Battery module and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to various embodiments, a battery module may comprise: a cell stack including a plurality of battery cells; and a first bus bar frame assembly coupled to a first side of the cell stack, wherein the first bus bar frame assembly comprises: a first flexible printed circuit board configured to sense a voltage value of the cell stack; a first bus bar frame having one surface on which the first flexible printed circuit board is disposed and the other surface coupled to the first side of the cell stack; and a first reinforcing plate fixing the first flexible printed circuit board by disposing at least one region of the first flexible printed circuit board in a region between the first reinforcing plate and the first bus bar frame. Other embodiments are possible.

Description

Battery module and battery pack including the same

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0026691 dated February 28, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean patent application are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the same, and more specifically, to a technology that can stably fix a flexible printed circuit board to a busbar frame by changing the design of the shape of the flexible printed circuit board and applying a reinforcing plate in order to improve the assembly of a busbar frame assembly.

[0003] A secondary battery refers to a battery capable of being charged and discharged. Generally, types of secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and lithium-ion polymer batteries. These secondary batteries are used not only in small products such as digital cameras, P-DVDs, MP3 players, mobile phones, PDAs, portable game devices, power tools, and E-bikes, but also in large products requiring high output such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, as well as in power storage devices and backup power storage devices that store surplus generated power or renewable energy.

[0004] For secondary batteries used in medium to large devices such as automobiles, battery modules comprising multiple electrically connected battery cells may be utilized. By connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel to form a battery cell stack, the capacity and output of the battery module can be improved. Furthermore, one or more battery modules may be mounted together with various control systems and protection systems, such as a Battery Management System (BMS) and a cooling system, to form a battery pack.

[0005] A busbar or busbar assembly may be used to electrically connect multiple secondary batteries in a battery module or battery pack. The busbar or busbar assembly can implement a series or parallel connection between multiple electrode leads and provide stable electrical connection and thermal control. The busbar assembly may include a flexible printed circuit board attached to the busbar, and the flexible printed circuit board can perform the function of measuring the voltage of multiple secondary batteries.

[0006] Conventionally, to stably secure a flexible printed circuit board to a busbar frame, a method has been used in which a specific part of the flexible printed circuit board is pre-bent, and then the bent part is attached to the busbar frame using double-sided tape. However, this method increased manufacturing costs due to the addition of the pre-bending process, and there was a risk of cracking in the flexible printed circuit board during the bending process. Furthermore, there was a problem in that the bent part was not stably secured to the busbar frame, requiring the additional use of adhesive materials such as double-sided tape. When a busbar frame containing such adhesive materials is fed into a subsequent process, the bonding strength may decrease, and problems arose where process efficiency was reduced due to the adhesive material remaining on the subsequent process equipment. Consequently, this has ultimately led to a problem of degraded overall quality of the secondary battery.

[0007] Therefore, a technical solution is required to stably fix a flexible printed circuit board to a busbar frame without other additional fixing devices such as double-sided tape.

[0008] The embodiments of the present disclosure are proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and by changing the design of the flexible printed circuit board shape and applying a reinforcing plate, a battery module capable of stably fixing the flexible printed circuit board to a busbar frame and a battery pack including the same can be provided.

[0009] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following embodiments.

[0010] To achieve the above objective, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery module comprises a cell stack including a plurality of battery cells and a first busbar frame assembly coupled to a first side of the cell stack, and the first busbar frame assembly may include a first flexible printed circuit board configured to sense a voltage value of the cell stack, a first busbar frame having the first flexible printed circuit board disposed on one side and coupled to the first side of the cell stack on the other side, and a first reinforcing plate that fixes the first flexible printed circuit board by disposing of at least one area of ​​the first flexible printed circuit board in an area between the first busbar frame and the first busbar frame.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first busbar frame includes a first rib protruding from one surface and supporting a first region of the first flexible printed circuit board, and a second rib protruding from one surface at the bottom of the first rib and supporting a second region of the first flexible printed circuit board connected to the first region, and the bending angle of the first flexible printed circuit board formed by the first reinforcing plate may correspond to an angle formed between the first rib and the second rib.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the length of the second rib protruding from one side of the first busbar frame may be longer than the length of the first rib protruding from one side of the first busbar frame.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board comprises a first surface disposed on the first rib, a second surface connected to the first surface and opposite to the first surface, and a third surface connected to the first surface and disposed on the second rib, wherein a first bending portion is formed between the first surface and the third surface and is bent by the first busbar frame and the first reinforcing plate, and the bending angle may be an angle between the first surface and the third surface formed by bending the first bending portion.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the third surface is disposed between the first reinforcing plate and the second rib and can be fixed on one surface of the second rib by the first reinforcing plate.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board has a second bending portion formed between the first surface and the second surface, and the first reinforcing plate can be disposed in the space between the first surface and the second surface.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first busbar frame assembly may further include a plurality of first busbars configured to be electrically connected to the cell stack at the first side and to transmit the voltage of the cell stack to the outside.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board further comprises a plurality of first voltage sensing units connected to each of the plurality of first busbars to sense the voltage value of each of the plurality of first busbars, and each of the plurality of first voltage sensing units has a sensing plate attached to each of the plurality of first busbars, and the sensing plate can sense the voltage value of the plurality of first busbars.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first voltage sensing units may include a first unit protruding from one end of the first surface, a second unit protruding from the other end of the first surface, and a plurality of third units protruding from one end of the third surface.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first busbars includes a first terminal busbar connected to a positive lead, a second terminal busbar connected to a negative lead, and a plurality of interbusbars connecting the positive lead and the negative lead of the cell stack, and the first unit is connected to the first terminal busbar, the second unit is connected to the second terminal busbar, and the plurality of third units can be connected to the plurality of interbusbars.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first busbars includes a first terminal busbar connected to an anode lead and a second terminal busbar connected to a cathode lead, and each of the first unit and the second unit can be fixed to each of the first terminal busbar and the second terminal busbar by the first reinforcing plate.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery module may include a second busbar frame assembly coupled to a second side of the cell stack, wherein the second busbar frame assembly may include a second flexible printed circuit board configured to sense a voltage value of the cell stack and transmit the voltage value to the first flexible printed circuit board, a second busbar frame having the second flexible printed circuit board disposed on one side and coupled to the second side of the cell stack on the other side, and a second reinforcing plate that fixes the second flexible printed circuit board by disposing of at least one area of ​​the second flexible printed circuit board in an area between the second busbar frame and the second busbar frame.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack may include at least one battery module and a pack case for packaging the at least one battery module.

[0023] According to the present invention, a flexible printed circuit board can be stably fixed to a busbar frame by changing the design of the shape of the flexible printed circuit board and applying a reinforcing plate.

[0024] In addition, according to the present invention, the quality and assembly efficiency of the busbar frame assembly can be improved through design changes to the shape of the flexible printed circuit board and the application of a reinforcing plate.

[0025] In addition, according to the present invention, the manufacturing cost of battery modules and packs can be reduced by omitting the pre-bending process of the flexible printed circuit board.

[0026] In addition, according to the present invention, the electrical contact quality and structural stability can be improved by omitting double-sided tape for fixing a flexible printed circuit board to a busbar frame.

[0027] The effects of the invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the first busbar frame assembly of FIG. 2.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first busbar frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig. 5 is a front view of the first busbar frame of Fig. 4.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first flexible printed circuit board according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7 is an unfolded view of the first flexible printed circuit board of Figure 6.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view and enlarged view of the first busbar frame assembly cut along line II of FIG. 2.

[0036] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the second busbar frame assembly of FIG. 9.

[0038] FIG. 11 is an unfolded view of a second flexible printed circuit board according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] The terms used in the embodiments have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions in the present disclosure; however, these may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant explanatory section. Therefore, terms used in the present disclosure should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of the present disclosure.

[0041] When a part of a specification is described as "comprising" a certain component, this implies that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Furthermore, terms such as "~part" or "~module" as used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0042] The expression "at least one of a, b, and c" described throughout the specification may include 'a alone', 'b alone', 'c alone', 'a and b', 'a and c', 'b and c', or 'a, b, and c all'.

[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure relating to a battery module (10) and a battery pack (1) including the same will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cell stack (100), first and second busbar frame assemblies (BFA) (200, 400), first and second end plates (300, 500), a Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) assembly (600), a top plate (700), and a module case (800). Although only the components of the battery module (10) related to the present embodiment are shown in FIG. 1, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other general components may be included in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1.

[0047] In one embodiment, the battery module (10) may be assembled according to the following procedure. First, after the cell stack (100) is housed inside the module case (800), the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) may be placed at the front and rear of the cell stack (100) that is exposed to the outside. Subsequently, the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) may be joined together through an FFC assembly (600), and the first and second end plates (300, 500) may be placed to cover the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400), respectively. At the same time, the top plate (700) may be placed to cover the top of the cell stack (100) and the FFC assembly (600).

[0048] A cell stack (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be an assembly of a plurality of battery cells (110). Each of the plurality of battery cells (110) may be configured to be upright in a vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) and may be stacked side by side in a horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis direction). That is, a plurality of battery cells (110) may form a single cell stack (100) by being arranged in close contact in a horizontal direction such that the positive lead and the negative lead protrude in the front-rear direction of the battery module (10).

[0049] Additionally, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be a bidirectional pouch-type secondary battery in which the positive lead and the negative lead protrude in opposite directions. For example, the pouch-type secondary battery may consist of an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a pouch case. The pouch case has a concave cup portion formed inside, and the electrode assembly may be accommodated within the cup portion. Additionally, a sealing portion is provided on the outer surface of the cup portion, and the cup portion accommodating the electrode assembly may be completely sealed by fusing the sealing portions together.

[0050] Meanwhile, the pouch case can be formed by molding a cup portion onto the pouch sheet. The pouch sheet may be a laminated sheet with a multilayer structure in which layers of different materials are laminated. For example, the pouch sheet may have the following structure. It may be in the form of a laminated structure comprising a lower resin layer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or nylon having insulating properties, a metal layer made of aluminum that maintains mechanical strength and prevents the penetration of moisture and oxygen, and an upper resin layer made of a polyolefin-based material that has heat-sealability and acts as a sealing material.

[0051] Meanwhile, the plurality of battery cells (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention are not limited to pouch-type secondary batteries and can be applied to various cell structures. For example, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be prismatic cells in which an outer case is made of a metal material and a stacked or wound electrode assembly is housed inside. As another example, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be cylindrical cells in which a wound electrode assembly is placed inside a cylindrical metal can and an electrode terminal is formed at the top or bottom.

[0052] As such, a plurality of battery cells (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention are not limited to a specific shape or structure and can be implemented in various forms including pouch type, prismatic type, and cylindrical type, and an appropriate cell structure can be selected and used depending on the application environment and required power.

[0053] The electrode assembly is an assembly composed of electrodes and a separator, and may be configured such that a separator is interposed between one or more positive plates and one or more negative plates. Additionally, the positive plate of the electrode assembly may be provided with a positive tab, and the negative plate may be provided with a negative tab.

[0054] Meanwhile, an electrode lead may be attached to the electrode assembly, and the electrode lead may function as an electrode terminal of a secondary battery by being interposed between the sealing portions of the pouch sheet and exposed to the outside. For example, one end of the positive lead may be connected to the positive tab and the other end may be exposed to the outside of the pouch sheet to function as a positive terminal of the battery cell (110). Similarly, one end of the negative lead may be connected to the negative tab and the other end may be exposed to the outside of the pouch sheet to function as a negative terminal of the battery cell (110).

[0055] In addition, the positive lead and the negative lead can be formed from different materials. For example, the positive lead can be formed from aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and the negative lead can be formed from copper or a copper alloy.

[0056] In a plurality of battery cells (110), the positive lead and the negative lead may be positioned so as to be deflected to one side from the center of the battery cell (110) in the width direction, and may be deflected downward along the height direction of the battery module (10). This structure can contribute to improving the energy density of the battery module (10) by securing space for the installation of the first and second flexible printed circuit board assemblies (FPCB assemblies, 230, 430), etc., which will be described later.

[0057] Additionally, a buffer pad may be placed between the plurality of battery cells (110). The buffer pad may serve to absorb the expansion force caused by swelling that occurs during the charging and discharging process of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0058] The module case (800) accommodates the cell stack (100) and thereby forms the exterior of the battery module (10). For example, the module case (800) may include a lower plate (810) and a pair of side plates (830). In this case, the pair of side plates (830) are connected perpendicularly to the long side (e.g., the side extending in the X-axis direction) of the lower plate (810), thereby forming a U-shaped internal space capable of accommodating the cell stack (100).

[0059] Accordingly, the module case (800) can be opened at the top and both sides (e.g., both sides when viewed from the Y-axis direction), thereby allowing the top and both sides of the cell stack (100) to be exposed to the outside. At this time, first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) can be placed on the two sides of the opened cell stack (100), and a top plate (700) can be placed on the top surface of the opened cell stack (100). Thus, the open parts of the cell stack (100) can be protected from external impacts, etc. by being combined with the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) and the top plate (700).

[0060] Meanwhile, the module case (800) may include a lower plate (810) and a pair of side plates (830) as separate components, or the lower plate (810) and a pair of side plates (830) may be formed integrally.

[0061] Additionally, the module case (800) can provide mechanical support by contacting the lower surface of the cell stack (100) and protect the cell stack (100) and internal components from external impacts. To this end, the module case (800) may be made of a metal material such as steel to ensure sufficient rigidity.

[0062] In addition, the module case (800) can be manufactured with appropriate dimensions so that the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) can be assembled in an internal space by a press fit on both open sides where the cell stack (100) is exposed. By optimizing the dimensions of the module case (800) in this way, the overall volume can be reduced while maintaining the energy density per unit volume of the battery module (10). At this time, the plurality of battery cells (110) constituting the cell stack (100) are densely arranged in the module case (800) and the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400), thereby suppressing movement without the need for separate fixing parts (e.g., cartridges).

[0063] The first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) may be respectively coupled to the exposed sides of the cell stack (100) and positioned to face each other with the cell stack (100) in between. For example, the first busbar frame assembly (200) may be coupled to the first side (101) of the cell stack (100). In this case, referring to FIG. 1, the first side (101) of the cell stack (100) refers to one of the exposed sides of the cell stack (100) housed in the module case (800), and furthermore, may refer to a side located in front of the cell stack (100) with respect to the longitudinal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the cell stack (100).

[0064] Meanwhile, the second busbar frame assembly (400) can be coupled to the second side (103) of the cell stack (100). At this time, referring to FIG. 1, the second side (103) of the cell stack (100) refers to the other side of the side opening of the cell stack (100) accommodated in the module case (800), and furthermore, may refer to the side located at the rear of the cell stack (100) based on the longitudinal direction of the cell stack (100).

[0065] The first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) are each coupled to the first side (101) and the second side (103) of the cell stack (100), thereby providing a stable electrical connection between multiple battery cells (110) and being able to sense the voltage values ​​of the multiple battery cells (110) and transmit them to an external circuit. In addition, the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) can prevent the electrical connection within the battery module (10) from deteriorating due to external shock or vibration, or prevent damage to internal components such as the cell stack (100) and electrode leads.

[0066] Meanwhile, the detailed structure and internal components of the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) will be described in detail below.

[0067] The first and second end plates (300, 500) may be positioned at the foremost and rearmost of the battery module (10), respectively. For example, the first end plate (300) may be positioned at the foremost of the battery module (10) to cover the first busbar frame assembly (200), and likewise, the second end plate (500) may be positioned at the rearmost of the battery module (10) to cover the second busbar frame assembly (400). That is, the first and second end plates (300, 500) may be combined with the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) and positioned to face each other in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the battery module (10).

[0068] In addition, the first and second end plates (300, 500) protect the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) from external impacts, and at the same time, by fixing both ends of the cell stack (100) together with the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400), they can prevent deformation of the cell stack (100) and poor contact between components caused by thermal expansion, vibration, or external force that may occur during the operation of the battery module (10).

[0069] For example, the first and second end plates (300, 500) can be made of high-strength metal or composite material, which can effectively disperse and absorb external pressure or shock applied to the battery module (10). As a result, the internal components of the battery module (10) are maintained stably, and damage caused by shock or deformation can be minimized.

[0070] The FFC assembly (600) can connect the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) coupled to both sides in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the cell stack (100). At this time, the FFC assembly (600) can be placed on the cell stack (100) (e.g., the upper surface of the cell stack (100)).

[0071] Additionally, the FFC assembly (600) can serve as a channel to transmit the voltage value of the second side (103) of the cell stack (100) sensed by the second busbar frame assembly (400) to the first busbar frame assembly (200). For example, the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400) may include the first and second flexible printed circuit board assemblies (230, 430) described later. The first and second flexible printed circuit board assemblies (230, 430) can each measure the voltage at the first and second sides (101, 103) of the cell stack (100).

[0072] At this time, the FFC assembly (600) can transmit the voltage value of the second side (103) of the cell stack (100) measured by the second flexible printed circuit board assembly (430) to the first flexible printed circuit board assembly (230). As a result, the first flexible printed circuit board assembly (230) can transmit the voltage value of the first side (101) of the cell stack (100) measured by itself and the voltage value of the second side (103) received through the FFC assembly (600) to the battery management system (BMS).

[0073] The top plate (700) may be positioned to cover the top of the cell stack (100) to prevent the top surface of the cell stack (100) from being exposed to the outside. At this time, the long side of the top plate (700) may be connected to a pair of side plates (830) of the module case (800), and the short side may be connected to the first and second busbar frame assemblies (200, 400), respectively.

[0074] Meanwhile, the top plate (700) may have a size and shape capable of completely covering the upper surface of the cell stack (100). Additionally, the top plate (700) may be positioned to face the module case (800) with the cell stack (100) in between, and may be designed to have the same shape as the module case (800).

[0075] For example, a plurality of venting holes (710) may be formed in the top plate (700) to allow venting gas, etc. to be discharged. The plurality of venting holes (710) can serve as outlets to allow byproducts, such as flames or high-temperature gas, to be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) when byproducts are generated due to phenomena such as thermal runaway inside the cell stack (100). In this case, the plurality of venting holes (710) may have a structure that simply connects the inside and outside of the battery module (10), or may have a structure that opens when the pressure inside the battery module (10) exceeds a preset critical pressure in the area where thermal runaway occurs. Alternatively, a plurality of venting holes (710) may not be formed in the top plate (700). In this case, a separate venting plate may be provided between the top plate (700) and the upper surface of the cell stack (100).

[0076] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first busbar frame assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the first busbar frame assembly (200) of FIG. 2.

[0077] A first busbar frame assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention is positioned on a first side (101) of a cell stack (100) (e.g., the front of the cell stack (100)) and can electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (110) within the cell stack (100) while simultaneously mechanically fixing and supporting them. Additionally, the first busbar frame assembly (200) can measure the voltage value of the cell stack (100) and transmit it to an external device such as a battery management system (BMS).

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, a first busbar frame assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first busbar frame (210), a first flexible printed circuit board assembly (230) (hereinafter, the first FPCB assembly), a plurality of first busbars (250), and a reinforcing plate (hereinafter, the first reinforcing plate (900)).

[0079] The first busbar frame (210) may be located on the first side (101) of the cell stack (100). At this time, a first FPCB assembly (230) and a plurality of first busbars (250) may be arranged on one side of the first busbar frame (210), and the first side (101) of the cell stack (100) may be connected to the other side.

[0080] Additionally, the first busbar frame (210) can fix and support the plurality of battery cells (110) so that the plurality of battery cells (110) are not deformed or displaced due to external impact, vibration, and thermal expansion. To this end, the first busbar frame (210) can be designed to correspond to the shape of the first side (101) of the cell stack (100). For example, the first busbar frame (210) can be designed in the shape of a square panel overall.

[0081] Additionally, the first busbar frame (210) can be configured to accurately position the first FPCB assembly (230) and a plurality of first busbars (250) at a predetermined location. For example, the first busbar frame (210) can enable the first FPCB assembly (230) and a plurality of first busbars (250) to be stably aligned and fixed at a predetermined location through the assembly guide portions (211, 217) to be described later.

[0082] These assembly guides (211, 217) can serve to simplify the mounting process of the first FPCB assembly (230) and the first busbar (250) and to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the assembly process. For example, each of the assembly guides (211, 217) may have a structure corresponding to the shape and dimensions of the first FPCB assembly (230) and the first busbar (250), thereby enabling the first FPCB assembly (230) and the first busbar (250) to be easily and quickly mounted to the first busbar frame (210). Details related to this will be explained in detail below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0083] Meanwhile, the first busbar frame (210) may be formed from a material having electrical insulation properties (e.g., PEEK, polyamide) to prevent electrical short circuits between battery cells (110), and in some areas where insulation is not required, it may be designed to be mixed with a material having excellent thermal conductivity (e.g., aluminum, copper, etc.) to perform thermal management functions. In addition, by applying a laminated structure or coating treatment to simultaneously satisfy insulation and thermal conductivity properties, heat generated during the operation of the battery cells (110) can be effectively dissipated while maintaining electrical safety.

[0084] The first FPCB assembly (230) may be configured to be placed on one side of the first busbar frame (210) to reliably transmit electrical signals and current to an external circuit. For example, the first FPCB assembly (230) is electrically connected to a plurality of first busbars (250), thereby enabling effective measurement of the voltage value of the first side (101) of the cell stack (100). The measured voltage value may be transmitted to a battery management system (BMS) or a similar external circuit, thereby contributing to monitoring or controlling the state of the battery cell (110). Thus, the first FPCB assembly (230) can function as a key component for smoothly transmitting electrical signals and monitoring between a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0085] Additionally, the first FPCB assembly (230) has flexible characteristics so that it can be mounted in a manner suitable for the shape of the first busbar frame (210). This flexibility can serve to prevent cracks from forming or breakage from the surface of the first FPCB assembly (230) by effectively mitigating mechanical stress that may occur during the assembly process (e.g., the bending process). This structural stability can contribute to improving the durability of the first FPCB assembly (230) as an electrical connection.

[0086] Meanwhile, detailed information regarding the first FPCB assembly (230) will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7.

[0087] A plurality of first busbars (250) may be arranged on one side of the first busbar frame (210) to form an electrical connection between a plurality of battery cells (110) constituting the cell stack (100), thereby enabling efficient transmission of current. This allows for a stable current flow between the battery cells (110), thereby maximizing the electrical performance of the battery module (10).

[0088] Additionally, a plurality of first busbars (250) can contribute to maintaining a balanced state of the cell stack (100) by adjusting the potential difference between a plurality of battery cells (110). In this process, the plurality of first busbars (250) can equalize the output voltage of each battery cell (110) or prevent the voltage of a specific battery cell (110) from becoming excessively high or low through a battery management system (BMS). This can minimize efficiency degradation or safety issues of the battery module (10) that may occur due to voltage imbalance between battery cells (110).

[0089] In addition, a plurality of first busbars (250) can provide a current output path to stably transmit an electrical signal generated from a battery cell (110) to an external circuit, thereby enabling smooth interaction with a battery management system (BMS) or other external control devices.

[0090] This function can be implemented by electrically connecting a plurality of first busbars (250) to electrode leads protruding from the battery cell (110). For example, the electrode leads can be electrically connected to a plurality of first busbars (250) after passing through a slit formed in the first busbar frame (210). At this time, the electrode leads passing through the slit can be connected to a plurality of first busbars (250) in a manner such as being bent within a range that maximizes space utilization.

[0091] In this way, by connecting the electrode leads to a plurality of first busbars (250), an electrical series connection or parallel connection between the battery cells (110) can be implemented. Meanwhile, the connection method between the electrode leads and the plurality of first busbars (250) can be implemented by a welding method such as thermal welding or laser welding, but is not limited thereto and can be connected in various ways as needed.

[0092] Meanwhile, a plurality of first busbars (250) may be formed of a conductive material, such as a metal material, to electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the first busbars (250) may include a metal material such as aluminum or copper that has excellent electrical conductivity, and plating treatment or an insulating coating may be applied as needed.

[0093] Additionally, a plurality of first busbars (250) may have a metal plate shape such as a bar shape that is extended in one direction. However, they are not limited thereto and may be designed in various shapes as needed, taking into account the shape of the first busbar frame (210) and the connection relationship with other components.

[0094] Meanwhile, a plurality of first busbars (250) can electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (110) by contacting a plurality of electrode leads of the same polarity or a plurality of electrode leads of different polarities. For example, some of the plurality of first busbars (250) may be electrically connected to a plurality of positive leads or a plurality of negative leads, while other parts may be electrically connected to both a plurality of positive leads and a plurality of negative leads.

[0095] In addition, the electrical connection method between the plurality of first busbars (250) and the plurality of electrode leads protruding from the first side (101) of the cell stack (100) is not limited to a specific method, and various modifications are possible as needed, in addition to the generally used method. However, a detailed description of such specific connection methods is omitted from this specification.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a plurality of first busbars (250) may include a first terminal busbar (251), a second terminal busbar (253), and a plurality of interbusbars (255). The first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) may be electrically connected to an external device to input and output power from the battery module (10). Additionally, the interbusbars (255) may form electrical connections between a plurality of battery cells (110) constituting the cell stack (100). Through this, the interbusbars (255) can effectively transmit current and simultaneously perform the role of adjusting voltage distribution between each battery cell (110).

[0097] For example, the inter busbar (255) collects power generated from each battery cell (110) and transmits it to the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253), and each of the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) can stably output it to an external circuit. This configuration can contribute to improving the performance and reliability of the battery module (10) by maximizing the electrical connection efficiency within the battery module (10) and ensuring the stability of the power flow.

[0098] The first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) may be positioned at both ends of the first busbar frame (210) in the width direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). For example, the first terminal busbar (251) may be positioned at the left end of the first busbar frame (210) in the width direction, and the second terminal busbar (253) may be positioned at the right end of the first busbar frame (210) in the width direction.

[0099] The first terminal busbar (251) can be electrically connected to a plurality of positive leads protruding from the cell stack (100), and the second terminal busbar (253) can be electrically connected to a plurality of negative leads protruding from the cell stack (100). Through this, the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) can each collect current from the positive leads and negative leads, and perform the function of stably transmitting the collected current to an external circuit.

[0100] Additionally, the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) can perform the role of current distribution to adjust the voltage level within the battery module (10) or prevent overcurrent from flowing through electrical connections with the positive lead and the negative lead.

[0101] The first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) may include a terminal flange (F) at the top, and current transmitted through the electrode leads can be stably output to an external circuit through the terminal flange (F). The terminal flange (F) serves as a primary interface for electrical connection with an external circuit and can be designed to minimize contact resistance and ensure the stability of current transmission.

[0102] Meanwhile, the terminal flange (F) may be formed as a structure that extends from the top of the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253) and is bent in the X-axis direction. This bent structure can contribute to improving space efficiency inside the battery module (10), facilitating connection with external circuits, and further improving the assembly of the battery module (10). However, the terminal flange (F) is not limited to this bent structure and can be designed in various modified forms depending on the design requirements and application environment of the battery module (10). For example, the terminal flange (F) may be formed as a straight, curved, or other complex structure.

[0103] A plurality of inter busbars (255) are located between the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253) and can be disposed on one side of the first busbar frame (210). The plurality of inter busbars (255) can be spaced apart at regular intervals by the second assembly guide (217) of the first busbar frame (210), which will be described later, and these intervals can be adjusted according to design standards to prevent electrical short circuits and interference.

[0104] Additionally, an insulating member may be disposed between multiple interbusbars (255). The insulating member may be composed of a material capable of providing stable insulation performance even in high temperature and high voltage environments, and may serve to ensure electrical stability by preventing electrical short circuits between interbusbars (255) and clearly separating current paths. For example, the insulating member may be applied in the form of an insulating coating, an insulating film, or a molding material, and may be disposed on the first busbar frame (210) as a separate component or formed as a structure integrated with the first busbar frame (210).

[0105] In addition, unlike the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253), the multiple inter busbars (255) can be electrically connected to both the multiple positive leads and the multiple negative leads. Through this, the current flow between each battery cell (110) constituting the cell stack (100) can be efficiently distributed, and the voltage imbalance within the cell stack (100) can be mitigated by adjusting the potential difference between the positive leads and the negative leads.

[0106] Meanwhile, a plurality of first busbars (250) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be composed of two terminal busbars (251, 253) and three inter busbars (255). Since the terminal busbars (251, 253) are each placed at both ends in the width direction of the first busbar frame (210), they may generally be composed of two. On the other hand, the number of inter busbars (255) may be set to three in this embodiment, but is not limited thereto and may be adjusted according to the number of battery cells (110) constituting the cell stack (100), design requirements of the battery module (10), optimization conditions for electrical load distribution, etc.

[0107] Additionally, a plurality of first busbars (250) can be combined with a plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) of a first FPCB assembly (230) to be described later by means such as welding. Through this, voltage signals and current information of the cell stack (100) can be reliably transmitted to a battery management system or an external circuit via the first FPCB assembly (230).

[0108] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first busbar frame (210) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a front view of the first busbar frame (210) of FIG. 4.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first busbar frame (210) may include a first assembly guide part (211) composed of a first rib (212), a second rib (215), and a second assembly guide part (217) composed of a third rib.

[0110] The first assembly guide (211) is formed on the upper part of the first busbar frame (210) to guide the first FPCB assembly (230) so that it can be easily installed at a predetermined position. Here, the upper part of the first busbar frame (210) may refer to the upper area of ​​the region of the first busbar frame (210) partitioned by the second rib (215).

[0111] The first assembly guide portion (211) may have a first rib (212) formed to protrude in the X-axis direction from one side of the first busbar frame (210). At this time, the first rib (212) may support a first area of ​​the first FPCB (231) (e.g., a first surface (231a) of the first FPCB (231)). For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first rib (212) may include a horizontal rib (212a) and a vertical rib (212b). The horizontal rib (212a) may protrude from the first busbar frame (210) in the X-axis direction and be formed to be long in the horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). Additionally, the vertical rib (212b) may protrude from the first busbar frame (210) in the X-axis direction and be formed to be long in the vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction).

[0112] Additionally, at least two horizontal ribs (212a) and vertical ribs (212b) may be arranged side by side at regular intervals to form a first assembly guide section (211). For example, the outermost horizontal rib (212a) may form the upper and lower sides of the first assembly guide section (211), and the outermost vertical rib (212b) may form the left and right sides of the first assembly guide section (211), thereby forming a frame-shaped first assembly guide section (211) capable of stably supporting the first FPCB assembly (230). However, this is merely an example, and the shape formed by the first rib (212) of the first assembly guide section (211) is not limited thereto.

[0113] The first assembly guide (211) includes a fixing pin (213) to stably fix the first FPCB assembly (230) placed on the first assembly guide (211). For example, the fixing pin (213) is formed to protrude in the X-axis direction from the first rib (212) and is inserted into and fastened to a fixing hole (235) provided in the first FPCB (231), thereby stably fixing the first FPCB assembly (230) to the first busbar frame (210). At this time, due to the flexibility of the first FPCB (231) substrate, the fixing pin (213) can be stably fixed without a separate fixing device as it is inserted into the fixing hole (235). In addition, the number and position of the fixing pin (213) and the fixing hole (235) of the first FPCB (231) in the first busbar frame (210) may match each other.

[0114] Meanwhile, the fixing pin (213) may be formed by protruding from at least one of the horizontal rib (212a) and the vertical rib (212b). For example, the fixing pin (213) may be formed by protruding from the horizontal rib (212a) or the vertical rib (212b), or by protruding from the point where the horizontal rib (212a) and the vertical rib (212b) intersect. Additionally, at least two fixing pins (213) may be formed by protruding from the first rib (212). However, the arrangement and number of fixing pins (213) are exemplary and may be adjusted as needed within a range that allows the first FPCB assembly (230) to be stably fixed to the first busbar frame (210).

[0115] The second rib (215) may be formed by protruding in the X-axis direction from the first busbar frame (210) between the first assembly guide part (211) and the second assembly guide part (217). Through this, the second rib (215) can divide the first busbar frame (210) in a horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) to distinguish between the area where a plurality of first busbars (250) are installed and the area where the first FPCB assembly (230) is installed. That is, the second rib (215) may be formed as a thin and long plate-shaped structure that protrudes in the X-axis direction from the first busbar frame (210) at the bottom of the first rib (212).

[0116] Additionally, the second rib (215) can perform the role of supporting the first FPCB assembly (230) so that it can be stably fixed to the first busbar frame (210) together with the first assembly guide (211). For example, the second rib (215) can support the other side of the first FPCB (231) (e.g., the third side (231c) of the first FPCB (231)). As a result, the first FPCB assembly (230) can be stably fixed to the first busbar frame (210) not only through the fixing pin (213) of the first assembly guide (211) but also through the second rib (215). At this time, the length of the second rib (215) protruding in the X-axis direction from the first busbar frame (210) may be longer than the length of the first rib (212) protruding in the X-axis direction from the first busbar frame (210).

[0117] Meanwhile, the second rib (215) may form a specific angle with respect to the first assembly guide portion (211). For example, the second rib (215) may form a specific angle with the vertical rib (212b) of the first rib (212) constituting the first assembly guide portion (211). To this end, the length of the second rib (215) protruding in the X-axis direction from one side of the first busbar frame (210) may be longer than the length of the first rib (212) protruding in the X-axis direction from one side of the first busbar frame (210), and thus the lower end of the first FPCB assembly (230) may be seated on the second rib (215) which protrudes more than the first rib (212).

[0118] Additionally, a specific angle formed by the second rib (215) with respect to the first assembly guide (211) may correspond to the bending angle of the first FPCB (231) supported by the first assembly guide (211) so that the other side of the first FPCB (231) can be stably seated on the second rib (215). That is, depending on the angle formed by the second rib (215) in the first busbar frame (210), the second region of the first FPCB (231) (e.g., the third side (231c) of the first FPCB (231)) can be bent with respect to the first region of the first FPCB (231) (e.g., the first side (231a) of the first FPCB (231)) and stably seated on the second rib (215). At this time, the first region can be connected to the second region. The first rib (212) and the second rib (215) each support the first region and the second region, respectively, and together with the first reinforcing plate (900) to be described later, can contribute to the second region being bent at a specific angle relative to the first region. Details regarding this will be explained below.

[0119] The second assembly guide (217) is formed at the lower part of the first busbar frame (210) and can guide a plurality of first busbars (250) to be easily installed at a predetermined position. Here, the lower part of the first busbar frame (210) may refer to the lower area of ​​the region of the first busbar frame (210) partitioned by the second rib (215).

[0120] Additionally, the second assembly guide section (217) may be formed spaced apart from each other at a certain distance so that the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) and a plurality of inter busbars (255) can be aligned at a predetermined position.

[0121] The second assembly guide portion (217) may be formed such that the third rib protrudes in the X-axis direction from one side of the first busbar frame (210). For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the third rib may include a horizontal rib and a vertical rib, similar to the first rib (212). The horizontal rib may be formed long in the horizontal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) by protruding from the first busbar frame (210) in the X-axis direction. Additionally, the vertical rib may be formed long in the vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) by protruding from the first busbar frame (210) in the X-axis direction.

[0122] Additionally, the third rib may be formed differently depending on the terminal busbar (251, 253) and the inter busbar (255). For example, corresponding to the width direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the terminal busbar (251, 253) and the inter busbar (255), the horizontal length of the outermost third rib supporting the terminal busbar (251, 253) may be formed shorter than the horizontal length of the inner third rib supporting the inter busbar (255).

[0123] Meanwhile, the third rib may be formed in various shapes to restrain a plurality of first busbars (250). For example, if a separate fixing pin (213) is not formed on the first rib (212), the third rib may be formed to include a groove or a protrusion to restrain and fix a plurality of first busbars (250). However, this is merely an example, and as with the first rib (212), a separate fixing member may be used to fix the plurality of first busbars (250) and the first busbar frame (210), or it may not be used as needed.

[0124] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first flexible printed circuit board assembly (230) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an unfolded view of the first flexible printed circuit board (231) of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view and enlarged view of a first busbar frame assembly (200) cut along line II of FIG. 2.

[0125] As described above, the first FPCB assembly (230) is positioned on one side of the first busbar frame (210) and is electrically connected to a plurality of first busbars (250) so that the voltage value of the first side (101) of the cell stack (100) can be effectively measured. Subsequently, the first FPCB assembly (230) can transmit the measured voltage value to a battery management system (BMS) or a similar external circuit.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first FPCB assembly (230) may include a first FPCB (231), a plurality of first voltage sensing units (233), a sensing plate (237), a first connector (238), and a second connector (239).

[0127] The first FPCB assembly (230) can be positioned to fit the shape of the first busbar frame (210) due to the flexibility of the first FPCB (231) itself. For example, the first FPCB (231) can be bent to fit the shape of the first busbar frame (210), and based on this high flexibility, it can effectively respond to space constraints inside the first busbar frame assembly (200). Through this, the space utilization inside the first busbar frame assembly (200) can be increased, and furthermore, it can contribute to the miniaturization of the battery module (10).

[0128] For example, the first FPCB (231) may be composed mainly of a thin, flexible substrate material such as polyimide or polyester. The conductor layer is formed of copper, which has excellent electrical conductivity, and plating treatment such as gold, tin, or nickel may be applied to the surface to prevent oxidation and minimize contact resistance. Meanwhile, an epoxy or acrylic-based adhesive layer may be used between the first FPCB (231) and the conductor layer to provide strong adhesion and electrical insulation. In addition, a laminate or polyimide coating layer may be additionally applied to reinforce the heat resistance and mechanical strength of the substrate as needed.

[0129] In addition, the first FPCB (231) has excellent heat resistance and moisture resistance, so it can maintain stable electrical characteristics even in high temperature or high humidity environments, and has high durability against repeated bending and folding, so it can ensure long-term reliability.

[0130] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first FPCB (231) can be broadly divided into a first surface (231a), a second surface (231b), and a third surface (231c). Additionally, the first FPCB (231) may include a first bending part (B1) and a second bending part (B2) so that it can be stably fixed in correspondence with the shape of the first busbar frame (210).

[0131] The first surface (231a) may be a surface placed on the first busbar frame (210) in the first FPCB (231). For example, one side of the first surface (231a) may be placed on the first rib (212) constituting the first assembly guide part (211), and the other side of the first surface (231a) may be placed facing the X-axis direction so as to face each other with one side of the second surface (231b).

[0132] The second surface (231b) may be positioned to face the first surface (231a). For example, one side of the second surface (231b) may be positioned to face the other side of the first surface (231a), and the other side of the second surface (231b) may be positioned to face the X-axis direction. At this time, the other side of the second surface (231b) may have first and second connectors (239) configured to transmit to the outside the voltage of the battery cell (110) measured by a plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) to be described later and the temperature information measured by a thermistor bridge.

[0133] Additionally, the second surface (231b) may include a connecting member (234) formed by extending from at least a portion of one side. This connecting member (234) is connected to a thermistor bridge that performs a temperature sensing function and can serve as a passage connecting the first FPCB (231) and the thermistor bridge.

[0134] Meanwhile, the second surface (231b) can be connected to the first surface (231a), and the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) can be connected through the second bending part (B2). The second bending part (B2) is formed between the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b), and along it, one side of the second surface (231b) can be bent toward the other side of the first surface (231a). For example, the second surface (231b) can be bent toward the first surface (231a) in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 7. As a result, the space occupied by the first FPCB (231) within the first busbar frame assembly (200) is reduced, thereby improving internal space utilization.

[0135] Meanwhile, the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) may be formed with the same shape or size. For example, the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) may be square panels of the same size. However, this is merely an example, and the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) may have different shapes or sizes as needed.

[0136] Additionally, a fixing hole (235) may be formed on the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) at the same position as the fixing pin (213) formed on the first assembly guide part (211) of the first busbar frame (210). For example, the fixing hole (235) may be formed on the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) so that the center axis of the fixing pin (213) and the center axis of the fixing hole (235) coincide. That is, the position of the fixing hole (235) formed on the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) may differ in correspondence with the position of the fixing pin (213). At this time, even if the size or shape of the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) are different from each other, it is preferable that the center axes of the fixing holes (235) formed on each surface (231a, 231b) be arranged to coincide with each other.

[0137] The third surface (231c) can be connected to the first surface (231a) and positioned on the first busbar frame (210). For example, the third surface (231c) is connected to the first surface (231a) through the first bending part (B1) and can be positioned to correspond to the shape of the first busbar frame (210) by the first bending part (B1). As will be described later, the first bending part (B1) can be bent to correspond to the shape of the first busbar frame (210) by the second rib (215) and the first reinforcing plate (900).

[0138] As the first bending portion (B1) is formed, a bending angle may be formed between the first surface (231a) and the third surface (231c), and this angle may correspond to the angle formed between the first rib (212) and the second rib (215) of the first busbar frame (210). Here, the bending angle is an angle determined as the second rib (215) protrudes in the X-axis direction from the first busbar frame (210), and may mean the angle at which the third surface (231c) bends relative to the first surface (231a). In addition, in a broader sense, the bending angle may also be understood as the angle formed by the third surface (231c) relative to the first surface (231a) so that the third surface (231c) of the first FPCB (231) is in close contact with the second rib (215) of the first busbar frame (210).

[0139] As a result, even if the angles of the first rib (212) and the second rib (215) change according to the design of the first busbar frame (210), the first FPCB (231) can be adjusted to a corresponding bending angle through the first bending part (B1), and thereby the first FPCB (231) can be stably placed in the shape of the first busbar frame (210).

[0140] Referring to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 8, a first busbar frame assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a first reinforcing plate (900) that fixes at least one area of ​​a first FPCB (231) to a first busbar frame (210). For example, the first reinforcing plate (900) can stably fix the first FPCB (231) to the first busbar frame (210) by positioning the first surface (231a) of the first FPCB (231) in the area between the first reinforcing plate (900) and the first busbar frame (210).

[0141] At this time, the first reinforcing plate (900) can be placed inside the first busbar frame assembly (200) in various ways. For example, with the first reinforcing plate (900) fixed to the first side (231a) of the first FPCB (231) on the first busbar frame (210), the upper corresponding area of ​​the first reinforcing plate (900) of the first FPCB (231) can be bent so that the second side (231b) of the first FPCB (231) faces the first side (231a), thereby forming a second bending portion (B2).

[0142] Additionally, the first reinforcing plate (900) can be positioned so that the third surface (231c) is bent relative to the first surface (231a), thereby allowing the third surface (231c) to be placed on the second rib (215) of the first busbar frame (210). Through this, the second rib (215) can stably support the bottom of the first FPCB assembly (230).

[0143] For example, the third surface (231c) may be positioned between the first reinforcing plate (900) and the second rib (215). By doing so, the first bending portion (B1) is bent by the second rib (215) and the bottom of the first reinforcing plate (900), so that the third surface (231c) may be seated on the second rib (215) forming a specific angle with respect to the first surface (231a). Here, the specific angle is the bending angle described above, which may correspond to the angle formed by the second rib (215) with respect to the first rib (212).

[0144] For example, if the angle formed between the second rib (215) and the first rib (212) is 90 degrees, the third surface (231c) may form a 90-degree angle with respect to the first surface (231a) as the first bending part (B1) is bent. However, this is merely a simple example, and the angle formed between the second rib (215) and the first rib (212) may have various sizes. Accordingly, the third surface (231c) may be bent by that angle with respect to the first surface (231a) in correspondence with the size of the angle formed between the first rib (212) and the second rib (215) in the first busbar frame (210).

[0145] Meanwhile, the size and shape of the first reinforcing plate (900) may correspond to the size and shape of the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b). Additionally, the first reinforcing plate (900) may include a fixing hole (910) having the same central axis as the central axis of the fixing hole (235) formed in the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b).

[0146] Additionally, the first reinforcing plate (900) not only serves to fix the first surface (231a) to the first busbar frame (210) and to allow the third surface (231c) to be bent at a bending angle with respect to the first surface (231a) together with the second rib (215), but can also contribute to stably fixing the third surface (231c) on the second rib (215). This can be implemented in such a way that the bottom of the first reinforcing plate (900) is positioned close to the third surface (231c), thereby preventing the third surface (231c) from lifting off the second rib (215).

[0147] Additionally, the first reinforcing plate (900) is positioned between the first surface (231a) and the second surface (231b) of the first FPCB (231) to improve the mechanical strength of the first FPCB assembly (230), while also providing the additional effect of stably fixing the first FPCB (231) to the first busbar frame (210) without using an adhesive member such as adhesive tape.

[0148] Additionally, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first surface (231a) may include some of the plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) that protrude and extend from at least a portion of both sides (e.g., first unit (233a) and second unit (233b)). Likewise, the third surface (231c) may include the remainder of the plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) that protrude and extend from at least a portion of one side (e.g., a plurality of third units (233c)).

[0149] These multiple first voltage sensing units (233) are connected to multiple first busbars (250) arranged in the first busbar frame (210) to sense the voltage of multiple battery cells (110). At this time, the voltage value of the battery cell (110) measured by each first voltage sensing unit (233) may refer to the voltage value of the multiple battery cells (110) through the first busbar (250) to which the first voltage sensing unit (233) is connected.

[0150] A plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) may include a first unit (233a), a second unit (233b), and a plurality of third units (233c). The first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) may be electrically connected to the first and second terminal busbars (251, 253) among the plurality of first busbars (250), and the plurality of third units (233c) may be electrically connected to the inter busbar (255) among the plurality of first busbars (250).

[0151] The first unit (233a) is formed by extending from one side of the first surface (231a) and can be connected to the first terminal busbar (251). As the first unit (233a) is connected to the first terminal busbar (251), the voltage values ​​of a plurality of battery cells (110) at a corresponding location can be sensed through a positive lead electrically connected to the first terminal busbar (251).

[0152] Likewise, the second unit (233b) is formed by extending from the other side of the first surface (231a) and can be connected to the second terminal busbar (253). As the second unit (233b) is connected to the second terminal busbar (253), the voltage values ​​of a plurality of battery cells (110) at the corresponding location can be sensed through a negative lead electrically connected to the second terminal busbar (253).

[0153] Meanwhile, in the conventional first FPCB (231), the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) are formed by extending from both sides of the third surface (231c), so they are not stably fixed and tend to lift up during the process of connecting to the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253). As a result, a separate adhesive member was required to firmly fix the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) to the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253).

[0154] Accordingly, the first FPCB (231) according to one embodiment of the present invention is designed with a modified shape so that the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) extend from one side and the other side of the first surface (231a), respectively. In addition, since the first surface (231a) is positioned and fixed between the first reinforcing plate (900) and one side of the first busbar frame (210) due to the presence of the first reinforcing plate (900), the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) can be stably connected to the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253) without a separate adhesive member such as adhesive tape.

[0155] That is, by changing the design of the shape of the first FPCB (231) to change the position of the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) and applying the first reinforcing plate (900), the first unit (233a) and the second unit (233b) are supported by the first reinforcing plate (900), so that they can be firmly connected to the first terminal busbar (251) and the second terminal busbar (253) without lifting.

[0156] A plurality of third units (233c) are formed by extending from one side of the third surface (231c) and can be connected to a plurality of interbusbars (255). At this time, one side of the third surface (231c) may refer to the side opposite to the side where the first bending portion (B1) is formed on the third surface (231c). As the third unit (233c) is connected to the interbusbar (255), the voltage values ​​of a plurality of battery cells (110) at the corresponding location can be sensed through the positive lead and negative lead electrically connected to the interbusbar (255).

[0157] Meanwhile, the extended positions of the first unit (233a), the second unit (233b), and the plurality of third units (233c) are not limited to those shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, and the positions of each unit (233a, 233b, 233c) may be changed as needed.

[0158] Additionally, each of the plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) may include at least one bending portion in at least a part. By bending the plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) to fit the internal structure of the plurality of first busbar frame assemblies (200), these bending portions can contribute to each unit being stably connected to the corresponding first busbar (250).

[0159] Each of the plurality of first voltage sensing units (233) is equipped with a sensing plate (237) to sense the voltage of the plurality of battery cells (110). For example, a sensing plate (237) is attached to the end of each first voltage sensing unit (233), and the combined sensing plate (237) can be attached to each of the plurality of first busbars (250). The sensing plate (237) attached in this way can measure the voltage value of the plurality of battery cells (110) connected to the first busbar (250) at the corresponding location and transmit it to the first FPCB (231).

[0160] Meanwhile, the sensing plate (237) can be directly connected to a plurality of first busbars (250) through welding. However, the sensing plate (237) is not necessarily connected by welding and can be fixed to the first busbars (250) in various ways, such as rivet joining, clamping joining, chemical bonding using epoxy resin or adhesive, or screw fastening.

[0161] Additionally, the sensing plate (237) may be made of copper, brass, aluminum, which has excellent electrical conductivity, or stainless steel, which has excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Additionally, the sensing plate (237) may be plated with nickel, gold, or tin to prevent oxidation and reduce contact resistance.

[0162] The first and second connectors (238, 239) can transmit voltage of the battery cell (110) measured by the first voltage sensing unit (233) and temperature information measured by the thermistor bridge to the outside. The first and second connectors (238, 239) can be placed on the second side (231b) of the first FPCB (231) and can be exposed to the outside through a tunnel formed in the first end plate (300) to be connected to an external device.

[0163] The first connector (238) is an LV (Low Voltage) connector and can convert voltage and temperature information inside the battery module (10) into a signal and transmit it to an external control device or data collection device. This can provide an interface with a system that monitors or manages the state of the battery cell (110).

[0164] In addition, the second connector (239) is a Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) connector that adopts a flat cable structure and a high-density pin arrangement, thereby increasing space efficiency inside the battery module (10) and reducing wiring complexity by integrating multiple data lines, so that voltage and temperature information can be transmitted reliably. Furthermore, the second connector (239) can flexibly adapt even to installation environments with many bends, thereby preventing damage from vibration or external shock and maintaining reliability without data loss.

[0165] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second busbar frame assembly (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the second busbar frame assembly (400) of FIG. 9.

[0166] A second busbar frame assembly (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention is positioned on a second side (103) of a cell stack (100) (e.g., the rear of the cell stack (100)) and can electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (110) within the cell stack (100) while simultaneously mechanically fixing and supporting them. Additionally, the second busbar frame assembly (400) can perform the function of measuring the voltage value of the cell stack (100) and transmitting it to the first busbar frame assembly (200).

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a second busbar frame assembly (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a second busbar frame (410), a second flexible printed circuit board assembly (430) (hereinafter referred to as the second FPCB assembly) and a plurality of second busbars (450).

[0168] These components constituting the second busbar frame assembly (400) may be similar in terms of function, differing only in some design from the previously described first busbar frame (210), first FPCB assembly (230), and plurality of first busbars (250). Therefore, detailed descriptions of common matters will be briefly described.

[0169] The second busbar frame (410), like the first busbar frame (210), may include a first assembly guide section (411), a partition rib (413), and a second assembly guide section (415). In this case, the first assembly guide section (411) and the second assembly guide section (415) may be composed of a horizontal rib and a vertical rib.

[0170] A second FPCB assembly (430) may be disposed in the first assembly guide section (411), and a plurality of second busbars (450) may be disposed in the second assembly guide section (415). At this time, the partition rib (413) is a component corresponding to the second rib (215) of the first busbar frame (210), and may be formed protruding from one side of the second busbar frame (410) to separate the areas of the first assembly guide section (411) and the second assembly guide section (415). At the same time, the partition rib (413) may perform the role of supporting the lower end of the second FPCB assembly (430).

[0171] Additionally, the plurality of second busbars (450) may consist only of interbusbars. Accordingly, each second busbar (450) may be electrically connected to both the positive lead and the negative lead. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the plurality of second busbars (450) may consist of four interbusbars. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0172] Meanwhile, as the plurality of second busbars (450) are composed of four interbusbars, the second busbar frame (410) may not require a separate guide section for arranging terminal busbars. Additionally, the second assembly guide section (415) may be formed spaced apart from each other at a certain distance so as to allow four interbusbars to be arranged.

[0173] Additionally, the second FPCB assembly (430) may include a plurality of second voltage sensing units (433) corresponding to the number of a plurality of second bus bars (450). For example, if the plurality of second bus bars (450) are composed of 4, the plurality of second voltage sensing units (433) may also be composed of 4.

[0174] Additionally, each second voltage sensing unit (433) is equipped with a sensing plate (435), and the sensing plate (435) can be attached to the second busbar (450) by means such as welding. The attached sensing plate (435) can measure the voltage value of a plurality of battery cells (110) connected to the second busbar (450) at the corresponding location and transmit it to the second FPCB (431).

[0175] Meanwhile, unlike the first FPCB assembly (230), the second FPCB assembly (430) may include only one connector (439). The connector (439) of the second FPCB assembly (430) can perform the same function as the second connector (239) of the first FPCB (231). For example, the connector (439) may be configured as a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC) connector, which, as described above, can contribute to reliably transmitting voltage and temperature information to an external device by increasing space efficiency inside the battery module (10) and reducing wiring complexity by integrating multiple data lines.

[0176] FIG. 11 is an unfolded view of a second flexible printed circuit board (431) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 11, the second FPCB (431) may include a first surface (431a), a second surface (431b), and a third surface (431c). Additionally, the second FPCB (431) may include a second bending part (B4) that connects the first surface (431a) and the second surface (431b) and is bent, and a first bending part (B3) that connects the first surface (431a) and the third surface (431c) and is bent.

[0178] The second bending portion (B4) is formed on one side of the first surface (431a) and, as shown in FIG. 11, is bent from right to left, thereby contributing to the second surface (431b) being positioned to face the first surface (431a). Accordingly, an internal space is formed between the first surface (431a) and the second surface (431b), and a reinforcing plate (hereinafter referred to as the second reinforcing plate) (not shown) may be placed in the space. Meanwhile, the second reinforcing plate performs the same function as the first reinforcing plate (900) and can be understood as being configured in a shape similar to or modified from the first reinforcing plate (900) so as to correspond to the shape and structure of the second FPCB (431).

[0179] The first bending section (B3) is formed on the lower side of the first surface (431a) and can be in a vertical relationship with the second bending section (B4). The first bending section (B3) can be bent by the angle between the section rib (413) formed in the second busbar frame (410) and the first assembly guide section (411) by means of the second reinforcing plate and the section rib (413) of the second busbar frame (410) disposed between the first surface (431a) and the second surface (431b).

[0180] As a result, the third surface (431c) can be bent at a specific angle relative to the first surface (431a) and stably seated on the partition rib (413). At this time, the second reinforcing plate not only induces the third surface (431c) to be bent at a specific angle relative to the first surface (431a), but also contributes to the third surface (431c) being fixed on the partition rib (413).

[0181] Meanwhile, as the second FPCB (431) is designed to be smaller in size than the first FPCB (231), the third surface (431c) of the second FPCB (431) may include a portion that exceeds the area of ​​the first bending portion (B3). In this case, the excess area may not be stably seated on the partition rib (413) by the second reinforcing plate, and thus there is a possibility that lifting may occur. Therefore, unlike the third surface (231c) of the first FPCB (231), the third surface (431c) of the second FPCB (431) may require a separate adhesive member (437) on at least a portion.

[0182] However, this is merely a simple example, and depending on the design of the second FPCB (431), the third surface (431c) can be stably seated on the partition rib (413) without an adhesive member (437). For example, if the design increases the size of the first surface (431a) or reduces the size of the third surface (431c) by adjusting the size and spacing of the second bus bar (450), the third surface (431c) can be fixed to the partition rib (413) without a separate adhesive member (437).

[0183] In this way, the second busbar frame assembly (400), like the first busbar frame assembly (200), can be bent so that the third surface (431c) forms a specific angle with respect to the first surface (431a) without a prior bending process by additionally placing a second reinforcing plate on the second FPCB assembly (430). Additionally, depending on the design of the second FPCB (431), a separate adhesive member (437) may be required on the first surface (431a) or the third surface (431c), but by utilizing the second reinforcing plate, the effect of stably seating at least a portion of the third surface (431c) on the partition rib (413) can be expected.

[0184] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 12, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery module (10) described above and a pack case (50) that packages at least one battery module (10). The battery pack (1) may be formed such that at least one battery module (10) is fixed inside the pack case (50) or stably positioned through a support structure. At this time, the battery module (10) is efficiently arranged in the internal space of the pack case (50), and the structure of the battery pack (1) can be flexibly designed for various uses by adjusting the number and arrangement method of the battery modules (10) as needed.

[0186] This battery pack (1) can be equipped in various vehicles, such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, as a fuel source for the vehicle. The battery pack (1) can be installed in various ways, such as being integrated into the vehicle's lower chassis, or into the rear trunk, central tunnel, or the vehicle structure itself. Additionally, external mounting methods, such as a replaceable battery system or a trailer, can also be utilized.

[0187] In addition, the battery pack (1) can be flexibly applied to various other devices or facilities, such as fixed installations, mobile devices, or modular systems, such as an energy storage system that uses a secondary battery, in addition to automobiles.

[0188] Thus, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention and a device, apparatus, and facility equipped with the battery pack (1), such as an automobile or a power storage device, include the aforementioned battery module (10), thereby enabling the implementation of a battery pack (1) having all the advantages of the aforementioned battery module (10) and a device, apparatus, and facility equipped with such a battery pack (1).

[0189] Although the present invention has been described with respect to specific examples including preferred modes of carrying out the present invention, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that numerous modifications and substitutions of the systems and technologies described above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cell stack comprising a plurality of battery cells; and It includes a first busbar frame assembly coupled to the first side of the cell stack, and The above-mentioned first busbar frame assembly is, A first flexible printed circuit board configured to sense the voltage value of the cell stack above; A first busbar frame having the first flexible printed circuit board disposed on one side and coupled to the first side of the cell stack on the other side; and A first reinforcing plate comprising a first flexible printed circuit board that fixes the first flexible printed circuit board by placing at least one area of ​​the first flexible printed circuit board in the area between the first busbar frame and the first reinforcing plate, Battery module.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned first busbar frame is, A first rib protruding from the above-mentioned surface and supporting a first region of the first flexible printed circuit board; and It includes a second rib that protrudes from the one surface at the bottom of the first rib and supports a second region of the first flexible printed circuit board connected to the first region, The bending angle of the first flexible printed circuit board formed by the first reinforcing plate corresponds to the angle formed between the first rib and the second rib, Battery module.

3. In Paragraph 2, The length of the second rib protruding from one side of the first busbar frame is longer than the length of the first rib protruding from one side of the first busbar frame. Battery module.

4. In Paragraph 2, The first flexible printed circuit board above is, A first surface disposed on the first rib above; A second surface connected to the first surface and facing the first surface; and It includes a third surface connected to the first surface and disposed on the second rib, A first bending portion is formed between the first surface and the third surface, which is bent by the first busbar frame and the first reinforcing plate, and The above bending angle is the angle between the first surface and the third surface formed by bending the first bending part, Battery module.

5. In Paragraph 4, The third surface is positioned between the first reinforcing plate and the second rib, and is fixed on one surface of the second rib by the first reinforcing plate. Battery module.

6. In Paragraph 4, The first flexible printed circuit board above is, A second bending portion is formed between the first surface and the second surface, and The first reinforcing plate is disposed in the space between the first surface and the second surface, Battery module.

7. In Paragraph 4, The above-mentioned first busbar frame assembly is, In the first side above, further comprising a plurality of first busbars electrically connected to the cell stack and configured to transmit the voltage of the cell stack to the outside, Battery module.

8. In Paragraph 7, The first flexible printed circuit board further includes a plurality of first voltage sensing units connected to each of the plurality of first busbars to sense the voltage value of each of the plurality of first busbars. Each of the plurality of first voltage sensing units has a sensing plate attached to each of the plurality of first busbars, and The above sensing plate senses the voltage values ​​of the plurality of first busbars, Battery module.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above plurality of first voltage sensing units are, A first unit protruding and extending from one side of the first surface; A second unit protruding and extending from the other end of the first surface; and A plurality of third units protruding and extending from one long side of the third surface, Battery module.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above plurality of first busbars are, First terminal busbar connected to the positive lead; A second terminal busbar connected to the negative lead; and It includes a plurality of interbusbars connecting the positive lead and the negative lead of the cell stack, The first unit is connected to the first terminal busbar, and The second unit is connected to the second terminal busbar, and The above plurality of third units are connected to the above plurality of inter busbars, Battery module.

11. In Paragraph 9, The above plurality of first busbars are, A first terminal busbar connected to a positive lead; and It includes a second terminal busbar connected to a negative lead, Each of the first unit and the second unit is fixed to the first terminal busbar and the second terminal busbar, respectively, by the first reinforcing plate. Battery module.

12. In Paragraph 1, It includes a second busbar frame assembly coupled to the second side of the cell stack, and The above second busbar frame assembly is, A second flexible printed circuit board configured to sense a voltage value of the cell stack and transmit the voltage value to the first flexible printed circuit board; A second busbar frame having the second flexible printed circuit board disposed on one side and coupled to the second side of the cell stack on the other side; and A second reinforcing plate comprising a second flexible printed circuit board that fixes the second flexible printed circuit board by placing at least one area of ​​the second flexible printed circuit board in the area between the second busbar frame and the second reinforcing plate. Battery module.

13. At least one battery module according to claim 1; and A pack case comprising packaging at least one battery module, Battery pack.

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