Battery pack and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack having improved cooling performance in a multi-layer battery cell array structure, and a vehicle comprising same. Specifically, the present invention can provide a battery pack and a vehicle comprising same, the battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cell arrays each including a plurality of battery cells and a cooling unit for cooling the plurality of battery cells, the battery cell arrays being stacked in at least a plurality of layers; a pipe assembly configured to allow a cooling fluid to flow in and out of the cooling units; and a plurality of connector units connected to the pipe assembly and configured to allow the cooling fluid to flow in mutually different directions with respect to the width direction of the battery pack, in the cooling units of the battery cell arrays adjacently disposed in the respective layers.

Description

Battery pack and automobile including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack with improved cooling performance in a multilayer battery cell array structure and an automobile including the same.

[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0192955 filed on December 20, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003] In addition, this application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0132011 filed on September 15, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0004] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.

[0005] Currently, widely used 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, or unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Additionally, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be varied 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 practice to first configure a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this array of at least one battery cell to add other components to configure the battery pack or battery rack.

[0007] In conventional battery packs, multiple battery cell arrays are stacked to implement medium-to-large battery packs. At this time, a cooling line is configured to cool the multilayer battery cell array. In the case of conventional battery packs, the cooling unit of the multilayer battery cell array is connected from one direction.

[0008] However, in such conventional unidirectional cooling line connection structures, there are issues such as reduced thermal efficiency between battery cell arrays and difficulty in managing the differential pressure of the cooling water. In particular, regarding the management of the differential pressure of the cooling water, the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides inevitably increases as the length of the piping increases. Consequently, in conventional unidirectional cooling lines, the load on the pump increases and flow loss of the cooling medium inevitably occurs, leading to a problem of reduced overall cooling performance.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to explore ways to provide a battery pack capable of improving cooling performance in a multilayer battery cell array structure and an automobile including the same.

[0010] Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack capable of improving cooling performance in a multilayer battery cell array structure and an automobile including the same.

[0011] Alternatively, in one aspect, the invention is to provide a battery pack capable of reducing differential pressure between modules and a vehicle including the same.

[0012] Alternatively, in one aspect, the invention is to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including the same that can improve flow rate deviation between modules.

[0013] Alternatively, in one aspect, the invention is to provide a battery pack and an automobile including the same that can improve assembly between parts.

[0014] However, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0015] A battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a plurality of battery cell arrays stacked in at least a plurality of layers, each comprising a plurality of battery cells and a cooling unit for cooling the plurality of battery cells; a pipe assembly configured to allow cooling fluid to flow in and out of the cooling unit; and a plurality of connector units connected to the pipe assembly and configured to allow cooling fluid to flow in different directions relative to the width direction of the battery pack from the cooling unit of the battery cell array arranged adjacently in each layer.

[0016] For example, the cooling unit may include: a plurality of cooling tubes formed along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack and disposed between the plurality of battery cells; a plurality of fastening parts each provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the plurality of cooling tubes and protruding along the width direction of the battery pack; and a plurality of connection ports that are coupled to the fastening parts between adjacent cooling tubes and connect the plurality of cooling tubes.

[0017] For example, the pipe assembly may be positioned on one side in the longitudinal direction of the plurality of battery cell arrays.

[0018] For example, the pipe assembly may include an inlet pipe assembly configured to form a flow path in the internal space and allow cooling fluid to flow into the cooling unit; and an outlet pipe assembly configured to form a flow path in the internal space and allow cooling fluid to be discharged from the cooling unit.

[0019] For example, the inlet pipe assembly and the outlet pipe assembly may be formed with a mutually symmetrical structure.

[0020] For example, the inlet pipe assembly may include: an inlet port for injecting cooling fluid into the battery pack; a first inlet pipe connected to the inlet port; an inlet branch that is coupled to the first inlet pipe and branches a flow path; a second inlet pipe coupled to one side of the inlet branch and connecting the first inlet pipe to a connector unit placed on one floor; and a third inlet pipe coupled to the other side of the inlet branch and connecting the second inlet pipe to a connector unit placed on another floor.

[0021] For example, the third inlet pipe may include a section having a predetermined curvature.

[0022] For example, the inner diameter of the third inlet pipe may be larger than or equal to the inner diameter of the second inlet pipe.

[0023] For example, the inlet pipe assembly may further include an inlet temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the cooling fluid injected from the inlet port.

[0024] For example, the outlet pipe assembly may include: an outlet port for discharging cooling fluid from inside the battery pack; a first outlet pipe connected to the outlet port; an outlet branch that is coupled to the first outlet pipe and branches a flow path; a second outlet pipe coupled to one side of the outlet branch and connecting the first outlet pipe and a connector unit placed on one floor; and a third outlet pipe coupled to the other side of the outlet branch and connecting the second outlet pipe and a connector unit placed on another floor.

[0025] For example, the outlet pipe assembly may further include an outlet temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the cooling fluid discharged through the outlet port.

[0026] For example, the third outlet pipe may include a section having a predetermined curvature.

[0027] For example, the inner diameter of the third outlet pipe may be larger than or equal to the inner diameter of the second outlet pipe.

[0028] For example, the plurality of connector units may each be placed between the cooling units of adjacent battery cell arrays arranged in each layer and communicate with the pipe assembly.

[0029] For example, the connector unit may include a fixed connector that forms a channel in its internal space; and a movable connector that is slidably coupled through the internal space of the fixed connector.

[0030] For example, the fixed connector may include: a fixed portion having both longitudinal ends open; a first insertion portion formed at one longitudinal end of the fixed portion and inserted into a fastening portion positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit; at least one first connecting hook formed at a predetermined distance from the first insertion portion and hook-mounted to the fastening portion positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit; and a pipe connecting portion extending in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the fixed portion and coupled with the pipe assembly.

[0031] For example, the fixed connector may further include at least one first sealing member having elasticity; and at least one first groove portion provided on the outer surface of the first insertion portion and capable of receiving the first sealing member.

[0032] For example, the above-described movable connector may include: a movable part having both longitudinal ends open and inserted into the internal space of the fixed part; a second insertion part formed at one longitudinal end of the movable part and inserted into a fastening part disposed at the outermost edge of a second cooling unit adjacent to a cooling unit coupled with the fixed connector; and at least one second connecting hook formed at a predetermined distance from the second insertion part and hook-mounted to the fastening part disposed at the outermost edge of the second cooling unit.

[0033] For example, the above-described moving connector may further include at least one second sealing member having elasticity; and at least one second groove portion provided on the outer surface of the second insertion portion and capable of receiving the second sealing member.

[0034] For example, the above-described moving connector may further include a corrugated portion configured such that the length of the moving portion varies along the longitudinal direction of the moving portion.

[0035] For example, the fixed connector may include a locking portion formed at the other end in the longitudinal direction of the fixed portion, and the movable connector may include at least one connector hook that is hooked and mounted on the locking portion.

[0036] An automobile according to the present invention may include a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0037] A battery pack according to various embodiments of the present invention and an automobile including the same have the effect of improving cooling performance in a multilayer battery cell array structure.

[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is an effect of being able to reduce the differential pressure between modules.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is an effect of being able to improve the flow rate deviation between modules.

[0040] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is an effect of improving assemblability between parts.

[0041] However, the effects obtainable through the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned technical effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0042] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 2 is a drawing for explaining the cooling pipe structure of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0044] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the components of the cell array of the battery pack of Figure 1 in disassembly.

[0045] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the components of the battery cell array of the battery pack of Figure 1 in disassembly.

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the pipe assembly of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0047] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the connector unit of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the movable connector of the connector unit of Figure 6.

[0049] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the components of the connector unit of Figure 6 disassembled.

[0050] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the process of the connector unit of Figure 6 being coupled to the cooling unit.

[0051] Figure 10 is a drawing for explaining a cooling line according to the cooling pipe structure of Figure 2.

[0052] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the flow of cooling fluid along the cooling line of Figure 10.

[0053] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the combined structure of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0054] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the automobile of the present invention.

[0055] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0056] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0057] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0058] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.

[0059] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0060] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0061] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0062] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0063] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.

[0064] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position or arrangement, rotation, or position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of this invention.

[0065] The present invention may be implemented in the following embodiments, each independently. Furthermore, the present invention may be implemented in combination of two or more of the following embodiments. Each of the following embodiments may not only be implemented independently but may also be freely combined with one another.

[0066] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction following the length direction of the winding axis of an electrode assembly wound in a jelly roll shape is referred to as the winding axis direction. The direction surrounding the winding axis of the electrode assembly is referred to as the circumferential direction, and the direction in which the electrode assembly is wound along the winding axis is referred to as the winding direction. Furthermore, the direction moving away from or closer to the winding axis of the electrode assembly is referred to as the radial direction.

[0067]

[0068] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the cooling pipe structure of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing the components of the cell array (CA) of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing the components of the battery cell array (100, 101) of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack (10) according to the present invention may include a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101), a pipe assembly (200), and a connector unit (300).

[0070] A battery cell array (100, 101) can be understood as a single assembly or structure in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are arranged. The battery cell array (100, 101) can be configured to have a large area by increasing the number of battery cells (110).

[0071] The battery cell array (100, 101) may have a predetermined length, width, and height. For example, the battery cell array (100, 101) may be a three-dimensional structure having a predetermined width, a predetermined length, and a predetermined width in the width direction, the length direction, and the height direction, respectively.

[0072] A plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) may each include a plurality of battery cells (110) and a cooling unit (120).

[0073] At this time, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be provided as secondary batteries, such as cylindrical secondary batteries, pouch-type secondary batteries, or prismatic secondary batteries. However, in this specification, as an example, the description is limited to the plurality of battery cells (110) being provided as cylindrical secondary batteries.

[0074] The cooling unit (120) may be configured to cool a plurality of battery cells (110). The cooling unit (120) may be configured to allow a cooling fluid to flow through its internal space. The cooling unit (120) may be provided around and / or between the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0075] A plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) can be stacked in at least a plurality of layers and accommodated in a battery pack (10). For example, the battery pack (10) may be provided as a multi-stage structure in which a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) are composed of a 1st layer, a 2nd layer, a 3rd layer, and n layers. Additionally, the plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) may be arranged side by side along the width direction of the battery pack (10) to simultaneously implement a multi-layer stacked structure and a width direction arranged structure. With such a configuration, the battery pack (10) can maximize energy density within the same volume.

[0076] According to the present embodiment, the battery pack (10) may include a plurality of battery cell arrays (100) arranged in a lower layer and a plurality of battery cell arrays (101) arranged in an upper layer. With such a multi-layer stacked structure arranged across the upper and lower layers, the number of battery cells (110) can be effectively increased within the same volume, and a separate cooling structure can be provided for each layer, thereby improving thermal management performance and reliability.

[0077] The pipe assembly (200) may be configured to be fluidly connected to the cooling unit (120) so that cooling fluid flows into or out of the cooling unit (120). Accordingly, the flow of cooling fluid circulating inside the cooling unit (120) can be stably controlled through the pipe assembly (200).

[0078] The connector unit (300) may be provided with at least one or more. For example, the connector unit (300) may be provided in multiple numbers per layer.

[0079] The connector unit (300) can be connected to the pipe assembly (200) and configured to allow cooling fluid to flow in or out to the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100, 101) arranged adjacently in each layer.

[0080] The connector unit (300) may be positioned between or in the center of battery cell arrays (100, 101) arranged adjacently in each layer based on the width direction of the battery pack (10).

[0081] The connector unit (300) may be configured to simultaneously communicate with the cooling unit (120) and the pipe assembly (200) of the adjacently arranged battery cell array (100, 101).

[0082] As a result, the connector unit (300) can control the cooling fluid to flow in different directions from the cooling unit (120) with respect to the width direction of the battery pack (10). This allows the cooling fluid to be distributed uniformly from the center of the battery pack (10) toward both sides in the width direction. That is, the overall length of the pipe is reduced compared to when the cooling fluid is flowed from one side in the width direction of the battery pack (10) toward the other side in the width direction, thereby alleviating the differential pressure in each battery cell array (100, 101).

[0083] With this configuration, not only can the thermal efficiency between the battery cell arrays (100, 101) be improved, but the load on the pump can also be reduced by mitigating the pressure difference that occurs during the inflow or outflow of the cooling fluid. In addition, the flow of the cooling fluid can be maintained stably while minimizing flow loss, thereby improving the thermal management performance and reliability of the entire battery pack (10).

[0084] Accordingly, the battery pack (10) of the present invention can efficiently cool by uniformly distributing cooling fluid to each layer even in a multi-layer stacked structure of two or more layers. Since stable cooling is possible in such a multi-layered structure, the problem of thermal deviation that may occur when implementing a high-density or high-capacity battery pack (10) can be effectively resolved, and thermal management performance and system reliability can be secured simultaneously.

[0085]

[0086] Hereinafter, each component of the present invention will be examined in detail based on FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0087] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4, the cooling unit (120) of the present invention may include a cooling tube (121), a fastening part (122), and a connection port.

[0088] A plurality of cooling tubes (121) may be provided. A plurality of cooling tubes (121) may be formed along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack (10) and may be placed between a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0089] A cooling channel through which a cooling fluid flows can be formed inside the cooling tube (121).

[0090] The cooling tube (121) may have a repeatedly curved shape to accommodate each battery cell (110). For example, the cooling tube (121) may have a wave shape.

[0091] When the cooling tube (121) has this shape, the contact area between the cooling tube (121) and the battery cell (110) can be maximized, so the cooling performance of the cooling unit (120) can be maximized.

[0092] The connecting portion (122) may be provided in multiple numbers and each may be disposed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the cooling tube (121). These connecting portions (122) may be formed to protrude at least one side along the width direction of the battery pack (10).

[0093] The connection ports (123) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be coupled to each connecting part (122) located at one end of the longitudinal direction of two adjacent cooling tubes (121). Thus, the connection ports (123) can serve to connect the cooling channels of the two adjacent cooling tubes (121) to each other. By arranging the multiple connection ports (123) to extend along the width direction of the battery pack (10), a cooling channel can be continuously formed along the width direction of the battery pack (10).

[0094] That is, the cooling unit (120) is organically connected to one another via a plurality of connection ports (123), so that the entire cooling path can operate as a single integrated path.

[0095] A plurality of connection ports (123) may be provided along the height direction of the battery cell (110) between adjacent cooling tubes (121). For example, the connection ports (123) may be provided as a pair of a first connection port forming an inflow path and a second connection port forming an outflow path, in which case the inflow and outflow of the cooling fluid may be smoothly carried out along independent paths.

[0096] The battery cell array (100, 101) may include at least one cell array (CA) and a side frame (130).

[0097] The cell array (CA) may include a plurality of battery cells (110) and a cooling tube (121).

[0098] A cell array (CA) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple cell arrays (CA) may include a first battery cell row (R1) and a second battery cell row (R2).

[0099] The cooling tube (121) may be positioned in close contact with the sides of each battery cell (110) of the first battery cell row (R1) and the second battery cell row (R2). The cooling tube (121) may have a shape that extends long in one direction (e.g., the longitudinal direction of the battery pack (10)) along the first battery cell row (R1) and the second battery cell row (R2).

[0100] The first battery cell row (R1) and the second battery cell row (R2) may each be provided with a plurality of battery cells (110). In the first battery cell row (R1) and the second battery cell row (R2), the plurality of battery cells (110) may be arranged to form a row in one direction. For example, in the first battery cell row (R1) and the second battery cell row (R2), the plurality of battery cells (110) may form a row along the length direction of the battery pack (10).

[0101] The side frame (130) may be configured to accommodate at least one side of the cell array (CA).

[0102] The side frame (130) supports at least one side of the cell array (CA) and can form the perimeter of the battery pack (10). Here, "supporting" can be understood to include not only direct support through direct contact, but also indirect support through the interposition of another component between the two components. For example, the side frame (130) may directly support the cell array (CA) by being in direct contact with the cell array (CA), or the side frame (130) may indirectly support the cell array (CA) with an adhesive member or the like interposed between the side frame (130) and the cell array (CA).

[0103] The side frame (130) can be formed to extend along the length direction of the battery pack (10).

[0104] As an example, the side frame (130) may include a pair of side walls (131) and a side structure (132).

[0105] A pair of side walls (131) may each be configured to accommodate a cell array (CA) on one side. A pair of side walls (131) may be positioned at the outermost edge of the battery cell array (100, 101). A pair of side walls (131) may each be positioned on both sides of the outermost edge of the battery cell array (100, 101).

[0106] The side structure (132) may be configured to accommodate cell arrays (CA) on both sides. For example, the side structure (132) may be configured to accommodate two adjacent cell arrays (CA).

[0107]

[0108] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the pipe assembly (200) of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 5 based on FIG. 2, a pipe assembly (200) is positioned on one side in the longitudinal direction of a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) so as to connect each cooling unit (120) in at least one direction. For example, the pipe assembly (200) may be located on the side of the area where the connection port (123) is connected to form a cooling channel that communicates with the cooling unit (120).

[0110] The pipe assembly (200) can be configured to distribute or supply cooling fluid layer by layer to a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) stacked in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and nth layers.

[0111] As an example, the pipe assembly (200) may include an inlet pipe assembly (210) and an outlet pipe assembly (220).

[0112] The inlet pipe assembly (210) may be configured to form a flow path in its internal space so that cooling fluid flows uniformly into a plurality of cooling units (120). The outlet pipe assembly (220) may be configured to form a flow path in its internal space so that cooling fluid discharged from each cooling unit (120) is recovered through a corresponding flow path.

[0113] The inlet pipe assembly (210) and the outlet pipe assembly (220) can be provided with a mutually symmetrical structure. This symmetrical structure simplifies the directionality during assembly, thereby making the manufacturing process efficient, minimizing installation errors, and inducing the cooling fluid to be evenly distributed in the width direction and layer direction. Accordingly, thermal deviations that may occur between the central and outer parts of the multilayer structure, and between the upper and lower parts, can be effectively reduced.

[0114] Specifically, the inlet pipe assembly (210) may be composed of a plurality of pipe members forming a cooling channel. For example, it may be provided in a structure including a first inlet pipe (211), a second inlet pipe (212), and a third inlet pipe (213).

[0115] The inlet pipe assembly (210) may further include an inlet port (217) for injecting cooling fluid into the battery pack (10). The inlet port (217) may be connected to one end in the longitudinal direction of the first inlet pipe (211).

[0116] An inlet branch (214) may be attached to the longitudinal end of the first inlet pipe (211). The inlet branch (214) may serve to branch the cooling fluid supplied through the first inlet pipe (211) to each layer of the multi-stage battery cell array (100, 101). Accordingly, the cooling fluid may be evenly distributed to the N layers.

[0117] The second inlet pipe (212) is coupled to one side of the inlet branch (214) to connect the first inlet pipe (211) and the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (101) placed on the upper layer. Additionally, the third inlet pipe (213) is coupled to the other side of the inlet branch (214) to connect the first inlet pipe (211) and the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100) placed on the lower layer.

[0118] In this way, the inlet pipe assembly (210) can branch or supply cooling fluid introduced from a single inlet port (217) layer by layer, thereby enabling uniform cooling throughout the multi-layered battery cell array (100, 101). This minimizes temperature variations in the layered battery cell array (100, 101) within the battery pack (10). Furthermore, since the pipe members are modularized layer by layer, the same structure can be repeatedly applied even when the design of the battery pack (10) is expanded or the number of layers is increased, allowing for flexible adaptation to systems of various sizes.

[0119] As an example, the second inlet pipe (212) may be provided as a pipe member including a straight section of a predetermined length. The second inlet pipe (212) may form a straight extension structure together with the first inlet pipe (211) by extending along the width direction of the battery pack (10). On the other hand, the third inlet pipe (213) may be provided as a pipe member including a section having a predetermined curvature. The third inlet pipe (213) may be extended for a predetermined section in a direction orthogonal to the first inlet pipe (211), for example, toward the lower side in the height direction of the battery cell (110), through an inlet branch (214).

[0120] At this time, the inner diameter of the third inlet pipe (213) may be designed to be greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the second inlet pipe (212). Such a difference in inner diameter allows for hydrodynamic adjustment of the distribution ratio of the cooling fluid between the upper layer and the lower layer, thereby preventing the flow rate from concentrating in a specific layer and ensuring a uniform flow.

[0121] Accordingly, the shape differentiation and inner diameter design of the second inlet pipe (212) and the third inlet pipe (213) of the present invention can provide the effect of reducing inter-layer temperature variation and improving overall thermal management performance by supplying an equal cooling flow rate to each of the battery cell arrays (100, 101) having a multi-layer structure.

[0122] The second inlet pipe (212) may further include a first inlet connection (215) that can be connected to a connector unit (300). The first inlet connection (215) may form a path that is fluidly connected to a cooling unit (120) of a battery cell array (101) disposed in an upper layer, thereby allowing a cooling fluid to be uniformly supplied throughout the upper layer via the connector unit (300).

[0123] Additionally, the third inlet pipe (213) may further include a second inlet connection (216) that can be connected to a connector unit (300). The second inlet connection (216) communicates with a cooling unit (120) of a battery cell array (100) located in a lower layer, thereby enabling the cooling fluid distributed from the inlet pipe assembly (210) to be stably supplied to the lower layer as well.

[0124] The inlet pipe assembly (210) may further include an inlet temperature sensor (218) for measuring the temperature of the cooling fluid injected from the inlet port (217).

[0125] The inlet temperature sensor (218) may be positioned near the inlet port (217) or at one end in the longitudinal direction of the first inlet pipe (211), and can precisely measure the temperature just before the cooling fluid flows into the battery pack (10).

[0126] The outlet pipe assembly (220) may be composed of a plurality of pipe members forming a cooling channel. For example, it may be provided in a structure including a first outlet pipe (221), a second outlet pipe (222), and a third outlet pipe (223).

[0127] The outlet pipe assembly (220) may further include an outlet port (217) for discharging cooling fluid from inside the battery pack (10) to the outside. The outlet port (227) may be connected to one end in the longitudinal direction of the first outlet pipe (221).

[0128] An outlet branch (224) may be attached to the longitudinal end of the first outlet pipe (221). The outlet branch (224) may serve to collect cooling fluid flowing from the cooling unit (120) of each layer of the multi-stage battery cell array (100, 101) into the first outlet pipe (221). Accordingly, the cooling fluid can be smoothly discharged to the outlet port (227) through each cooling channel of the N layer.

[0129] The second outlet pipe (222) is coupled to one side of the outlet branch (224) to connect the first outlet pipe (221) and the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (101) placed on the upper layer. Additionally, the third outlet pipe (223) is coupled to the other side of the outlet branch (224) to connect the first outlet pipe (221) and the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100) placed on the lower layer.

[0130] In this way, the outlet pipe assembly (210) can smoothly collect and discharge cooling fluid branched or supplied layer by layer into a single flow path, thereby enabling uniform cooling throughout the multi-layered battery cell array (100, 101). This minimizes temperature variations in the layered battery cell array (100, 101) within the battery pack (10). Furthermore, since the pipe members are modularized layer by layer, the same structure can be repeatedly applied even when the design of the battery pack (10) is expanded or the number of layers is increased, allowing for flexible adaptation to systems of various sizes.

[0131] As an example, the second outlet pipe (222) may be provided as a pipe member including a straight section of a predetermined length. The second outlet pipe (222) may form a straight extension structure together with the first outlet pipe (221) by extending along the width direction of the battery pack (10). On the other hand, the third outlet pipe (223) may be provided as a pipe member including a section having a predetermined curvature. The third outlet pipe (223) may be extended for a predetermined section in a direction orthogonal to the first outlet pipe (221) through the outlet branch (224), for example, toward the lower side in the height direction of the battery cell (110).

[0132] At this time, the inner diameter of the third outlet pipe (223) may be designed to be greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the second outlet pipe (222). Such a difference in inner diameter allows for hydrodynamic adjustment of the distribution ratio of the cooling fluid between the upper layer and the lower layer, thereby preventing the flow rate from concentrating in a specific layer and ensuring a uniform flow.

[0133] Accordingly, the shape differentiation and inner diameter design of the second outlet pipe (222) and the third outlet pipe (223) of the present invention can provide the effect of reducing inter-layer temperature variation and improving overall thermal management performance by supplying an equal cooling flow rate to each of the battery cell arrays (100, 101) having a multi-layer structure.

[0134] The second outlet pipe (222) may further include a first outlet connection part (215) that can be connected to a connector unit (300). The first outlet connection part (215) may be configured to form a path that is fluidly connected to a cooling unit (120) of a battery cell array (101) disposed in an upper layer, so that cooling fluid supplied throughout the upper layer via the connector unit (300) is discharged.

[0135] Additionally, the third outlet pipe (223) may further include a second outlet connection (226) that can be connected to a connector unit (300). The second outlet connection (226) may be configured to form a path that is fluidly connected to a cooling unit (120) of a battery cell array (100) disposed in a lower layer, so that cooling fluid supplied throughout the lower layer via the connector unit (300) is discharged.

[0136] The outlet pipe assembly (220) may further include an outlet temperature sensor (228) for measuring the temperature of the cooling fluid discharged to the outlet port (227).

[0137] The outlet temperature sensor (218) may be positioned near the outlet port (227) or at one end in the longitudinal direction of the first outlet pipe (221) and can precisely measure the temperature when the cooling fluid is discharged from inside the battery pack (10) to the outside.

[0138] Data collected through the inlet temperature sensor (218) can be used to calculate heat exchange efficiency by comparing it with the outlet temperature sensor (228), thereby allowing for early detection of abnormalities in the cooling circuit and improving the safety of the battery pack (10).

[0139]

[0140] FIG. 6 is a schematic drawing of the connector unit (300) of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1, FIG. 7 is a schematic drawing of the movable connector (320) of the connector unit (300) of FIG. 6, FIG. 8 is a disassembled drawing of the components of the connector unit (300) of FIG. 6, and FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the process of the connector unit (300) of FIG. 6 being coupled to the cooling unit (120).

[0141] Referring to FIG. 6 through FIG. 8 based on FIG. 2, the connector unit (300) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be placed between or in the center of the cooling unit (120) of the adjacent battery cell array (100, 101) arranged in each layer.

[0142] The connector unit (300) may be provided as a pipe member that is fluidly connected to the pipe assembly (200) and connects adjacent cooling units (120). Accordingly, the connector unit (300) can ensure a continuous flow of cooling fluid between each battery cell array (100, 101) in a multilayer structure.

[0143] The connector unit (300) can be assembled after a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) are mounted on the battery pack (10). This post-assembly structure has the advantage of separating the mounting process of the battery cell arrays (100, 101) and the cooling channel formation process, thereby enabling both assembly convenience and modular design.

[0144] As an example, the connector unit (300) may include a fixed connector (310) that forms a channel through which a cooling fluid can flow in an internal space, and a movable connector (320) that is slidably coupled through the internal space of the fixed connector (310).

[0145] This sliding coupling structure is configured to allow for rapid assembly and ensures that the cooling channels are stably connected despite minute positional deviations or manufacturing tolerances between adjacent battery cell arrays (100, 101).

[0146] Accordingly, the connector unit (300) of the present invention can simply and stably connect cooling channels between multilayer battery cell arrays (100, 101), and can simultaneously secure process efficiency and cooling performance.

[0147] Specifically, the fixed connector (310) may include a fixed portion (311) with both longitudinal ends open. The fixed portion (311) may be a pipe member that forms a flow path in the internal space.

[0148] The fixed connector (310) may include a first insertion part (312) formed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the fixed part (311) and at least one first connecting hook (314) formed at a predetermined distance from the first insertion part (312).

[0149] The first insertion part (312) may be formed to be inserted into a fastening part (122) positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit (120). The first connecting hook (314) may be configured to be hooked onto the outer circumference of the fastening part (122). At this time, the protruding structure of the fastening part (122) may be inserted between the first insertion part (312) and the first connecting hook (314) to provide position fixation and sealing force.

[0150] The fixed connector (310) may further include at least one first sealing member (313) having elasticity.

[0151] The first sealing member (313) may be configured to be interposed between the first insertion part (312) and the fastening part (122) to maintain fluid sealing force. The first sealing member (313) may be formed as a single member, but may be provided in multiple numbers as needed to implement a double or triple sealing structure. For example, the first sealing member (313) may be an O-ring.

[0152] In addition, the fixed connector (310) may further include a first groove (3121) capable of receiving a first sealing member (313), and the first groove (3121) may be formed on the outer surface of the first insertion part (312). Accordingly, the first sealing member (313) is stably seated in the first groove (3121) so as not to detach during mounting and assembly, and sealing stability can be ensured even when the cooling fluid flows under high pressure.

[0153] The fixed connector (310) may include a pipe connection part (315) that extends in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the fixed part (311) and is coupled to the pipe assembly (200). This pipe connection part (315) has a structure that directly communicates the internal flow path of the fixed connector (310) with the flow path of the pipe assembly (200), and can be designed so that the cooling fluid flows stably between the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100, 101) and the pipe assembly (200).

[0154] The movable connector (320) may include a movable part (321) with both longitudinal ends open. The movable part (321) may be a pipe member that forms a flow path in an internal space.

[0155] The moving connector (320) may include a second insertion part (322) formed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the moving part (321) and at least one second connecting hook (324) formed at a predetermined distance apart from the second insertion part (322).

[0156] The second insertion part (322) may be formed to be inserted into the fastening part (122) positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit (120). The second connecting hook (324) may be configured to be hooked onto the outer circumference of the fastening part (122). At this time, the protruding structure of the fastening part (122) may be inserted between the second insertion part (322) and the second connecting hook (324) to provide position fixation and sealing force.

[0157] The movable connector (310) may further include at least one second sealing member (323) having elasticity.

[0158] The second sealing member (323) may be configured to be interposed between the second insertion part (322) and the fastening part (122) to maintain fluid sealing force. The second sealing member (323) may be formed as a single member, but may be provided in multiple numbers as needed to implement a double or triple sealing structure. For example, the second sealing member (323) may be an O-ring.

[0159] In addition, the movable connector (310) may further include a second groove (3221) capable of receiving a second sealing member (323), and the second groove (3221) may be formed on the outer surface of the second insertion part (322). Accordingly, the second sealing member (323) is stably seated in the second groove (3221) so as not to detach during mounting and assembly, and sealing stability can be ensured even when the cooling fluid flows under high pressure.

[0160] The movable part (321) can be configured to be inserted into the internal space of the fixed part (311) and slid. This allows the movable part (321) to be positioned during the assembly process, thereby facilitating precise and rapid coupling with the fastening part (122).

[0161] The fixed connector (310) may further include a catch portion (316) at the longitudinal end of the fixed portion (311), and the movable connector (320) may further include at least one connector hook (325) that is caught and mounted on the catch portion (316). Due to this catch structure, after the movable portion (321) is slid and inserted or secured into the fastening portion (122), the connector hook (325) is securely secured to the catch portion (316), thereby preventing the movable portion (321) from detaching. Accordingly, the fixing strength is maintained even in environments of repeated thermal expansion or contraction or vibration, and a stable sealed state can be secured.

[0162] In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the moving connector (320) may further include a corrugated portion (326) formed such that its length varies along the longitudinal direction of the moving portion (321). The corrugated portion (326) may be provided in a bellows structure or a corrugated structure, and can significantly improve assembly flexibility by absorbing tolerances or positional deviations between battery cell arrays (100, 101) that may occur during assembly. This reduces the precision burden in the manufacturing process and allows the same structure to be extended to battery packs (10) having various sizes and stacking numbers.

[0163] That is, according to the present embodiment, the fixed connector (310) can first be stably fixed to the fastening part (122) positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100, 101). Afterwards, the movable connector (320) can be slid to be quickly and stably fastened to the outermost fastening part (122) of the cooling unit (120) of the adjacent battery cell array (100, 101).

[0164] Accordingly, the movable connector (320) can simultaneously achieve stability and reliability of the cooling pipe structure by securing coupling strength through a sliding structure and a locking structure, while compensating for assembly tolerances through the corrugated portion (326). In addition, since the connector unit (300) is easy to connect and disconnect, it can be conveniently utilized when replacing specific parts or inspecting the cooling path during maintenance. This can contribute to significantly increasing maintenance efficiency and ensuring system reliability during the long-term operation of the battery pack (10).

[0165]

[0166] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a cooling line according to the cooling pipe structure of FIG. 2, and FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the flow of a cooling fluid according to the cooling line of FIG. 10.

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the pipe connection portion (315) of the fixed connector (310) can be extended in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the fixed portion (311) and combined with the pipe assembly (200).

[0168] The pipe connection part (315) has a structure that directly connects the internal flow path of the fixed connector (310) and the flow path of the pipe assembly (200), allowing the cooling fluid to flow stably between the cooling unit (120) of the battery cell array (100, 101) and the pipe assembly (200).

[0169] These pipe connection portions (315) can be connected to the first inlet connection portion (215) or the second inlet connection portion (216) on the side of the inlet pipe assembly (210). On the side of the outlet pipe assembly (220), they can be connected to the first outlet connection portion (225) or the second outlet connection portion (226). Thus, a fixed connector (310) of the same structure can be used universally in both the inlet system and the outlet system, thereby increasing part compatibility and simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process.

[0170] The pipe connection part (315) can be designed to be easily connected to a straight or curved pipe member. For example, the connection structure can be implemented using a quick connector method, a screw connection method, or a flange connection method. Accordingly, the pipe connection part (315) can be repeatedly connected and disconnected during assembly, thereby improving maintainability, while simultaneously ensuring stable fluid sealing and pressure resistance.

[0171] In this way, the cooling fluid introduced through the inlet pipe assembly (210) flows into the connector unit (300) via the fixed connector (310), and can be uniformly distributed to the cooling unit (120) of the adjacent battery cell array (100, 101) through the connector unit (300).

[0172] As an example, the connector unit (300) may be formed as a T-shaped pipe structure. This allows the cooling fluid flowing into the battery pack (10) in the longitudinal direction to be branched out to both sides in the width direction and supplied uniformly. This cooling fluid distribution process is performed independently for each layer, thereby enabling uniform heat exchange throughout the multilayer structure.

[0173] In particular, according to the present embodiment, when a connector unit (300) is placed in the center of the width direction of the battery pack (10), the cooling fluid is distributed evenly from the center to both sides, so the pipe length can be shortened compared to when it is placed on one side of the width direction, thereby further reducing pressure loss and differential pressure.

[0174] Afterwards, the cooling fluid circulated (U-flow) along the cooling line inside the battery cell array (100, 101) can be discharged to the outside through the outlet pipe assembly (220) in the reverse order of the cooling line according to the injection path.

[0175] Flow resistance can be balanced by appropriately designing the length and diameter of the pipe corresponding to each layer based on a branching point such as a connector unit (300) or an inlet branch (214). That is, the flow rate can be restricted by reducing the inner diameter or adding curvature in sections with relatively short flow path lengths, and conversely, the pressure loss can be reduced by expanding the inner diameter or increasing the straight section in sections with long flow path lengths, thereby effectively correcting the flow rate variation between layers. Through such design optimization, the flow rate of the cooling fluid distributed to each layer is maintained uniformly, and the phenomenon of the flow rate being concentrated or insufficient in only a specific layer can be suppressed.

[0176] Accordingly, according to the present embodiment, the differential pressure in the entire battery pack (10) is relieved, and the loss occurring during the flow rate control process is minimized, so that heat exchange efficiency and assembly can be improved simultaneously.

[0177]

[0178] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the combined structure of the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 12, the battery pack (10) may include a pack case (400).

[0180] The pack case (400) can provide an internal space. The pack case (400) can accommodate a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101), a pipe assembly (200), and a connector unit (300) in the internal space.

[0181] The pack case (400) can be described as having a roughly rectangular shape. The pack case (400) may include a case body and a pack cover. The case body is configured in the form of a box with an open top so as to accommodate a plurality of battery cell arrays (100, 101) in the internal space. The pack cover may be configured in the form of a lid that covers the open top of the case body.

[0182] The pipe assembly (200) may be provided within the pack case (400). The pipe assembly (200) may be placed in the space between the battery cell array (100, 101) and the side wall of the pack case (400).

[0183] The pack case (400) may be equipped with a first cooling port (410) and a second cooling port (420) as a fluid communication part connecting the outside and inside of the battery pack (10).

[0184] The first cooling port (410) is connected to the inlet port (217) of the inlet pipe assembly (210) so that cooling fluid flowing in from the outside can be injected into the cooling path inside the battery pack (10). This enables smooth connection with an external cooling system and allows the pressure conditions of the incoming cooling fluid to be maintained stably.

[0185] The second cooling port (420) is connected to the outlet port (227) of the outlet pipe assembly (220) so that the cooling fluid circulating inside the battery pack (10) can be discharged to the outside. This allows the heat generated inside the battery pack (10) to be efficiently transferred or released to the outside through the cooling fluid.

[0186]

[0187] Accordingly, the first cooling port (410) and the second cooling port (420) serve as an interface connecting the cooling channel of the battery pack (10) and an external cooling device, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire cooling system.

[0188] The pack case (400) may be equipped with a cross beam (B).

[0189] A cross beam (B) may be provided between a pair of mutually adjacent battery cell arrays (100, 101). The cross beam (B) may partition the space between a pair of mutually adjacent battery cell arrays (100, 101). The cross beam (B) may be a beam protruding a certain length from the inner surface of the pack case (400).

[0190] The battery cell array (100, 101) may each further include a side plate (140).

[0191] Side plates (140) may be provided on both outermost sides of the battery cell array (100, 101).

[0192] The side plate (140) may be configured to be coupled with the cross beam (B). The side plate (140) may be bolted to the cross beam (B). The side plate (140) may have a hole configured to allow a bolt to be inserted. The side plates (140) of a pair of mutually adjacent battery cell arrays (100, 101) may be configured to be coupled to the cross beam (B) in an alternating manner.

[0193] A multi-layered battery cell array (100, 101) can be placed on the inner surface of a pack case (400) after production and assembly are completed. Mutually adjacent battery cell arrays (100, 101) can be accommodated in the pack case (400) with a cross beam (B) in between.

[0194] Afterward, the pipe assembly (200) and the connector unit (300) can be assembled to the battery cell array (100, 101). Here, the pipe assembly (200) and the connector unit (300) can be assembled first and then assembled as a single unit to the battery cell array (100, 101). Alternatively, the connector unit (300) can be mounted first and then the pipe assembly (200) can be assembled.

[0195] Through the above connection method, in the manufacturing process of the battery pack (10), the battery cell array (100, 101) is first accommodated in the pack case (400) and then connected to the length-adjustable connector unit (300) to ensure ease of assembly and stability.

[0196]

[0197] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a vehicle (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 13, the automobile (1) according to the present invention may include a battery pack (2). The automobile (1) may be a hybrid automobile (1) or an electric automobile (1). The automobile (1) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the automobile (1) in addition to the battery pack (2). For example, the automobile (1) according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, an ECU (electronic control unit), and other control devices in addition to the battery pack (2) according to the present invention.

[0199] As described above, although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is evident to those skilled in the art that many diverse and obvious variations are possible from this description without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be interpreted by the claims described to include examples of such many variations.

[0200] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0201] 10: Battery pack

[0202] 100, 101: Battery cell array

[0203] 110: Battery cell

[0204] 120: Cooling unit

[0205] 121: Cooling tube

[0206] 122: Connecting part

[0207] 123: Connection Port

[0208] 130: Side frame

[0209] 131: Sidewall

[0210] 132: Side structure

[0211] 140: Side plate

[0212] 200: Pipe Assembly

[0213] 210: Inlet pipe assembly

[0214] 211: First inlet pipe

[0215] 212: Second inlet pipe

[0216] 213: Third inlet pipe

[0217] 214: Inlet branch

[0218] 215: First inlet connection

[0219] 216: Second inlet connection

[0220] 217: Inlet Port

[0221] 218: Inlet temperature sensor

[0222] 220: Outlet pipe assembly

[0223] 221: First outlet pipe

[0224] 222: Second outlet pipe

[0225] 223: Third outlet pipe

[0226] 224: Outlet Branch

[0227] 225: First outlet connection

[0228] 226: Second outlet connection

[0229] 227: Outlet Port

[0230] 228: Outlet temperature sensor

[0231] 300: Connector Unit

[0232] 310: Fixed connector

[0233] 311: Fixed part

[0234] 312: First insertion

[0235] 3121: 1st Homebu

[0236] 313: First sealing member

[0237] 314: 1st connecting hook

[0238] 315: Pipe connection

[0239] 316: Hinder

[0240] 320: Mobile Connector

[0241] 321: Mobile Unit

[0242] 322: Second insertion

[0243] 3221: 2nd Home

[0244] 323: Second sealing member

[0245] 324: Second connecting hook

[0246] 325: Connector Hook

[0247] 325: Fold

[0248] 400: Pack Case

[0249] 410: 1st cooling port

[0250] 420: Second cooling port

[0251] CA: Cell Array

[0252] R1: 1st cell array

[0253] R2: Second cell array

[0254] B: Cross beam

[0255] V: Car

Claims

1. As a battery pack, A plurality of battery cell arrays stacked in at least a plurality of layers, comprising a plurality of battery cells and a cooling unit for cooling the plurality of battery cells; A pipe assembly configured to allow cooling fluid to flow in and out of the above cooling unit; and A battery pack characterized by including a plurality of connector units configured such that a cooling fluid flows in a different direction relative to the width direction of the battery pack from a cooling unit of a battery cell array arranged adjacently in each layer and connected to the pipe assembly.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling unit is, A plurality of cooling tubes formed along the longitudinal direction of the battery pack and disposed between the plurality of battery cells; A plurality of fastening parts each provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the plurality of cooling tubes and protruding along the width direction of the battery pack; and A battery pack characterized by including a plurality of connection ports that are coupled to the fastening portion between the adjacent cooling tubes and connect the plurality of cooling tubes.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above pipe assembly is, A battery pack characterized by being disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction of the plurality of battery cell arrays above.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above pipe assembly is, An inlet pipe assembly configured to form a channel in the internal space and allow cooling fluid to flow into the cooling unit; and A battery pack characterized by including an outlet pipe assembly configured to form a Euro in the internal space and to discharge cooling fluid from the cooling unit.

5. In Paragraph 4, The inlet pipe assembly and the outlet pipe assembly are, A battery pack characterized by being formed with a mutually symmetrical structure.

6. In Paragraph 4, The above inlet pipe assembly is, An inlet port for injecting cooling fluid into the battery pack; A first inlet pipe connected to the above inlet port; An inlet branch that is combined with the first inlet pipe and branches the flow path; A second inlet pipe coupled to one side of the inlet branch portion and connecting the first inlet pipe and a connector unit disposed on one floor; and A battery pack characterized by including a third inlet pipe that is coupled to the other side of the inlet branch and connects the second inlet pipe and a connector unit disposed on the other layer.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above third inlet pipe is, It includes a section having a predetermined curvature, The inner diameter of the third inlet pipe mentioned above is, A battery pack characterized by having an inner diameter larger than or equal to that of the second inlet pipe.

8. In Paragraph 4, The above inlet pipe assembly is, A battery pack characterized by further including an inlet temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of a cooling fluid injected from the inlet port.

9. In Paragraph 4, The above outlet pipe assembly is, An outlet port for discharging cooling fluid from inside the battery pack; A first outlet pipe connected to the above outlet port; An outlet branch that is combined with the first outlet pipe and branches the Euro; A second outlet pipe coupled to one side of the above-mentioned outlet branch and connecting the first outlet pipe and a connector unit disposed on one floor; and A battery pack characterized by including a third outlet pipe that is coupled to the other side of the outlet branch and connects the second outlet pipe and a connector unit disposed on the other layer.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above outlet pipe assembly is, A battery pack characterized by further including an outlet temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of a cooling fluid discharged through the outlet port.

11. In Paragraph 9, The above third outlet pipe is, It includes a section having a predetermined curvature, The inner diameter of the third outlet pipe mentioned above is, A battery pack characterized by having an inner diameter larger than or equal to that of the second outlet pipe.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of connector units, A battery pack characterized by being disposed between the cooling units of adjacent battery cell arrays arranged in each of the above layers and communicating with the pipe assembly.

13. In Paragraph 2, The above connector unit is, A fixed connector forming a Euro in the internal space; and A battery pack characterized by including a movable connector that is slidably coupled through the internal space of the fixed connector.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above fixed connector is, A fixed part with both ends open in the longitudinal direction; A first insertion part formed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the above-mentioned fixed part and inserted into a fastening part positioned at the outermost edge of the cooling unit; At least one first connecting hook formed at a predetermined distance apart on the first insertion part and hooked onto a fastening part disposed at the outermost edge of the cooling unit; and A battery pack characterized by including a pipe connection portion that extends in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the fixed portion and is coupled to the pipe assembly.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above fixed connector is, At least one first sealing member having elasticity; and A battery pack characterized by further including at least one first groove portion provided on the outer surface of the first insert portion and capable of receiving the first sealing member.

16. In Paragraph 14, The above-mentioned movable connector is, A movable part that is open at both ends in the longitudinal direction and inserted into the internal space of the fixed part; A second insertion part formed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the above-mentioned moving part and inserted into a fastening part disposed at the outermost edge of a second cooling unit adjacent to a cooling unit coupled with the above-mentioned fixed connector; and A battery pack characterized by including at least one second connecting hook formed at a predetermined distance apart on the second insertion part and mounted by hooking onto a fastening part disposed at the outermost edge of the second cooling unit.

17. In Paragraph 16, The above-mentioned movable connector is, At least one second sealing member having elasticity; and A battery pack characterized by further including at least one second groove portion provided on the outer surface of the second insert portion and capable of receiving the second sealing member.

18. In Paragraph 16, The above-mentioned movable connector is, A battery pack characterized by further including a corrugated portion configured such that the length of the moving portion varies along the longitudinal direction of the moving portion.

19. In Paragraph 14, The above fixed connector is, It includes a locking part formed at the other end in the longitudinal direction of the above-mentioned fixed part, and The above-mentioned movable connector is, A battery pack characterized by including at least one connector hook that is hooked and mounted on the above-mentioned hook portion.

20. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

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