspond one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). For example, when viewed along the y-axis direction, each of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) can overlap with each of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0171] Referring to FIG. 21, it is shown that battery cells (110) form 10 rows (R1-R10), and that each of the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the cooling channels (CH) formed accordingly is provided in 10. It is shown that each of the 10 rows (R1-R10) of battery cells (110) corresponds one-to-one with each of the distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210).

[0172] Referring to FIG. 23, it is shown that battery cells (110) form 10 rows (R1-R10), and that each of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) and the cooling channels (CH) into which they flow are provided in 10. It is shown that each of the 10 rows (R1-R10) of battery cells (110) corresponds one-to-one with each of the distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220).

[0173] By providing distribution holes (200H) of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and distribution holes (200H) of the outlet distribution mechanism (220) so as to be one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), a cooling channel (CH) can be implemented so as to be one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). By implementing a cooling channel (CH) so as to be one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) can be uniformly distributed among each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) and between them, rather than the refrigerant (CL) being concentrated in only some of the battery cells (110). Accordingly, a uniform flow of refrigerant (CL) is possible for all heats (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110), and the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) in all heats (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) can be maintained constant. Through this, uniform cooling of all battery cells (110) is possible, thereby minimizing cooling variations between battery cells (110) and improving the cooling efficiency of the entire battery assembly (100).

[0174] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 10, 21, 23, and 24, in a multi-layer cooling structure, connecting holes (123) connecting the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b) can be provided to correspond one-to-one with the cooling channels (CH). Additionally, the connecting holes (123) can be provided to correspond one-to-one with each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). For example, FIG. 24 shows that the battery cells (110) form 10 rows (R1-R10), and there are 10 connecting holes (123) connecting the cooling channels (300). Each of the 10 rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) corresponds one-to-one with each of the connecting holes (123).

[0175] By arranging the connection holes (123) to correspond one-to-one with the cooling channels (CH), the cooling channels (CH) can be maintained in both the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b). That is, while the refrigerant (CL) flows from the second cooling channel (300b) to the first cooling channel (300a), the multiple cooling channels (CH) in the second cooling channel (300b) can be maintained in the first cooling channel (300a) as well. Accordingly, a uniform flow of the refrigerant (CL) for all the heat (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) can be maintained in both the first cooling channel (300a) and the second cooling channel (300b), that is, in all the multiple cooling channels (300). In addition, in all of the multiple cooling channels (300), the flow rate of the refrigerant (CL) near all heat (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) can be maintained constant. This allows for reducing cooling deviations in all of the cooling channels (300) and increasing cooling efficiency.

[0176]

[0177] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing one cross-section of a battery assembly in which an inlet distribution mechanism and an outlet distribution mechanism are shown together in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 25, as described above, the distribution mechanism (200) may include an inlet distribution mechanism (210) provided near the inlet port (121) among the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122); and an outlet distribution mechanism (220) provided near the outlet port among the inlet port (121) and the outlet port (122). Each of the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may include distribution holes (200H), and the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may have a larger opening area than the distribution hole (200H) formed in the outlet distribution mechanism (220). Here, the opening area refers to the area of ​​the penetrating portion of the distribution hole (200H) when viewed from the front.

[0179] When the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is referred to as the inlet distribution hole (200H1) and the distribution hole (200H) formed in the outlet distribution mechanism (220) is referred to as the outlet distribution hole (200H2), the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) may be larger than the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2).

[0180] As the refrigerant (CL) flowing inside the cell frame (120) approaches the outlet port (122), the level of the refrigerant (CL) decreases, and an air layer called an air trap is formed to the extent of the lowered level, creating an empty space that is not filled with refrigerant (CL). This air trap can reduce the cooling performance of the battery cells (110) adjacent to the outlet port (122), which can lead to a decrease in the overall cooling performance and cooling imbalance of the battery assembly.

[0181] To solve this problem, the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) can be designed to be larger than the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2). In other words, the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2) can be designed to be smaller than the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1). If the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2) is made smaller than the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1), the level of the refrigerant (CL) in the part adjacent to the outlet port (122) can be raised, thereby preventing the occurrence of an air trap. Additionally, by designing the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2) to be relatively smaller, the refrigerant (CL) flowing between the battery cells (110) due to the multiple cooling channels (CH) can be easily discharged to the outside through the outlet port (122).

[0182] Meanwhile, the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be 250% or more and 350% or less of the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the outlet distribution mechanism (220). In other words, the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) may be 250% or more and 350% or less of the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2). If the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) is less than 250% of the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2), the difference between the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) and the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2) is negligible, making it difficult to prevent a drop in the refrigerant (CL) level in the part adjacent to the outlet port (122). In other words, it may be difficult to prevent an air trap from forming. Additionally, if the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) exceeds 350% of the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2), the opening area (A2) of the outlet distribution hole (200H2) becomes smaller than necessary, making it difficult for multiple cooling channels (CH) to pass through the outlet distribution mechanism (220).

[0183] Meanwhile, the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be equal to or smaller than the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121). Specifically, the opening area of ​​each individual distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be equal to or smaller than the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121).

[0184] If the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is larger than the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121), there may be a problem in that the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet port (121) cannot sufficiently flow to the distribution holes (200H) that are far from the inlet port (121). In this embodiment, to prevent this problem, the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is set to be equal to or smaller than the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121).

[0185] Specifically, the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be 70% or more and 100% or less of the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121). The opening area of ​​each individual distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) may be 70% or more and 100% or less of the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121). In other words, the opening area (A1) of the inlet distribution hole (200H1) may be 70% or more and 100% or less of the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121).

[0186] If the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) exceeds 100% of the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121), a problem may occur in which the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet port (121) cannot sufficiently flow to the distribution holes (200H) that are far from the inlet port (121). Additionally, if the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is less than 70% of the opening area of ​​the inlet port (121), there is a concern that the opening area of ​​the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210) is too narrow, causing the refrigerant (CL) to stagnate and fail to pass through the distribution hole (200H) formed in the inlet distribution mechanism (210).

[0187] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 20 to 25, as described above, any one of the plurality of cooling channels (CH) divided by the distribution mechanism (200) may be arranged to correspond to any one of the rows (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110). Here, the meaning of "corresponding" is that there is a portion of one of the cooling channels (CH) that overlaps with any row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0188] The center (C1) of each cooling channel (CH) may be located within the range of the width (W1) of the battery cells (110) in the corresponding column (R1-R10) of the cooling channel (CH). The existence of a cooling channel (CH) overlapping with any column (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110) may mean that the center (C1) of the cooling channel (CH) is located within the range of the width (W1) of the battery cells (110) in the corresponding column (R1-R10). In FIG. 25, the center of a cooling channel (CH) is indicated as C1, and although no battery cells are shown, the width of the battery cells in the column corresponding to the cooling channel (CH) is indicated as W1.

[0189] In this way, the center (C1) of the cooling channel (CH) must be located within the range of the width (W1) of the battery cells (110) of the corresponding rows (R1-R10) to the cooling channel (CH), so that the refrigerant (CL) can be more evenly distributed between each row (R1-R10) of the battery cells (110).

[0190] Meanwhile, the opening area of ​​one connection hole (123) may be 50% or more of the opening area (A1) of one inlet distribution hole (200H1). If the opening area of ​​one connection hole (123) is less than 50% of the opening area (A1) of one inlet distribution hole (200H1), the opening area of ​​the connection hole (123) is too narrow, and a problem may occur in which the flow of refrigerant from the second cooling path (300b) to the first cooling path (300a) is not properly carried out.

[0191] FIGS. 26 (a) to (d) are drawings showing the shapes of distribution holes according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 26, according to various embodiments of the present invention, the distribution hole formed in the partition (200W) can have various shapes.

[0193] As illustrated in FIG. 26 (a), the distribution hole (200Ha) may be rectangular. Here, a rectangular shape refers to a rectangle of various forms. For example, as illustrated, not only a rectangular distribution hole (200Ha) but also a square distribution hole and a trapezoidal distribution hole may be applied.

[0194] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 26 (b), the distribution hole (200Hb) may be circular. Here, circular means a circular shape. For example, as shown, not only a circular distribution hole (200Hb) but also an elliptical distribution hole may be applied.

[0195] Additionally, as shown in Fig. 26 (c), the distribution hole (200Hc) may be a semicircle, and as shown in Fig. 26 (d), the distribution hole (200Hd) may be a shape combining a square and a semicircle.

[0196]

[0197] Referring again to FIGS. 7, 9, and 11, the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) according to the present embodiment can be joined by a bolt member (700). For example, each of the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) may include a protruding portion protruding in a direction parallel to the xy plane, and the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) can be joined to each other by a bolt member (700) that passes through all of each other's protruding portions. In one embodiment, it is possible for the bolt member (700) to be joined with a separate nut member, and in another embodiment, it is possible for the bolt member (700) to pass through either the bottom cell frame (120c) or the middle cell frame (120b) and then be screw-coupled into a fastening hole formed in the other of the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b). Since the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) are joined by a bolt member (700), the fixing force between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) is increased, and refrigerant leakage between the bottom cell frame (120c) and the middle cell frame (120b) is prevented, thereby improving sealing performance.

[0198] Additionally, the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) can also be joined by a bolt member (700). For example, each of the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) may include a protruding portion protruding in a direction parallel to the xy plane, and the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) can be joined by a bolt member (700) that passes through all of each other's protruding portions. In one embodiment, it is possible for the bolt member (700) to be joined with a separate nut member, and in another embodiment, it is possible for the bolt member (700) to pass through either the middle cell frame (120b) or the top cell frame (120a) and then be screw-fastened into a fastening hole formed in the other of the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a). Since the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) are joined by a bolt member (700), the fixing force between the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) is increased, and refrigerant leakage between the middle cell frame (120b) and the top cell frame (120a) is prevented, thereby improving sealing performance.

[0199]

[0200] Hereinafter, the structure of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, descriptions of parts that overlap with the battery assembly described above will be omitted.

[0201] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including an inlet port in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including a connection hole in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section including an outlet port in the assembled state of the battery assembly of FIG. 27. FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing a middle cell frame included in the battery assembly of FIG. 27. FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a cross section cut along the cutting line M-M' of FIG. 31.

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 27 to 32, a battery assembly (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention may include battery cells (110) and a cell frame (120). A plurality of cooling channels (300) may be provided inside the cell frame (120) through which a refrigerant flows in direct contact with at least a portion of the battery cells (110). The cooling channels (300) may include a plurality of cooling channels (300a, 300b) arranged along the height direction of the battery cells (110) to which the battery cells (110) extend.

[0203] The cell frame (120) may include a side part (120S) and a separation part (120M). The side part (120S) and the separation part (120M) may be integrally connected. Any one of a plurality of cooling channels (300) may be located on one side of the separation part (120M), and the other of a plurality of cooling channels (300) may be located on the other side of the separation part (120M).

[0204] In the cell frame (120), the cooling channel (300) can be divided into a plurality of cooling channels (300a, 300b) by a separating part (120M). For example, FIGS. 28 to 30 show that two cooling channels (300a, 300b) are separated and divided by the separating part (120M).

[0205] In the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, a separation part (120M) for separating a plurality of cooling channels (300) may be formed integrally with a side part (120S). For example, the cell frame (120) may be manufactured by injection molding while the separation part (120M) and the side part (120S) are connected integrally. Since the separation part (120M) is formed integrally with the side part (120S), there is no risk of refrigerant (CL) leaking between one cooling channel (300a) located on one side of the separation part (120M) and another cooling channel (300b) located on the other side of the separation part (120M). This is because, since the separation part (120M) and the side part (120S) are integral, there is no gap for the refrigerant (CL) to leak between them. The risk of leakage of the refrigerant (CL) is eliminated in the area between the cooling channels (300a, 300b) located on one side and the other side of the separation part (120M), respectively. This means that the area requiring sealing in the battery assembly (100) is reduced. Therefore, since no additional parts are required for sealing, the number of parts can be reduced, and at the same time, the sealing performance of the battery assembly can be improved by eliminating the risk of leakage of the refrigerant (CL).

[0206] The cell frame (120) may include a top cell frame (120a), a middle cell frame (120b), and a bottom cell frame (120c). Battery cells (110) may be seated on the bottom cell frame (120c), and the top cell frame (120a) may cover at least a portion of the upper surfaces of the battery cells (110). The middle cell frame (120b) may include a separating part (120M) and a side part (120S). The previously described separating part (120M) and side part (120S) may be components provided in the middle cell frame (120b).

[0207] The side part (120S) may include a first side part (120S1) extending downward from the edge of the separation part (120M) and a second side part (120S2) extending upward from the edge of the separation part (120M). The space enclosed by the first side part (120S1), the separation part (120M), and the bottom cell frame (120c) may correspond to the second cooling channel (300b). Additionally, the space enclosed by the second side part (120S2), the separation part (120M), and the top cell frame (120a) may correspond to the first cooling channel (300a). An inlet port (121) may be provided in the first side part (120S1), and an outlet port (122) may be provided in the second side part (120S2).

[0208] The first side part (120S1) and the second side part (120S2) may be in an integrated form. Each of the first side part (120S1) and the second side part (120S2) may be integrally connected to the separation part (120M). Since the first side part (120S1), the second side part (120S2), and the separation part (120M) are integrally formed, there is no risk of refrigerant (CL) leaking between one cooling channel (300a) located on one side of the separation part (120M) and another cooling channel (300b) located on the other side of the separation part (120M). There is no risk of the refrigerant (CL) in the first cooling channel (300a) leaking between the first side part (120S1) and the separation part (120M), and there is no risk of the refrigerant (CL) in the second cooling channel (300b) leaking between the second side part (120S2) and the separation part (120M). This is because the first side part (120S1), the second side part (120S2), and the separation part (120M) are integral, so there is no gap for the refrigerant (CL) to leak between them. The risk of leakage of the refrigerant (CL) disappears in the area between the cooling channels (300a, 300b) located on one side and the other side of the separation part (120M), respectively. Therefore, since no additional parts are required for sealing, the number of parts can be reduced, and at the same time, the sealing performance of the battery assembly can be improved by eliminating the risk of leakage of the refrigerant (CL).

[0209] A middle cell frame hole (120bh) into which battery cells (110) are fitted can be formed in the separation part (120M) of the middle cell frame (120b). The battery cells (110) can be mounted and fixed to the middle cell frame (120b) while being fitted into the middle cell frame hole (120bh). As the battery cells (110) are fitted into the middle cell frame hole (120bh), one part of the battery cells (110) can be in contact with the second cooling channel (300b), and another part of the battery cells (110) can be in contact with the first cooling channel (300a).

[0210] A connecting hole (123) connecting the cooling channels (300a, 300b) can be provided in the separation part (120M) in the middle cell frame (120b) as shown in FIG. 24. A refrigerant (CL) can move between the cooling channels (300a, 300b) through the connecting hole (123).

[0211] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, both the inlet distribution mechanism (210) and the outlet distribution mechanism (220) may be provided in the middle cell frame (120b). Additionally, a structure in which the distribution holes of the inlet distribution mechanism (210), the distribution holes of the outlet distribution mechanism (220), and the connection holes each correspond one-to-one with each row of battery cells (110) may also be applied to the embodiment structure of the battery assembly described in FIGS. 27 to 32. Since this overlaps with the previously described content, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0212]

[0213] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 1, the battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 1 can be mounted directly onto a vehicle or chassis. That is, in the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, the battery cells (110) can be mounted directly onto a vehicle or chassis with the battery cells housed in a cell frame (120). The inlet port (121) and outlet port (122) of the cell frame (120) can be connected to a refrigerant circulation system within the vehicle.

[0214] FIGS. 33 and FIGS. 34 are exploded perspective views of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0215] Referring to FIGS. 1, 33, and 34, a battery pack (1000) according to another embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery assembly (100); a pack frame (1100) that accommodates at least one battery assembly (100) and has one side open; and a pack cover (1200) that covers the open side of the pack frame (1100). FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate, as an example, that three battery assemblies (100) are accommodated in the pack frame (1100).

[0216] The pack frame (1100) may include a bottom portion (1110) and a side beam (1120). At least one battery assembly (100) may be placed on the bottom portion (1110). The side beam (1120) may extend along the edge of the bottom portion (1110) and extend in a direction perpendicular to one side of the bottom portion (1110). By the bottom portion (1110) and the side beam (1120), an internal space with an open top may be provided, and the battery assembly (100) may be housed in this internal space. The pack cover (1200) may cover the upper surface of the battery assembly (100) mounted on the pack frame (1100).

[0217] Meanwhile, the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment may include a filling member (1300) foamed in the space within the pack frame (1100) and the pack cover (1200). The filling member (1300) according to the present embodiment may be a foamed member. The filling member (1300) may be a foamed member that is foamed after being filled in the space within the pack frame (1100) and the pack cover (1200).

[0218] The filling member (1300) according to the present embodiment may be formed of a resin. For example, the filling members (1300) may be formed of resin or the like. The filling member (1300) may include an air pocket, and an adhesive may be provided in the air pocket. The filling member (1300) may be foamed rubber, i.e., cellular or sponge. The filling member (1300) may include an air-filled matrix structure. The filling member (1300) may be based, for example, silicone, polyurethane, or other organic materials.

[0219] The filling member (1300) can be foamed into a plate shape by, for example, applying it onto a pack frame (1100) or by using a spray. The filling member (1300) may include a foaming promoter.

[0220] When the filling member (1300) comes into contact with other components, it subsequently hardens and combines with the other components to provide fixed support. Thus, the adhesive force between the components that the filling member (1300) comes into contact with can be strengthened. In this embodiment, the adhesive force between the pack frame (1100), the pack cover (1200), and the battery assembly (100) can be strengthened by the filling member (1300). Additionally, the filling member (1300) can absorb vibrations and shocks applied to the battery pack (1000), so that the components within the battery pack (1000) do not separate or detach, thereby improving the safety and mechanical reliability of the battery pack.

[0221] Meanwhile, the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment may include an inlet pipe (1400) connected to an inlet port (121) of the battery assembly (100) and an outlet pipe (1500) connected to an outlet port (122) of the battery assembly (100).

[0222] Each of the inlet pipe (1400) and the outlet pipe (1500) can pass through the side beam (1120) and be connected to the inlet port (121) and outlet port (122) of the battery assembly (100). Additionally, the inlet pipe (1400) and the outlet pipe (1500) can be connected to a refrigerant circulation system inside the vehicle. Refrigerant supplied by the refrigerant circulation system inside the vehicle passes through the inlet pipe (1400) and reaches the inlet port (121). Refrigerant that circulates inside the battery assembly (100) and is discharged through the outlet port (122) is returned to the refrigerant circulation system through the outlet pipe (1500).

[0223] In this embodiment, terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down have been used; however, these terms are for convenience of explanation only and may vary depending on the location of the object or the observer.

[0224] One or more battery assemblies according to the embodiment described above can be mounted together with various control and protection systems, such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU), and a cooling system, to form a battery pack.

[0225] The above battery assembly or battery pack can be applied to various devices. Specifically, it can be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrids, or to Energy Storage Systems (ESS), but is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices capable of using secondary batteries.

[0226] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0227] Explanation of the symbols

[0228] 100: Battery assembly

[0229] 110: Battery cell

[0230] 120: Cell Frame

[0231] 120a: Top cell frame

[0232] 120b: Middle cell frame

[0233] 120c: Bottom cell frame

[0234] 121: Inlet port

[0235] 122: Outlet Port

[0236] 200: Dispensing device

[0237] 210: Inlet distribution device

[0238] 220: Outlet distribution device

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; and It includes a cell frame in which the above battery cells are housed, The cell frame includes an inlet port and an outlet port through which a refrigerant circulating inside the cell frame is introduced and discharged while in direct contact with the battery cells. A battery assembly having a distribution mechanism for dividing the refrigerant into a plurality of cooling channels provided at least one of the inlet port or the outlet port.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above distribution mechanism is a battery assembly including a plurality of distribution holes.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above distribution mechanism is a battery assembly comprising a partition wall having a plurality of distribution holes formed therein.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above distribution mechanism includes a plurality of distribution holes corresponding to the cooling channel, and The above distribution hole is a battery assembly having a shape that is square, circular, semicircular, or a combination of a square and a semicircle.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above battery cells are arranged to have multiple rows, and A battery assembly in which any one of the above cooling channels is arranged to correspond to any one of the rows of the above battery cells.

6. In Paragraph 5, The center of the above cooling channel is a battery assembly located within the range of the width of the battery cells corresponding to the cooling channel.

7. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly comprising: an inlet distribution mechanism provided near the inlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port; and an outlet distribution mechanism provided near the outlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above inlet distribution mechanism is located between the inlet port and the battery cells, and The above outlet distribution mechanism is a battery assembly located between the outlet port and the battery cells.

9. In Paragraph 7, Each of the above-mentioned inlet distribution mechanism and the above-mentioned outlet distribution mechanism includes distribution holes, and A battery assembly in which the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism has a larger opening area than the distribution hole formed in the outlet distribution mechanism.

10. In Paragraph 9, A battery assembly in which the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism is 250% or more and 350% or less of the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the outlet distribution mechanism.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above distribution mechanism includes an inlet distribution mechanism provided near the inlet port among the inlet port and the outlet port, and A distribution hole is formed in the above-mentioned inlet distribution mechanism, and A battery assembly in which the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism is equal to or smaller than the opening area of ​​the inlet port.

12. In Paragraph 11, A battery assembly in which the opening area of ​​the distribution hole formed in the inlet distribution mechanism is 70% or more and 100% or less compared to the opening area of ​​the inlet port.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above battery cells are a battery assembly in which they are fitted inside the cell frame.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above refrigerant is insulating oil or coolant in a battery assembly.

15. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly in which the above battery cells are housed in the cell frame and are mounted directly to a vehicle or chassis.

16. At least one battery assembly according to paragraph 1; A pack frame housing at least one of the above-mentioned battery assemblies and having one side open; and A battery pack comprising a pack cover covering an open side of the pack frame.

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