Battery pack

Provided is a battery pack including a plurality of battery cells for generating electrical energy; a lead frame for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells; a sensor for measuring a status of at least one of the plurality of battery cells; and a wiring member for connecting the sensor and at least one of the plurality of battery cells, wherein the wiring member includes a wiring portion; and a fuse portion having a width smaller than that of the wiring portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Application No. 10-2020-0023798 filed on Feb. 26, 2020, whose entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference. This application is related to U.S. application Ser. No. 17/165,178, filed on Feb. 2, 2021, whose entire disclosure is also hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a safety device of a sensing unit of a battery pack.

In general, the demand for secondary batteries is also rapidly increasing due to the increase in technology development and demand for mobile devices, and among them, lithium (ion/polymer) secondary batteries with a high energy density and operating voltage and excellent storage and life characteristics are widely used as an energy source for not only various mobile devices but also various electronic products.

Korean Patent Application Laid-open No. 2014-0130859 discusses a pouch-type secondary battery with improved safety, and in the pouch-type secondary battery, a channel is formed inside a cell and in a sealing portion of an electrode tab. When a gas is excessively generated inside a pouch due to a cause such as overcharging or an internal short circuit and a pressure is thus increased, the gas may be discharged to the outside of the pouch through the channel. That is, when the gas inside the cell is discharged to the outside, the gas is always discharged through the sealing portion of the electrode tab, so that a discharge direction of the gas can be predicted in advance.

However, channels are formed at upper and lower surfaces of the pouch, electrodes are disposed at the upper and lower surfaces of the pouch, and an outer lead frame and the upper and lower surfaces of the pouch are welded by a resistance welding machine for connection. During a welding process in which channels are formed at the upper and lower surfaces of the pouch, there is a problem that the channels are opened or damaged, thereby damaging battery cells. Further, when a channel is formed at the upper surface or the lower surface of the pouch, if an exhaust gas inside the battery cell is discharged, there is a problem that the battery cell is discharged to the outside of a battery pack. Further, in the case of the prior art, a safety device of a sensing unit of the battery pack is not provided, and thus, when a circuit for the sensing unit is heated, there is a problem of causing a fatal defect in operation of the battery and deteriorating the stability of the battery.

The above reference is incorporated by reference herein where appropriate for appropriate teachings of additional or alternative details, features and/or technical background.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described based on a spatial rectangular coordinate system formed by an X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) means both directions in which each axis extends. A ‘+’ sign in front of each axis direction (+X-axis direction, +Y-axis direction, +Z-axis direction) means a positive direction, which is one of both directions in which each axis extends. A ‘−’ sign in front of each axis direction (−X-axis direction, −Y-axis direction, −Z-axis direction) means a negative direction, which is the other direction of both directions in which each axis extends.

Expressions referring to directions such as “front(+Y)/rear(−Y)/left(+X)/right(−X)/up(+Z)/down(−Z)” mentioned below are defined according to the XYZ coordinate axis, but this is for describing so that the present disclosure may be clearly understood, and directions may be defined differently according to where the reference is placed.

The use of terms such as ‘first, second, and third’ in front of elements mentioned below is only to avoid confusion of elements to be referred to and is irrelevant to the order, importance, or master-slave relationship between elements. For example, a disclosure including only a second component without a first component may be implemented. Singular expressions used in the present disclosure include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

A cleaner according to the present disclosure may be a manual cleaner or a robot cleaner. Hereinafter, a cleaner1according to the present embodiment will be described only as a hand-held manual cleaner, but the cleaner according to the present disclosure need not be limited thereto.

Referring toFIGS.1to6, a cleaner1according to an embodiment includes a main body10for forming a flow path P for guiding sucked air to be discharged to the outside. The cleaner1includes a dust separator20disposed on the flow path P to separate dust from the air. The cleaner1includes a handle30coupled to the rear side of the main body10.

The cleaner1includes a battery Bt for supplying power and a battery housing40for receiving the battery Bt. The cleaner1includes fan modules50and50′ disposed on the flow path P to move air in the flow path. In addition to the dust separator20, the cleaner1includes filters61and62disposed on the flow path P to separate dust from the air.

The cleaner1includes a nozzle module70detachably connected to a suction pipe11of the main body10. The cleaner1includes an input unit3for enabling a user to input on/off or a suction mode thereof, and an output unit4for displaying various statuses thereof to the user.

The cleaner1includes noise control modules80,80′,180,280,380, and980for performing at least one of i) a first function of reducing the loudness of noise in a relatively low band range among audible frequencies, and ii) a second function of increasing the loudness of noise in a relatively high band range among audible frequencies. The noise control module includes speakers89and989for outputting a sound. According to the embodiment, the cleaner1may further include a sound transfer pipe90for transferring a sound from the speakers89and989to sound emission ports10band10b′.

Referring toFIG.1, the nozzle module70includes a nozzle portion71provided to suck external air and an extension pipe73long extended from the nozzle portion71. The extension pipe73connects the nozzle portion71and the suction pipe11. The extension pipe73guides the air sucked from the nozzle portion71to be introduced into the suction flow path P1. One end of the extension pipe73may be detachably coupled to the suction pipe11of the main body10. The user may clean while holding the handle30and moving the nozzle portion71in a state in which the nozzle portion71is placed on the bottom.

Referring toFIGS.2to6, the main body10forms an external shape of the cleaner1. The main body10may be formed in a vertically long cylindrical shape as a whole. The dust separator20is received inside the main body10. The fan modules50and50′ are received in the main body10. The handle30is coupled to the rear side of the main body10. The battery housing40is coupled to the rear side of the main body10.

The main body10includes a suction pipe11for guiding the suction of air therein. The suction pipe11forms a suction flow path P1. The suction pipe11may be protruded forward the main body10.

The main body10includes discharge covers12and12′ for forming exhaust ports10aand10a′, respectively. The discharge covers12and12′ may further form sound emission ports10band10b′, respectively. The discharge covers12and12′ may form an upper surface of the main body10. The discharge covers12and12′ cover an upper side of a fan module housing14.

The main body10includes a dust collection portion13for storing dust separated from the dust separator20. At least a part of the dust separator20may be disposed in the dust collection portion13. An inner surface of the upper part of the dust collection portion13may perform a function of a first cyclone portion21to be described later. In this case, the upper part of the dust collection portion13may be referred to as the first cyclone portion21. A second cyclone portion22and a dust flow guide24are disposed inside the dust collection portion13.

The dust collection portion13may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The dust collection portion13is disposed under the fan module housing14. Dust storage spaces S1and S2are formed inside the dust collection portion13. A first storage space S1is formed between the dust collection portion13and the dust flow guide24. A second storage space S2is formed inside the dust flow guide24.

The main body10includes a fan module housing14for receiving the fan modules50and50′ therein. The fan module housing14may be extended upward from the dust collection portion13. The fan module housing14is formed in a cylindrical shape. An extension portion31of the handle30is disposed at the rear side of the fan module housing14.

The main body10includes a dust cover15provided to open and close the dust collection portion13. The dust cover15may be rotatably coupled to the lower side of the dust collection portion13. The dust cover15may open and close the lower side of the dust collection portion13by a rotation operation. The dust cover15may include a hinge (not illustrated) for rotation. The hinge may be coupled to the dust collection portion13. The dust cover15may open and close the first storage space S1and the second storage space S2together.

The main body10includes an air guide16for guiding the air discharged from the dust separator20. The air guide16forms fan module flow paths P4and P4′ for guiding air from the dust separator20to impellers51and51′. The air guide16includes exhaust flow paths P5and P5′ for guiding the air passing through the impellers51and51′ to the exhaust ports10aand10a′. The air guide16may be disposed within the fan module housing14.

For example, referring toFIG.6, the air guide16may form flow paths P4and P5so that the air discharged from the dust separator20rises, passes through the impeller51, descends, and rises again to the exhaust ports10aand10a′. As another example, the air guide16may form flow paths P4′ and P5′ so that the air discharged from the dust separator20passes through the impeller51and continues to rise to the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

Referring toFIGS.2,4A,4B, and6, the main body10has exhaust ports10aand10a′ for discharging air in the flow path P to the outside of the main body10. The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be formed in the exhaust covers12and12′.

The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be disposed at one surface of the main body10. The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be formed at an upper side of the main body10. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a phenomenon that the air discharged from the exhaust ports10aand10a′ directly hits the user while preventing dust around the cleaner from being scattered by the air discharged from the exhaust ports10aand10a′. Further, the sound emission port may be disposed at the same surface as that in which the exhaust ports10aand10a′ are formed among surfaces of the main body10.

The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be disposed to face a specific direction (e.g., upward direction). A discharge direction Ae of the air discharged through the exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be a specific direction.

In the present description, a predetermined axis O means a virtual axis extended in a specific direction while crossing the center of the main body10. A ‘centrifugal direction’ means a direction away from the axis O, and a ‘centrifugal opposite direction’ means a direction closer to the axis O. Further, a ‘circumferential direction’ means a circumferential direction (or rotational direction) around the axis O. The circumferential direction is meant to encompass clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

An air discharge direction Ae may be a direction between a specific direction and a centrifugal direction. The air discharge direction Ae may be a direction between a specific direction and a circumferential direction. Specifically, the air discharge direction Ae may be a direction between a specific direction and a counterclockwise direction. The air discharge direction Ae may be a direction in which a specific direction, a centrifugal direction, and a circumferential direction are three-dimensionally combined.

The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be disposed to enclose the axis O. The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be arranged or extended along the circumferential direction. The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be disposed in predetermined peripheral areas B1and B1′ extended over a central angle of 180 degrees along a circumferential direction around a predetermined axis O.

For example, referring toFIG.4A, the peripheral area B1′ is extended by a central angle 360 degrees along the circumferential direction around the axis O. That is, the peripheral area B1completely encloses the circumference of the axis O.

As another example, referring toFIG.4B, a peripheral area B1′ is extended by a central angle Ag1along the circumferential direction around the axis O. Here, the central angle Ag1may have a value of 270 degrees or more and less than 360 degrees. InFIG.4A, the central angle Ag1is about 270 degrees.

Referring toFIG.4B, it is preferable that a direction in which the peripheral area B1′ is not enclosed based on the axis O is a direction (rear) in which the handle30is disposed. The exhaust port10a′ may not be formed in an area between the axis O and the handle30so that the air discharged from the exhaust port10a′ is prevented from flowing toward the user. A barrier12b′ for blocking air discharge may be provided in an area between the axis O and the handle30. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the air discharged from the exhaust port10a′ from directly hitting the user holding the handle30.

The exhaust ports10aand10a′ may be i) extended along the circumferential direction or ii) arranged along the circumferential direction by dividing into a plurality of pieces in the peripheral areas B1and B1′. For example, referring toFIG.4A, a plurality of exhaust ports10aare arranged along the peripheral area B1. The plurality of exhaust ports10aare divided from each other in the circumferential direction by the plurality of exhaust guides12a. The plurality of exhaust ports10amay be arranged at predetermined intervals apart from each other along the circumferential direction.

As another example, referring toFIG.4B, the exhaust port10a′ is extended long along the peripheral area B1′. A plurality of exhaust ports10a′ may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in a centrifugal direction. The plurality of exhaust ports10a′ are divided from each other in the centrifugal direction by the exhaust guide12a′. Each of the exhaust ports10a′ may be extended in the circumferential direction by a central angle Ag1about the axis O.

The main body10includes exhaust guides12aand12a′ provided to discharge air discharged through the exhaust ports10aand10a′ in a direction inclined based on the axis O. The exhaust guides12aand12a′ may be disposed to be inclined based on the axis O. The exhaust covers12and12′ may include exhaust guides12aand12a′ for dividing the exhaust ports10aand10a′ into a plurality of pieces.

For example, referring toFIG.4A, the exhaust cover12includes a plurality of exhaust guides12afor dividing the exhaust port10ainto a plurality of pieces. The plurality of exhaust guides12aare arranged to be spaced apart along the circumferential direction. Each exhaust guide12ais extended in a direction between a circumferential direction and a centrifugal direction, and divides two adjacent exhaust ports10a. A space apart between the two adjacent exhaust guides12abecomes the exhaust port10a. The exhaust guide12aguides air to be discharged in a direction in which a specific direction, a centrifugal direction, and a circumferential direction are three-dimensionally combined.

As another example, referring toFIG.4B, the exhaust cover12′ includes one exhaust guide12a′ for dividing the exhaust port10a′ into two. The exhaust guide12a′ is extended long along the circumferential direction. The exhaust guide12a′ is extended in the circumferential direction from one end of the barrier12b′ to the other end by a central angle Ag1around the axis O. The exhaust guide12a′ guides air to be discharged in a direction in which a specific direction and a centrifugal direction are combined.

Referring toFIGS.2,4A,4B, and6, the main body10forms sound emission ports10band10b′ for emitting a sound from the speakers89and989. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be formed in the discharge covers12and12′. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be formed at the upper side of the main body10. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be disposed to face a specific direction (e.g., upward direction). An emission direction Se of a sound emitted through the sound emission ports10band10b′ becomes a specific direction.

The sound emission ports10band10b′ are preferably provided separately from the exhaust ports10aand10a′. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the effect of air or dust moving in the flow path P on a performance of the speakers89and989.

It is preferable that the exhaust ports10aand10a′ and the sound emission ports10band10b′ face the same direction based on the main body10. Thereby, when the noise emitted through the exhaust ports10aand10a′ and the sound emitted through the sound emission ports10band10b′ are synthesized to reach the user's ear, it is possible to reduce a phenomenon in which a ratio between the loudness of the noise and the loudness of the sound varies according to a position of the user's ear, and to synthesize the sound with the noise at a preset ratio.

The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be disposed at the center of the discharge covers12and12′. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be disposed in a centrifugal opposite direction of the peripheral areas B1and B1′ based on the axis O. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be disposed in a central portion through which the axis O passes. The sound emission ports10band10b′ may be spaced apart in the centrifugal opposite direction in the peripheral areas B1and B1′ and be disposed in a predetermined central area B2through which the axis O passes. Thereby, it is possible to place a sound generation area by the sound emission ports10band10b′ at the center of a noise generation area by the exhaust ports10aand10a′, and noise by the exhaust ports10aand10a′ and a sound by the speakers89and989may be destructive interference or constructive interference as preset. This is particularly effective in canceling out (destructive interference) a low band frequency range of the generated noise with the 180 degree phase-shifted sound of the speakers89and989.

As an example, referring toFIG.2, the sound emission port10bmay include a plurality of holes formed to be spaced apart from each other in the central area B2. As another example, referring toFIG.4B, a mesh type structure may be disposed in the central area B2, and a large number of holes formed by the mesh type structure may perform a function of the sound emission port10b.

As another example, referring toFIG.4B, the sound emission port10b′ may include a gap long extended in the circumferential direction about the axis O within the central area B2. Specifically, the sound emission port10b′ may include a ring-shaped gap.

Referring toFIGS.5to6C, the dust separator20performs a function of filtering dust on the flow path P. The dust separator20separates dust sucked into the main body10through the suction pipe11from the air.

As an example, the dust separator20may include a first cyclone portion21and a second cyclone portion22capable of separating dust by cyclone flow. A flow path P2formed by the first cyclone portion21may be connected to a suction flow path P1formed by the suction pipe11. Air and dust sucked through the suction pipe11helically flow along an inner circumferential surface of the first cyclone portion21.

An axis A2of cyclone flow of the first cyclone portion21may be extended in a vertical direction. The axis A2of the cyclone flow may coincide with the axis O. The second cyclone portion22additionally separates dust from the air that has passed through the first cyclone portion21. The second cyclone portion22may be located inside the first cyclone portion21. The second cyclone portion22may be located inside a boundary portion23. The second cyclone portion22may include a plurality of cyclone bodies disposed in parallel.

As another example, the dust separator20may have a single cyclone portion. Even in this case, the axis A2of cyclone flow may be extended in a vertical direction.

As another example, the dust separator20may include a main filter portion (not illustrated) instead of a cyclone portion. The main filter portion may separate dust from the air introduced from the suction pipe11.

Hereinafter, the dust separator20will be described based on the present embodiment including the first cyclone portion21and the second cyclone portion22, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The dust separator20forms dust separation flow paths P2and P3. The air moves the dust separation flow paths P2and P3at a high speed to separate the dust therefrom, and the separated dust is stored in the first dust storage space S1.

A space between an inner circumferential surface of the first cyclone portion21and an outer circumferential surface of the boundary portion23becomes the flow path P2of first cyclone. The air passing through the suction flow path P1moves in a downward spiral direction in the flow path P2of first cyclone, and dust in the air is centrifuged. Here, the axis A2becomes the flow axis A2in the downward spiral direction.

The dust separator20includes a boundary portion23disposed in a cylindrical shape inside the first cyclone portion21. The boundary portion23forms a plurality of holes at the outer circumferential surface. Air in the first cyclone flow path P2may pass through the plurality of holes of the boundary portion23and be introduced into the second cyclone flow path P3. The bulky dust may be filtered by a plurality of holes in the boundary portion23.

The upper side of the second cyclone portion22is disposed inside the boundary portion23. The second cyclone portion22includes a plurality of cyclone bodies having an empty interior and penetrated vertically. Each cyclone body may be formed in a pipe shape that tapers downward. The second cyclone flow path P3is formed inside each cyclone body. The air passing through the boundary portion23moves to the second cyclone flow path P3along a guide for guiding air flow in a downward spiral direction disposed at the upper side of the cyclone body. The air spirally moves downward along the inner circumferential surface of the cyclone body, the dust in the air is centrifuged, and the separated air is stored in the second storage space S2. The air that has moved to the lower side of the cyclone body along the second cyclone flow path P3moves in an upward direction along a central axis in the vertical direction of the second cyclone flow path P3, and is introduced into the fan module flow paths P4and P4′.

The dust separator20includes a dust flow guide24for dividing the first storage space S1and the second storage space S2within the dust collection portion13. A space between the dust flow guide24and an inner surface of the dust collection portion13is a first storage space S1. An internal space of the dust flow guide24is the second storage space S2.

The dust flow guide24is coupled to the lower side of the second cyclone portion22. The dust flow guide24contacts the upper surface of the dust cover15. A portion of the dust flow guide24may be formed to decrease in diameter as advancing from the top to the bottom. As an example, the upper portion of the dust flow guide24may have a smaller diameter toward the lower side, and the lower portion of the dust flow guide24may be formed in a cylindrical shape extended vertically.

The dust separator20may include a scattering prevention rib25extended downward from the upper end of the dust flow guide24. The dust separator20may enclose a periphery of the upper portion of the dust flow guide24. The scattering prevention rib25may be extended along a circumferential direction about the flow axis A2. For example, the scattering prevention rib25may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

When the upper portion of the dust flow guide24is formed to have a smaller diameter toward the lower side, a space is formed between an outer peripheral surface of the upper portion of the dust flow guide24and the scattering prevention rib25. When the rising flow of air occurs along the dust flow guide24in the first storage space S1, rising dust is caught by the space between the scattering prevention rib25and the upper portion of the dust flow guide24. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the dust in the first storage space S1from flowing backward to the upside.

The handle30is coupled to the main body10. The handle30may be coupled to the rear side of the main body10. The handle30may be coupled to the upper side of the battery housing40.

The handle30includes an extension portion31protruded and extended from the main body10to the rear. The extension portion31may be extended forward from the upper part of an additional extension portion32. The extension portion31may be extended in a horizontal direction. In an embodiment B, which will be described later, the speaker989is disposed inside the extension portion31.

The handle30is extended in a vertical direction and includes an additional extension portion32. The additional extension portion32may be spaced apart from the main body10in the front-rear direction. The user may use the cleaner1while holding the additional extension portion32. The upper end of the additional extension portion32is connected to the rear end of the extension portion31. The lower end of the additional extension portion32is connected to the battery housing40.

The additional extension portion32may be provided with a movement limiting portion32afor preventing the hand from moving in a length direction (up and down direction) of the additional extension portion32in a state in which the user holds the additional extension portion32. The movement limiting portion32amay be protruded forward from the additional extension portion32.

The movement limiting portion32ais disposed to be vertically spaced apart from the extension portion31. In a state in which the user is holding the additional extension portion32, some fingers of the user's holding hand are located over the movement limiting portion32a, and the remaining fingers are located under the movement limiting portion32a.

The handle30may include an inclined surface33facing a direction between the upper side and the rear side. The inclined surface33may be located at the rear of the extension portion31. The input unit3may be disposed at the inclined surface33.

The battery Bt may supply power to the fan modules50and50′. The battery Bt may supply power to the noise control module. The battery Bt may be detachably disposed inside the battery housing40. The battery Bt may include at least one battery pack200.

The battery housing40is coupled to the rear side of the main body10. The battery housing40is disposed under the handle30. The battery Bt is received in the battery housing40. A heat dissipation hole for discharging a heat generated in the battery Bt to the outside may be formed in the battery housing40.

Referring toFIG.6, the fan modules50and50′ generate a suction force so that external air flows into the flow path P. The fan modules50and50′ are disposed within the main body10. The fan modules50and50′ are disposed under the sound emission ports10band10b′. The fan modules50and50′ are disposed over the dust separator20.

The fan modules50and50′ include impellers51and51′ for generating a suction force by rotation. The impellers51and51′ pressurize air so that the air in the flow path P is discharged through the exhaust ports10aand10a′. When the impellers51and51′ pressurize air, noise and vibration occur, and these noises are mainly emitted through the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

An extension line of the rotation axis A1(which may also be referred to as an axis of the suction motor) of the impellers51and51′ may coincide with the flow axis A2. Further, the rotation axis A1may coincide with the axis O. In this case, the impellers51and51′ rotate around the axis O to press the air. Thereby, noise may be relatively evenly emitted through the exhaust ports10aand10a′ formed in the peripheral areas B1and B1′.

The fan modules50and50′ include suction motors52and52′, respectively for rotating the impeller51. The suction motors52and52′ may be the only motors of the cleaner1. The suction motors52and52′ may be located over the dust separator20. When the suction motors52and52′ operate, noise and vibration occur, and these noises are mainly emitted through the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

For example, referring toFIG.6, the fan module50in which the impeller51is disposed under the suction motor52may be provided. The impeller51pressurizes air in an upward direction when rotating. As another example, the fan module50′ in which the impeller51′ is disposed under the suction motor52′ may be provided. The impeller51′ pressurizes air in a downward direction when rotating.

The fan modules50and50′ may include a shaft53fixed to the center of the impellers51and51′, respectively. The shaft53is disposed to extend in a vertical direction on the rotation shaft A1. The shaft53may function as a motor shaft of the suction motor52.

The cleaner1may include a printed circuit board (PCB)55for controlling the suction motors52and52′. The PCB55may be disposed between the suction motor52and the dust separator20.

The cleaner1may include a pre-filter61for filtering air before air is sucked into the suction motors52and52′. The pre-filter61may be disposed to enclose the impeller51. Air on the fan module flow paths P4and P4′ passes through the pre-filter61to reach the impeller51. The pre-filter61is disposed inside the main body10. The pre-filter61is disposed under the discharge covers12and12′. By separating the discharge covers12and12′ from the cleaner1, the user may remove the pre-filter61from the inside of the main body10.

The cleaner1may include a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter62for filtering air before the air is discharged to the exhaust ports10aand10a′. The air that has passed through the impellers51and51′ may pass through the HEPA filter62and then be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port10a. The HEPA filter62is disposed on the exhaust flow path P5.

The discharge covers12and12′ may form a filter reception space (not illustrated) for receiving the HEPA filter62. The filter reception space may be formed to open the lower side and thus the HEPA filter62may be received in the filter reception space in a lower side of the discharge covers12and12′. An exhaust port10amay be formed to face the HEPA filter62. The HEPA filter62is disposed under the exhaust ports10aand10a′. The HEPA filter62may be disposed to extend in a circumferential direction along the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

The main body10includes a filter cover17for covering the lower side of the HEPA filter62. In a state in which the HEPA filter62is received in a filter reception space, the lower side of the HEPA filter62is covered by the filter cover17, and the filter cover17has a hole for passing through air in the exhaust flow path P5. The filter cover17may be detachably coupled to the discharge covers12and12′.

The discharge covers12and12′ may be detachably coupled to the fan module housing14. When the filter cover17is separated from the exhaust covers12and12′ separated from the fan module housing14, the HEPA filter62may be removed from the filter reception space. In the present disclosure, it has been described that the cleaner1includes the pre-filter61and the HEPA filter62, but there is no limitation on the type and number of filters.

The input unit3may be located at the opposite side of the movement limiting unit32abased on the handle30. The input unit3may be disposed at the inclined surface33. Further, the output unit4may be disposed in the extension portion31. For example, the output unit4may be located at an upper surface of the extension portion31. The output unit4may include a plurality of transmitters111. The plurality of transmitters111may be arranged to be spaced apart in a length direction (front and rear direction) of the extension portion31.

Referring toFIGS.5to6, the flow path P is formed by sequentially connecting a suction flow path P1, dust separation flow paths P2and P3, fan module flow paths P4and P4′, and exhaust flow paths P5and P5′. In particular, referring toFIG.5, the suction flow path P1provides external air to the dust separator20. The suction flow path P1is connected to the dust separator20. Specifically, the suction flow path P1may be defined by the suction pipe11, a part of the suction flow path P1may be exposed to the outside of the main body10, and the other side of the suction flow path P1may be located within the main body10. One side of the suction flow path P1may be coupled to the extension pipe73connected to the nozzle portion71. The air in the suction flow path P1is moved by the fan module.

A flap door44for opening and closing the suction pipe11is installed in the suction pipe11. Air and dust sucked through the suction flow path P1by an operation of the suction motors52and52′ flow in the first flow path P2and the second cyclone flow path P3and are separated from each other. In the second cyclone flow path P3, air moves upward as described above, and is introduced into the fan module flow paths P4and P4′.

The fan module flow paths P4and P4′ guide air toward the pre-filter61. Air that has sequentially passed through the pre-filter61and the impeller51flows into the exhaust flow paths P5and P5′. The air in the exhaust flow paths P5and P5′ passes through the HEPA filter62and is then discharged to the outside through the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

The fan module flow path P4guides the air so that the air discharged from the dust separator20rises and passes through the impeller51and descends. Here, the exhaust flow path P5guides the air so that the air descending while passing through the impeller51again rises to the exhaust ports10aand10a′.

First Embodiment, Battery Pack

Hereinafter, a battery pack200constituting the above-described battery Bt will be described in detail. Referring toFIGS.7A and7B, a battery pack200according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of battery cells100, lead frames230a,230b, and230c, a sensor222, and a wiring member (or wires)240. Further, the battery pack200may further include a pack housing210and a circuit board220.

The plurality of battery cells100are a secondary battery that repeatedly performs charging and discharging, and may be square or circular, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in the present embodiment, the plurality of battery cells100are illustrated as a cylindrical lithium ion battery.

The battery cell100generates electric energy, a positive electrode101is formed at one end thereof, and a negative electrode102is formed at the other end thereof. Each battery cell100is long disposed in a direction parallel to a width direction Y1of the wiring member240, and the plurality of battery cells100are disposed along a length direction X1of the wiring member240. A detailed configuration of the battery cell100will be described inFIG.9and the subsequent drawings.

The lead frames230a,230b, and230cconnect a plurality of battery cells100in series or in parallel. The lead frame connects the plurality of battery cells100and a power supply unit (or power supply controller)224. Here, the power supply unit224is formed in the circuit board220to balance electricity generated in the plurality of battery cells100and prevents one battery cell100from being over-discharged or over-charged.

The lead frames230a,230b, and230cmay be disposed to cover the battery cell100. The lead frames230a,230b, and230cinclude a connection tab (not illustrated) for connecting electrodes of each battery cell100and a main frame for connecting the power supply unit224and electrodes of the battery cell100. The main frame is disposed to cover a part of the battery cell100. That is, the main frame is disposed over the battery cell100. Here, the term “over” means a direction orthogonal to a width direction of the wiring member240and a length direction of the wiring member240.

The sensor222measures a status of at least one of the plurality of battery cells100. The sensor222is a device that measures a state of the battery cell100, such as a voltage and current of each battery cell100. State information of the battery cell100is utilized for control of the battery cell100. The sensor222is installed in the circuit board220. The circuit board220is provided with the sensor222and the power supply unit224, and a main terminal226connected to an external power supply is installed in the circuit board220.

The pack housing210receives a plurality of battery cells100, lead frames230a,230b, and230c, sensors222, and wiring members240. The pack housing210protects an internal configuration from an external impact, static electricity, and moisture, and fixes a plurality of battery cells100.

Wiring Member240of the First Embodiment

The wiring member240electrically connects the sensor222and at least one of the plurality of battery cells100. Most of the wiring member240has a plate shape parallel to a plane defined by a width direction Y1and a length direction X1in order to reduce a length of the battery pack200, and is disposed over Z1the battery cell100. A part of the wiring member240may have a plate shape crossing a plane defined by the width direction Y1and the length direction X1for connection with the electrode of the battery cell100.

The wiring member240transfers information of the battery cell100through electricity, and when an overcurrent flows through the wiring member240, the circuit board220, the sensor222, and the battery pack200are damaged. Further, when a separate fuse or fuse circuit is installed to prevent an overcurrent occurring in the wiring member240, there is a problem that a cost increases and a volume of the battery pack200increases.

In order to solve such problems, the present disclosure has a structure of the wiring member240that is very simple and enables the wiring member240to transmit signals and simultaneously serve as a fuse at low cost. For example, because a width (or, alternatively, a cross-section area or gauge) of a partial area of the wiring member240of the present disclosure is smaller than that of another partial area of the wiring member240, when an overcurrent occurs in a portion having a smaller width (or smaller gauge), a heat is generated due to high resistance, and the portion is disconnected due to overheating such that the section melts and a current break in the wiring member240is formed.

Specifically, the wiring member240may include a first segment and a second segment having a resistance greater than that of the first segment. For example, the wiring member240may include a wiring portion (or first segment)241and a fuse portion (or second segment)243having a width (or gauge) smaller than that of the wiring portion241. In another example, the fuse portion243may have a thickness (e.g., in the z direction) that is smaller than that of the wiring portion241. As used herein, a width or thickness of wiring portion241and fuse portion243may be evaluated orthogonal to a direction of current flow.

Here, a location of the fuse portion243may be located in an area other than one end of the wiring member240or both ends of the wiring member240. More specifically, the wiring portion241may include a first wiring portion241aand a second wiring portion241b, and the fuse portion243may be located between the first wiring portion241aand the second wiring portion241bto connect the first wiring portion241aand the second wiring portion241b. One end of the first wiring portion241amay be connected to the sensor222, and one end of the second wiring portion241bmay be connected to an electrode of the battery cell100.

In this case, because the fuse portion243is a portion that is disconnected due to overheating during an overcurrent, the fuse portion243should be disposed to minimize damage to the adjacent battery cells100due to the disconnection thereof. Accordingly, at least a portion of the fuse portion243may be disposed to overlap an area250between the battery cells100adjacent to each other. Specifically, at least a portion of the fuse portion243may be disposed to overlap in the vertical direction Z1with the area250between the battery cells100adjacent to each other.

In this case, the battery cells100adjacent to each other may be separated from each other or may be in contact with each other. When the battery cells100adjacent to each other contact each other, the area250between the battery cells100adjacent to each other means an area where the adjacent battery cells100contact each other.

When the fuse portion243is located to overlap in the area250between the adjacent battery cells100, even though the fuse portion243is disconnected, the heated fuse portion243falls into the area250between the adjacent battery cells100, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to the battery cell100. Here, the battery cell100may be extended in a first direction Y1, and the fuse portion243may be extended in a second direction X1crossing the first direction. That is, the battery cell100has a length in the first direction Y1, and the fuse portion243has a length in the second direction X1. The fuse portion243may be extended in a direction parallel to the length direction of the wiring member240.

When a second width W2, e.g., a length in the direction Y1, (or second gauge) of the fuse portion243is smaller than a first width (or first gauge) of the wiring portion241, there is no limitation. However, when the width W2(or gauge) of the fuse portion243is too large, the fuse portion243cannot function as a fuse because the fuse portion243is not disconnected even when an overcurrent flows, and when the width W2(or gauge) of the fuse portion243is too small, there is a problem that the fuse portion243is disconnected due to high resistance before an overcurrent flows. While the wiring portion241and the fuse portion243are shown as having uniform widths, it should be appreciated that respective widths of the wiring portions241and fuse portion243may vary in different regions, and the widths W1and W2may correspond to smallest respective widths of the wiring portions241and fuse portion243.

Accordingly, in the present disclosure, in order to solve such problems, it is preferable that the width W2(or cross-section area) of the fuse portion243is 10% to 20% of the width W1(or cross-section area) of the wiring portion241when the wiring portion241and the fuse portion243have similar thicknesses. More preferably, the width W2of the fuse portion243may be 0.05 mm to 0.12 mm.

The fuse portion243may have a plate shape and define a plane parallel to a plane defined by the width direction Y1and the length direction X1. This is to reduce a volume of the battery pack200when assembled to the pack housing210. The thickness of the fuse portion243(the length in the vertical direction Z1) is not limited. However, when the thickness of the fuse portion243is too large, even if an overcurrent flows, the fuse portion243cannot function because it is not disconnected, it is difficult to manufacture the wiring member, a volume of the battery pack200increases, and when the thickness of the fuse portion243is too small, there is a problem that the fuse portion243is disconnected due to high resistance before an overcurrent flows. Therefore, the thickness of the fuse portion243is the same as that of the wiring portion241, and it is advantageous to adjust the width W2of the fuse portion243in consideration of cost reduction, production difficulty, and the volume of the battery pack200.

The length of the fuse portion243is not limited. However, when the length of the fuse portion243is too large, the fuse portion243may be easily disconnected due to high resistance before an overcurrent flows, and the disconnected portion may be too long to cause damage to the battery cell100when disconnected, and when the length of the fuse portion243is too small, there is a problem that the fuse portion243cannot function because the fuse portion243is not disconnected even when an overcurrent flows. Therefore, it is preferable that the length of the fuse portion243is shorter than that of the wiring portion241. More preferably, the length of the fuse portion243is 10% to 30% of that of the wiring portion241. As used herein, a length may be measured in a direction of a current flow (e.g., between the sensor222and a battery cell100).

The wiring member240is preferably made of a material such as copper, nickel, and aluminum having good electrical conductivity. More preferably, the wiring member240may include the same material as that of the cell housing of the battery cell100. Specifically, the wiring member240may include nickel (Ni). When the wiring member240includes nickel, a melting point of nickel is low and thus the wiring member240may be easily disconnected, and because the melting point thereof is low, damage of other components after disconnection of the fuse portion243can be minimized. In another example, wiring member240may be fabricated so that the fuse portion243is made of a material or a composition of materials that melts at a lower temperature in comparison to the wiring portion241, such as the fuse portion243having a relatively higher concentration of Ni. In this example, the width (or cross-section area) of the fuse portion243may correspond to the width (or cross-section area) of the wiring portion241.

Wiring Member240of the Second Embodiment

Hereinafter, the wiring member240according to the second embodiment will be described. Compared to the first embodiment, the wiring member240of the second embodiment has a difference in a structure of a fuse portion243A. Hereinafter, a description will be made mainly on differences from the first embodiment, and portions that are not specifically described are regarded as the same as those of the first embodiment.

Referring toFIG.8A, the fuse portion243A of the second embodiment may have a wave shape. The fuse portion243A may be a combination of various line segments crossing the length direction X1by 90 degrees or less. The fuse portion243A may have a zigzag shape. When the fuse portion243A has a wave shape, the length of the fuse portion243A increases, so that disconnection thereof may be easily induced, and the length of the fuse portion243A is small, thereby reducing damage to other components when disconnected.

Wiring Member240of the Third Embodiment

Hereinafter, the wiring member240according to the third embodiment will be described. Compared to the first embodiment, the wiring member240of the third embodiment has a difference in a structure of a fuse portion243B. Hereinafter, a description will be made mainly on differences from the first embodiment, and portions that are not specifically described are regarded as the same as those of the first embodiment.

Referring toFIG.8B, the fuse portion243B of the third embodiment is the plural, and the plurality of fuse portions243B overlap in the width direction Y1of the wiring member240, and the sum of widths of the plurality of fuse portions243B may be smaller than the width W1of the wiring portion241. The sum of widths of the plurality of fuse portions243B is preferably equal to the width W2of the fuse portion243B in the first embodiment.

When the plurality of fuse portions243B are overlapped in the thickness direction, the thickness of the battery pack200increases, and there is a risk of disconnection when the pack housing210is coupled and thus it is preferable that the plurality of fuse portions243B overlap in the width direction Y1of the wiring member240. In the embodiment, the fuse portion243B includes a first fuse portion (or first-second segment portion)243-1and a second fuse portion (first-second segment portion)243-2, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. When a plurality of fuse portions (or second segment portions)243B are provided, a volume of each fuse portion243B is small and thus the fuse portion243B cools quickly upon disconnection, thereby reducing damage to other components due to a heat.

Hereinafter, a battery cell100constituting the above-described battery Bt will be described in detail. <First Embodiment, Battery Cell> Referring toFIGS.9and10, the battery cell100of the present disclosure includes a core material140for providing electrical energy and cell housings110,120, and130for receiving the core material140.

The core material140provides electrical energy while discharging. For example, the core material140includes a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator, and an electrode lead may be connected to an electrode tab extended from each of the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate.

The cell housings110,120, and130provide a space for receiving the core material140, and power terminals connected to the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate are formed. The cell housings110,120, and130may have various shapes receiving the core material140.

For example, the cell housings110,120, and130may have various shapes such as a cylinder, a polyprism, and a pouch shape. Specifically, the cell housings110,120, and130may include a side cover110opened in a vertical direction and for enclosing a housing shaft G, an upper cover120for shielding an upper opening of the side housing, and a lower cover130for shielding a lower opening of the side housing.

The side cover110has a cylindrical shape centered on the housing shaft G, and has an upper opening111and a lower opening112. The side cover110may have a surface extended in a direction parallel to the housing shaft G.

The upper cover120covers the upper opening111. The upper cover120may define a surface crossing the housing axis G. An electrode terminal (not illustrated) may be formed in the upper cover120. Preferably, in the upper cover120, the electrode terminal may not be formed, and an upper vent groove160may be formed.

The upper vent groove160has a structure in which a part of the upper cover is damaged when a pressure increases due to the exhaust gas inside the cell housings110,120, and130. For example, the upper vent groove160may be formed by recessing a part of the upper cover. For another example, the upper vent groove160may be defined as an area having a thickness smaller than that of the upper cover in the upper cover.

A cross-sectional shape of the upper vent groove160may be a V or U shape. The upper vent groove160may be extended in one direction in a line shape. The upper vent groove160is preferably formed in a ring shape enclosing the housing shaft G.

The lower cover130covers the lower opening112. The lower cover130may define a surface crossing the housing axis G. An electrode terminal (not illustrated) may be formed in the lower cover130. Preferably, a positive terminal (not illustrated) connected to the positive electrode plate and a negative electrode terminal (not illustrated) connected to the negative electrode plate may be formed in the lower cover130.

Because the lower cover130and the lead frame are connected to each other by welding, when a vent groove is formed in the lower cover130, while the vent groove is damaged during a welding process, the battery cell100may be damaged. Accordingly, the present disclosure solves such problems by forming a vent groove in the side cover110, as described later without forming a vent groove in the lower cover130.

Side vent grooves150are formed in the side cover110. The side vent grooves150may have a structure to be damaged when a pressure inside the cell housings110,120, and130exceeds a preset pressure. Further, the side vent groove150may have a structure that is damaged and deformed when a pressure inside the cell housings110,120, and130exceeds a preset pressure to guide a discharge direction of the exhaust gas discharged from the inside of the cell housings110,120, and130.

For example, the side vent groove150may be formed by recessing a part of the side cover110. For another example, the side vent groove150may be defined as an area having a thickness smaller than that of the side cover110in the side cover110. That is, a portion of the side cover110having a smaller thickness than a reference thickness may be defined as the side vent groove150. The side vent groove150has a thickness smaller than that of the side cover110. It is easy to produce that the side vent groove150is made of the same material as that of the side cover110.

A cross-sectional shape of the side vent groove150may be a V or U shape. The side vent groove150may be extended in one direction in a line shape. Further, the side vent groove150may have a shape in which a plurality of straight lines are connected to each other or may have a circular shape. Further, the side vent groove150may be connected continuously. Further, a plurality of side vent grooves150may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other.

For example, the side vent groove150is formed in a ring shape enclosing the housing shaft G. The side vent groove150defines a closed curve enclosing the housing axis G. Specifically, the side vent groove150is extended along the circumference of the side cover110. While the side vent groove150is extended along the circumference of the side cover110, the side vent groove150may have a disconnected portion in the middle. The side vent groove150may be extended in a direction parallel to that of the lower cover130.

For another example, the side vent groove150may include a first side vent groove151extended in a direction parallel to that of the lower cover130and a second side vent groove152extended in a direction parallel to that of the lower cover130and spaced upward from the first side vent groove151. The first side vent groove151and the second side vent groove152may define a closed curve enclosing the housing axis G. As another example, the side vent groove150may be a plurality of lines extended in a direction parallel to the lower cover130.

When the side vent groove150is formed along the circumference of the side cover110, the vent groove may be formed in a larger area than that of the lower cover130and thus it is possible to lower a pressure of the exhaust gas discharged from the cell housings110,120, and130and to reduce damage to components other than the battery due to the pressure of the exhaust gas.

The side vent groove150is disposed to be biased toward the lower cover130in the side cover110. For example, it is preferable that a distance between the side vent groove150and the lower cover130is 0.5 mm to 2 mm. When the side vent groove150is disposed to be biased toward the lower cover130, a movement of the battery cell100may be prevented by balance between the exhaust gas discharged from the upper vent groove160of the upper cover120and the exhaust gas discharged from the side vent groove150.

Referring toFIG.11, when a gas is excessively generated in the cell housings110,120, and130due to a cause such as overcharging or an internal short circuit and a pressure thus increases, while the side vent groove150is damaged, a space communicating the inside of the cell housings110,120, and130and the outside is formed. When an exhaust gas inside the cell housings110,120, and130is ejected through the space, explosion of the battery cell100is prevented. Although not illustrated in the drawings, while the upper vent groove160is also damaged, a gas is discharged into the damaged space.

Second Embodiment

Hereinafter, a battery cell100A according to the second embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, a description will be made mainly on differences from the first embodiment (FIGS.9and10), and the same description will be omitted. Configurations without special description are regarded as the same as those in the first embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.12and13, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in a structure of a side vent groove150A. While the side vent groove150A according to the second embodiment is damaged by a pressure inside the cell housings110,120, and130, the side cover110around the side vent groove150A is deformed and thus the side cover110may have a structure that guides a discharge direction of the exhaust gas.

A plurality of side vent grooves150A may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, a plurality of side vent grooves150A may be disposed along a circumference of the side cover110. For example, the side vent groove150A may include a first open vent groove153extended in a first direction and a second open vent groove154extended in a second direction and connected to one end of the first open vent groove153. One end of the first open vent groove153is connected to one end of the second open vent groove154. The first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may have a straight or curved shape.

One end of the first open vent groove153and one end of the second open vent groove154are connected to each other, and a distance between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may increase as advancing in a direction from one end to the other end of the first open vent grooves153. The first direction and the second direction may be a direction between an upper part and a lateral direction.

An angle Ag10formed between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may be an acute angle. Preferably, the angle Ag10formed between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may be 20 degrees to 40 degrees. The first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154have a V-shape. When the side cover110is cut along the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154, a large space for discharging exhaust gas may be secured, so that a pressure of the exhaust gas becomes very low, and an amount of exhaust gas that may be discharged per hour increases.

A distance between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may increase as advancing in an upward direction. When the angle Ag10between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154is smaller than 20 degrees, when the side cover110is cut by the exhaust gas, a space in which exhaust gas is sufficiently discharged is not secured, and when the angle Ag10between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154is greater than 40 degrees, it is difficult for the side cover110to be cut along the first open vent groove153the second open vent groove154by the exhaust gas and it is difficult for the side cover110to be deformed.

A direction VD of an angle between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may form an angle within 45 degrees from an upward direction. Preferably, the direction VD of the angle between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154may be parallel to the upward direction. When the direction VD of the angle between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154is parallel to an upward direction, the side cover110is cut along the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154by the exhaust gas to guide the exhaust gas in a direction between the lower side and the side. When the exhaust gas is discharged between the lower side and the side, the sum of vectors of the exhaust gas discharged from the upper vent groove160is close to zero and thus the battery cell100A is prevented from being discharged.

A depth h2of one end of the first open vent groove153may be greater than a depth h1of the other end of the first open vent groove153, and a depth h2of one end of the second open vent groove154may be greater than a depth h3of the other end of the second open vent groove154. As another example, a depth of the first open vent groove153may increase as advancing in a direction from the other end toward one end, and a depth of the second open vent groove154may increase as advancing in a direction from the other end toward one end.

When a depth of a portion where the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154are connected is deep, while the damage is started from one end of the first open vent groove153and one end of the second open vent groove154by exhaust gas, and the damage proceeds in a direction of the other end of the first open vent groove153and the other end of the second open vent groove154, the side cover110between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154is bent.

Referring toFIG.14, when a gas is excessively generated in the cell housings110,120, and130due to a cause such as overcharging or an internal short and a pressure thus increases, while the damage is started from one end of the first open vent groove153and one end of the second open vent groove154and the damage proceeds in a direction of the other end of the first open vent groove153and the other end of the second open vent groove154, the side cover110between the first open vent groove153and the second open vent groove154is bent, and the side cover110is opened. When an exhaust gas is ejected into the open space of the side cover110, an exhaust gas discharge direction is guided between an outer direction and a lower direction by the bent portion of the side cover110.

Third Embodiment

Hereinafter, a battery cell100B according to the third embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, a description will be made mainly on differences from the second embodiment (FIGS.12and13), and the same description will be omitted. Configurations without special description are regarded as the same as those in the second embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.15and16, the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in a structure of a side vent groove150B. While the side vent groove150B according to the third embodiment is damaged by a pressure inside the cell housings110,120, and130, the side cover110around the side vent groove1508is deformed and thus the side cover110may have a structure that guides a discharge direction of the exhaust gas.

For example, the side vent groove1508includes a first open vent groove155extended in a first direction, a second open vent groove156extended in a second direction and connected to one end of the first open vent groove155, and a third open vent groove157for connecting one end of the first open vent groove155and one end of the second open vent groove156.

One end of the first open vent groove155and one end of the second open vent groove156are connected to both ends of the third open vent groove157. The third open vent groove157may be extended in a direction crossing a vertical direction. Preferably, the third open vent groove157may be extended in a direction parallel to that of the lower cover130.

A distance between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156may increase as advancing in a direction of the other end (upper direction) from one end of the first open vent groove155. An angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156may be an acute angle. Preferably, the angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156may be 10 to 30 degrees. Initially, because an exhaust gas discharge space is largely secured by the third open vent groove157, there is no need for a large angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156.

A direction VD2of an angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156may form an angle within 45 degrees from an upward direction. Preferably, the direction VD2of the angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156may be parallel to the upward direction. When the direction VD2of the angle between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156is parallel to the upward direction, the side cover110guides the exhaust gas in a direction between the lower side and the side while being cut along the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156by the exhaust gas.

A depth h6of the third open vent groove157may be greater than a depth h4of the first open vent groove155and a depth h5of the second open vent groove156. The depth of the first open vent groove155and the depth of the second open vent groove156may increase as approaching the third open vent groove157. The depth of the third open vent groove157may increase as advancing from both ends toward the center.

When the depth of the third open vent groove157is deep, damage is started from the third open vent groove157by exhaust gas, while the damage proceeds in a direction of the other end of the first open vent groove155and the other end of the second open vent groove156, the side cover110between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156is bent and opened. According to the third embodiment, an initial large amount of exhaust gas may be discharged, so that the pressure of the exhaust gas may be formed very low initially.

Referring toFIG.17, when a gas is excessively generated in the cell housings110,120, and130due to an overcharge or an internal short circuit, and a pressure thus increases, the damage is started from the third open vent groove157, and while the damage proceeds in a direction of the other end of the first open vent groove155and the other end of the second open vent groove156, the side cover110between the first open vent groove155and the second open vent groove156is bent and opened. When exhaust gas is ejected into the open space of the side cover110, the exhaust gas discharge direction is guided between an outer direction and a lower direction by the bent portion of the side cover110.

Through the above solution, aspects of the present disclosure reduce a production cost by changing a structure of a wiring connected to a sensor of a battery pack, and preventing damage to the sensor and a battery cell when an overcurrent occurs. Further, according to the present disclosure, because a sensor wiring of the battery pack is made of nickel, which is easily damaged by an overcurrent, a width of the wiring can be reduced, and a quick disconnection is possible. Further, according to the present disclosure, because a portion of a sensor wiring having a small width is disposed so as to overlap a space between the battery cells, damage to the battery cell can be reduced when the sensor wiring is disconnected.

Further, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, by disposing an exhaust gas discharge structure at the side of the battery cell, even if the exhaust gas is discharged, there is a safety advantage that the battery cell is not discharged from the battery pack. Further, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, even if the battery is overheated, the battery cell is quickly disconnected without damage, so that safe cleaning can be performed without damage to the user. Further, the present disclosure disposes an exhaust gas emission structure at the side of the battery cell, so that even when exhaust gas is discharged, there are advantages that the battery cell is prevented from being discharged from the battery pack and that the risk of damage to components around the battery due to discharge of the battery cell is reduced and that the risk of injury to the user is reduced.

In the foregoing description, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing specific embodiment and can be variously changed by a person of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure claimed in the claims, and such a modified embodiment should not be individually understood from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

A first aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery pack that reduces a production cost by changing a structure of a wiring connected to a sensor of a battery pack and that prevents damage to the sensor and a battery cell when an overcurrent occurs.

A second aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery pack capable of reducing a width of a wiring and enabling quick disconnection by using nickel that may be easily damaged by an overcurrent in a sensor wiring of the battery pack. A third aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery pack capable of reducing damage to a battery cell when a sensor wiring is disconnected by disposing a small width portion in the sensor wiring to overlap a space between battery cells.

A fourth aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery cell that is not discharged from a battery pack even when an exhaust gas is discharged by disposing an exhaust gas discharge structure at the side of the battery cell. A fifth aspect of the present disclosure provides a safe cleaner without damage to a user and that is quickly disconnected without damage to a battery cell, even if a battery is overheated.

Accordingly, the present disclosure is characterized in that a width of a part of a wiring member for connecting a sensor and a battery cell is formed smaller than that of another part. In an aspect, a battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells for generating electrical energy; a lead frame for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells; a sensor for measuring a status of at least one of the plurality of battery cells; and a wiring member for connecting the sensor and at least one of the plurality of battery cells, wherein the wiring member includes a wiring portion; and a fuse portion having a width smaller than that of the wiring portion.

The width of the fuse portion may be 10% to 20% of that of the wiring portion. The width of the fuse portion may be 0.05 mm to 0.12 mm. A thickness of the wiring portion may be the same as that of the fuse portion. A length of the fuse portion may be shorter than that of the wiring portion. A length of the fuse portion may be 10% to 30% of that of the wiring portion.

At least a portion of the fuse portion may be disposed to overlap with an area between the battery cells adjacent to each other. The battery cell may be extended in a first direction, and the fuse portion may be extended in a second direction crossing the first direction.

The fuse portion may be the plural, and the plurality of fuse portions may overlap in a width direction of the wiring member, and the sum of widths of the plurality of fuse portions may be smaller than the width of the wiring portion. The fuse portion may be extended in a direction parallel to a length direction of the wiring member. The fuse portion may have a wave shape.

The wiring portion may include a first wiring portion and a second wiring portion, and the fuse portion may be located between the first wiring portion and the second wiring portion to connect the first wiring portion and the second wiring portion. One end of the first wiring portion may be connected to the sensor, and one end of the second wiring portion may be connected to an electrode of the battery cell. The wiring member may include the same material as that of a cell housing of the battery cell. The wiring member may include nickel (Ni).

The battery pack may further include a circuit board in which the sensor is located. The lead frame may be connected to the circuit board. The battery pack may further include a pack housing for receiving the plurality of battery cells, the lead frame, the sensor, and the wiring member.

The present disclosure may provide a cleaner including the battery pack characterized in that a width of a part of a wiring member for connecting a sensor and a battery cell is formed smaller than that of another part, as previously described.