Battery cell, method for manufacturing battery cell, battery pack comprising battery cell, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery cell according to the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly in which a separator is interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode, the electrode assembly being wound around a winding center hole; a can housing accommodating the electrode assembly and having an opening at one side thereof; a cap plate covering the opening and having a vent portion configured to rupture when internal pressure increases; a first current collector plate electrically connected to the first electrode; and a first electrode terminal disposed through the cap plate, electrically connected to the first current collector plate, and having the same polarity as the first electrode.

Description

Battery cell, method for manufacturing a battery cell, battery pack including a battery cell, and automobile

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile, and more specifically, to a battery cell that facilitates bottom cooling, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile.

[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0191675 filed on December 19, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003] Recently, as the demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones has increased rapidly, and the development of electric vehicles, energy storage batteries, robots, and satellites has accelerated, research on high-performance secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging is actively underway.

[0004] Currently commercialized rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to freely charge and discharge with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] These lithium-ion secondary batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. Additionally, the lithium-ion secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, each coated with the positive and negative active materials, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing that seals and encloses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0006] Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries can be classified according to the shape of the battery case into pouch-type rechargeable batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch made of aluminum laminate sheets, and can-type rechargeable batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can. Furthermore, can-type rechargeable batteries can be further classified into cylindrical batteries and prismatic batteries depending on the shape of the metal can. These lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are utilized as battery modules or battery packs, which are assembled into a dense structure by overlapping or stacking multiple battery cells—either directly or mounted in cartridges—and then electrically connected to provide high voltage and high current.

[0007] In conventional cylindrical battery cells, it was difficult to implement bottom cooling when configuring a battery pack. In conventional cylindrical battery cells, different electrodes could be configured at each end of the can, or different electrodes could be configured together at one end of the can. In the former case, due to interference between the electrodes placed at each end of the can, it was difficult to place a cooling member for cooling at either end of the can. In the latter case, although different electrodes were placed together at one end of the can, a venting section was provided at the other end of the can, and a predetermined venting path or venting space had to be provided on the venting section side; therefore, similar to the former case, it was difficult to place a cooling member at either end of the can. Consequently, in battery packs containing conventional cylindrical battery cells, a side cooling method for cooling the side of the battery cell had to be mainly applied.

[0008] The present invention was conceived in consideration of the technical background described above, and has the purpose of providing a battery cell that facilitates bottom cooling, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile.

[0009] 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.

[0010] A battery cell according to the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly provided by being wound around a central winding hole with a separator interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode; a can housing that accommodates the electrode assembly and has an opening on one side; a cap plate that covers the opening and has a vent portion configured to break when internal pressure increases; a first current collector plate electrically connected to the first electrode; and a first electrode terminal disposed through the cap plate, electrically connected to the first current collector plate, and having the same polarity as the first electrode.

[0011] The battery cell according to the present invention further includes a second electrode terminal having the same polarity as the second electrode, and the first electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal may each be disposed on the side of the opening.

[0012] The above cap plate can be configured not to have polarity.

[0013] The can housing further comprises a crimping portion that extends inward and is bent to seal the cap plate at the end of the opening, and the crimping portion can function as the second electrode terminal.

[0014] A battery cell according to the present invention may further include a first insulating gasket that insulates the first electrode terminal and the cap plate from each other; and a second insulating gasket that insulates the crimping portion and the cap plate from each other.

[0015] The above vent portion is formed by a notched vent notch portion, and the first electrode terminal can be disposed through the vent portion.

[0016] The first current collector plate may be provided with an electrode tab that can be welded to the first electrode terminal.

[0017] The first current collector plate may have a hollow hole into which an electrolyte can be injected.

[0018] The battery cell according to the present invention may further include an insulator that insulates the first current collector plate and the can housing from each other.

[0019] A battery cell according to the present invention further comprises a second current collector plate electrically connected to the second electrode, and the second current collector plate may be provided in a flat shape.

[0020] The above can housing may further have a closure on the other side, and the second current collector plate may be welded face-to-face with the closure.

[0021] The above-mentioned closure may be provided with an outer surface that is flat.

[0022] A method for manufacturing a battery cell according to the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly provided by being wound around a central winding hole with a separator interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode; a can housing having an opening on one side and accommodating the electrode assembly; a cap plate configured to cover the opening; a first current collector plate electrically connected to the first electrode; and a first electrode terminal disposed through the cap plate, electrically connected to the first current collector plate, and having the same polarity as the first electrode. The method comprises the steps of: (a) accommodating the electrode assembly in the can housing; (b) injecting an electrolyte into the electrode assembly; and (c) welding the first current collector plate and the first electrode terminal together.

[0023] A battery pack according to the present invention comprises at least one battery cell according to the present invention.

[0024] The battery pack according to the present invention may further include a cooling member disposed at a location other than the opening side of the battery cell.

[0025] The automobile according to the present invention includes at least one battery pack according to the present invention.

[0026] The present invention was conceived in consideration of the technical background described above, and has the purpose of providing a battery cell that facilitates bottom cooling, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile.

[0027] According to the present invention, a battery cell that facilitates bottom cooling, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided.

[0028] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery cell with improved electrical stability, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided.

[0029] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery cell, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided, wherein a heat transfer shape can be effectively prevented when a thermal event occurs.

[0030] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery cell capable of easily injecting an electrolyte, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided.

[0031] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery cell with improved energy density, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided.

[0032] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery cell with enhanced rigidity, a method for manufacturing a battery cell, a battery pack including a battery cell, and an automobile can be provided.

[0033] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0034] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal appearance of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a side view showing an electrode unfolded according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the upper part of the battery cell in Figure 2.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a first current collector plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged upper portion of the interior of a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the lower part of the battery cell in Figure 2.

[0042] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a second current collector plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the battery cell of FIG. 1 viewed from a different direction.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view showing the interior of a battery pack in which a cooling member is disposed at the bottom of a battery cell.

[0047] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the interior of a battery pack in which a cooling member is disposed on the side of a battery cell.

[0048] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] 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, and 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.

[0050] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0051] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the X-axis and Y-axis directions may be left-right and front-back directions, or front-back and left-right directions, respectively, and the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the XY plane may be up-down direction (vertical direction).

[0052]

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal appearance of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a side view showing an electrode unfolded according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the upper part of the battery cell in FIG. 2 in enlargement.

[0054] Hereinafter, a battery cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. A battery cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an electrode assembly (10), a can housing (20), a cap plate (30), a first current collector plate (40), and a first electrode terminal (T1).

[0055] The electrode assembly (10) may include an electrode (11) and a separator (12). The electrode (11) may include electrodes (11) of different polarities. Specifically, the electrode (11) may include a first electrode (11a) and a second electrode (11b). The first electrode (11a) may have a first polarity, and the second electrode (11b) may have a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. For example, the first polarity may be a positive electrode and the second polarity may be a negative electrode. The separator (12) may be interposed between electrodes (11) of different polarities. The separator (12) may be interposed between the first electrode (11a) and the second electrode (11b). The separator (12) may be an insulator.

[0056] The electrode assembly (10) may have a jelly-roll structure. That is, the electrode assembly (10) may be manufactured by winding a laminate formed by stacking at least once with a separator (12) interposed between a sheet-shaped first electrode (11a) and a second electrode (11b) around a winding center hole (C). Any jelly-roll structure known in the art may be applied to the present invention without limitation.

[0057] The electrode (11) may have a retaining portion (111) and a non-retaining portion (112). The retaining portion (111) may be a portion on at least one surface of the electrode (11) where an active material layer is laminated. For example, a positive active material may be laminated on the retaining portion (111) of the first electrode (11a), and a negative active material may be laminated on the retaining portion (111) of the second electrode (11b).

[0058] The unoccupied portion (112) may be a part of the electrode (11) where no active material is laminated. The electrode (11) may have a predetermined length "I" width, and the unoccupied portion (112) may be formed on one long side of the electrode (11). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the unoccupied portion (112) may be formed on the long side in the Z-axis direction. The unoccupied portion (112) of the first electrode (11a) may be formed on the long side in the +Z direction as in FIG. 3. The unoccupied portion (112) of the second electrode (11b) may be formed on the long side in the -Z direction, unlike FIG. 3.

[0059] At least a portion of the unoccupied portion (112) may be exposed to the outside of the separator (12). The unoccupied portion (112) may be used as an electrode (11) tab.

[0060] The unwound portion (112) may be provided with a plurality of foil tabs (113). The foil tabs (113) may be exposed to the outside of the separator (12). The plurality of foil tabs (113) may be arranged in a line from the winding center hole (C) side toward the outer circumference (e.g., toward the +X direction of FIG. 3). The plurality of foil tabs (113) may be formed by at least one notching portion (114) formed by notching processing. However, in FIG. 3, the plurality of foil tabs (113) are shown in a form in which their length increases as they go from the winding center hole (C) side toward the outer circumference side, but this is merely an example, and the length, shape, number, and arrangement pattern of the foil tabs (113) are not limited thereto and can be implemented in various variations that conform to the technical concept.

[0061] The electrode (11) may be provided with an insulating coating portion (115). The insulating coating portion (115) may be placed at the boundary between the uninsulated portion (112) and the retaining portion (111). The insulating coating portion (115) may be provided when the electrode (11) is the first electrode (11a), and may prevent the respective retaining portions (111) of the first electrode (11a) and the second electrode (11b) from coming into contact with each other.

[0062] The description of the electrode (11) above and below may be applied commonly to both the first electrode (11a) and the second electrode (11b) unless otherwise noted.

[0063] An electrode assembly (10) may be accommodated in the can housing (20). The can housing (20) may have a receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly (10). The can housing (20) may be provided, for example, in a hollow cylindrical shape to accommodate the electrode assembly (10). An opening (21) may be formed on one side of the can housing (20) (for example, on the side in the +Z direction).

[0064] The cap plate (30) may be configured to cover the opening (21). The cap plate (30) may be placed in the opening (21). The cap plate (30) may be placed in the opening (21) in a sealed state. The cap plate (30) may be provided in a roughly circular plate shape.

[0065] The cap plate (30) may be provided with a vent portion (31). The vent portion (31) may be configured to break when internal pressure increases. Specifically, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (1), the internal pressure of the battery cell (1) may increase, and the vent portion (31) may break due to the increased internal pressure, and a venting gas composed of high-temperature gas, etc., may be discharged to the outside of the battery cell (1) through the broken vent portion (31).

[0066] The first current collector plate (40) can be electrically connected to the first electrode (11a) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the first current collector plate (40) can be electrically connected to a plurality of foil tabs (113) provided on the first electrode (11a). The first current collector plate (40) may be an anode current collector plate. The first current collector plate (40) may be disposed on one side of the electrode assembly (10), for example (for example, the +Z direction side).

[0067] The first electrode terminal (T1) may have the same polarity as the first electrode (11a). That is, the first electrode terminal (T1) may have the first polarity.

[0068] The first electrode terminal (T1) may be disposed on the cap plate (30). The first electrode terminal (T1) may be disposed through the cap plate (30). The first electrode terminal (T1) may be disposed through, for example, approximately in the center of the cap plate (30).

[0069] The first electrode terminal (T1) may be provided in the form of a rivet. The first electrode terminal (T1) may be positioned so that at least a portion penetrates the cap plate (30) and faces the interior of the can housing (20). Another portion of the first electrode terminal (T1) may be exposed and protrude to the outside of the battery cell (1).

[0070] The first electrode terminal (T1) can be electrically connected to the first current collector plate (40). As described above, the first current collector plate (40) can be electrically connected to the first electrode (11a), so the first electrode terminal (T1) can have the same polarity as the first electrode (11a). The first electrode terminal (T1) can have a first polarity. The first electrode terminal (T1) can be configured as a positive terminal.

[0071] A battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can facilitate bottom cooling as it is configured as described above.

[0072] Specifically, a venting path or venting space for venting the venting gas can be provided on one side (e.g., the +Z direction side) of the battery cell (1) in which the vent portion (31) is arranged, and since the first electrode terminal (T1) can be placed on the cap plate (30) having such a vent portion (31), a configuration such as a means for cooling the battery cell (1) (e.g., the -Z direction side) can be easily arranged on the other side of the battery cell (1) (e.g., the cooling member (CL) described later together with FIGS. 12 and 13). And, since the other side of the battery cell (1) can form the bottom of the battery cell (1), the battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can easily implement so-called bottom cooling, which cools the bottom of the battery cell (1).

[0073]

[0074] A battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second electrode terminal (T2). The second electrode terminal (T2) may have the same polarity as the second electrode (11b). The second electrode terminal (T2) may have a second polarity. The second electrode terminal (T2) may be configured as a negative electrode terminal.

[0075] The can housing (20) can be electrically connected to the second electrode (11b) to have a second polarity and can function as a second electrode terminal (T2).

[0076] The first electrode terminal (T1) and the second electrode terminal (T2) can each be positioned on the side of the opening (21). That is, the first electrode terminal (T1) and the second electrode terminal (T2) can be positioned together on one side of the battery cell (1).

[0077] When the battery cell (1) is configured as described above, a first electrode terminal (T1) and a second electrode terminal (T2) of different polarities can be provided together on one side of the battery cell (1), so that electrical connections between different battery cells (1) or between one or more battery cells (1) and an external electrical device can be easily and efficiently implemented, and on the other side of the battery cell (1), configurations such as means for cooling the battery cell (1) can be arranged in a state where interference is minimized, so bottom cooling can be made easier.

[0078]

[0079] The cap plate (30) may be configured not to have polarity. That is, the cap plate (30) may be configured to be non-polar, not having a first polarity and a second polarity. The cap plate (30) may not be electrically connected to the first electrode (11a) and the second electrode (11b).

[0080] When the cap plate (30) is configured as described above, the first electrode terminal (T1) and the can housing (20), or the first electrode terminal (T1) and the second electrode terminal (T2) can be effectively insulated from each other by the cap plate (30), thereby improving the electrical stability of the battery cell (1).

[0081]

[0082] The can housing (20) may further be provided with a crimping portion (23). The crimping portion (23) may be provided at the end of the can housing (20) on the side of the opening (21). The crimping portion (23) may be provided at the end of one side (+Z direction side) of the can housing (20). The crimping portion (23) may be configured to seal the cap plate (30). The crimping portion (23) may cover at least a portion of the opening (21) of the can housing (20). The crimping portion (23) may be configured to cover a portion of the edge of the cap plate (30). The crimping portion (23) may be in a shape that is extended inward and bent. The process of extending and bending the end of the can housing (20) on the side of the opening (21) inward to form the crimping portion (23) may be referred to as the crimping process.

[0083] The crimping portion (23) can function as a second electrode terminal (T2). As described above, the can housing (20) can be electrically connected to the second electrode (11b), and the crimping portion (23), which is part of the can housing (20), can be electrically connected to the second electrode (11b) and function as a second electrode terminal (T2).

[0084] When the battery cell (1) is configured as described above, the first electrode terminal (T1) and the second electrode terminal (T2) can be effectively provided on one side of the battery cell (1). Additionally, when viewed from the axial direction or Z-axis direction of the winding center hole (C), the crimping portion (23) can form the edge of one side of the battery cell (1), the first electrode terminal (T1) can be positioned approximately in the center of the battery cell (1), and the cap plate (30) can be provided to separate the crimping portion (23) and the first electrode terminal (T1) by a predetermined distance between the crimping portion (23) and the first electrode terminal (T1), thereby effectively insulating the second electrode terminal (T2) and the first electrode terminal (T1).

[0085]

[0086] A battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first insulating gasket (G1) and a second insulating gasket (G2).

[0087] The first insulating gasket (G1) can insulate the first electrode terminal (T1) and the cap plate (30) from each other. The first insulating gasket (G1) may include a material having insulating properties. The first insulating gasket (G1) may be provided to surround at least a portion of the first electrode terminal (T1). The space between the first electrode terminal (T1) and the cap plate (30) can be sealed by the first insulating gasket (G1).

[0088] The second insulating gasket (G2) can insulate the crimping portion (23) and the cap plate (30) from each other. The second insulating gasket (G2) may include a material having insulating properties. The second insulating gasket (G2) may be provided to surround the edge of the cap plate (30). The second insulating gasket (G2) may be fixed to the crimping portion (23) by being pressed during the aforementioned crimping process. The space between the cap plate (30) and the crimping portion (23) can be sealed by the second insulating gasket (G2).

[0089] When the battery cell (1) further includes a first insulating gasket (G1) and a second insulating gasket (G2) as described above, the first electrode terminal (T1) and the cap plate (30), and the crimping portion (23) and the cap plate (30) can be effectively insulated, and the space between the first electrode terminal (T1) and the cap plate (30) and the space between the crimping portion (23) and the cap plate (30) can be effectively sealed.

[0090]

[0091] Meanwhile, the can housing (20) may further be provided with a beading portion (24). The beading portion (24) may be formed by being indented inward from a side adjacent to the end of the opening (21) of the can housing (20). The beading portion (24) may secure the electrode assembly (10). The press-fitting process for forming the beading portion (24) may be referred to as the beading process. When manufacturing the battery cell (1), the beading process may be performed before the crimping process.

[0092] The second insulating gasket (G2) can be fixed by pressure by the crimping part (23) and the beading part (24), with the upper part being pressed by the crimping part (23) and the lower part being pressed by the beading part (24).

[0093]

[0094] The vent portion (31) may be formed by the vent notch portion (32). The vent portion (31) may be a part located inside the vent notch portion (32) of the cap plate (30). The vent notch portion (32) may be formed by notching the cap plate (30). The vent notch portion (32) may be formed inside the cap plate (30). The vent notch portion (32) may be formed in a roughly circular shape, and the vent portion (31) may also be formed in a roughly circular shape. The vent notch portion (32) may be formed at a predetermined distance from the first electrode terminal (T1).

[0095] The vent notch portion (32) may be formed to be vulnerable to fracture. Therefore, if the internal pressure of the battery cell (1) increases, the vent notch portion (32) may be induced to fracture.

[0096] The first electrode terminal (T1) can be positioned through the vent portion (31). The first electrode terminal (T1) can be positioned through approximately the center of the vent portion (31).

[0097] When the vent portion (31) is formed by the vent notch portion (32) as described above, the vent portion (31) can be broken when the internal pressure of the battery cell (1) increases. Furthermore, when the first electrode terminal (T1) is placed in the vent portion (31), the first electrode terminal (T1) can be easily separated from the battery cell (1) when the vent portion (31) is broken due to the increase in the internal pressure of the battery cell (1). Therefore, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (1), effective venting can be achieved, and the heat transfer phenomenon can be effectively prevented.

[0098]

[0099] FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a first current collector plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, the first current collector plate of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0101] The first current collector plate (40) may be provided with an electrode tab (41). The electrode tab (41) may be provided with a long extension in the radial direction. The electrode tab (41) may extend from the outer circumference of the first current collector plate (40).

[0102] The electrode tab (41) can be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal (T1). The electrode tab (41) can be welded to the first electrode terminal (T1). The welding of the electrode tab (41) and the first electrode terminal (T1) can be performed outside the battery cell (1).

[0103] The first current collector plate (40) may be provided with a first electrode coupling portion (42). The first electrode coupling portion (42) may be a part that is electrically connected to the first electrode (11a). The first electrode coupling portion (42) may be welded to the foil tab (113) of the first electrode (11a).

[0104] One end of the electrode tab (41) can be connected to the outer circumference of the first electrode coupling part (42). The other end of the electrode tab (41) can be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal (T1). One end of the electrode tab (41) can be bent at a position adjacent to the outer circumference of the first electrode coupling part (42), so that when viewed from the winding center axis to the Z-axis direction, the other end of the electrode tab (41) can be positioned in the center, allowing the other end of the electrode tab (41) to be easily connected to the first electrode terminal (T1).

[0105] As described above, when the first current collector plate (40) is provided with an electrode tab (41), there is an advantage that the first current collector plate (40) can be effectively connected to the first electrode (11a) and the first electrode terminal (T1), respectively.

[0106]

[0107] The first current collector plate (40) may be provided with a hollow hole (43). The hollow hole (43) may be provided approximately in the center of the first current collector plate (40). The center of the hollow hole (43) may coincide with the center of the winding center hole (C). The hollow hole (43) may be configured to allow the electrolyte to be injected. The hollow hole (43) may be a hole through which the electrolyte can be injected into the electrode assembly (10).

[0108] If the first collector plate (40) is provided with a hollow hole (43), there is an advantage that the electrolyte can be easily injected into the electrode assembly (10) through the hollow hole (43).

[0109]

[0110] The first collector plate (40) may have both an electrode tab (41) and a hollow hole (43).

[0111]

[0112] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged upper portion of the interior of a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, a battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. A battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include an insulator (50).

[0114] The insulator (50) may be configured to insulate the first collector plate (40) and the can housing (20) from each other. The insulator (50) may include a material having insulating properties.

[0115] The insulator (50) may be positioned between the first current collector plate (40) and the can housing (20). The insulator (50) may cover an area adjacent to the outer circumference of the first current collector plate (40). For example, the insulator (50) may cover a portion of the upper surface of the first current collector plate (40) in an area adjacent to the outer circumference of the first current collector plate (40). In this case, the insulator (50) may be positioned between the upper surface of the first current collector plate (40) and the lower surface of the beading portion (24). Additionally, for example, the insulator (50) may be positioned between the upper part of the electrode assembly (10) and the inner surface of the can housing (20).

[0116] Meanwhile, the insulator (50) may be provided with an open central portion. The electrode tab (41) may be connected to the first electrode terminal (T1) through the open central portion of the insulator (50).

[0117] A battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention further includes an insulator (50) so that the first current collector plate (40) and the can housing (20) can be effectively insulated from each other.

[0118]

[0119] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the lower part of the battery cell in FIG. 2, FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a second current collector plate according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the battery cell of FIG. 1 viewed from a different direction.

[0120] With reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0121] A battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second current collector (60). The second current collector (60) may be electrically connected to the second electrode (11b) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the second current collector (60) may be electrically connected to a plurality of foil tabs (113) provided on the second electrode (11b). The second current collector (60) may be a negative current collector. The second current collector (60) may be disposed on the other side (e.g., the -Z direction side) of the electrode assembly (10).

[0122] The second collector plate (60) can be electrically connected to the can housing (20). Accordingly, the can housing (20) can be electrically connected to the second electrode (11b), so it can have a second polarity and can function as a second electrode terminal (T2).

[0123] The second collector plate (60) may be provided in a flat shape. For example, the second collector plate (60) may be provided in a shape parallel to the XY plane.

[0124] The second current collector plate (60) may be provided with a second electrode coupling portion (61) and a cover portion (62). The second electrode coupling portion (61) may be a portion coupled to the second electrode (11b). The cover portion (62) is an area located approximately in the center of the second current collector plate (60) to the second electrode coupling portion (61) and may cover the winding center hole (C). The second electrode coupling portion (61) and the cover portion (62) may be provided in a flat shape forming a continuous plane.

[0125] When the second current collector plate (60) is configured as described above, the second current collector plate (60) can be provided in a non-bridge structure. Specifically, in conventional battery cells, the negative current collector plate corresponding to the second current collector plate is provided in a structure having a bridge bent at a predetermined angle of inclination to be combined with the beading portion of the can housing. However, since the battery cell (1) according to the present invention does not require the beading portion (24) to be provided on the side of the second current collector plate (60), the second current collector plate (60) can be configured in a flat form without a bridge. When the second current collector plate (60) is provided in a flat non-bridge structure, the contact area between the second current collector plate (60) and the electrode assembly (10) is maximized, and the empty space inside the can housing (20) is reduced, thereby improving the energy density of the battery cell (1).

[0126]

[0127] The can housing (20) may further have a closed portion (22). An opening (21) may be formed on the other side of the can housing (20) (e.g., the side in the -Z direction).

[0128] The second collector plate (60) can be welded face-to-face with the closure part (22). Specifically, the bottom surface of the second collector plate (60) can be welded face-to-face with the inner upper surface of the closure part (22). The welding can be performed on the outside of the closure part (22).

[0129] As described above, when the second current collector plate (60) is welded face-to-face with the closed portion (22), the second current collector plate (60) and the closed portion (22) can be joined over the widest possible area, thereby improving the electrical stability of the battery cell (1) and strengthening the rigidity of the battery cell (1).

[0130]

[0131] The closure (22) may be provided with a flat outer surface. Specifically, the outer surface located on the lower side of the closure (22) may be provided with a flat surface parallel to the XY plane.

[0132] In this case, there is an advantage that the configuration, such as the means for cooling the battery cell (1), can effectively come into contact with the closed portion (22) of the can housing (20) over a large area.

[0133]

[0134] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 10, a method for manufacturing a battery cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0136] A method for manufacturing a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include steps (a), (b), and (c).

[0137] (a) Step may be a step of accommodating the electrode assembly (10) in the can housing (20). The electrode assembly (10) may be accommodated in the internal space of the can housing (20) through the opening (21).

[0138] Step (b) may be a step of injecting an electrolyte into the electrode assembly (10). Step (b) may be performed with the first current collector plate (40) attached to the electrode assembly (10), in which case the electrolyte may be injected through the hollow hole (43) of the first current collector plate (40). Step (b) may be performed after the beading process.

[0139] (c) Step may be a step of welding the first current collector plate (40) and the first electrode terminal (T1) together. In step (c), the electrode tab (41) of the first current collector plate (40) may be welded to the first electrode terminal (T1) to be joined.

[0140]

[0141] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view showing the interior of a battery pack in which a cooling member is disposed at the bottom of a battery cell, and FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the interior of a battery pack in which a cooling member is disposed at the side of a battery cell.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 11, the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may include at least one battery cell (1) according to the present invention. The battery pack (3) may include a pack case (2) that accommodates at least one battery cell (1).

[0143] In the drawing, for the convenience of drawing, components such as busbars, cooling units, and external terminals for electrical connection of battery cells (1) are omitted. The structure of a plurality of battery cells (1) for manufacturing the battery pack (3) has been described above as an example.

[0144] Meanwhile, the pack case (2) of the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may have a predetermined length, width, and height in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction as shown in FIG. 11, but the shape of the pack case (2) is not limited thereto.

[0145] Meanwhile, the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may further include various devices for controlling the charging and discharging of battery cells (1), such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a current sensor, a fuse, etc., although not shown.

[0146]

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may include a cooling member (CL). The cooling member (CL) may cool the battery cell (1). A cooling medium may flow inside the cooling member (CL).

[0148] The cooling member (CL) can be positioned at a location other than the opening (21) of the battery cell (1).

[0149] For example, the cooling member (CL) may be positioned on the closed portion (22) side of the battery cell (1), as shown in FIG. 12. The battery cell (1) may be positioned so that the open portion (21) faces upward. In this case, when the cooling member (CL) is positioned on the closed portion (22) side of the battery cell (1), the cooling member (CL) may be positioned below the battery cell (1). At least a portion of the cooling member (CL) may be in contact with the closed portion (22) of the battery cell (1).

[0150] In the above case, the cooling member (CL) can be placed on the bottom side inside the battery pack (3), so that the so-called bottom cooling of the battery pack (3) can be implemented. The battery pack (3) according to the present invention includes a battery cell (1) according to the present invention, so that the bottom cooling can be easily implemented.

[0151] For example, the cooling member (CL) may be positioned on the side of the battery cell (1), as shown in FIG. 13. That is, when the battery cell (1) is arranged in columns and / or rows in the XY plane, the cooling member (CL) may be positioned on the side of the battery cell (1) in the X-axis direction or Y-axis direction. The battery cell (1) may be positioned such that the opening (21) faces upward, as in FIG. 12. At least a portion of the cooling member (CL) may be in contact with the side of the battery cell (1).

[0152] In the above case, a cooling member (CL) is placed on the side of the battery cell (1) inside the battery pack (3), so-called side cooling of the battery pack (3) can be implemented. The battery pack (3) according to the present invention includes the battery cell (1) according to the present invention, so the side cooling can be easily implemented.

[0153] In addition, a combination of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 is also possible. That is, in the battery pack (3), a cooling member (CL) may be placed on the closed portion (22) side and the side of the battery cell (1), respectively. In this case, bottom-side cooling of the battery pack (3) can be implemented.

[0154]

[0155] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 14, a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be applied to a vehicle (4), such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (4) according to the present invention may include a battery pack (3) according to the present invention. The battery pack (3) may be installed in a vehicle body frame or trunk space under the vehicle seat. In addition, the vehicle (4) according to the present invention may include various other components included in the vehicle (4) in addition to the battery pack (3). For example, the vehicle (4) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include, in addition to the battery pack (3) according to the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0157] In addition, it is obvious that the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may also be provided in other devices, mechanisms, and facilities, such as an energy storage system using a secondary battery, in addition to a vehicle (4).

[0158]

[0159] In this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back have been used; however, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that they may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0160] As described above, although the present invention has been explained by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0161] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0162] 1 : Battery cell

[0163] 2 : Pack Case

[0164] 3 : Battery pack

[0165] 4 : Cars

[0166] 10 : Electrode assembly

[0167] 11: Electrode

[0168] 11a: First electrode

[0169] 11b : Second electrode

[0170] 111 : Maintenance part

[0171] 112 : Mujibu

[0172] 113 : Foil Tab

[0173] 114 : Notching part

[0174] 115 : Insulating coating part

[0175] 12 : Separator

[0176] 20 : Can housing

[0177] 21 : Opening

[0178] 22 : Closure

[0179] 23 : Crimping part

[0180] 24 : Bidding Department

[0181] 30 : Cap plate

[0182] 31 : Vent section

[0183] 32 : Vent notch

[0184] 40 : 1st tribunal

[0185] 41 : Electrode tab

[0186] 42 : First electrode coupling part

[0187] 43 : Hollow hole

[0188] 50: Insulator

[0189] 60 : 2nd edition

[0190] 61 : Second electrode coupling part

[0191] 62 : Cover part

[0192] C : Winding center hole

[0193] T1 : First electrode terminal

[0194] T2 : Second electrode terminal

[0195] G1: First insulating gasket

[0196] G2: Second insulation gasket

[0197] CL : Cooling element

Claims

1. An electrode assembly provided by being wound around a central hole with a separator interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode; A can housing that accommodates the electrode assembly and has an opening on one side; A cap plate having a vent portion that covers the above-mentioned opening and is configured to break when internal pressure increases; A first current collector plate electrically connected to the first electrode; and A battery cell comprising a first electrode terminal disposed through the cap plate, electrically connected to the first current collector plate, and having the same polarity as the first electrode.

2. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a second electrode terminal having the same polarity as the second electrode above, and The first electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal are each, A battery cell characterized by being disposed on the side of the above-mentioned opening.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above cap plate is, A battery cell characterized by being configured not to have polarity.

4. In Paragraph 2, The above can housing is, At the end of the opening side, a crimping portion extending inward and bent to seal the cap plate is further provided, and The above-mentioned crimping part is, A battery cell characterized by functioning as the second electrode terminal.

5. In Paragraph 4, A first insulating gasket that insulates the first electrode terminal and the cap plate from each other; and A battery cell characterized by further including a second insulating gasket that insulates the crimping portion and the cap plate from each other.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above vent part is, Formed by a notched vent notch, and The above first electrode terminal is, A battery cell characterized by being disposed through the above-mentioned vent portion.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned first collector plate is, A battery cell characterized by having an electrode tab that can be welded to the first electrode terminal.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned first collector plate is, A battery cell characterized by having a hollow hole into which an electrolyte can be injected.

9. In Paragraph 1, A battery cell characterized by further including an insulator that insulates the first current collector plate and the can housing from each other.

10. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a second current collector plate electrically connected to the second electrode, and The above second collector plate is, A battery cell characterized by being provided in a flat form.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above can housing is, Further equipped with a closure on the other side, The above second collector plate is, A battery cell characterized by being welded face-to-face with the above-mentioned closure.

12. In Paragraph 10, The above-mentioned closure is, A battery cell characterized by having a flat outer surface.

13. A method for manufacturing a battery cell comprising: an electrode assembly provided by being wound around a central hole with a separator interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode; a can housing having an opening on one side and accommodating the electrode assembly; a cap plate configured to cover the opening; a first current collector plate electrically connected to the first electrode; and a first electrode terminal disposed through the cap plate, electrically connected to the first current collector plate, and having the same polarity as the first electrode. (a) a step of accommodating the electrode assembly in the can housing; (b) step of injecting an electrolyte into the electrode assembly; and A battery cell manufacturing method characterized by including the step (c) of welding the first current collector plate and the first electrode terminal together.

14. A battery pack characterized by including at least one battery cell according to claims 1 to 12.

15. In Paragraph 14, A battery pack characterized by further including a cooling member disposed at a location other than the opening side of the battery cell.

16. An automobile characterized by including at least one battery pack according to claim 14.

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