Cooling tube assembly, and battery pack and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The cooling tube assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is a cooling tube assembly for cooling a battery cell. The cooling tube assembly comprises: a head part comprising a head plate into and from which a refrigerant is introduced and discharged; and a cooling tube comprising a cooling flow path which is connected to the head part and through which the refrigerant introduced into the head part moves to cool the battery cell, wherein the head part further comprises a first and a second inlet which allow the refrigerant to be introduced into the head plate, and a first and a second outlet which allow the refrigerant to be discharged from the head plate; the first inlet and the second outlet are arranged on one surface of the head plate; and the first outlet and the second inlet are arranged on the other surface of the head plate.

Description

Cooling tube assembly, battery pack, and automobile including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling tube assembly, a battery pack, and an automobile including the same, and more specifically, to a cooling tube assembly, a battery pack, and an automobile including the same capable of improving the height-direction cooling deviation of a cell within the pack.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries refer to batteries capable of charging and discharging, and are applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by electric power sources.

[0003] 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 4.6V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Additionally, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module consisting of at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module to configure the battery pack by adding other components. Here, a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0005] Battery cells are classified into pouch type, cylindrical type, prismatic type, etc., depending on the shape of the battery case.

[0006] Among these, cylindrical cells offer excellent safety as they primarily utilize a metal case with a cylindrical structure. They also have the advantage of high energy density by housing a jelly-roll type electrode assembly inside the case, and make it easy to configure a large-capacity power storage device by connecting multiple cells in series or parallel.

[0007] The electrode assembly, housed in a cylindrical case, is a rechargeable power generation device composed of a stacked structure of an anode, a separator, and a cathode, and is classified into jellyroll, stack, and stack / folding types. The jellyroll type is formed by winding a separator between long sheet-shaped anodes and cathodes coated with active material; the stack type is formed by sequentially stacking multiple anodes and cathodes of a predetermined size with a separator in between; and the stack / folding type is a composite structure of the jellyroll and stack types. Among these, the jellyroll electrode assembly has the advantages of being easy to manufacture and having a high energy density per unit weight.

[0008] However, in such battery packs, if there is overcharging, the temperature of the battery module or battery cell may rise excessively, and an explosion or fire may occur due to swelling. Furthermore, such explosions or fires can pose a greater risk, potentially leading to casualties.

[0009] Therefore, it is necessary to suppress the excessive temperature rise of some battery cells within the battery pack.

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a cooling tube assembly capable of appropriately cooling a battery cell and evenly cooling the upper and lower parts of the cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0011] A cooling tube assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is a cooling tube assembly for cooling a battery cell, comprising a head portion including a head plate through which a refrigerant flows in and out, and a cooling tube for cooling the battery cell including a cooling channel connected to the head portion through which the refrigerant flowing into the head portion moves. The head portion further comprises first and second inlets through which a refrigerant flows into the head plate, respectively; and first and second outlets through which a refrigerant flows out from the head plate, respectively. The first inlet and the second outlet are disposed on one surface of the head plate, and the first outlet and the second inlet are disposed on the other surface of the head plate.

[0012] In addition, the refrigerant discharged through the first outlet is the refrigerant introduced through the first inlet, and the refrigerant introduced through the second inlet is discharged through the second outlet.

[0013] In addition, the refrigerant flowing into the first inlet may be a low-temperature refrigerant, and the refrigerant flowing into the second inlet may be a high-temperature refrigerant.

[0014] In addition, the second inlet is positioned at a location corresponding to the first inlet with respect to the head plate, and the second outlet is positioned at a location corresponding to the first outlet with respect to the head plate.

[0015] Additionally, the first inlet is positioned at the lower part of one side of the head plate, the second outlet is positioned at the upper part of one side of the head plate, the second inlet is positioned at the lower part of the other side of the head plate, and the first outlet is positioned at the upper part of the other side of the head plate.

[0016] Additionally, the first inlet is positioned on the upper surface of one side of the head plate, the second outlet is positioned on the lower surface of one side of the head plate, the second inlet is positioned on the upper surface of the other side of the head plate, and the first outlet is positioned on the lower surface of the other side of the head plate.

[0017] Additionally, the head plate includes a first plate having the first inlet and the second outlet disposed on one surface thereof, and the first plate includes a first movement space through which refrigerant introduced through the first inlet moves; and a second movement space through which refrigerant moves in communication with the second outlet.

[0018] Additionally, on the other side of the first plate, an outlet hole communicating with the first moving space through which refrigerant flows out from the first moving space; and an inlet hole communicating with the second moving space through which refrigerant flows from the second inlet into the second moving space are disposed.

[0019] Additionally, the head plate further includes a second plate disposed on the first plate, wherein the second inlet and the first outlet are disposed on one surface of the head plate.

[0020] Additionally, the second plate includes an inlet groove that communicates with the second inlet and extends in the height direction from the inlet hole of the second inlet to guide the movement of the refrigerant in the height direction; and an outlet groove that communicates with the first outlet and extends in the height direction from the outlet hole of the first outlet to guide the movement of the refrigerant in the height direction.

[0021] In addition, the cooling channel includes one or more inlet channels for guiding the inflow of refrigerant flowing in from the head portion; and one or more outlet channels for guiding the outflow of the refrigerant flowing in from the inlet channels to the head portion.

[0022] Additionally, it further includes an end portion comprising an end plate disposed at one end of the cooling tube and including a guide channel that guides the refrigerant flowing in from the inlet channel to move to the outlet channel.

[0023] A cooling tube assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a head portion including a head plate through which a refrigerant flows in and out, and a cooling tube for cooling a battery cell, the head portion including a cooling path through which the refrigerant flowing into the head portion moves. The head plate includes a first path and a second path through which the refrigerant moves and which intersect each other in an X shape.

[0024] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the cooling tube assembly and a plurality of battery cells.

[0025] In a battery pack, cooling tube assemblies can be placed on each side of multiple battery cells.

[0026] The cooling tube assembly according to the present invention, the battery pack including the same, and the automobile have the effect of properly cooling the battery cell and evenly cooling the upper and lower parts of the battery cell.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a cylindrical battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0028] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0029] FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0030] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0031] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a battery pack in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0032] FIG. 6 is a partial detailed view of FIG. 5, and

[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cooling tube assembly in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0034] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A' in FIG. 7 illustrating the movement of refrigerant in a cooling tube assembly, and

[0035] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a head portion of a cooling tube assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0036] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 9, and

[0037] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement of a battery cell and a cooling tube assembly in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0038] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating cooling tubes arranged on both sides of a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0039] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the movement of refrigerant in a cooling tube assembly disposed on both sides of a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0040] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a vehicle equipped with a battery pack in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid the present invention being interpreted ambiguously. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0042] In drawings, thicknesses may be enlarged to clearly represent multiple layers and regions. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are used for similar parts. When a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "above" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately above" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "below" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately below" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately below" another part, it means that there is no other part in between.

[0043] Before describing the cooling tube assembly and battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (1) is described first.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a cylindrical battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] The battery cell (1) may include an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), a first current collector plate (30), a battery cap (40), a sealing gasket (50), a second current collector plate (60), a rivet (70), and an insulating part (80). The battery cell (1) including the electrode assembly (10) is not limited to the shape of the battery cell (1) shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and can be applied to batteries of other shapes. The battery cell (1) may be a cylindrical secondary battery (cylindrical battery cell).

[0046] The electrode assembly (10) may be provided in a cylindrical shape having a core and an outer surface, wherein a first electrode (e.g., a negative electrode), a second electrode (e.g., a positive electrode), and a separator interposed between these electrodes are wound around a winding axis. The electrode assembly (10) may be a jelly-roll type electrode assembly. An additional separator may be provided on the outer surface of the electrode assembly (10) for insulation from the battery housing (20). The electrode assembly (10) may be provided without limitation to have a winding structure well known in the art of the present invention.

[0047] The first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a first electrode current collector and a first electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the first electrode current collector. A non-coated portion in which the first electrode active material is not applied may exist at one end (upper portion) in the width direction (a direction parallel to the height direction of the battery cell) of the first electrode. That is, the first electrode may include a first non-coated portion (11) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and is not coated with active material at one long end along the winding direction, and a first retaining portion coated with active material. The first non-coated portion (11) may be provided at the upper portion based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the first non-coated portion (11) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The first non-coated portion (11) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0048] The second electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a second electrode current collector and a second electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the second electrode current collector. Based on the width direction (height direction) of the second electrode (12), a non-coated portion where the second electrode active material is not applied may exist at the other end. That is, the second electrode may include a second non-coated portion (12) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and where the active material is not coated at the other long end along the winding direction, and a second retaining portion coated with the active material. The second non-coated portion (12) may be provided at the bottom based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the second non-coated portion (12) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The second non-coated portion (12) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0049] The battery housing (20) may be a roughly cylindrical receptacle with an opening formed on one side. The battery housing (20) may be provided with a conductive metal material. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) of the secondary battery. The side of the battery housing (20) and the lower surface located opposite the opening (20a) may be formed integrally. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) and the electrolyte through the opening (20a) formed on its upper side.

[0050] The battery housing (20) may have a beading portion (21) formed in an end region adjacent to an opening (20a) provided at the top thereof, and a crimping portion (22) formed on the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) has a shape in which the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) is pressed in to a predetermined depth. The beading portion (21) may have a shape in which it is pressed inward in the region between the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) and the internal receiving space that accommodates the electrode assembly (10).

[0051] The beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which a sealing gasket (50) and a battery cap (40) can be seated. Additionally, the beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the first current collector plate (30) can be seated and joined. At least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector plate (30), at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the sealing gasket (50), and at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the battery cap (40) can be seated on the upper surface of the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) may be formed by pressing the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) inward in an area adjacent to the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) while the electrode assembly (10) is received within the battery housing (20) through the opening (20a).

[0052] In order to stably support the first current collector plate (30), the battery cap (40), and the sealing gasket (50), the upper surface of the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a shape that extends in a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The beading portion (21) can function as a support portion on which the battery cap (40), etc., is seated, while preventing the electrode assembly (10), which has a size corresponding to the inner diameter of the internal receiving space of the battery housing (20), from coming out through the opening (20a) formed at the top of the battery housing (20).

[0053] The crimping portion (22) extends upward from the beading portion (21) and is formed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The crimping portion (22) has a bent shape that extends to wrap around the edge perimeter and part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) placed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The battery cap (40) is fixed on the beading portion (21) by the crimping portion (22). The crimping portion (22) may have a shape that extends inwardly from the upper perimeter of the battery housing (20) in the radial direction (centripetal direction) of the battery cell (1). The crimping portion (22) is provided in an area corresponding to the edge perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) to fix the battery cap (40) and prevent the battery cap (40) from moving upward.

[0054] The upper portion of the crimping portion (22) is formed by bending so that it extends inward by a predetermined distance along the radial direction of the battery cell (1) to wrap around a part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40), thereby securing the perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40). The perimeter area of ​​the battery cap (40) is interposed between the upper portion of the crimping portion (22) and the beading portion (21) and is secured to the battery housing (20), covering the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20).

[0055] The first current collector plate (30) is housed inside the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) is made of a conductive metal material and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector plate (30) can be electrically connected to the battery housing (20). That is, the first current collector plate (30) can electrically connect the first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) and the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) may be provided with a support portion (31), a tab coupling portion (32), and a housing coupling portion (33).

[0056] The support portion (31) and the tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be positioned on the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The support portion (31) may be positioned on one side of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) may extend from the support portion (31) and be connected to the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the tab connecting portion (32) may be connected to the electrode assembly (10) by welding a certain area while seated on the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be located below the lower surface of the beading portion (21).

[0057] A through hole may be formed in the first collector plate (30) to allow flames generated inside the battery cell (1) to escape smoothly. Accordingly, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs on the side of the electrode assembly (10), the flames and venting gas generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the through hole without being blocked by the first collector plate (30) located on the upper side of the electrode assembly (10). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the flames from moving toward the beading part (21) located in the vicinity of the electrode assembly (10) and the first collector plate (30) and causing pinholes in the beading part (21), and to prevent the fire from spreading to other battery cells (1) located around the battery cell (1) where the fire occurred.

[0058] The support member (31) may be provided with a current collector hole (H2) formed at a position corresponding to a winding hole (H1) formed approximately in the center of the electrode assembly (10). The winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2), which are in communication with each other, do not need to function as a passage for a welding rod or laser beam for welding between the electrode terminal of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector, or between the electrode terminal and a lead tab (not shown). Therefore, the energy density of the electrode assembly (10) can be increased by reducing the size of the winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2). If the diameter of the current collector hole (H2) is excessively smaller than the diameter of the winding hole (H1), the hole formed in the winding hole (H1) may be obscured, which may reduce liquid injection performance. Accordingly, so that the current collector hole (H2) does not obstruct the winding hole (H1) formed in the core of the electrode assembly (10), it may have a diameter substantially the same as or larger than that of the winding hole (H1) of the electrode assembly (10).

[0059] The housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31) to a periphery area. The housing coupling portion (33) may be electrically connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31). For example, the housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the upper surface of the beading portion (21) on the inner surface of the battery housing (20).

[0060] The inner diameter of the battery housing (20) in the area where the beading portion (21) is formed may be smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly (10). For stable contact and connection, the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The housing connection portion (33) may be welded to the upper surface of the beading portion (21). For welding the connection between the battery housing (20) and the first current collector plate (30), for example, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or spot welding may be applied.

[0061] A battery cap (40) may be provided to cover an opening (20a) of a battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) may be coupled to the battery housing (20) to seal the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) through a crimping process via a sealing gasket (50). The battery cap (40) may be provided with a venting portion (41) formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by gas generated inside the battery housing (20).

[0062] The venting portion (41) may be configured to break when the internal pressure of the battery housing (20) increases above a certain level. The venting portion (41) is formed in a part of the battery cap (40) and may be a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area so that it can easily break when pressure is applied to the inside due to thermal runaway, etc. For example, the venting portion (41) may be an area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. The venting portion (41) may be formed as a roughly circular closed loop.

[0063] The battery cap (40) can cover an opening (20a) formed on one side of the battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) can be secured by a crimping portion (22) formed on the top of the battery housing (20).

[0064] A sealing gasket (50) is interposed between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40), and between the first current collector plate (30) and the battery cap (40), to improve fixing strength and sealing performance of the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) seals the upper opening of the battery housing (20) between the battery cap (40) and the crimping portion (22) of the battery housing (20), and can electrically insulate the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). The sealing gasket (50) may include a material having insulating and elastic properties. The sealing gasket (50) may include, for example, a polymer resin.

[0065] Accordingly, the first current collector plate (30) may be interposed between the beading portion (21) of the battery housing (20) and the sealing gasket (50). The first current collector plate (30) interposed between the beading portion (21) and the sealing gasket (50) may be secured by the bending of the crimping portion (22) extending upward from the beading portion (21). The sealing gasket (50) is provided to surround the battery cap (40) to seal the space between the battery cap (40) and the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) serves to maintain airtightness between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). A rivet (70) is inserted into and joined to an opening formed in the bottom portion (23) of the battery housing (20). An insulating portion (80) may be interposed between the rivet (70) and the opening of the battery housing (20). The insulating part (80) can insulate the rivet (70) from the battery housing (20).

[0066] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating that current collector plates (30, 60) are attached to the upper and / or lower surfaces of an electrode assembly (10), and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be joined to the electrode assembly (10) by welding.

[0067] In the first electrode current collector of the first electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the first electrode current collector in the first uncoated portion (11) where the electrode active material is not coated, and similarly, in the second electrode current collector of the second electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the second electrode current collector in the second uncoated portion (12) where the electrode active material is not coated.

[0068] In this way, the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) in which notching tabs are formed at the first and second electrodes can each be bent in the direction of the core, and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be welded to the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) of the first electrode and / or the second electrode that are bent in the direction of the core.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack (1000) may include a plurality of battery cells (1) and a pack housing (200), and may further include a refrigerant transfer pipe (275) through which a refrigerant for cooling the battery cells (1) travels.

[0070] FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6 are drawings illustrating a battery pack (1000) in an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a plan view of a battery pack in an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a partial detail view of FIG. 5.

[0071] Battery cells (1) may be accommodated within a pack housing (200), and the pack housing (200) may be a structure for protecting the battery cells (1) from external shock or vibration. The pack housing (200) may include a bottom frame (220), a side wall (215), and a top frame (not shown).

[0072] The bottom frame (220) can be positioned at the bottom of the pack housing (200) and, for example, can be formed in the shape of a square plate. The bottom frame (220) can be positioned at the bottom of the battery cells (1). The battery cells (1) can be positioned such that the battery cap (40) faces upward and the bottom of the battery housing (20) faces downward.

[0073] The side wall (215) can be positioned along the circumference of the bottom frame (220) at the edge of the bottom frame (220).

[0074] The top frame (not shown) can cover the upper area of ​​the battery cells (1) and can be configured to be mutually coupled with the bottom frame (220) or the side wall (215).

[0075] A plurality of battery cells (1) within a pack housing (200) can be arranged to form a battery cell assembly (100).

[0076] A battery cell assembly (100) may include a plurality of battery cells (1). In this embodiment, a plurality of battery cell assemblies (100) may be placed within a pack housing (200), and FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which two battery cell assemblies (100) are placed within the pack housing (200).

[0077] A battery cell assembly (100) may be placed on a lower plate. And, two side walls (260) may be placed on both sides of the battery cell assembly (100). The two side walls (260) may be placed facing each other at both edges of the lower plate. The side walls (260) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell assembly (100) and may be coupled to a pack housing (200).

[0078] Accordingly, the battery cell assembly (100) can be placed on a lower plate between two side walls (260), and the lower plate, two side walls (260), and a plurality of battery cells (1) can form a single battery cell assembly (100).

[0079] The lower plate may be positioned at a predetermined distance from the bottom frame (220) of the pack housing (200).

[0080] The lower plate can be formed in a roughly rectangular shape, and a plurality of battery cells (1) can be arranged in a plurality of rows on the rectangular lower plate as shown.

[0081] In FIGS. 5 and 6, the first column of battery cells (1) may be arranged from left to right along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) just below the side wall (260) (in the drawing). Then, the second column of battery cells (1) may be arranged below the first column of battery cells (1) in the drawing, and each of the second column of battery cells (1) may be arranged between two first column of battery cells (1). And, a cooling tube assembly (270) may be arranged between the first column of battery cells (1) and the second column of battery cells (1).

[0082] A third column of battery cells (1) may be placed below a second column of battery cells (1), and each of the third column of battery cells (1) may be placed between two second columns of battery cells (1).

[0083] And, a support member (280) may be placed between the battery cell (1) of the second column and the battery cell (1) of the third column.

[0084] The support member (280) may extend along one row of the battery cell (1) (in the Y-axis direction) and may be formed in a zigzag shape as illustrated. The lower end of the support member (280) may be placed on the lower plate, and the upper end of the support member (280) may extend to the top of the battery cell (1) or to the top frame (210).

[0085] The support member (280) is placed between two rows of battery cells (1) in this manner to fix the battery cells (1) and secure the rigidity of the battery pack (1000).

[0086] A fourth column of battery cells (1) may be placed below the third column of battery cells (1), and a cooling tube assembly (270) may be placed between the third and fourth columns of battery cells (1). Between the third and fourth columns of battery cells (1), the cooling tube assembly (270) can cool the third column of battery cells (1) through one side and cool the fourth column of battery cells (1) through the other side.

[0087] In this way, a cooling tube assembly (270) may be placed between the odd and even rows of the battery cell (1), and a cooling tube assembly (270) may be placed between all rows of the battery cell (1). Also, the battery cells in two rows on both sides of the cooling tube assembly (270) can be cooled through one side and the other side of the cooling tube assembly (270). Additionally, a support member (280) may be placed between the even and odd rows of the battery cell (1).

[0088] A plurality of battery cells (1) constituting a battery cell assembly (100) may be arranged between two side walls (260), and battery cells (1) in a first row, a second row, ... an nth row may be arranged sequentially from one side wall (260) toward the opposite side wall (260). Additionally, a cooling tube assembly (270) and a support member (280) may be alternately arranged between the plurality of rows of battery cells (1).

[0089] The cooling tube assembly (270) may extend along one row of the battery cell (1) (in the Y-axis direction), and a flow path through which a refrigerant flows may be formed inside. The cooling tube assembly (270) may be connected to a refrigerant transfer pipe (275), and refrigerant may flow from the refrigerant transfer pipe (275) into the cooling tube assembly (270), and refrigerant may flow out from the cooling tube assembly (270) to the refrigerant transfer pipe (275). In this embodiment, the cooling tube assembly (270) may be positioned between the first row and the second row of the battery cell (1) to cool the sides of the battery cells (1) in the first and second rows. Additionally, the cooling tube assembly (270) may be formed in a winding manner along a portion of the outer surface of the battery cells (1) in the first row and a portion of the outer surface of the battery cells (1) in the second row.

[0090] As shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, the cooling tube assembly (270) may include a head portion (2700), a cooling tube (2750), and an end portion (2800).

[0091] As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the head portion (2700) may include a head plate (2701), a first inlet (2711), a first outlet (2732), a second inlet (2731), and a second outlet (2712). The second inlet (2731) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the first inlet (2711) with respect to the head plate (2701), and the second outlet (2712) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the first outlet (2732) with respect to the head plate (2701). Additionally, the first inlet (2711) and the second inlet (2731) may be positioned at symmetrical locations on the left and right sides of the head plate (2701), and the first outlet (2732) and the second outlet (2712) may be positioned at symmetrical locations on the left and right sides of the head plate (2701).

[0092] The head plate (2701) may include a first plate (2710) and a second plate (2730).

[0093] The first plate (2710) may be positioned on one side of the head plate (2701), and in this embodiment, may be positioned on the left side of the head plate (2701). The first plate (2710) may be formed in a flat or upright shape as illustrated. The first plate (2710) may include a movement space (2720) through which refrigerant moves inside, and may include a first inlet (2711) and a second outlet (2712).

[0094] The first inlet (2711) and the second outlet (2712) may be arranged on one side of the first plate (2710), and the first inlet (2711) and the second outlet (2712) may be arranged vertically on one side of the first plate (2710).

[0095] A refrigerant may flow into the first plate (2710) through the first inlet (2711), and the refrigerant flowing in through the first inlet (2711) may move to the first moving space (2722). The first inlet (2711) may be positioned below or above the second outlet (2712), and the drawing illustrates an example in which the first inlet (2711) is positioned below the second outlet (2712). The refrigerant flowing into the first inlet (2711) may be a low-temperature refrigerant that does not cool the battery cell (1).

[0096] The second outlet (2712) may be positioned above or below the first inlet (2711), and the drawing illustrates an example where the second outlet (2712) is positioned above the first inlet (2711). In the second moving space (2723), the refrigerant may be discharged through the second outlet (2712). The refrigerant discharged through the second outlet (2712) may be a high-temperature refrigerant that has cooled the battery cell (1). Here, the criteria for high temperature and low temperature in the high-temperature or low-temperature refrigerant are not absolute but may be relative concepts. Therefore, the temperature of the refrigerant discharged through the second outlet (2712) may be higher than that of the refrigerant entering through the first inlet (2711).

[0097] The movement space (2720) inside the first plate (2710) can be formed inside the first plate (2710) in a shape similar to that of the first plate (2710) and can be formed from a flat shape to an upright shape. The movement space (2720) can be divided vertically by a partition wall (2721), and the movement space (2720) can be divided into a first movement space (2722) and a second movement space (2723) by a partition wall (2721) arranged horizontally.

[0098] The first movement space (2722) may be positioned at the bottom of the movement space (2720) and may be connected to the first inlet (2711). Thus, refrigerant introduced from the first inlet (2711) can be moved to the first movement space (2722). If the first inlet (2711) is positioned above the second outlet (2712), the first movement space (2722) may be positioned above the movement space (2720). Some of the refrigerant moved from the first inlet (2711) to the first movement space (2722) may be discharged through the outlet (2722a), and the remaining refrigerant may be supplied to the cooling tube (2750).

[0099] The second movement space (2723) may be positioned above the movement space (2720) and may be connected to the second outlet (2712). Thus, refrigerant may be discharged from the second movement space (2723) through the second outlet (2712). If the second outlet (2712) is positioned below the first inlet (2711), the second movement space (2723) may be positioned below the movement space (2720). Some of the refrigerant entering the second movement space (2723) may be refrigerant entering through the inlet port (2723a), and the remaining refrigerant may be refrigerant entering from the cooling tube (2750).

[0100] An outflow hole (2722a) and an inflow hole (2723a) may be arranged on the other side (right side in the drawing) of the first plate (2710).

[0101] The outlet hole (2722a) may be positioned below the inlet hole (2723a) on the other side of the first plate (2710), and refrigerant may be moved from the first movement space (2722) to the first outlet (2732) through the outlet hole (2722a). The outlet hole (2722a) may also be positioned above the inlet hole (2723a) when the first movement space (2722) is positioned above the second movement space (2723).

[0102] The inlet port (2723a) may be positioned above the outlet port (2722a) on the other side of the first plate (2710), and the refrigerant may be moved from the second inlet port (2731) to the second movement space (2723) through the inlet port (2723a). The outlet port (2722a) may also be positioned below the inlet port (2723a) when the second movement space (2723) is positioned below the first movement space (2722).

[0103] The second plate (2730) may be placed on the other side (right side in the drawing) of the first plate (2710). The second plate (2730) may be joined to the first plate (2710) by a method such as welding, and may be joined, for example, by brazing.

[0104] In the second plate (2730), an inlet groove (2734) communicating with the second inlet (2731) and an outlet groove (2735) communicating with the first outlet (2732) may be disposed on one side of the second plate (2730) that is coupled to the first plate (2710) (or on one side facing the first plate (2710). The inlet groove (2734) and the outlet groove (2735) may each serve as a flow path that guides the movement of the refrigerant in the height direction (up and down direction).

[0105] The inlet groove (2734) may be connected to the inlet hole (2723a), may have a larger area than the inlet hole (2731a) of the second inlet (2731), and may be extended in the height direction (up and down). Accordingly, the inlet groove (2734) can guide the movement of the refrigerant introduced from the second inlet (2731) in the height direction. The inlet groove (2734) may be extended upward from the inlet hole (2731a) of the second inlet (2731). As shown in FIG. 10, the refrigerant introduced into the inlet groove (2734) may move upward from the inlet groove (2734) and be introduced into the inlet hole (2723a). The inlet groove (2734) extends upward from the right side of one side of the second plate (2730), so that the upper end of the inlet groove (2734) is positioned higher than the lower end of the outlet groove (2735). The inlet groove (2734) may overlap with the inlet hole (2731a) of the second inlet (2731).

[0106] The outflow groove (2735) may be connected to the outflow hole (2722a), may have a larger area than the outflow hole (2732a) of the first outlet (2732), and may be extended in the height direction (up and down). Accordingly, the outflow groove (2735) can guide the movement of the refrigerant introduced from the outflow hole (2722a) in the height direction. The outflow groove (2735) may be extended downward from the outflow hole (2732a) of the first outlet (2732). As shown in FIG. 10, the refrigerant introduced into the outflow groove (2734) may move upward from the outflow groove (2734) and be discharged to the first outlet (2732). The outflow groove (2735) extends downward from the left side of one side of the second plate (2730), so that the lower end of the outflow groove (2735) may be positioned lower than the upper end of the inflow groove (2734). The outflow groove (2735) may overlap with the outflow hole (2732a) of the first outlet (2732).

[0107] A second inlet (2731) and a first outlet (2732) may be disposed on the other side of the second plate (2730).

[0108] The second inlet (2731) may be positioned below the first outlet (2732) on the other side of the second plate (2730). The refrigerant flowing into the second inlet (2731) may flow out through the second moving space (2723) to the second outlet (2712). The refrigerant flowing into the second inlet (2731) may be a high-temperature refrigerant that has cooled the battery cell (1). As another example, the second inlet (2731) may be positioned above the first outlet (2732).

[0109] The first outlet (2732) may be positioned above the second inlet (2731) on the other side of the second plate (2730). The refrigerant flowing into the outlet groove (2735) through the outlet hole (2722a) may be discharged through the first outlet (2732). The refrigerant discharged through the first outlet (2732) may be a low-temperature refrigerant that does not cool the battery cell (1). As another example, the first outlet (2732) may be positioned below the second inlet (2731).

[0110] The cooling tube (2750) can cool the battery cell (1) by including a cooling channel (2751) through which the refrigerant flowing in through the head portion (2700) travels.

[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the cooling tube (2750) may include a cooling channel (2751) through which a refrigerant travels, and the cooling channel (2751) may include a refrigerant inlet channel (2760) and a refrigerant outlet channel (2770). The cooling channel (2751) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling tube (2750).

[0112] The refrigerant inlet passage section (2760) includes one or more inlet passages (2761) to allow refrigerant to flow in from the first movement space (2722) of the head section (2700) and guide the movement of the refrigerant. In this embodiment, the refrigerant inlet passage section (2760) may include a plurality of inlet passages (2761), and refrigerant may flow in from the first movement space (2722) and move through the plurality of inlet passages (2761). The plurality of inlet passages (2761) may be arranged parallel to each other and may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling tube (2750). The plurality of inlet passages (2761) may be formed from one end to the other end of the cooling tube (2750).

[0113] The refrigerant inlet passage section (2760) includes one or more inlet passages (2761) to allow refrigerant to flow in from the first movement space (2722) of the head section (2700) and guide the movement of the refrigerant. In this embodiment, the refrigerant inlet passage section (2760) may include a plurality of inlet passages (2761), and refrigerant may flow in from the first movement space (2722) and move through the plurality of inlet passages (2761). The plurality of inlet passages (2761) may be arranged parallel to each other and may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling tube (2750). The plurality of inlet passages (2761) may be formed from one end to the other end of the cooling tube (2750).

[0114] In this embodiment, the refrigerant may be cooling water, and cooling oil or other refrigerants may also be used.

[0115] The refrigerant outflow channel section (2770) may include one or more outflow channels (2771) to guide the movement of refrigerant flowing in from the inflow channel (2761). In this embodiment, the refrigerant outflow channel section (2770) may include a plurality of outflow channels (2771), and refrigerant flowing in from the inflow channel (2761) may be moved through the plurality of outflow channels (2771). Refrigerant may flow from the inflow channel (2761) into one end of the outflow channel (2771), and refrigerant may be discharged into the second movement space (2723) through the other end of the outflow channel (2771). The direction of movement of the refrigerant in the outflow channel (2771) may be opposite to the direction of movement of the refrigerant in the inflow channel (2761).

[0116] A plurality of outflow channels (2771) may be arranged parallel to each other and may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling tube (2750). A plurality of outflow channels (2771) may be formed from one end of the cooling tube (2750) to the other end.

[0117] In this way, the refrigerant introduced into the cooling tube (2750) can cool the battery cells (1) while moving along the inlet path (2761) and the outlet path (2771).

[0118] The above end portion (2800) may be disposed at one end of the cooling tube (2750). The end portion (2800) may include an end plate (2801) equipped with a guide channel (2802) that guides the movement of the refrigerant. The guide channel (2802) may be connected to an inlet channel (2761) and an outlet channel (2771), respectively.

[0119] The guide channel (2802) can guide the refrigerant introduced from the inlet channel (2761) to the outlet channel (2771). Thus, the refrigerant introduced from the inlet channel (2761) into the guide channel (2802) can move along the guide channel (2802) to the outlet channel (2771). The guide channel (2802) can extend along the length of the end plate (2801) and can be formed in a vertical direction. The movement of the refrigerant in the guide channel (2802) can move from bottom to top or from top to bottom.

[0120] In this embodiment, the cooling tube assembly (270) is positioned between two adjacent rows of battery cells (1) to cool the sides of the two adjacent rows of battery cells (1). Additionally, the cooling tube (2750) may be formed to meander along a portion of the outer surface of one row of battery cells (1) and a portion of the outer surface of an adjacent row of battery cells (1).

[0121] In the cooling tube assembly (270) according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, a low-temperature refrigerant is introduced into the head portion (2700) through a first inlet (2711) located at the lower left side of the head plate (2701), and then a portion of the introduced low-temperature refrigerant can be discharged through a first moving space (2722), an outlet hole (2722a), and an outlet groove (2735) to a first outlet (2732) located at the upper right side of the head plate (2701). And, high-temperature refrigerant can be introduced into the head portion (2700) through the second inlet (2731) located at the lower right side of the head plate (2701), and then exit through the inlet groove (2734), inlet hole (2723a), and second movement space (2723) to the second outlet (2712) located at the upper left side of the head plate (2701). Accordingly, in the cooling tube assembly (270) according to the present embodiment, low-temperature refrigerant can be moved from the lower left to the upper right, and high-temperature refrigerant can be moved from the lower right to the upper left, so that two independent first and second flow paths can be arranged to intersect in an X shape inside the head portion (2700).

[0122] In addition, in the cooling tube assembly (270) according to the present embodiment, a first inlet (2711) into which a low-temperature refrigerant flows from the head portion (2700) and a second inlet (2731) into which a high-temperature refrigerant flows can be arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the head plate (2701).

[0123] In addition, in the cooling tube assembly (270) according to the present embodiment, a second outlet (2712) through which high-temperature refrigerant is discharged from the head portion (2700) and a first outlet (2732) through which low-temperature refrigerant is discharged may be arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the head plate (2701).

[0124] Meanwhile, FIG. 11 illustrates an example in which cooling tube assemblies are arranged on both sides of a battery cell, FIG. 12 illustrates cooling tubes arranged on both sides of a battery cell, and FIG. 13 illustrates the movement of refrigerant in the head portion of the cooling tube assembly arranged on both sides of a battery cell.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 11, a cooling tube assembly (270) may be placed on each side of the battery cell (1), and a separate cooling tube (2750) may be placed on each side of the battery cell (1).

[0126] At this time, as shown in FIG. 12, in one side cooling tube (2750) of the battery cell (1) (left cooling tube (2750) in the drawing), low-temperature refrigerant can move to the lower part and high-temperature refrigerant can move to the upper part. In the other side cooling tube (2750) of the battery cell (1) (right cooling tube (2750) in the drawing), high-temperature refrigerant can move to the lower part and low-temperature refrigerant can move to the upper part.

[0127] In the case where low-temperature refrigerant moves to the lower part and high-temperature refrigerant moves to the upper part of the cooling tubes on both the left and right sides of the battery cell (1), a cooling deviation between the upper and lower parts of each battery cell may occur. However, in this embodiment, as described above, two independent flow paths are arranged to intersect in an X shape in the head portion (2700) of the cooling tube assembly (270), so that the positions of low-temperature and high-temperature refrigerants on both sides of the battery cell (1) can be changed and moved relative to each other, and accordingly, the cooling deviation in the height direction of the battery cell (1) can be improved.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 13, the movement of refrigerant in the head portion (2700) of the cooling tube assembly (270) positioned on both sides of the battery cell (1) is described in more detail. Low-temperature refrigerant introduced through the first inlet (2711) at the lower left of the head portion (2700) of the cooling tube assembly (270) positioned on the left side of the battery cell (1) can be moved to the cooling tube (2750) and the first outlet (2732) at the upper right side. The low-temperature refrigerant discharged through the first outlet (2732) moves along the refrigerant transfer pipe (275) and can then be introduced through the first inlet (2711) positioned at the upper left of the head portion (2700) of the right cooling tube assembly (270') located on the opposite side of the battery cell (1). The low-temperature refrigerant introduced through the first inlet (2711) at the upper left of the right head portion (2700) located opposite the battery cell (1) can be moved to the cooling tube (2750) and the first outlet (2732) at the lower right, and the low-temperature refrigerant can be discharged through the first outlet (2732).

[0129] High-temperature refrigerant introduced through the second inlet (2731) at the upper right of the head portion (2700) of the right cooling tube assembly (270') of the battery cell (1) can be moved to the second outlet (2712) at the lower left. The high-temperature refrigerant discharged through the second outlet (2712) can travel along the refrigerant transfer pipe (275) and then be introduced through the second inlet (2731) located at the lower right of the head portion (2700) of the left cooling tube assembly (270) of the battery cell (1). High-temperature refrigerant introduced through the second inlet (2731) at the lower right of the head portion (2700) of the left cooling tube assembly (270) of the battery cell (1) can be moved to the second outlet (2712) at the upper left, and the high-temperature refrigerant can be discharged through the second outlet (2712).

[0130] In this way, the low-temperature refrigerant and the high-temperature refrigerant move in opposite directions at the head portions of the cooling tube assemblies (270, 270') arranged on both sides of the battery cell (1), thereby allowing the positions of the low-temperature refrigerant and the high-temperature refrigerant on both sides of the battery cell (1) to be opposite to each other, and accordingly, the cooling deviation according to the position in the height direction in each battery cell (1) can be improved. And, accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the battery cell (1) can be improved.

[0131] The battery pack (1000) may additionally include various control and protection systems such as a Battery Management System (BMS), and the battery pack (1000) may be applied to various devices. Specifically, it may be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, or to an Energy Storage System (ESS), but is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices capable of using secondary batteries.

[0132] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating an electric vehicle (V) equipped with a battery pack (1000). In the electric vehicle (V), the wheels are driven by a motor that receives power from the battery pack (1000), allowing the electric vehicle to operate.

[0133] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments as described above, it is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments, and various changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0134] The present invention can provide a cooling tube assembly capable of appropriately cooling a battery cell and evenly cooling the upper and lower parts of the battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

Claims

1. In a cooling tube assembly for cooling a battery cell, A head section including a head plate through which refrigerant flows in and out, and It includes a cooling tube that cools the battery cell, including a cooling channel connected to the head portion through which refrigerant flowing into the head portion moves. The above head part First and second inlets into which refrigerant is introduced into the head plate; and It further includes first and second outlets through which refrigerant is discharged from the head plate, respectively, and The first inlet and the second outlet are disposed on one surface of the head plate, and A cooling tube assembly having the first outlet and the second inlet disposed on the other side of the head plate.

2. In Paragraph 1, The refrigerant flowing out through the first outlet is the refrigerant flowing in through the first inlet, and A cooling tube assembly in which the refrigerant introduced through the second inlet is discharged through the second outlet.

3. In Paragraph 2, The refrigerant flowing into the first inlet above is a low-temperature refrigerant, and The refrigerant flowing into the second inlet above is a high-temperature refrigerant, and is a cooling tube assembly.

4. In Paragraph 2, The second inlet is positioned at a location corresponding to the first inlet based on the head plate, and The second outlet is a cooling tube assembly positioned at a location corresponding to the first outlet based on the head plate.

5. In Paragraph 2, The first inlet is positioned on the lower side of one face of the head plate, and The second outlet is positioned on the upper surface of one side of the head plate, and The second inlet is positioned on the lower side of the head plate, and The first outlet is a cooling tube assembly positioned on the upper surface of the head plate.

6. In Paragraph 2, The first inlet is positioned on the upper surface of one side of the head plate, and The second outlet is positioned on the lower side of one face of the head plate, and The second inlet is positioned on the upper surface of the head plate, and The first outlet is a cooling tube assembly disposed on the lower side of the head plate.

7. In Paragraph 2, The head plate includes a first plate having the first inlet and the second outlet disposed on one surface thereof, and The above first plate is A first movement space through which the refrigerant introduced through the first inlet moves; and A cooling tube assembly comprising: a second movement space in which a refrigerant moves in communication with the second outlet above.

8. In Paragraph 7, A cooling tube assembly having, on the other side of the first plate, an outlet hole communicating with the first moving space through which refrigerant flows out from the first moving space; and an inlet hole communicating with the second moving space through which refrigerant flows from the second inlet into the second moving space.

9. In Paragraph 7, The above head plate is a cooling tube assembly further comprising a second plate disposed on the first plate, wherein the second inlet and the first outlet are disposed on one surface of the head plate.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above second plate is An inlet groove communicating with the second inlet and extending in the height direction from the inlet hole of the second inlet to guide the height direction movement of the refrigerant; and A cooling tube assembly comprising: an outlet groove that communicates with the first outlet and extends in the height direction from the outlet hole of the first outlet to guide the height direction movement of the refrigerant.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling channel One or more inlet passages guiding the inflow of refrigerant flowing in from the head portion above; and A cooling tube assembly comprising one or more outflow channels that guide the outflow of refrigerant introduced from the inflow channel to the head portion.

12. In Paragraph 11, A cooling tube assembly further comprising: an end portion including an end plate disposed at one end of the cooling tube and including a guide channel that guides the refrigerant flowing in from the inlet channel to move to the outlet channel.

13. In a cooling tube assembly for cooling a battery cell, A head section including a head plate through which refrigerant flows in and out, and It includes a cooling tube that cools the battery cell, including a cooling channel connected to the head portion through which refrigerant flowing into the head portion moves. The head plate above is a cooling tube assembly comprising independent first and second flow paths through which the refrigerant moves and crosses each other in an X shape.

14. A battery pack comprising a cooling tube assembly according to claim 1 or 13 and a plurality of battery cells.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above cooling tube assembly is a battery pack disposed on each side of the battery cell.

16. An automobile including a battery pack pursuant to Paragraph 14.

Images