Battery module, battery pack and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module for improving cooling performance, and a battery pack and a vehicle comprising same, the battery module comprising: a battery cell assembly in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a bus bar assembly electrically connected to the battery cell assembly; a module case accommodating the battery cell assembly and the bus bar assembly and having an opening that is open at both sides; and an end plate coupled to the module case to cover the opening at the front and rear of the battery cell assembly, wherein the end plate is provided with a cooling fan configured to cool the battery cell assembly and the bus bar assembly.

Description

Battery module, battery pack including the same, and automobile

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile, and more specifically, to a battery module for improving cooling performance, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0005512 filed on January 14, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003] 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.

[0004] Currently, widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. Lithium-ion batteries primarily utilize lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. A lithium-ion battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, coated with these positive and negative active materials respectively, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, or battery case, that seals and encloses the electrode assembly along with the electrolyte. Furthermore, depending on the shape of the outer casing, lithium-ion batteries can be classified into can-type batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of aluminum laminate sheets.

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

[0006] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery module to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Here, the battery module is configured to contain multiple battery cells inside a module case. That is, in the case of a conventional battery pack, multiple battery cells are housed inside a module case to form individual battery modules, and one or more of these battery modules are housed inside a pack case to form a battery pack.

[0007] In particular, while pouch-type batteries offer advantages in various aspects, such as being lightweight and having minimal dead space during stacking, they are vulnerable to external impacts and have somewhat poor assembly capabilities. Therefore, it is common practice to manufacture battery packs by first modularizing multiple battery cells and then housing them inside a pack case.

[0008] Conventional battery modules are arranged in multiple units within a battery pack without a separate cooling function, and a limited cooling method is applied that relies solely on a cooling block installed separately at the bottom of the battery pack. As the number of battery modules and battery cells mounted in a battery pack gradually increases, this cooling method is reaching its limits. Consequently, there is a problem in that performance degradation and failure may occur due to battery cell overheating.

[0009] Accordingly, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module for improving cooling performance, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0010] In addition, the invention provides a battery module capable of rapidly lowering the internal temperature of the battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

[0011] 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.

[0012] To solve the above objective, the present invention provides a battery module comprising: a battery cell assembly in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a busbar assembly electrically connected to the battery cell assembly; a module case having openings that are open on both sides and housing the battery cell assembly and the busbar assembly; and an end plate coupled to the module case to cover the openings at the front and rear of the battery cell assembly, wherein the end plate is provided with a cooling fan configured to cool the battery cell assembly and the busbar assembly.

[0013] For example, the battery cell assembly may have a plurality of battery cells including electrode leads on at least one side in the longitudinal direction stacked face-to-face, the busbar assembly may be arranged to be coupled with the electrode leads, the module case may surround the top, bottom, and both sides of the battery cell assembly where the electrode leads are not formed, and the end plate may be arranged to face the electrode leads.

[0014] For example, the end plate includes an opening configured to allow the cooling fan to be inserted through it, and air can be introduced into the battery cell assembly through the opening.

[0015] For example, the cooling fan may include a frame mounted on the inner wall of the opening so as to be installed in the opening, and a rotating blade installed in the center of the frame.

[0016] For example, the battery module may further include a cooling member disposed at the bottom of the battery cell assembly and configured to cool the plurality of battery cells.

[0017] For example, the cooling member may include thermal resin.

[0018] For example, the battery module may further include a sensor unit that detects the temperature of the busbar assembly.

[0019] For example, the cooling fan can be operated based on the temperature detected by the sensor unit.

[0020] For example, the cooling fan may be driven when the temperature of the battery module rises above a reference point.

[0021] For example, the cooling fan can send air from the outside of the battery module into the inside of the battery module.

[0022] For example, the end plate can be welded to the module case.

[0023] For example, the above end plate may be formed of a metal material.

[0024] For example, the metal material may include aluminum.

[0025] For example, the above cooling fan can be driven by external power.

[0026] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising at least one of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] For example, the battery pack may include a pack case that accommodates the battery module.

[0028] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle equipped with at least one battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] For example, the above vehicle can provide power to drive the cooling fan.

[0030] A battery module according to various embodiments of the present invention, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile have the effect of improving the cooling performance of a battery cell by separately providing a cooling mechanism other than a cooling member disposed at the bottom of the battery cell.

[0031] In addition, the battery module according to various embodiments, the battery pack including the same, and the vehicle have the effect of being able to rapidly lower the temperature inside the battery module by separately providing a cooling mechanism other than a cooling member disposed at the bottom of the battery cell.

[0032] 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.

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

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the battery module of Figure 1.

[0035] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a battery cell applied to the battery module of Figure 1.

[0036] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the appearance of a battery cell assembly being cooled by a cooling fan of the battery module of FIG. 1.

[0037] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the appearance of a battery cell assembly cooled by a cooling fan of a battery module according to another embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a method of combining a module case and an end plate of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a battery pack including a battery module according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle including a battery pack according to FIG. 7.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

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

[0047] 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.

[0048] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or joined to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "joined" through another component.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052]

[0053] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module (10) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing of a battery cell (110) applied to the battery module (10) of FIG. 1.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises, mainly, a battery cell assembly (100), a busbar assembly (200), a module case (300), and an end plate (400).

[0055] The battery cell assembly (100) may have a plurality of battery cells (110) stacked on top of each other.

[0056] The battery cell assembly (100) may be an assembly of secondary batteries composed of a plurality of pouch-type battery cells (110) stacked with their wide surfaces facing each other. For example, the battery cell assembly (100) may be an assembly of secondary batteries in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are stored within a module case (300) in a form in which they are vertically positioned (along the Z-axis direction) and stacked horizontally (along the Y-axis direction). The plurality of pouch-type battery cells (110) have the advantage of being easy to stack while having a high energy density relative to their size and weight. However, the battery cells (110) included in the battery module (10) according to the present invention are not limited to only pouch-type batteries, and various types of secondary batteries known at the time of filing the present application may be employed.

[0057] The busbar assembly (200) may be configured to be electrically connected to the battery cell assembly (100). The busbar assembly (200) may include a conductive structure to be electrically connected to a plurality of pouch-type battery cells (110) included in the battery cell assembly (100). For example, the busbar assembly (200) may be placed on both sides (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction) in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110).

[0058] The module case (300) may be a rectangular tube body that accommodates a battery cell assembly (100) and has openings (O) that are open on both sides (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction). For example, the module case (300) may be a rectangular tube body that forms openings (O) that are open on both sides (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction) in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). Additionally, the module case (300) may be formed as a rectangular tube body that opens on both sides (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction) facing each other and connects the remaining four sides.

[0059] The module case (300) has a very simple structure and has a space and shape suitable for accommodating a battery cell assembly (100) inside, and can be easily handled by simply pushing the battery cell assembly (100) through the opening (O). In addition, it can have the advantage of easy assembly because the battery module (10) can be completed by simply closing the opening (O).

[0060] Accordingly, in this embodiment, the structure of the battery pack (P) including the battery module (10) is not complex and does not take up much space, and is simple and compact, and the assembly of the battery module (10) can be easily performed, so the processability can be excellent.

[0061] Accordingly, the battery module (10) and battery pack (see P in FIG. 7) including such a module case (300) have an excellent effect of protecting the battery cell (110) against external vibrations, so they may be advantageous for application to vehicles, etc., that are frequently exposed to external vibrations.

[0062] The end plate (400) can be coupled to the opening (O) of the module case (300) at the front and rear (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100). That is, the end plate (400) can be positioned at the front (+X-axis direction) and rear (-X-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100), respectively. At this time, the end plate (400) can have a size and shape capable of covering the entire opening (O) of the module case (300).

[0063] At this time, the end plate (400) of the battery module (10) of the present embodiment may be equipped with a cooling fan (420).

[0064] A cooling fan (420) may be provided on an end plate (400) configured to cover an opening (O) of a module case (300) and configured to cool a battery cell assembly (100) and a busbar assembly (200). That is, the cooling fan (420) can generate a flow of air toward the battery cell assembly (100) and the busbar assembly (200) from the front and rear (+X-axis direction, -X-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100). By doing so, the cooling fan (420) can release internal heat of the battery module (10) to the outside of the battery module (10) to maintain the temperature of the battery module (10) below a certain level.

[0065] Accordingly, the battery module (10) of the present embodiment can effectively lower the temperature of the battery module (10) by using a cooling fan (420) provided on the end plate (400) to cool the busbar assembly (200) located at the front and rear of the battery module (10). Through this, the thermal management efficiency of the battery module (10) is improved, and the performance and stability of the battery module (10) can be further maximized due to the improvement in cooling performance.

[0066]

[0067] Below, we will examine in detail each configuration of the battery module (10) according to one embodiment.

[0068] As an example, the battery cell (110) constituting the battery cell assembly (100) may be of the pouch type as previously mentioned. In this case, the battery cell (110) may be implemented in a form including an electrode assembly (not shown), a cell case (111), and an electrode lead (112), as shown in FIG. 3.

[0069] Although not illustrated in the drawing, the electrode assembly has a form in which a separator is interposed between alternately stacked positive and negative plates, and it is preferable that a separator be located at each of the outermost edges (+Z-axis direction and -Z-axis direction) for insulation.

[0070] The positive plate is composed of a positive current collector and a layer of positive active material coated on one or both sides thereof, and a positive non-coated area is formed at one end where the positive active material is not coated, and this positive non-coated area functions as a positive tab.

[0071] The cathode plate is composed of a cathode current collector and a layer of cathode active material coated on one or both sides thereof, and a cathode-free region is formed at one end where the cathode active material is not coated, and this cathode-free region functions as a cathode tab.

[0072] In addition, the separator may be made of a porous material to prevent direct contact between electrode plates having different polarities by being interposed between the positive plate and the negative plate, while enabling the movement of ions between the positive plate and the negative plate using an electrolyte as a medium.

[0073] Although not shown in the drawing, the cell case (111) is sealed by heat-sealing the edges of the upper case and the lower case, each of which is made of a multilayer pouch film in which a resin layer / metal layer / resin layer is sequentially laminated. The upper case and the lower case may be made of two sheets separated from each other or one sheet that is not separated and folded.

[0074] A pair of electrode leads (112) are each connected to a positive tab (not shown) and a negative tab (not shown) and are drawn out to the outside of the cell case (111). The pair of electrode leads (112) may have a structure in which they face each other and protrude from one end and the other end of the cell (110). The distance between the two ends where the electrode leads (112) protrude from the cell case (111) may be defined as the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (110). In other types of pouch-type cells, the electrode leads (112) may be formed on only one side. Thus, the battery cell (110) may include electrode leads (112) on at least one side in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction).

[0075] A plurality of battery cells (110) can be stacked in the Y-axis direction as shown in FIG. 2. A plurality of battery cells (110) can be stacked face-to-face. When the surface of the cell case (111) is slippery, the plurality of battery cells (110) tend to slide easily due to external impact when stacking. Therefore, to prevent this and maintain a stable stacking structure of the plurality of battery cells (110), a battery cell assembly (100) can be formed by attaching an adhesive member, such as a double-sided tape or a chemical adhesive that bonds through a chemical reaction upon bonding, to the surface of the cell case (111).

[0076] The busbar assembly (200) may include a busbar and a busbar frame that supports or fixes the busbar. Specifically, the busbar may be electrically connected to the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) to form an electrical connection path that enables current flow between the battery cell (110) and an external circuit. Meanwhile, the busbar frame may be configured to be coupled to a module case (300) to fix the busbar in a fixed position while simultaneously providing structural stability within the battery module (10).

[0077] Such a busbar assembly (200) can be designed to be positioned on at least one side in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (110) to implement an electrical connection with the electrode lead (112).

[0078] The module case (300) may wrap around the upper surface (+Z-axis direction), lower surface (-Z-axis direction), and both sides (+Y-axis direction, -Y-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100) where the electrode leads (112) are not formed. Thus, the module case (300) may have an internal space capable of housing a plurality of battery cells (110) inside, and may provide mechanical support for the housing a plurality of battery cells (110) and perform the role of protecting them from external impacts.

[0079] The module case (300) may include four side walls corresponding to each of the four sides of the battery cell assembly (100). Each side wall may have a plate-like structure, for example. The module case (300) may be provided as a single tubular member with the sides formed integrally between the side walls. That is, the module case (300) may refer to a structure in which four side walls corresponding to the four sides of the battery cell assembly (100) are formed integrally. Thus, in this embodiment, the manufacturing process of the module case (300) is facilitated, the manufacturing time is shortened, and the rigidity of the module case (300) can be effectively improved.

[0080] Such a module case (300) may be formed from a metal material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Such a metal material provides excellent strength and lightness simultaneously, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the module case (300) while effectively reducing the overall weight of the battery module (10). In particular, aluminum alloys have characteristics that improve basic durability and thermal conductivity, which can contribute to further optimizing the thermal management performance of the battery module (10).

[0081] The end plate (400) can be joined in a manner that covers the opening (O) of the module case (300), thereby forming a structure integrated with the module case (300). Specifically, the end plate (400) can be joined to the module case (300) to cover the opening (O) of the module case (300), and configured to function as a single cylindrical member together with the module case (300). This cylindrical structure can increase the bonding strength between the module case (300) and the end plate (400), while simultaneously maximizing the rigidity of the battery module (10) to improve durability against external impact or deformation. Thus, the end plate (400) can serve not merely as a covering of the opening (O) of the module case (300), but as an important element that reinforces the structural stability of the battery module (10).

[0082] These end plates (400) may be positioned to face an electrode lead (112) located on at least one side in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (110). At this time, the end plates (400) are equipped with a cooling fan (420), which can effectively cool the busbar assembly (200) connected to the electrode lead (112), which is the part of the battery module (10) most likely to generate high heat. The cooling fan (420) can improve the thermal management performance of the battery module (10) by flowing air through the end plates (400) to rapidly release heat around the busbar assembly (200) to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0083]

[0084] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view to illustrate the appearance of a battery cell assembly (100) being cooled by a cooling fan (420) of a battery module (10) of FIG. 1.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4, the end plate (400) of the battery module (10) of the present embodiment may include an opening (410) configured to allow a cooling fan (420) to be inserted through it. Such an opening (410) can serve as a passage for introducing air into the interior of the battery module (10), thereby enabling efficient cooling of high-temperature generating parts such as the battery cell assembly (100) and the busbar assembly (200).

[0086] The cooling fan (420) may be designed to be installed in the opening (410), and the cooling fan (420) may include a frame (421) mounted on the inner wall of the opening (410) and a rotating blade (422) installed in the center of the frame (421).

[0087] The frame (421) can be formed in a structure that firmly supports the cooling fan (420) without obstructing the airflow. Additionally, the rotating blade (422) can perform the role of actively drawing in air when the cooling fan (420) is driven. Through this cooling structure, the end plate (400) included in the battery module (10) of the present embodiment can improve the thermal management performance of the battery module (10) and provide a stable operating environment for the battery module (10).

[0088] As an example, the cooling fan (420) may be configured to efficiently manage heat inside the battery module (10) by inducing air from the outside to the inside of the battery module (10). Specifically, the cooling fan (420) can effectively cool the area where such heat is concentrated by flowing air from the outside of the battery module (10) toward the electrode lead (112) and busbar assembly (200) of the battery cell assembly (100).

[0089] The airflow induced by the cooling fan (420) contributes to lowering the internal temperature of the battery module (10) and can prevent performance degradation and damage to the battery cell (1) that may occur due to high temperature. This configuration can improve the stability of the battery module (10) while maximizing thermal management performance to enable stable operation even in high-temperature environments. In addition, the cooling fan (420) can contribute to maintaining the thermal balance of the entire battery module (10) by combining with a design that optimizes the air flow path.

[0090] Additionally, as an example, the battery module (10) may further include a cooling member (500) configured to cool a plurality of battery cells (110) in addition to the cooling fan (420).

[0091] A cooling member (500) may be placed at the bottom (-Z-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100). For example, the cooling member (500) may be provided with a thermally conductive resin layer. Specifically, before the battery cell assembly (100) is inserted into the module case (300), a thermally conductive resin may be applied to the inner surface of the module case (300), particularly the bottom surface (the surface lying in the XY plane in the drawing), and the thermally conductive resin may be cured to form a resin layer. Before the thermally conductive resin layer is formed, that is, before the applied thermally conductive resin is cured, the battery cell assembly (100) may be mounted inside the module case (300) while moving along the bottom surface of the module case (300) in the X-axis direction. Subsequently, the thermally conductive resin layer formed by the curing of the thermally conductive resin may be located between the inside of the bottom surface of the module case (300) and the battery cell assembly (100).

[0092] As another example, after inserting the battery cell assembly (100) into the module case (300), a thermally conductive resin may be injected into the module case (300) from the outside to position the thermally conductive resin layer between the inside of the bottom surface of the module case (300) and the battery cell assembly (100). The cooling member (500) may transfer heat generated from the battery cell (110) to the bottom surface (-Z-axis direction) of the battery module (10) and serve to fix the battery cell assembly (100). Through the cooling member (500), heat generated from a plurality of battery cells (110) may be transferred to the outside of the battery module (10) through the bottom surface (-Z-axis direction) of the module case (300).

[0093] The cooling member (500) may include, for example, a thermal resin. There is no limitation on the type of thermal resin, and it may be, for example, any one of a thermally conductive silicone-based bond, a thermally conductive acrylic bond, or a thermally conductive polyurethane bond. As the thermally conductive resin layer, a urethane resin, an epoxy resin, or a silicone resin having excellent thermal conductivity and adhesive properties may be used. These materials permeate between the plurality of battery cells (110) to eliminate air layers, thereby reducing thermal resistance, and also have adhesive properties to prevent the flow of the plurality of battery cells (110), and can stably support the bottom (-Z-axis direction) of the battery cell assembly (100). Thus, in this embodiment, the thermal management efficiency of the battery module (10) can be maximized, and the temperature of the battery cell (110) can be maintained at a constant level to improve performance and durability.

[0094] The cooling member (500) can perform the function of absorbing heat generated within the battery module (10) by directly contacting a plurality of battery cells (110) and releasing it to the outside. Additionally, the cooling fan (420) can promote heat exchange by the cooling member (500) by inducing air flow, and can further maximize cooling performance by flowing air toward the busbar assembly (200), which is a part that is difficult to cool by the cooling member (500).

[0095] Accordingly, the battery module (10) of the present embodiment can further improve the thermal management performance of the battery module (10) by providing a separate cooling member (500) in addition to the cooling fan (420), thereby operating complementarily with the cooling fan (420).

[0096] Additionally, as an example, the cooling fan (420) may be driven by an external power source. For example, the cooling fan (420) may include a power connection part (430) that can be electrically connected to an external power source located outside the battery module (10).

[0097] The power connection part (430) can be formed with a suitable electrical connection structure to ensure stable and efficient power transmission, and may additionally include a function to adjust or control the voltage and current for driving the cooling fan (420).

[0098] Through this configuration, the cooling fan (420) can utilize external power to activate the airflow flowing into the battery module (10) and rapidly release heat from high-temperature areas, such as the busbar assembly (200), to the outside of the battery module (10), thereby improving the thermal management performance of the battery module (10).

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the appearance of a battery cell assembly (100) that is cooled by a cooling fan (420) of a battery module (20) according to another embodiment.

[0101] The description of the battery module (10) according to the above-described embodiment with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 may be applied in the same way to matters that are commonly applicable to the battery module (20) of the present embodiment, and redundant descriptions below are omitted.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 5, a battery module (20) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a sensor unit (600) for detecting temperature.

[0103] The sensor unit (600) can be positioned at various locations on the battery module (20) and can be configured to monitor the temperature in real time at areas where heat generation is concentrated, such as a plurality of battery cells (110) and a busbar assembly (200). For example, the sensor unit (600) can detect the temperature of the busbar assembly (200).

[0104] The detected temperature data can be transmitted to a control unit (not shown) and used as a criterion for determining whether to operate the cooling fan (420).

[0105] The cooling fan (420) may be designed to be automatically driven when the temperature detected by the sensor unit (600) rises above a preset reference point. For example, when the temperature in a specific area of ​​the battery module (20) is detected to be above the reference point, the cooling fan (420) may be driven to rapidly lower the temperature of the overheated area by circulating air. At this time, the cooling fan (420) may be configured to operate at a single speed or to variably adjust the rotational speed according to the degree of temperature rise detected.

[0106] In addition, the interaction between the cooling fan (420) and the sensor unit (600) can contribute to optimizing the energy efficiency of the battery module (20). The cooling fan (420) remains in an inactive state when the temperature of the battery module (20) is maintained below a reference point to minimize unnecessary power consumption, and immediately restarts operation when the temperature rises again to perform rapid thermal management.

[0107] Accordingly, the battery module (20) of the present embodiment can rapidly cool the busbar assembly (200) through this configuration to prevent performance degradation and damage caused by overheating, and improve long-term reliability and durability.

[0108]

[0109] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the method of combining the module case (300) and the end plate (400) of the battery module (10, 20) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] The end plate (400) may be formed from a metal material that is more rigid than plastic, such as aluminum, for example. Additionally, the end plate (400) may be firmly joined to the module case (300) through a welded joint (L). Through this configuration, the end plate (400) forms a structure integrated with the module case (300) of the battery module (10) and can secure sufficient rigidity. This rigidity can provide structural stability by preventing deformation or damage even when the battery module (10) is exposed to physical stress such as external shock or vibration.

[0111] In addition, such a welded joint (L) can provide high waterproof performance by completely eliminating the gap between the end plate (400) and the module case (300). This protects the battery module (10) from external environmental factors such as moisture or liquid, thereby contributing to maintaining long-term reliability and durability.

[0112] Accordingly, the battery module (10, 20) of the present embodiment can contribute to optimizing the performance and lifespan of the battery module (10, 20) by providing structural stability along with strong physical durability.

[0113]

[0114] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a battery pack (P) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7, a battery pack (P) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery module (10, 20) according to a prior embodiment and a pack case (C) that accommodates the same.

[0116] A battery pack (P) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include various other components of a battery pack known at the time of filing the present invention. For example, a battery pack (P) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include components such as a current sensor, a fuse, and a service plug.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 8, a vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (P) according to the present invention. Additionally, a vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery packs (P). For example, a vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include, in addition to the battery packs (P) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, an electronic control unit (ECU), or other control devices.

[0118] As an example, the vehicle (V) may be configured to provide power for driving the cooling fan (420) of the battery module (10, 20). Specifically, the power system mounted on the vehicle (V) can stably supply power for the operation of the cooling fan (420) and can support the cooling fan (420) in generating the airflow necessary for temperature management of the battery module (10). At this time, the cooling fan (420) may be electrically connected to the main battery, auxiliary battery, or separate power supply of the vehicle (V), and an optimal operating environment may be provided through a control unit that adjusts the voltage and current as needed. As a result, the cooling fan (420) can operate efficiently even while the vehicle is driving or stopped, thereby improving the thermal management performance of the battery module (10, 20) and contributing to increasing the stability and lifespan of the battery.

[0119] In addition, it is obvious that the battery pack (P) according to one embodiment of 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 the vehicle (V).

[0120] According to the various embodiments described above, a battery module (10, 20) capable of improving cooling performance, a battery pack (P) including the same, and a vehicle (V) can be provided.

[0121]

[0122] 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.

[0123] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0124] 10, 20: Battery module

[0125] 100: Battery cell assembly

[0126] 110: Battery cell

[0127] 111: Cell case

[0128] 112: Electrode Lead

[0129] 200: Busbar Assembly

[0130] 300: Modular Case

[0131] 400: End plate

[0132] 410: Opening

[0133] 420: Cooling fan

[0134] 421: Frame

[0135] 422: Rotating blades

[0136] 430: Power connection

[0137] 500: Cooling element

[0138] 600: Sensor section

[0139] P: Battery pack

[0140] C: Pack case

[0141] V: Car

Claims

1. A battery cell assembly in which multiple battery cells are stacked; A busbar assembly electrically connected to the above battery cell assembly; A module case having openings that open on both sides and accommodating the battery cell assembly and the busbar assembly; and It includes an end plate coupled to the module case to cover the opening at the front and rear of the battery cell assembly, and On the above end plate, A battery module characterized by having a cooling fan configured to cool the battery cell assembly and the busbar assembly.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above battery cell assembly comprises a plurality of battery cells, each including an electrode lead on at least one side in the longitudinal direction, stacked face-to-face. The above busbar assembly is positioned to be coupled with the electrode lead, and The above module case surrounds the upper surface, lower surface, and both sides of the battery cell assembly on which the electrode leads are not formed, and A battery module characterized in that the above end plate is positioned to face the above electrode lead.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above end plate is, It includes an opening configured to allow the above-mentioned cooling fan to be inserted through, and A battery module characterized by air being introduced into the battery cell assembly through the opening.

4. In Paragraph 3, A battery module characterized in that the cooling fan comprises a frame mounted on the inner wall of the opening so as to be installed in the opening, and a rotating blade installed in the center of the frame.

5. In Paragraph 1, A battery module characterized by further including a cooling member disposed at the bottom of the battery cell assembly and configured to cool the plurality of battery cells.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above cooling member is, A battery module characterized by including thermal resin.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling fan is, A battery module characterized by sending wind from the outside of the battery module into the inside of the battery module.

8. In Paragraph 1, A battery module characterized by further including a sensor unit for detecting the temperature of the above-mentioned busbar assembly.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above cooling fan is, A battery module characterized by operating based on the temperature detected by the sensor unit.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling fan is, A battery module characterized by being driven when the temperature of the battery module rises above a reference point.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above end plate is, A battery module characterized by being welded to the above-mentioned module case.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above end plate is, A battery module characterized by being formed of a metal material.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above metal material is, A battery module characterized by including aluminum.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling fan is, A battery module characterized by being driven by external power.

15. A battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 14; and A battery pack characterized by including a pack case that accommodates the above-mentioned battery module.

16. An automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to paragraph 15.

17. In Paragraph 16, An automobile characterized by providing power to drive the above-mentioned cooling fan.

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