Battery cell and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode and a separator interposed therebetween are wound about a winding axis such that a core and an outer circumferential surface are defined, wherein the first electrode includes, along the winding direction, a first uncoated portion not coated with an active material layer, and the second electrode includes, along the winding direction, a second uncoated portion not coated with an active material layer; a battery housing which includes an opening at one side thereof and which accommodates the electrode assembly through the opening; an upper cover for covering the opening of the battery housing; a first terminal which penetrates the upper cover so as to be exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and which is welded from the outside so as to be electrically connected to the first uncoated portion; and a second terminal which penetrates the upper cover so as to be exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and which is welded from the outside so as to be electrically connected to the second uncoated portion.

Description

Battery cells and battery packs including the same and automobiles

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0035906 filed on March 20, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification 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, as they possess not only the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also the advantage of generating no by-products from energy use.

[0004] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, or unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Additionally, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage and / or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, some conventional cylindrical battery models utilize the CRW (ultrasonic welding) process, which presents problems such as separator damage and reduced battery capacity and lifespan due to welding debris generated during the process. Furthermore, since it is difficult to reduce the diameter of the horn tip in CRW welding, there are limitations in increasing the energy density of the electrode assembly. Specifically, conventional battery cells occupy volume due to the presence of rivets and insulators inside the battery housing, resulting in increased dead space. Additionally, some conventional cylindrical battery models utilize the outer wall of the can as the negative electrode, which increases the electron travel distance and thus raises the total battery resistance.

[0006] Meanwhile, as battery models become more advanced, cost reduction issues are also emerging, but in reality, it is difficult to reduce costs due to parts with diverse and complex shapes and complex processes.

[0007] Accordingly, the present invention has one objective of preventing welding debris from entering the battery housing by performing terminal welding on the outside of the battery housing.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to minimize damage to the separator and improve the lifespan of the battery.

[0009] In addition, the present invention has another objective of effectively reducing the internal resistance of a battery.

[0010] In addition, the present invention has another objective of simplifying the battery manufacturing process and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0011] Furthermore, another objective of the present invention is to reduce manufacturing costs and simultaneously improve energy density by omitting unnecessary components that occupy the interior of the battery.

[0012] 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 a person skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0013] A battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem comprises: an electrode assembly in which a first electrode and a second electrode and a separator interposed between them are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction, and the second electrode includes a second uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction; a battery housing configured to include an opening on one side and to accommodate the electrode assembly through the opening; an upper cover configured to cover the opening of the battery housing; a first terminal configured to penetrate the upper cover and be exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and to be electrically connected to the first uncoated portion by welding from the outside; and a second terminal configured to penetrate the upper cover and be exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and to be electrically connected to the second uncoated portion by welding from the outside.

[0014] In one aspect of the present invention, at least a portion of the first unwound portion comprises at least one first segment divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, and at least a portion of the second unwound portion comprises at least one second segment divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, and the first segment and the second segment may be positioned so as not to overlap each other along the winding direction.

[0015] Preferably, the first segment and the second segment can be configured to be spatially separated.

[0016] Preferably, the first segment may be positioned offset to one side of the electrode assembly, and the second segment may be positioned offset to the other side of the electrode assembly.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, the upper cover may include a venting portion provided in the region between the first terminal and the second terminal, configured to vent when the internal pressure of the battery cell reaches a certain pressure.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, the first terminal may include at least one first welding groove recessed inward from the outer surface of the first terminal, and the second terminal may include at least one second welding groove recessed inward from the outer surface of the second terminal.

[0019] In one aspect of the present invention, the first terminal may include: a first terminal exposure portion exposed to the outside of the battery housing; a first terminal insertion portion located inside the upper cover and penetrating the upper cover; a first terminal connection portion connecting the first terminal exposure portion and the first terminal insertion portion and penetrating the upper cover; and a first terminal coupling portion provided on the lower surface of the first terminal and provided in an area radially inward from the first terminal insertion portion.

[0020] Preferably, the first terminal coupling portion may be located on the lower surface of the first terminal at a position corresponding to the first welding groove.

[0021] In another aspect of the present invention, the second terminal may include: a second terminal exposure portion exposed to the outside of the battery housing; a second terminal insertion portion located inside the upper cover and penetrating the upper cover; a second terminal connection portion connecting the second terminal exposure portion and the second terminal insertion portion and penetrating the upper cover; and a second terminal coupling portion provided on the lower surface of the second terminal and provided in an area radially inward from the second terminal insertion portion.

[0022] Preferably, the second terminal coupling portion may be located on the lower surface of the second terminal at a position corresponding to the second welding groove.

[0023] In another aspect of the present invention, the first terminal may be configured to be directly weldable to the first non-welded portion outside the battery cell through the first welding groove, and the second terminal may be configured to be directly weldable to the second non-welded portion outside the battery cell through the second welding groove.

[0024] In one aspect of the present invention, the battery cell may include a first current collector coupled to a folded surface area formed by bending the first segment; and a second current collector coupled to a folded surface area formed by bending the second segment.

[0025] Preferably, the first current collector is configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the bent surface area formed by bending the first segment, and the second current collector can be configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the bent surface area formed by bending the second segment.

[0026] Preferably, the first terminal is configured to be weldable to the first current collector on the outside of the battery cell through the first welding groove, and the second terminal is configured to be weldable to the second current collector on the outside of the battery cell through the second welding groove.

[0027] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising at least one battery cell according to the above-described embodiment as a battery pack.

[0028] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle comprising at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0029] According to the present invention, welding debris can be prevented from entering the battery housing. Accordingly, damage to the separator can be minimized, and the lifespan of the battery can be improved.

[0030] In addition, according to the present invention, a low-resistance battery can be realized by effectively reducing the internal resistance of the battery.

[0031] In addition, according to the present invention, the battery manufacturing process can be simplified and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0032] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the energy density of the battery can be improved.

[0033] 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 a person skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

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

[0035] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 is a longitudinal section of Figure 1.

[0037] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first terminal of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second terminal of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a modified example of the first electrode of FIG. 5.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a drawing to explain another variation of the first electrode of FIG. 5.

[0042] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a second electrode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a modified example of the second electrode of FIG. 8.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a drawing to explain another variation of the second electrode of FIG. 8.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the upper surface of an electrode assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 12 is a plan view showing the state in which a current collector is welded to the electrode assembly of FIG. 11.

[0047] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the process of inserting an electrode assembly and a terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention into a battery housing.

[0048] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the process of welding the edge of the upper cover and the edge of the battery housing after inserting the electrode assembly and terminals into the battery housing.

[0049] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the process of injecting electrolyte after flipping the battery cell of Figure 14 upside down.

[0050] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the process of closing the electrolyte injection port of the battery cell of FIG. 15 with an injection port cover and welding the boundary.

[0051] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a top insulator included in a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 19 is a drawing for illustrating a battery pack including a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 19.

[0055] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention. Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical spirit of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications capable of replacing them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0056] 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.

[0057] The statement that two subjects of comparison are identical means that they are 'substantially identical.' Therefore, substantial identity may include deviations considered low in the industry, for example, deviations within 5%. Additionally, the statement that a parameter is uniform in a given area may mean that it is uniform from an average perspective.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0060] The fact 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.

[0061] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0062] Throughout the specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0063] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction following the length direction of the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10) wound in a jelly roll shape is referred to as the axial direction. The direction surrounding the winding axis is referred to as the circumferential direction or the periphery direction. The direction approaching the winding axis or moving away from the winding axis is referred to as the radial direction. In particular, the direction approaching the winding axis is referred to as the centripetal direction, and the direction moving away from the winding axis is referred to as the centrifugal direction.

[0064]

[0065] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, a cylindrical battery cell. The battery cell (1) includes an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), an upper cover (21), a first terminal (30), and a second terminal (40).

[0067] The battery cell (1) may additionally include a first gasket (50) and / or a second gasket (60) and / or a first current collector (70) and / or a second current collector (80) in addition to the components described above. The present invention is not limited by the shape of the battery and is applicable to batteries of other shapes, such as prismatic batteries.

[0068]

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, the electrode assembly (10) comprises a first electrode (11) having a first polarity, a second electrode (12) having a second polarity, and a separator interposed between the first electrode (11) and the second electrode (12). The first electrode (11) is a positive or negative electrode, and the second electrode (12) corresponds to an electrode having a polarity opposite to that of the first electrode (11).

[0070] The electrode assembly (10) may have, for example, a jelly-roll structure. That is, the electrode assembly (10) may be manufactured by winding a laminate formed by stacking a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate having a sheet shape at least once with a separator interposed between them, in one direction with respect to the winding center (C). In this case, an additional separator may be provided on the outer surface of the electrode assembly (10) to insulate it from the battery housing (20). Any structure of a wound electrode assembly (10) known in the art may be applied to the present invention without limitation.

[0071] The first electrode (11) comprises a first electrode plate and a first electrode active material (11b) applied on one or both sides of the first electrode plate. The first electrode (11) includes a first uncoated portion (11a) in which the active material layer is not coated along the winding direction. That is, at one end of the first electrode plate in the width direction (direction parallel to the Z-axis), there exists an uncoated portion in which the first electrode active material (11b) is not applied. The uncoated portion functioning as a first electrode (11) tab will be referred to as the first uncoated portion (11a) below. The first uncoated portion (11a) may be provided on the upper side in the height direction (direction parallel to the Z-axis) of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). That is, the first electrode plate includes a first uncoated portion (11a) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and has no active material layer coated on the long side end, and a part of the first uncoated portion (11a) is used as an electrode tab itself. The first uncoated portion (11a) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0072] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the first unwound portion (11a) may include at least one first segment (11c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the at least one first segment (11c) may be folded along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The folded plurality of first segments (11c) may be overlapped in multiple layers.

[0073] The second electrode (12) comprises a second electrode plate and a second electrode active material (12b) applied on one or both sides of the second electrode plate. At one end of the second electrode plate in the width direction (direction parallel to the Z-axis), there exists a blank portion where the second electrode active material (12b) is not applied. The blank portion functioning as a second electrode (12) tab is hereinafter referred to as the second blank portion (12a). The second blank portion (12a) may be provided on the upper side in the height direction (direction parallel to the Z-axis) of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). That is, the second electrode plate includes a second blank portion (12a) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and where the active material layer is not coated at the long side end, and at least a portion of the second blank portion (12a) is used as an electrode tab itself. The second blank portion (12a) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0074] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the second non-removable portion (12a) may include at least one second segment (12c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the at least one second segment (12c) may be folded along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The folded plurality of second segments (12c) may be overlapped in multiple layers.

[0075] The first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) extend in the same direction along the height direction (a direction parallel to the Z-axis) of the battery cell (1). The first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) may extend toward the upper cover (21).

[0076] In the present invention, the positive active material coated on the positive plate and the negative active material coated on the negative plate may be used without limitation as long as they are active materials known in the art.

[0077]

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery housing (20) is a roughly cylindrical receptacle with an opening formed on one side and is made of a conductive material, such as metal. For example, the material of the battery housing (20) may be steel, stainless steel, or nickel-plated steel. For example, the opening may be provided on the upper side of the battery housing (20). The lower surface located opposite the opening is referred to as the closing portion. The side wall and the closing portion of the battery housing (20) may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the side wall and the closing portion of the battery housing (20) may be provided separately from each other and joined together by welding or the like. The upper surface of the battery housing (20) (a surface parallel to the XY plane), that is, the outer surface of the closing portion, may have a roughly flat shape. The battery housing (20) accommodates an electrode assembly (10) through the opening formed on one side.

[0079] In one aspect of the present invention, the battery housing (20) is nonpolar. Therefore, according to the present invention, a component called a top insulator can be omitted compared to a conventional cylindrical cell. That is, since the battery housing (20) of the present invention is nonpolar, a separate insulating member may not be required between it and the electrode assembly (10). Accordingly, according to the present invention, the cell manufacturing cost can be reduced. At the same time, additional space can be secured within the battery, thereby improving the energy density of the battery.

[0080]

[0081] In another aspect of the present invention, at least one electrolyte inlet (20H) may be provided in the closed portion of the battery housing (20). The electrolyte inlet (20H) may be provided in the central region of the battery cell (1). The electrolyte inlet (20H) may be configured in a roughly circular shape. The electrolyte inlet (20H) may be sealed by an inlet cover (20C) after the electrolyte is injected. For example, the electrolyte inlet (20H) and the inlet cover (20C) may be joined by welding.

[0082] In another aspect of the present invention, the opening of the battery housing (20) may be closed by an upper cover (21). That is, the upper cover (21) may be configured to cover the opening of the battery housing (20). The battery housing (20) may be configured in the shape of a roughly cylindrical can, and the opening provided at the top may be configured in a roughly circular shape. Accordingly, the upper cover (21) may be configured in the shape of a roughly disc.

[0083] Meanwhile, the upper cover (21) can be joined by welding to the end of the opening of the battery housing (20), that is, the edge of the opening of the battery housing (20).

[0084] In another aspect of the present invention, a first terminal (30) and a second terminal (40) may be mounted on the upper cover (21). That is, a hole for inserting the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) may be provided on the upper cover (21). The first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0085] Meanwhile, the upper cover (21) may be provided with at least one venting portion (21V). That is, the upper cover (21) may be provided with a venting portion (21V) formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by gas generated inside the battery housing (20). The venting portion (21V) may be configured to vent when the internal pressure of the battery cell (1) reaches a certain pressure. For example, the venting portion (21V) may be formed in a part of the upper cover (21) and may be structurally weaker than the surrounding area so that it can easily break when internal pressure is applied. Specifically, the venting portion (21V) may be, for example, an area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. The venting portion (21V) may be provided in the area between the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40).

[0086]

[0087] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first terminal (30) of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second terminal (40) of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 2, a first terminal (30) and a second terminal (40) may be mounted on the upper cover (21). For example, the first terminal (30) may be located on one side relative to the center of the upper cover (21). The second terminal (40) may be located on the other side relative to the center of the upper cover (21).

[0089] Meanwhile, the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) penetrate the upper cover (21). That is, the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) can penetrate the upper cover (21) and be exposed to the outside of the battery cell (1).

[0090] According to the configuration of the present invention as described above, it is possible to implement a low-resistance battery. For example, in a conventional cylindrical battery cell (1), electrons are moved through the outer wall of the battery housing (20). That is, the battery housing (20) itself functions as a negative terminal and functions as a passage for electron movement. At this time, the negative tab starts from the opposite side of the positive tab and moves along the battery housing (20) to the surface of the battery housing (20) where the positive terminal is located. This structure had the disadvantage of increasing the internal resistance of the battery by increasing the distance of electron movement. Furthermore, the influence of the battery housing (20) on the internal resistance of the battery accounts for the largest proportion, approximately 40%, of the proportion constituting the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery.

[0091] However, unlike the structure of a conventional battery cell, the present invention can implement a low-resistance battery cell (1) by positioning the negative terminal in the same direction as the positive terminal, thereby making the electron travel path shorter.

[0092]

[0093] Referring to FIG. 3, the first terminal (30) is made of a conductive metal material. For example, aluminum (Al) may be used as the material of the first terminal (30). When the material of the first terminal (30) is aluminum, aluminum of the 10 series, which has relatively low electrical resistance, may be applied.

[0094] The first terminal (30) can be electrically connected to the first non-electrode portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the first terminal (30) has a first polarity. Accordingly, the first terminal (30) can function as a first electrode terminal in the battery cell (1) of the present invention. When the first terminal (30) has a first polarity in this way, the first terminal (30) is electrically insulated from the second terminal (40) having a second polarity.

[0095] Referring again to FIG. 3, the first terminal (30) may include a first terminal exposure portion (31), a first terminal insertion portion (32), a first terminal connection portion (33), and a first terminal coupling portion (34).

[0096] The first terminal exposure portion (31) is exposed to the outside of the upper cover (21). The first terminal exposure portion (31) may be provided at a position offset to one side of the upper cover (21). The first terminal exposure portion (31) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the upper cover (21).

[0097] The first terminal insertion portion (32) may have a shape that is curved toward the inner surface of the upper cover (21). Accordingly, the maximum width of the first terminal insertion portion (32) after the riveting process for fixing the first terminal (30) is performed may be formed to be larger than the maximum width of the hole formed in the upper cover (21) through which the first terminal insertion portion (32) passes. The first terminal insertion portion (32) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the upper cover (21). That is, the first terminal insertion portion (32) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the first terminal exposure portion (31).

[0098] Referring to FIG. 3, the first terminal connection portion (33) can connect the first terminal exposure portion (31) and the first terminal insertion portion (32). The first terminal connection portion (33) can penetrate the upper cover (21). The first terminal connection portion (33) can extend in a direction approximately parallel to the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10). The first terminal exposure portion (31) can be located at one end of the first terminal connection portion (33). The first terminal exposure portion (31) can be configured to extend horizontally from one end of the first terminal connection portion (33). The first terminal insertion portion (32) can be located at the other end of the first terminal connection portion (33). The first terminal insertion portion (32) can be configured to extend horizontally from the other end of the first terminal connection portion (33). For example, the first terminal connection part (33) may have a roughly cylindrical shape that extends in a direction parallel to the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10) and has a rotating body shape rotated about a central axis.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 3, the first terminal (30) includes a first terminal coupling portion (34). The first terminal coupling portion (34) may be provided on the lower surface of the first terminal (30). The first terminal coupling portion (34) may be provided in an area radially inward from the first terminal insertion portion (32). Specifically, the first terminal coupling portion (34) may be provided in an area radially inward from the first terminal insertion portion (32) with respect to the central axis of the first terminal (30).

[0100] The first terminal coupling portion (34) may be joined to the first current collector (70) or the first segment (11c) by welding as described below. The first terminal coupling portion (34) has a flat surface that extends in a roughly horizontal direction. Additionally, the flat surface of the first terminal coupling portion (34) extends in a direction roughly parallel to the first current collector (70). Thus, the first terminal coupling portion (34) may be configured to be in contact with the first current collector (70) having a flat surface. The first current collector (70) may be positioned on the upper part of the first non-circular portion (11a). More specifically, the first current collector (70) may be configured to be seated on the folded surface area where the first segment (11c) of the first non-circular portion (11a) is folded. Therefore, the first terminal (30) has the same electrode as the first electrode (11) through the first current collector (70).

[0101] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first terminal (30) may include at least one first welding groove (30G) that is recessed inward from the outer surface of the first terminal (30). In another embodiment of the present invention, the first terminal (30) may include a plurality of first welding grooves (30G).

[0102] The first terminal coupling portion (34) may be located on the lower surface of the first terminal (30) at a position corresponding to the first welding groove (30G). That is, the first terminal coupling portion (34) may be located in the lower region of the first welding groove (30G).

[0103] The first terminal (30) may be configured to be welded externally and electrically connected to the first non-removable portion (11a). Specifically, the first terminal (30) may be configured to be weldable to the first current collector (70) or the first non-removable portion (11a) from the outside of the battery cell (1) through the first welding groove (30G), thereby being electrically connected to the first non-removable portion (11a).

[0104] The external welding of the first terminal (30) can be performed, for example, by a laser welding method. That is, the external welding of the first terminal (30) can be performed by irradiating a laser from the outside of the first terminal (30) toward the first terminal (30). The first terminal coupling part (34) located at the bottom of the first welding groove (30G) can be joined to the first current collector (70) or the first segment (11c) by welding.

[0105] Since the first welding groove (30G) has a structure that is recessed from the outer surface of the first terminal (30) toward the inside, damage to the battery cell (1) caused by the welding heat of the laser welding can be minimized. Specifically, if the first welding groove (30G) is not provided in the first terminal (30), a relatively high welding strength is required to join the first terminal (30), which has a relatively thick thickness, to the first current collector (70) or the first non-conforming part (11a), and there is a risk of heat damage to surrounding parts of the first terminal (30), such as the first gasket (50), for example.

[0106] However, in the case of the present invention, the thickness of the first welding groove (30G) is formed thinly to the extent that the first welding groove (30G) is recessed, so that the first terminal (30) can be joined to the first current collector (70) or the first non-reinforced portion (11a) even with a relatively low welding strength, thereby significantly reducing the risk of thermal damage to surrounding parts of the first terminal (30), such as the first gasket (50). In addition, since the welding can be performed even with a relatively low welding strength, the energy required for welding can be reduced.

[0107] In this regard, in the structure of a conventional battery cell, a welding horn tip had to be inserted into the central hole of the winding center of the electrode assembly (10) to weld the first current collector (70) and the first terminal (30). At this time, problems arose in which the separator was damaged or the battery capacity and lifespan were reduced due to spatter generated during welding. In addition, since it is difficult to reduce the diameter of the welding horn tip during welding, the diameter of the winding center hole of the electrode assembly (10) had to be secured to a certain extent, and consequently, there was a limit to increasing the energy density. However, according to the structure of the present invention as described above, since the first current collector (70) or the first non-removable part (11a) and the first terminal (30) are welded outside the battery cell (1), even if spatter is generated during welding, the spatter does not enter the interior of the battery, so the separator is not damaged. In addition, the issue of reduced battery capacity and lifespan can be resolved. Furthermore, according to the above-described structure of the present invention, since the first current collector (70) and the first terminal (30) are welded outside the battery cell (1), a welding tip is not required, so the diameter of the winding center hole of the electrode assembly (10) can be reduced, and accordingly, the number of windings of the electrode assembly (10) can be increased to improve energy density.

[0108]

[0109] Referring to FIG. 4, the second terminal (40) is made of a conductive metal material. For example, copper (Cu) may be used as the material of the second terminal (40).

[0110] The second terminal (40) can be electrically connected to the second non-electrode portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the second terminal (40) has a second polarity. Accordingly, the second terminal (40) can function as a second electrode (12) terminal in the battery cell (1) of the present invention.

[0111] Referring again to FIG. 4, the second terminal (40) may include a second terminal exposure portion (41), a second terminal insertion portion (42), a second terminal connection portion (43), and a second terminal coupling portion (44).

[0112] The second terminal exposure portion (41) is exposed to the outside of the battery housing (20). The second terminal exposure portion (41) may be provided at a position offset to one side of the upper cover (21). The second terminal exposure portion (41) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the upper cover (21).

[0113] The second terminal insertion portion (42) may have a shape that is curved toward the inner surface of the upper cover (21). Accordingly, the maximum width of the second terminal insertion portion (42) after the riveting process for fixing the second terminal (40) is performed may be formed to be larger than the maximum width of the hole formed in the upper cover (21) through which the second terminal insertion portion (42) passes. The second terminal insertion portion (42) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the upper cover (21). That is, the second terminal insertion portion (42) may have a shape that extends approximately parallel to the second terminal exposure portion (41).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 4, the second terminal connection portion (43) can connect the second terminal exposure portion (41) and the second terminal insertion portion (42). The second terminal connection portion (43) can penetrate the upper cover (21). The second terminal connection portion (43) can extend in a direction approximately parallel to the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10). The second terminal exposure portion (41) can be located at one end of the second terminal connection portion (43). The second terminal exposure portion (41) can be configured to extend horizontally from one end of the second terminal connection portion (43). The second terminal insertion portion (42) can be located at the other end of the second terminal connection portion (43). The second terminal insertion portion (42) can be configured to extend horizontally from the other end of the second terminal connection portion (43). For example, the second terminal connection part (43) may have a roughly cylindrical shape that extends in a direction parallel to the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10) and has a rotating body shape rotated about a central axis.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 4, the second terminal (40) includes a second terminal coupling portion (44). The second terminal coupling portion (44) may be provided on the lower surface of the second terminal (40). The second terminal coupling portion (44) may be provided in an area radially inward from the second terminal insertion portion (42). Specifically, the second terminal coupling portion (44) may be provided in an area radially inward from the second terminal insertion portion (42) with respect to the center axis of the second terminal (40).

[0116] The second terminal coupling portion (44) may be joined to the second current collector (80) or the second segment (12c) by welding as described below. The second terminal coupling portion (44) has a flat surface that extends in a roughly horizontal direction. Additionally, the flat surface of the second terminal coupling portion (44) extends in a direction roughly parallel to the second current collector (80). Thus, the second terminal coupling portion (44) may be configured to be in contact with the second current collector (80) having a flat surface. The second current collector (80) may be positioned on the upper part of the second non-circular portion (12a). More specifically, the second current collector (80) may be configured to be seated on the folded surface area where the second segment (12c) of the second non-circular portion (12a) is folded. Therefore, the second terminal (40) has the same electrode as the second electrode (12) through the second current collector (80).

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second terminal (40) may include at least one second welding groove (40G) that is recessed inward from the outer surface of the second terminal (40). In another embodiment of the present invention, the second terminal (40) may include a plurality of second welding grooves (40G).

[0118] The second terminal coupling portion (44) may be located on the lower surface of the second terminal (40) at a position corresponding to the second welding groove (40G). That is, the second terminal coupling portion (44) may be located in the lower region of the second welding groove (40G).

[0119] The second terminal (40) may be configured to be welded externally and electrically connected to the second non-removable portion (12a). Specifically, the second terminal (40) may be configured to be weldable to the second current collector (80) or the second non-removable portion (12a) from the outside of the battery cell (1) through the second welding groove (40G), thereby being electrically connected to the second non-removable portion (12a).

[0120] The external welding of the second terminal (40) can be performed, for example, by a laser welding method. That is, the external welding of the second terminal (40) can be performed by irradiating a laser from the outside of the second terminal (40) toward the second terminal (40). The second terminal coupling part (44) located at the bottom of the second welding groove (40G) can be joined to the second current collector (80) or the second segment (12c) by welding.

[0121] Since the second welding groove (40G) has a structure that is recessed inward from the outer surface of the second terminal (40), damage to the battery cell (10) caused by the welding heat of the laser welding can be minimized. Specifically, if the second welding groove (40G) is not provided in the second terminal (40), a relatively high welding strength is required to join the second terminal (40), which has a relatively thick thickness, to the second current collector (80) or the second non-conforming part (12a), and there is a risk of heat damage to surrounding parts of the second terminal (40), such as the second gasket (60), for example.

[0122] However, in the case of the present invention, the thickness of the second welding groove (40G) is formed thinly to the extent that the second welding groove (40G) is recessed, so that the second terminal (40) can be joined to the second current collector (80) or the second non-conforming part (12a) even with a relatively low welding strength, thereby significantly reducing the risk of thermal damage to surrounding parts of the second terminal (40), such as the second gasket (60). In addition, since the welding can be performed even with a relatively low welding strength, the energy required for welding can be reduced.

[0123]

[0124] Referring to FIG. 3, the first terminal (30) can be configured to be weldable to the first current collector (70) outside the battery cell (1) through the first welding groove (30G). In this case, the lower surface of the first current collector (70) can be welded to the first segment (11c), and the upper surface of the first current collector (70) can be welded to the first terminal (30).

[0125]

[0126] Meanwhile, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first terminal (30) may be configured to be directly welded to the first non-reinforced portion (11a) from the outside of the battery cell (1) through the first welding groove (30G). Specifically, it is also possible to configure the first terminal (30) so that it is directly in contact with and welded to the first non-reinforced portion (11a) to the first segment (11c) without a configuration such as the first current collector (70) being interposed between the first terminal (30) and the first non-reinforced portion (11a).

[0127]

[0128] Referring to FIG. 4, the second terminal (40) can be configured to be weldable to the second current collector (80) outside the battery cell (1) through the second welding groove (40G). In this case, the lower surface of the second current collector (80) can be welded to the second segment (12c), and the upper surface of the second current collector (80) can be welded to the second terminal (40).

[0129]

[0130] Meanwhile, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 4, the second terminal (40) may be configured to be directly welded to the second non-removable portion (12a) from the outside of the battery cell (1) through the second welding groove (40G). Specifically, it is also possible to configure the second terminal (40) so that it is directly in contact with and welded to the second non-removable portion (12a) to the second segment (12c) without a configuration such as the second current collector (80) being interposed between the second terminal (40) and the second non-removable portion (12a).

[0131]

[0132] The welding of the first terminal (30) and the welding of the second terminal (40) can be performed simultaneously in one process. Specifically, since both the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) are placed on either side of the battery cell (1), the method of welding either the first terminal (30) or the second terminal (40) and then flipping the battery cell (1) to weld the other one is not used; instead, the welding of the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) can be performed at once without flipping the battery cell (1). In this case, since no process or equipment is required to flip the battery cell (1) for welding, the productivity of the battery cell (1) can be improved.

[0133]

[0134] According to the above-described structure of the present invention, since the second current collector (80) and the second terminal (40) are welded outside the battery cell (1), even if fragments are generated during welding, the fragments do not enter the interior of the battery, so the separator is not damaged. In addition, the issue of reduced battery capacity and lifespan can be resolved. Furthermore, according to the above-described structure of the present invention, since the second current collector (80) and the second terminal (40) are welded outside the battery cell (1), a welding horn tip is not required, so the diameter of the winding center hole of the electrode assembly (10) can be reduced, and accordingly, the number of windings of the electrode assembly (10) can be increased to improve energy density.

[0135]

[0136] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a first electrode (11) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 5, at least a portion of the first unwound portion (11a) may include a plurality of first segments (11c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). Preferably, the electrode assembly (10) may include a plurality of groups of first segments (11c) along the winding direction. A group of first segments (11c) may include a plurality of first segments (11c). At this time, the plurality of groups of first segments (11c) may be arranged at a predetermined distance apart in the winding direction. Preferably, when the first electrode (11) is wound in the winding direction, the first segments (11c) may be configured to be arranged in a shape offset toward one side of the electrode assembly (10). In other words, the first segments (11c) may be configured to be arranged in a gathered shape on one side of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the first segment (11c) may be configured to be positioned offset to one side based on a virtual line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10). For example, referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured to be provided on the left semicircle based on a virtual line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) when the wound electrode assembly (10) is viewed from above.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured in the form of a notching tab, having at least one portion formed by notching in the first unseen portion (11a).

[0139] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a modified example of the first electrode of FIG. 5.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 6, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured in the form of slit tabs, having at least one portion formed by slitting the first unseen portion (11a) as shown in FIG. 6.

[0141] FIG. 7 is a drawing to explain another variation of the first electrode of FIG. 5.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 7, at least one first segment (11c) may be configured in the form of a pull tab in which the first unseen portion (11a) is provided in a continuous form without notching or slitting, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0143]

[0144] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a second electrode (12) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 8, at least a portion of the second unwound portion (12a) may include a plurality of second segments (12c) divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). Preferably, the electrode assembly (10) may include a plurality of groups of second segments (12c) along the winding direction. A group of second segments (12c) may include a plurality of second segments (12c). At this time, the plurality of groups of second segments (12c) may be arranged at a predetermined distance apart in the winding direction. Preferably, when the second electrode (12) is wound in the winding direction, the second segments (12c) may be configured to be arranged in a manner offset toward the other side of the electrode assembly (10). In other words, the second segments (12c) may be configured to be arranged in a manner gathered at the other side of the electrode assembly (10). Here, the other side refers to the side opposite to the side where the first segment (11c) is placed. For example, the second segment (12c) may be configured to be placed on the other side relative to a virtual line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10). For example, referring to FIG. 8, a plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured to be provided on the right semicircle relative to a virtual line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) when the wound electrode assembly (10) is viewed from above.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured in the form of a notching tab, having at least one portion formed by notching in the second unseen portion (12a).

[0147] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a modified example of the second electrode of FIG. 8.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 9, a plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured in the form of slit tabs, having at least one portion formed by slitting the second unslit portion (12a) as shown in FIG. 9.

[0149] FIG. 10 is a drawing to explain another variation of the first electrode of FIG. 8.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 10, at least one second segment (12c) may be configured in the form of a pull tab in which the second unseen portion (12a) is provided in a continuous form without notching or slitting, as shown in FIG. 10.

[0151]

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 5 through 10, the first segment (11c) and the second segment (12c) may be positioned so as not to overlap each other along the winding direction. Preferably, a plurality of first segments (11c) and a plurality of second segments (12c) may be positioned so as not to overlap each other along the winding direction. For example, referring to FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9, a group of first segments (11c) and a group of second segments (12c) may be positioned so as not to overlap each other along the winding direction.

[0153]

[0154] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the upper surface of an electrode assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a plan view showing the state in which a current collector is welded to the electrode assembly (10) of FIG. 11.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment of the present invention, when a virtual line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) is drawn, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be arranged together on the left side of the electrode assembly (10), and a plurality of second segments (12c) may be arranged together on the right side of the electrode assembly (10). That is, a plurality of first segments (11c) may be configured to be located in a semicircular area on one side of the electrode assembly (10). Meanwhile, a plurality of second segments (12c) may be configured to be located in a semicircular area on the other side of the electrode assembly (10). That is, the first segments (11c) and the second segments (12c) may be configured to be spatially separated. At this time, a predetermined gap may be interposed between the plurality of first segments (11c) and the plurality of second segments (12c) so that they do not overlap each other.

[0156] A plurality of first segments (11c) and a plurality of second segments (12c) can be bent in a radial direction. Specifically, a plurality of first segments (11c) and a plurality of second segments (12c) can be bent toward the core side. A plurality of first segments (11c) and a plurality of second segments (12c) bent toward the core side form a bent surface area. A first current collector (70) and / or a second current collector (80) can be coupled to the bent surface area.

[0157]

[0158] Meanwhile, the battery cell (1) may further include a first current collector (70) configured to be electrically connected to the first electrode (11).

[0159] The first current collector (70) can be coupled to the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the first current collector (70) can be coupled to the first segment (11c) of the electrode assembly (10). Referring to FIG. 3, the first current collector (70) can be coupled to the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (70) is made of a conductive metal material and is electrically connected to the first non-conductive portion (11a).

[0160] Referring to FIG. 12, the side of the electrode assembly (10) may be covered by a tape (T). Meanwhile, the first current collector (70) may be joined to a folded surface area formed by bending the first segment (11c). At this time, the first current collector (70) and the first segment (11c) may be joined by welding. At this time, the welding method is not particularly limited. The first current collector (70) may be configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the folded surface area formed by bending the first segment (11c). For example, the first current collector (70) may be configured in the shape of a roughly semicircular plate. When an imaginary line passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10) is drawn, the first current collector (70) may be joined by welding to a plurality of first segments (11c) in an area located on one side of the electrode assembly (10). At this time, at least one weld (W) may be provided between the first current collector (70) and the first segment (11c).

[0161] According to this structure, the amount of raw material for the first current collector (70) can be reduced by half compared to the conventional method. Accordingly, the battery manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, the energy density of the battery can be improved by reducing the volume occupied by the first current collector (70) compared to the conventional method.

[0162] Meanwhile, the first current collector (70) can be coupled to the first terminal (30). Specifically, at least a portion of the first current collector (70) can be coupled to the first terminal coupling portion (34) of the first terminal (30). At this time, the first current collector (70) and the first terminal coupling portion (34) can be coupled by welding. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first current collector (70) is coupled to the upper part of the electrode assembly (10).

[0163] The first current collector (70) is interposed between the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the first terminal (30), thereby electrically connecting the first non-conductive portion (11a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the first terminal (30). The first current collector (70) is made of a conductive metal material.

[0164]

[0165] Meanwhile, the battery cell (1) may further include a second current collector (80) configured to be electrically connected to the second electrode (12).

[0166] The second current collector (80) can be coupled to the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10). Specifically, the second current collector (80) can be coupled to the second segment (12c) of the electrode assembly (10). Referring to FIG. 3, the second current collector (80) can be coupled to the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The second current collector (80) is made of a conductive metal material and is electrically connected to the second non-conductive portion (12a).

[0167] Referring to FIG. 12, the second current collector (80) can be joined to a folded surface area where the second segment (12c) is folded. At this time, the second current collector (80) and the second segment (12c) can be joined by welding. At this time, the welding method is not particularly limited. The second current collector (80) can be configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the folded surface area formed by folding the second segment (12c). For example, the second current collector (80) can be configured in the shape of a roughly semicircular plate. When an imaginary line is drawn passing through the center of the electrode assembly (10), the second current collector (80) can be joined by welding to a plurality of second segments (12c) in an area located on the other side of the electrode assembly (10). At this time, at least one weld (W) may be provided between the second current collector (80) and the second segment (12c).

[0168] According to this structure, the amount of raw material for the second current collector (80) can be reduced by half compared to the conventional method. Accordingly, the battery manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, the energy density of the battery can be improved by reducing the volume occupied by the second current collector (80) compared to the conventional method.

[0169] Meanwhile, the second current collector (80) can be coupled with the second terminal (40). Specifically, at least a portion of the second current collector (80) can be coupled with the second terminal coupling portion (44) of the second terminal (40). At this time, the second current collector (80) and the second terminal coupling portion (44) can be coupled by welding. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the second current collector (80) is coupled to the upper part of the electrode assembly (10).

[0170] At this time, the welding of the first current collector (70) and the welding of the second current collector (80) can be carried out simultaneously in a single process called ACCW. Specifically, since both the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) are placed on one side of the battery cell (1), the method of welding either the first current collector (70) or the second current collector (80) and then flipping the battery cell (1) to weld the other one is not used; instead, the welding of the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) can be performed at once without flipping the battery cell (1). In this case, since no process or equipment is required to flip the battery cell (1) for welding, the productivity of the battery cell (1) can be improved.

[0171] The second current collector (80) is interposed between the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the second terminal (40), thereby electrically connecting the second non-conductive portion (12a) of the electrode assembly (10) and the second terminal (40). The second current collector (80) is made of a conductive metal material.

[0172] In another aspect of the present invention, the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be provided on the same surface of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be placed on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be located on one side and the other side, respectively, with respect to an imaginary straight line passing through the center of the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be placed spaced apart from each other on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10).

[0173] Meanwhile, the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be configured to be symmetrical to each other. For example, the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) may be positioned at symmetrical positions with shapes symmetrical to each other with respect to the center or winding axis of the electrode assembly (10).

[0174]

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the first gasket (50) may be provided on the upper cover (21). Specifically, the first gasket (50) may be interposed between the upper cover (21) and the first terminal (30).

[0176] The first gasket (50) may include a first gasket exposure portion (51) and a first gasket insertion portion (52). The first gasket exposure portion (51) is interposed between the first terminal exposure portion (31) of the first terminal (30) and the upper cover (21). The first gasket exposure portion (51) may be extended longer than the first terminal exposure portion (31), thereby being exposed to the outside of the first terminal exposure portion (31) when the battery cell (1) is viewed from above. That is, the diameter of the first gasket exposure portion (51) may be configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the first terminal exposure portion (31).

[0177] The first gasket insertion part (52) is interposed between the first terminal insertion part (32) of the first terminal (30) and the upper cover (21). The first gasket insertion part (52) can be deformed together with the first terminal insertion part (32) during riveting and adhere to the inner surface of the upper cover (21). The first gasket (50) may include, for example, a resin material having insulating and elastic properties. The diameter of the first gasket insertion part (52) may be configured to be larger than or equal to the diameter of the first terminal insertion part (32). Preferably, the first gasket insertion part (52) may be configured to at least partially wrap the end of the first terminal insertion part (32). With such a configuration, electrical insulation performance between the upper cover (21) and the first terminal (30) can be effectively secured.

[0178]

[0179] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the second gasket (60) may be provided on the upper cover (21). Specifically, the second gasket (60) may be interposed between the upper cover (21) and the second terminal (40).

[0180] The second gasket (60) may include a second gasket exposure portion (61) and a second gasket insertion portion (62). The second gasket exposure portion (61) is interposed between the second terminal exposure portion (41) of the second terminal (40) and the upper cover (21). The second gasket exposure portion (61) may be extended longer than the second terminal exposure portion (41), thereby being exposed to the outside of the second terminal exposure portion (41) when the battery cell (1) is viewed from above. That is, the diameter of the second gasket exposure portion (61) may be configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the second terminal exposure portion (41).

[0181] The second gasket insert (62) is interposed between the second terminal insert (42) of the second terminal (40) and the upper cover (21). The second gasket insert (62) can be deformed together with the second terminal insert (42) during riveting and adhere to the inner surface of the upper cover (21). The second gasket (60) may include, for example, a resin material having insulating and elastic properties. The diameter of the second gasket insert (62) may be configured to be larger than or equal to the diameter of the second terminal insert (42). Preferably, the second gasket insert (62) may be configured to at least partially wrap around the end of the second terminal insert (42). With such a configuration, electrical insulation performance between the upper cover (21) and the second terminal (40) can be effectively secured.

[0182]

[0183] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 13 to 16, we will examine the manufacturing process of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the process of inserting an electrode assembly (10) and a terminal into a battery housing (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the process of welding the edge of the upper cover (21) and the edge of the battery housing (20) after inserting the electrode assembly (10) and the terminal into the battery housing (20). FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining the process of injecting an electrolyte after flipping the battery cell (1) of FIG. 14 upside down, FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the process of closing the electrolyte injection port (20H) of the battery cell (1) of FIG. 15 with an injection port cover (20C) and welding the boundary.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 13, an electrode assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be coupled with a first terminal (30) and a second terminal (40) on one surface. For example, referring to FIG. 13, the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) may be seated and coupled on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (10). More specifically, the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) may be seated and coupled on a folded surface area formed by folding uncoated portions. Preferably, the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) may be welded and coupled on the folded surface area.

[0186] Preferably, a first current collector (70) may be interposed between the first terminal (30) and the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector (70) may be electrically coupled to the first non-circulating portion (11a). Specifically, the first current collector (70) may be coupled to a bent surface area formed by bending the first segment (11c). The first terminal (30) may be coupled to the upper portion of the first current collector (70). Preferably, the first terminal coupling portion (34) and the first current collector (70) may be welded together through the first welding groove (30G) of the first terminal (30). Meanwhile, a second current collector (80) may be interposed between the second terminal (40) and the electrode assembly (10). The second current collector (80) may be electrically coupled to the second non-circulating portion (12a). Specifically, the second current collector (80) can be coupled to a bent surface area formed by bending the second segment (12c). A second terminal (40) can be coupled to the upper part of the second current collector (80). Preferably, the second terminal coupling part (44) and the second current collector (80) can be welded together through the second welding groove (40G) of the second terminal (40).

[0187] Referring to FIG. 13, in this manner, with the first terminal (30) and the second terminal (40) coupled to the electrode assembly (10), the first terminal (30), the second terminal (40), and the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted toward the interior of the battery housing (20). That is, the first terminal (30), the second terminal (40), and the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the interior of the battery housing (20) through the opening of the battery housing (20).

[0188] Referring to FIG. 14, after the first terminal (30), the second terminal (40), and the electrode assembly (10) are inserted toward the interior of the battery housing (20), an upper cover (21) can be seated on the opening of the battery housing (20). After the upper cover (21) is seated on the edge of the opening of the battery housing (20), the upper cover (21) and the edge of the battery housing (20) can be joined by welding.

[0189] FIG. 15 is a drawing of the battery cell (1) of FIG. 14 flipped upside down. Referring to FIG. 15, an electrolyte inlet (20H) may be provided in the closed portion of the battery housing (20). When the electrolyte is injected through the electrolyte inlet (20H), the inlet cover (20C) shown in FIG. 16 may be fitted into the electrolyte inlet (20H). For example, the inlet cover (20C) may be press-fitted and fixed to the electrolyte inlet (20H). Afterward, the edge of the inlet cover (20C) and the edge of the electrolyte inlet (20H) may be joined by welding. Accordingly, the battery cell (1) can be completely sealed.

[0190] According to the battery cell (1) manufacturing method of the present invention as described above, the structure of the battery housing (20), upper cover (21), first current collector (70), and second current collector (80) is different from that of the conventional method, so the manufacturing process can be simplified. In addition, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0191] Specifically, the conventional cylindrical battery assembly process proceeds in the order of Winding → CCW → CIT → LFW → ISI → JRI → CRW → SMW → ELF → LHW → Washing, but the assembly process of a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention proceeds in the order of Winding → CIT → CACW (simultaneous welding of electrode assembly (10), first current collector (70), and second current collector (80)) → JRI → CARW (simultaneous welding of electrode assembly (10), first terminal (30), and second terminal (40)) → SMW → ELF → LHW → Washing (simultaneous execution of CCW and LFW, simultaneous execution of CRW and LFW). Therefore, according to the present invention, the manufacturing process can be simplified compared to the conventional method.

[0192]

[0193] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a top insulator included in a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a battery cell (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a top insulator (90).

[0195] The top insulator (90) can be configured to electrically insulate the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80).

[0196] The top insulator (90) may be provided with a separation portion (91). The separation portion (91) may be positioned between the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80) to separate them. The separation portion (91) may be configured in a shape that extends across the central part of the top insulator (90).

[0197] The top insulator (90) may be configured to electrically insulate the battery housing (20) from at least one of the first current collector (70) and the second current collector (80).

[0198] The top insulator (90) may be provided with a rim portion (92). The rim portion (92) may be configured to accommodate a first current collector (70) and a second current collector (80). The rim portion (92) may be positioned between the first current collector (70) and the battery housing (20) and between the second current collector (80) and the battery housing (20). The rim portion (92) may be configured in an annular shape.

[0199] The separation portion (91) and the edge portion (92) can be formed integrally with each other.

[0200] The first collector (70), the second collector (80), and the top insulator (90) may be provided as an integrated assembly or as a single assembly.

[0201]

[0202] FIG. 19 is a drawing for illustrating a battery pack including a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 19, a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a battery assembly in which a plurality of battery cells (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above are electrically connected, and a pack housing (2) that accommodates the same. In the drawings of the present invention, components such as a busbar for electrical connection, a cooling unit, and a power terminal are omitted for convenience of drawing. In addition, the battery pack (3) may further include various components, such as a BMS, a pack case, a relay, a current sensor, etc., which are components of a battery pack (3) known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0204]

[0205] FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack (3) of FIG. 19.

[0206] Referring to FIG. 20, a vehicle (5) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and includes a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (5) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (5) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery cell (1) or battery pack (3). For example, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include, in addition to the battery cell (1) according to the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0207]

[0208] Meanwhile, although terms indicating direction such as up and down have been used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to a person skilled in the art that they may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0209] Although the present invention has been described above 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.

[0210] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0211] 5: Cars

[0212] 3: Battery Pack

[0213] 2: Pack Housing

[0214] 1: Battery cell

[0215]

[0216] 10: Electrode assembly

[0217] 11: First electrode

[0218] 11a: First thumb

[0219] 11b: First electrode active material

[0220] 11c: First segment

[0221] 12: Second electrode

[0222] 12a: Second unintelligible part

[0223] 12b: Second electrode active material

[0224] 12c: Second segment

[0225] C: Winding center

[0226] T: Tape

[0227]

[0228] 20: Battery housing

[0229] 21: Top cover

[0230] 21V: Venting part

[0231] 20H: Electrolyte inlet

[0232] 20C: Filler port cover

[0233]

[0234] 30: First terminal

[0235] 31: First terminal exposure

[0236] 32: First terminal insertion part

[0237] 33: First terminal connection

[0238] 34: First terminal coupling part

[0239] 30G: 1st welding groove

[0240]

[0241] 40: Second terminal

[0242] 41: Second terminal exposure

[0243] 42: Second terminal insertion part

[0244] 43: Second terminal connection

[0245] 44: Second terminal coupling part

[0246] 40G: Second welding groove

[0247]

[0248] 50: 1st gasket

[0249] 51: First gasket exposed portion

[0250] 52: First gasket insert

[0251]

[0252] 60: Second gasket

[0253] 61: Second gasket exposed portion

[0254] 62: Second gasket insert

[0255]

[0256] 70: The entire first house

[0257] 80: The entire second house

[0258]

[0259] 90: Top Insulator

[0260] 91: Separation

[0261] 92: Border part

Claims

1. An electrode assembly in which a first electrode and a second electrode and a separator interposed between them are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction, and the second electrode includes a second uncoated portion in which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction; A battery housing configured to include an opening on one side and to accommodate the electrode assembly through the opening; An upper cover configured to cover the opening of the battery housing; A first terminal configured to penetrate the upper cover and be exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and to be welded from the outside to be electrically connected to the first unwound portion; and A second terminal that penetrates the upper cover and is exposed to the outside of the upper cover, and is configured to be welded from the outside to be electrically connected to the second unwound portion. A battery cell containing 2. In Paragraph 1, At least a portion of the first non-removable portion comprises at least one first segment divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, and At least a portion of the second non-removable portion comprises at least one second segment divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly, and A battery cell characterized in that the first segment and the second segment are positioned so as not to overlap each other along the winding direction.

3. In Paragraph 2, A battery cell characterized in that the first segment and the second segment are configured to be spatially separated.

4. In Paragraph 2, The first segment is arranged in a shape offset to one side of the electrode assembly, and A battery cell characterized in that the second segment is arranged in a shape offset toward the other side of the electrode assembly.

5. In Paragraph 1, The upper cover above is, A battery cell characterized by including a venting portion provided in the region between the first terminal and the second terminal, configured to vent when the internal pressure of the battery cell reaches a certain pressure.

6. In Paragraph 1, The first terminal comprises at least one first welding groove that is recessed from the outer surface of the first terminal toward the inside, and A battery cell characterized in that the second terminal comprises at least one second weld groove that is recessed inward from the outer surface of the second terminal.

7. In Paragraph 6, The first terminal above is, A first terminal exposure portion exposed to the outside of the battery housing; A first terminal insertion part located on the inner side of the upper cover, penetrating the upper cover; A first terminal connection portion connecting the first terminal exposure portion and the first terminal insertion portion and penetrating the upper cover; and A first terminal coupling portion provided on the lower surface of the first terminal and provided in an area radially inner to the first terminal insertion portion. A battery cell characterized by including 8. In Paragraph 7, The above first terminal coupling part is, A battery cell characterized by being located on the lower surface of the first terminal at a position corresponding to the first welding groove.

9. In Paragraph 6, The above second terminal is, A second terminal exposure portion exposed to the outside of the battery housing; A second terminal insertion part located on the inner side of the upper cover, penetrating the upper cover; A second terminal connection portion connecting the second terminal exposure portion and the second terminal insertion portion and penetrating the upper cover; and A second terminal coupling portion provided on the lower surface of the second terminal and provided in an area radially inner to the second terminal insertion portion. A battery cell characterized by including 10. In Paragraph 9, The above second terminal coupling part is, A battery cell characterized by being located on the lower surface of the second terminal at a position corresponding to the second welding groove.

11. In Paragraph 6, The first terminal is configured to be directly weldable to the first non-welding portion from the outside of the battery cell through the first welding groove, and A battery cell characterized in that the second terminal is configured to be directly weldable to the second non-welding portion from the outside of the battery cell through the second welding groove.

12. In Paragraph 6, A first current collector coupled to a bent surface area formed by bending the first segment; and A second current collector coupled to a folded surface area formed by folding the above-mentioned second segment. A battery cell characterized by including 13. In Paragraph 12, The first current collector is configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the folded surface area formed by folding the first segment, and A battery cell characterized in that the second current collector is configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the folded surface area formed by folding the second segment.

14. In Paragraph 12, The first terminal is configured to be weldable to the first current collector on the outside of the battery cell through the first welding groove, and A battery cell characterized in that the second terminal is configured to be weldable to the second current collector from the outside of the battery cell through the second welding groove.

15. A battery pack characterized by comprising at least one battery cell described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. An automobile characterized by comprising at least one battery pack as described in claim 15.

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