Patent Description:
Currently commercialized secondary batteries include nickel cadmium batteries, nickel hydrogen batteries, nickel zinc batteries, lithium secondary batteries, and the like. Among these secondary batteries, because lithium secondary batteries have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, lithium secondary batteries are in the spotlight owing to the advantages of free charge and discharge, very low self discharge rate, and high energy density.

Such a lithium secondary battery mainly uses lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as positive electrode active material and negative electrode active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material respectively are arranged with a separator interposed therebetween, and a sheath material, that is, a battery pouch sheath material, that seals and accommodates the assembly together with an electrolyte solution.

Recently, secondary batteries are widely used not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium and large devices such as vehicles and energy storage systems. When secondary batteries are used in such medium and large devices, a large number of secondary batteries are electrically connected in order to increase capacity and output power. In particular, pouch type secondary batteries are widely used in such medium and large devices because of advantages such as easy lamination.

Meanwhile, recently, as a need for a large-capacity structure has been increased, including utilization as an energy storage source, a demand for a battery module having a plurality of secondary batteries electrically connected in series and/or in parallel has increased. Moreover, in order to configure a high-current, high-capacity battery module in a smaller volume, there are many cases in which spaces between a plurality of secondary batteries electrically connected and expanded are densely arranged. <CIT> and <CIT> disclose a battery module.

In particular, in such a battery module, an accident may occur in which a plurality of secondary batteries may fire or explode due to specific factors (e.g., malfunction or configuration failure), or the secondary batteries fire or explode due to external impact. Moreover, in such a battery module, since the plurality of secondary batteries are disposed to be very adjacent to each other, even when one secondary battery fires or explodes, flame or heat is easily transferred to another adjacent secondary battery, there was a problem in that a secondary explosion or fire easily occurs.

Furthermore, such a battery module having the plurality of secondary cells densely arranged in this way may easily and quickly accumulate heat inside the battery module, thereby shortening the life of the battery module. Accordingly, in the related art, it is very important to effectively discharge the internal heat of the battery module to the outside.

The present disclosure is designed to solve the problems of the related art, and therefore the present disclosure is directed to providing a battery module that prevents fire or explosion between secondary batteries that are internal components and improves cooling efficiency.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery module including a plurality of can type secondary batteries arranged to be laid down in a horizontal direction; a bus bar at least partially formed of an electrically conductive material to electrically connect the plurality of can type secondary batteries; at least two or more module cases with an empty space formed inside to insert and accommodate the plurality of can type secondary batteries, comprising an outer wall formed to surround the empty space inside and at least two or more ribs formed to protrude from the outer wall in an outer direction, and configured to be stacked in a direction in which the can type secondary batteries are laid down; and an internal plate interposed between the two or more module cases and configured to be erected in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the module cases are stacked.

The internal plate is positioned to contact a protruding end portion of the rib.

A fixing groove indented in an inner direction may be formed in an outer surface of the internal plate such that the end portion of the rib is inserted and fixed.

The internal plate may have an uneven structure formed to be bent to protrude in a horizontal direction, and the uneven structure may be inserted between the two or more ribs.

The bus bar may be inserted between one rib and another adjacent rib.

A curved groove indented in an inner direction may be formed in an end portion of the rib connected to an outer wall of the module case.

A position of the bus bar may be fixed by inserting one end into a curved groove of the rib and inserting the other end into a curved groove of the other rib.

The module case may include a bumper portion formed to protrude in an outer direction from an outer surface of the outer wall to absorb an external impact applied to the battery module and having a space apart from the outer wall by a predetermined distance.

The bumper portion may include an extension part protruding and extending from the outer wall of the module case; and a plate-shaped part bent and extending from an end portion in an extension direction of the extension part in a direction corresponding to the outer wall of the module case, and having a linear rib formed thereon.

At least a part of the bus bar may be positioned between the plate-shaped part of the bumper portion and the outer wall of the module case.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery pack including the at least one battery module.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vehicle including the at least one battery pack.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, when a battery module is charged and discharged, heat generated in a secondary battery may be transferred to ribs of a module case and an internal plate contacting the ribs, and may be dissipated to the outside through air contacting the internal plate. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the cooling efficiency of the battery module.

In addition, when a plurality of can type secondary batteries accommodated in two or more module cases fire or explode, the battery module may block the plurality of can type secondary batteries accommodated in different module cases so as not to be affected by flame or gas, thereby effectively improving the stability of the battery module.

Moreover, according to an aspect of another embodiment of the present disclosure, by forming a fixing groove indented in the inner direction such that the end portion of a rib is inserted and fixed to the outer surface of the internal plate, the internal plate is easily fixed between two or more module cases, thereby facilitating the manufacturing process. In addition, there is an advantage that the cooling efficiency of the battery module may be further increased by effectively increasing a contact area between the fixing groove and the rib.

In addition, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, by inserting an uneven structure formed on the internal plate between two or more ribs, the internal plate is easily fixed between two or more module cases, thereby facilitating the manufacturing process. In addition, there is an advantage that the cooling efficiency of the battery module may be further increased by effectively increasing a contact area between the uneven structure and the rib.

Furthermore, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, a bus bar is inserted between one rib and another adjacent rib, and thus a process of positioning the bus bar in a mounting portion of the module case may be facilitated. In addition, after the bus bar is inserted, in a welding process with electrode terminals of the plurality of secondary batteries, it is possible to prevent the bus bar from flowing in the front and back directions, and thus the welding process may be performed quickly and completely.

In addition, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the module case is provided with a bumper portion configured to absorb an external impact applied to the battery module, and when the external impact occurs in the battery module, the bumper portion may absorb the impact preferentially and protect the embedded secondary battery. Accordingly, it is possible to increase the stability of the battery module.

Moreover, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the bumper portion of the module case covers a portion of the bus bar that is easily exposed in the front and back directions, thereby preventing contact or collision with external conductive materials and maintaining electrical insulation from the outside. Accordingly, when an external impact occurs, a secondary accident due to electric leakage of the battery module may be prevented.

In addition, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, by further forming an auxiliary bumper portion in a space apart between the bumper portion and an outer wall of the module case, the bumper portion and the auxiliary bumper portion may more effectively absorb the external impact applied to the battery module. Accordingly, the secondary battery embedded in the battery module may be protected from external impacts, thereby effectively preventing fire or explosion.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. <FIG> is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some separated components of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a can type secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the battery module <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>, at least one bus bar <NUM>, at least two or more module cases <NUM>, and an internal plate <NUM>.

Here, the can type secondary battery <NUM> may include an electrode assembly <NUM>, a battery can <NUM>, and a cap assembly <NUM>.

The electrode assembly <NUM> may have a structure wound with a separator interposed between a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, a positive electrode tab <NUM> is attached to the positive electrode plate and connected to the cap assembly <NUM>, and a negative electrode tab <NUM> is attached to the negative electrode plate and connected to the bottom end of the battery can <NUM>.

The battery can <NUM> may have an empty space formed therein to accommodate the electrode assembly <NUM>. In particular, the battery can <NUM> may has a cylindrical or square shape and may be configured with an open top end. In addition, the battery can <NUM> may be formed of a metal material such as steel or aluminum to secure rigidity and the like. In addition, the battery can <NUM> may has the bottom end to which the negative electrode tab is attached such that the lower portion of the battery can <NUM> and the battery can <NUM> may function as a negative electrode terminal.

The cap assembly <NUM> may be coupled to the top opening portion of the battery can <NUM> to seal the open end of the battery can <NUM>. The cap assembly <NUM> may have a shape such as a circular shape or a square shape according to the shape of the battery can <NUM>, and may include sub-components such as a top cap C1, a safety vent C2, and a gasket C3.

Here, the top cap C1 may be located on the uppermost portion of the cap assembly, may be configured to protrude in the upper direction. In particular, such a top cap C1 may function as a positive electrode terminal in the can type secondary battery <NUM>. Accordingly, the top cap C1 may be electrically connected to another secondary battery <NUM>, a load, or a charging device through an external device, such as a bus bar <NUM>. The top cap C1 may be formed of, for example, a metal material such as stainless steel or aluminum.

The safety vent C2 may be configured to deform when the internal pressure of the secondary battery <NUM>, that is, the internal pressure of the battery can <NUM>, increases to a certain level or more. In addition, the gasket C3 may be formed of a material having electrical insulation such that the edge portions of the top cap C1 and the safety vent C2 may be insulated from the battery can <NUM>.

Meanwhile, the cap assembly <NUM> may further include a current interrupt member C4. The current interrupt member C4 is also called a current interrupt device (CID). When the internal pressure of the battery increases due to gas generation, and the shape of the safety vent C2 is reversed, a contact between the safety vent C2 and the current interrupt member C4 is broken or the current interrupt member C4 is damaged, and thus the electrical connection between the safety vent C2 and the electrode assembly <NUM> may be blocked.

The configuration of such a can type secondary battery <NUM> is well known to those skilled in the art at the time of filing of the present disclosure, and thus a more detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, although an example of the can type secondary battery <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, the battery module <NUM> according to the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration of the specific can type secondary battery <NUM>. That is, various types of secondary batteries known at the time of filing of the present disclosure may be employed in the battery module <NUM> according to the present disclosure.

For example, the can type secondary battery <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated with respect to the cylindrical secondary battery <NUM>, but the square secondary battery <NUM> may be applied to the battery module <NUM> according to the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> again, the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may be provided to be arranged in the front and back direction (Y direction) and the up and down direction (Z direction). For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may be configured to be arranged in the front and back direction. In addition, the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may be configured to be arranged in the up and down direction. Moreover, the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may be arranged in which tubular shaped portions in a cylindrical battery can (<NUM> in <FIG>) face each other.

In particular, in the battery module <NUM> according to the present disclosure, the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may be configured to be laid down in a horizontal direction. Here, the horizontal direction means a direction parallel to the ground. That is, as illustrated in <FIG>, each can type secondary battery <NUM> may be configured to be elongated in a left and right direction (X-axis direction of the drawing). At this time, in some of the all can type secondary batteries <NUM>, when viewed in the F direction of <FIG>, the positive electrode terminal 111a and the negative electrode terminal 111b may be located in the left and right directions, respectively. In addition, in the remaining can type secondary batteries <NUM>, the positive electrode terminal 111a and the negative electrode terminal 111b of each can type secondary battery <NUM> may be located in the right and left directions, respectively.

Meanwhile, the terms indicating directions such as before, after, left, right, up and down described herein may vary depending on the position of an observer or the form in which an object is placed. However, in the present specification, for convenience of description, the directions of front, back, left, right, up, and down are identified and shown with respect to when viewed in the F direction.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the height of the battery module <NUM> may be configured to be low. That is, when the can type secondary battery <NUM> is laid down, the battery module <NUM> having a shorter up and down height may be configured. Therefore, it is easy to design the battery module <NUM> having a low height.

Moreover, the bus bar <NUM> may electrically connect between the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>, such as all of the secondary batteries <NUM>, or some of the secondary batteries <NUM>. To this end, at least a part of the bus bar <NUM> may be formed of an electrically conductive material. For example, the bus bar <NUM> may be formed of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, or the like.

In particular, in the present disclosure, the bus bar <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, may be provided with a body portion <NUM> and the connection portion <NUM>.

The body portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> may be configured in a plate shape. Moreover, the bus bar <NUM> may be configured in the form of a metal plate to ensure rigidity and electrical conductivity. In particular, the body portion <NUM> may be configured to be erected in the up and down direction (Z-axis direction of the drawing) along the electrode terminals <NUM> of the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>. That is, in the present disclosure, when the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> are lengthily laid down in the left and right direction (X-axis direction of the drawing) and arranged in the front and back direction (Y-axis direction of the drawing) and/or the up and down direction (Z-axis direction of the drawing), the electrode terminals <NUM> of the various secondary batteries <NUM> may be configured to be arranged in parallel in the front and back direction and the up and down direction. At this time, the body portion <NUM> may be configured to be erected flat in the front and back direction or the up and down direction as a plate shape according to the arrangement direction of the electrode terminals <NUM> of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>.

Moreover, the body portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> may be configured to have an upper end portion bent in the inner direction. In addition, the upper end portion of the body portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> may be a portion for sensing a voltage by a sensing member (not shown). In addition, a contact hole H3 for connection or contact of the sensing member may be formed in the bent portion of the bus bar <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the upper end portion of the body portion <NUM> may be configured to be bent about <NUM> degrees toward the inner direction.

Specifically, the connection portion <NUM> may be configured to contact (join) the electrode terminals <NUM> of the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> so as to electrically connect the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>. In addition, a plurality of the connection portions <NUM> may be formed to extend from the body portion <NUM> in the front and back direction (Y direction). For example, the connection portions <NUM> may contact the electrode terminals <NUM> of some secondary batteries <NUM> among all the secondary batteries <NUM> to electrically connect the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>.

Moreover, the connection portion <NUM> may contact and connect the same polarity of the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> in parallel. Alternatively, the connection portion <NUM> may contact and electrically connect the electrode terminals <NUM> of some secondary batteries <NUM> among all the secondary batteries <NUM> in parallel and in series.

In addition, the battery module <NUM> may include a connection bus bar <NUM>. Specifically, the connection bus bar <NUM> may be configured to electrically connect the two or more bus bars <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the battery module <NUM> may be provided with three connection bus bars <NUM>. The connection bus bar <NUM> may be configured such that one side is connected to one bus bar <NUM> and the other side is connected to another bus bar <NUM>.

Furthermore, the battery module <NUM> may include an external bus bar <NUM>. Specifically, the external bus bar <NUM> may serve as a final external input/output electrical terminal of the battery module <NUM>. To this end, the external bus bar <NUM> may be configured to contact a part (<NUM> in <FIG>) of the bus bar <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the battery module <NUM> may be provided with two external bus bars <NUM> that serve as an external input/output positive electrode terminal and an external input/output negative electrode terminal.

In addition, the module case <NUM> is configured such that at least two or more module cases are stacked in a direction in which the can type secondary battery <NUM> is laid down (X direction). For example, as shown in <FIG>, when viewed in the F direction, the battery module <NUM> may be configured to stack another module case <NUM> on the left or right side of one module case <NUM>. The stacking direction is not necessarily limited to one direction, and may be the up and down direction (Z direction) according to the direction in which the can type secondary battery <NUM> is laid down.

Furthermore, an empty space is formed in the module case <NUM> to accommodate the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>. Specifically, the module case <NUM> may be provided with an outer wall 210c. The outer wall may be formed to surround the empty space formed therein to accommodate the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM>. In addition, when viewed in the F direction of <FIG>, the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> may be provided with a first outer wall 210c1, a second outer wall 210c2, a third outer wall 210c3, a fourth outer wall 210c4, a fifth outer wall 210c5, and a sixth outer wall 210c6 that are formed in the front, back, up, down, left, and right directions to form the inner space.

For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first outer wall 210c1, the second outer wall 210c2, the third outer wall 210c3, the fourth outer wall 210c4, the fifth outer wall 210c5, and the sixth outer wall 210c6 may be formed such that the front, back, upper, lower, left, and right surfaces of the module case <NUM> are connected to each other on a plane.

In addition, the module case <NUM> may be provided with at least a part of an electrically insulating polymer material. For example, the polymer material may be polyvinyl chloride.

Accordingly, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the module case <NUM> is provided with the outer wall 210c, thereby effectively protecting the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> accommodated therein from external impact.

<FIG> is an enlarged partial front view schematically showing a region C of the battery module of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> together with <FIG>, at least two or more ribs R1 formed by protruding from the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> in an outer direction (left-right direction, X-direction) may be provided. That is, the ribs R1 protrude and extend from the outer wall 210c so as to secure a space apart between the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, when viewed in the F direction, a plurality of ribs R1 may be formed on the right outer wall 210c6 of one module case <NUM>. At this time, the plurality of ribs R1 may protrude from the right outer wall 210c6 in the right direction. In addition, the plurality of ribs R1 may be formed on the left outer wall 210c5 of the other module case <NUM>. Furthermore, the ribs R1 of the other module case <NUM> may protrude from the left outer wall 210c5 in the left direction. At this time, the ribs R1 of the other module case <NUM> may be formed at positions corresponding to the ribs R1 of one module case <NUM>.

In addition, referring to <FIG> again, the battery module <NUM> further includes an internal plate <NUM> and, optionally, an insulating sheet <NUM>. Specifically, the internal plate <NUM> is positioned to be interposed between the two or more module cases <NUM>. Moreover, the internal plate <NUM> may be configured to be erected in a direction (up and down direction) perpendicular to the stacking direction of the module case <NUM>. That is, the internal plate <NUM> may be in the form of a plate extending in the up and down direction (Z direction) and in the front and back direction (X direction).

Furthermore, when the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> accommodated in the two or more module cases <NUM> fire or explode, the internal plate <NUM> may block the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> accommodated in the other module case <NUM> so as not to be affected by flame or gas. To this end, the internal plate <NUM> may have a size capable of covering the side portions of the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> in the horizontal direction.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the internal plate <NUM> is disposed in a direction (X direction) in which the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> are laid down, that is, in a position where the secondary battery <NUM> accommodated in one module case <NUM> and the secondary battery <NUM> accommodated in the other module case <NUM> correspond to each other. In addition, both sides of the internal plate <NUM> in the horizontal direction (X direction) may be positioned to respectively face the right outer wall 210c6 of one module case <NUM> and the left outer wall 210c5 of the other module case <NUM>. Moreover, the internal plate <NUM> may have a size capable of covering the whole of the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> accommodated in the module case <NUM>.

In addition, according to the invention, the internal plate <NUM> is positioned to contact the protruding end portion of the rib R1. That is, the internal plate <NUM> may extend along the end portion of the rib R1 in the up and down direction (Z direction) and the front and back direction (Y direction). For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, one internal plate <NUM> may be positioned to contact the end portion of each of the rib R1 formed in one module case <NUM> and the rib R1 formed in the other module case <NUM>.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, when the battery module <NUM> is charged and discharged, heat generated in the secondary battery <NUM> may be transferred to the rib R1 of the module case <NUM> and the internal plate <NUM> in contact with the rib R1 of the module case <NUM> and may be dissipated to the outside through air contacting the internal plate <NUM>. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the battery module <NUM> may be improved.

In addition, the internal plate <NUM> in contact with the rib R1 may form a gas discharge passage T1. Specifically, the gas discharge passage T1 may include the left outer wall 210c5 or the right outer wall 210c6 of the module case <NUM>, and one side surface of the internal plate <NUM> facing the left outer wall 210c5 or the right outer wall 210c6 in the horizontal direction. The rib R1 of the module case <NUM> may have a length protruding and extending in a left direction or in a right direction to separate the internal plate <NUM> from the outer wall 210c by a predetermined distance such that a space where gas generated between the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> and the internal plate <NUM> may move is formed. In addition, the ends of the gas discharge passage T1 may be outer circumferential portions (front and back end portions) of the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> in the front and back direction.

That is, the gas generated from the plurality of can type secondary batteries <NUM> may move to the front and back end portions of the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> along the gas discharge passage T1 formed between the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> and one side surface of the internal plate <NUM> and may be discharged to the outside of the battery module <NUM>.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the internal plate <NUM> is interposed between the two module cases <NUM>. In this case, the gas discharge passage T1 including the right outer wall 210c6 of the module case <NUM> on the right side and one side surface of the internal plate <NUM> may be formed in the battery module <NUM>. In addition, the gas discharge passage T1 including the left outer wall 210c5 of the right module case <NUM> and a right side surface of the internal plate <NUM> may be formed in the battery module <NUM>.

In addition, the insulating sheet <NUM> may be provided on the outer surface of the bus bar <NUM>. That is, the insulating sheet <NUM> may be configured to prevent the bus bar <NUM> from contacting with an external conductive material. Furthermore, the insulating sheet <NUM> may include an electrically insulating material. In addition, the insulating material may be, for example, a silicone-based polymer (resin). In addition, a plurality of openings (O2 in <FIG>) may be formed in the insulating sheet <NUM> such that the rib R1 may penetrate the insulating sheet <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partial front view schematically showing some components of a battery module and an internal plate according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In <FIG>, for convenience of description below, the internal plate cut in the up and down direction is shown, and the remaining components viewed from the front are schematically shown.

Referring to <FIG>, when compared to the internal plate <NUM> of <FIG>, a fixing groove G1 indented in the inner direction of the body portion may be further formed on the outer surface of the internal plate 230B of <FIG>. Specifically, the fixing groove G1 may have an indented size such that the end portion of the rib R1 is inserted and fixed. The fixing groove G1 may be formed as many as the number of the ribs R1.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, a plurality of fixing grooves G1 may be formed in the internal plate 230B. The fixing groove G1 may be formed in a position corresponding to the rib R1. In addition, the fixing groove G1 indented from the left to the right in the body and the fixing groove G1 indented from the right to the left in the body may be formed as many as the number of the ribs in the internal plate 230B.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, by forming the fixing groove G1 indented in the inner direction such that the end portion of the rib R1 is inserted and fixed on the outer surface of the internal plate 230B, the internal plate 230B may be easily fixed between the two or more module case <NUM>, thereby facilitating the manufacturing process. In addition, there is an advantage that the cooling efficiency of the battery module <NUM> may be further increased by effectively increasing a contact area between the fixing groove G1 and the rib R1.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional side view schematically showing an enlarged cut part of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, when compared to the internal plate <NUM> of <FIG>, the internal plate 230C of <FIG> may further have an uneven structure K1 of a structure that is bent to protrude in a horizontal direction. Specifically, when the internal plate 230C is erected in the up and down direction, the uneven structure K1 may have a part bent in the left and right direction, a part bent in the up and down direction again, a part bent in the left and right direction again, and a part bent in the up and down direction again.

In addition, the uneven structure K1 may have a shape inserted between the two or more ribs R1. At this time, the length of the uneven structure K1 in the up and down direction may be formed to a size corresponding to the distance between the ribs R1 arranged in the up and down direction.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the internal plate 230C may have the uneven structure K1 protruding to the left and the uneven structure K1 protruding to the right. At this time, the uneven structure K1 may have a shape inserted between two ribs R1 adjacent in the up and down direction.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the uneven structure K1 formed on the internal plate 230C is e inserted between the two or more ribs R1, and thus the internal plate 230C may be easily fixed between the two or more module case <NUM>, thereby facilitating the manufacturing process. In addition, there is an advantage that the cooling efficiency of the battery module <NUM> may be further increased by effectively increasing a contact area between the uneven structure K1 and the rib R1.

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, an empty space may be formed in the one module case <NUM> such that the one module case <NUM> may be configured to accommodate some of all the secondary batteries <NUM>. In addition, an empty space may be formed in the other module case <NUM> such that the other module case <NUM> may be configured to accommodate the remnants of all the secondary batteries <NUM>. Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM> may be configured such that a space for accommodating each secondary battery <NUM> is separated from each other by a hollow H1. In addition, the hollow H1 may be configured to have the space for accommodating each secondary battery <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Furthermore, the other module case <NUM> may be configured to be coupled to one side of the one module case <NUM> in the horizontal direction (X direction), as shown in <FIG>. For example, the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM> may be coupled to each other by a male and female coupling structure (not shown), or may be bolt fastened to each other (not shown). To the contrary, the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM> may be connected to each other without a separate member for fixing each other.

Referring back to <FIG>, a mounting portion <NUM> for mounting the bus bar <NUM> thereon may be formed in each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM>. In addition, a mounting portion <NUM> for mounting the bus bar <NUM> thereon may be formed in each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM>. Specifically, the mounting portion <NUM> may be provided on the outer walls 210c of the left and right sides of each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the mounting portion <NUM> may be provided on each of the left outer wall 210c5 and the right outer wall 210c6 of each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM>. A mounting space on which four bus bars <NUM> may be mounted may be formed in each of the mounting portions <NUM>.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, in the present disclosure, fixing of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> and fixing of the bus bar <NUM> may be performed by the module case <NUM> at one time.

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, when the can type secondary battery <NUM> is a cylindrical secondary battery <NUM>, the hollow H1 formed in the inner space of the module case <NUM> may be configured in a cylindrical shape to correspond to the shape of the can type secondary battery <NUM>.

More specifically, the hollow H1 of each of the one module case <NUM> and the other module case <NUM> may be configured to penetrate the module case <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction of the drawing) of the secondary battery <NUM>. For example, the hollow H1 for accommodating the secondary battery <NUM> in the module case <NUM> is formed to penetrate in the left and right direction (X-axis direction), and thus the electrode terminal <NUM> of the secondary battery <NUM> positioned inside the module case <NUM> may be configured to be exposed to the outside in the left and right direction of the module case <NUM>. Therefore, in this case, the bus bar <NUM> positioned on the outside may be in direct contact with the electrode terminal <NUM> of the secondary battery <NUM> exposed to the outside.

In addition, the module case <NUM> may be provided with a first frame 212a and a second frame 212b. Here, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b may be configured to meet and join each other in one side and the other side in the left and right direction (X direction). For example, as shown in <FIG>, when viewed in the F direction of <FIG>, the first frame 212a may be disposed on the left side of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> to accommodate the left portions of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>. In addition, the second frame 212b may be positioned on the right side of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> to accommodate the right portions of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>.

In particular, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b may be configured to cover one side and the other side of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>, respectively, to wholly cover the outer surface of the can type secondary batteries <NUM>. For example, when the can type secondary battery <NUM> is the cylindrical secondary battery <NUM>, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b wholly cover the outer surface of the cylindrical battery, such that the side surface of the secondary battery <NUM> in the up and down direction may be configured not to be exposed to the outside.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first frame 212a may be disposed on the left side of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> to accommodate the left portions of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>. In addition, the second frame 212b may be positioned on the right side of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> to accommodate the right portions of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the side exposure of the secondary battery <NUM> is blocked by the module case <NUM>, the insulating property of the secondary battery <NUM> may be improved, and the secondary battery <NUM> may be protected from external physical and chemical factors.

In addition, the second frame 212b may be configured to be connected to one side of the first frame 212a in the horizontal direction, as shown in <FIG>. In addition, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b may be fixed in a male and female coupling structure. For example, as shown in <FIG>, a coupling groove 212a1 is formed in the first frame 212a, and a coupling protrusion 212b1 is formed on the second frame 212b and thus the coupling groove 212a1 and the coupling protrusion 212b1 may be coupled to each other.

Furthermore, the other module case <NUM> may be provided with the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b. Here, when the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b are compared with the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b of the one module case <NUM> described above, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b may have the same configuration, except that the positions of the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b are reversely arranged. Specifically, when the front and rear positions of the other module case <NUM> rotate and change, the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b of the other module case <NUM> may have the same arrangement as the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b of the one module case <NUM>.

Accordingly, detailed descriptions of the first frame 212a and the second frame 212b of the other module case <NUM> will be omitted.

<FIG> is a right side view schematically showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, <FIG> is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the battery module cut along the line A-A' in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, unlike the module case <NUM> of <FIG>, in a module case 210B disclosed in <FIG>, a plurality of ribs R1 may be formed in each hollow H1 into which the secondary battery <NUM> is inserted. That is, the ribs R1 are alternately formed in the hollows arranged in the front and back direction in the module case <NUM> of <FIG>, but the module case 210B of <FIG> may be configured such that the ribs R1 are continuously formed for each hollow H1 in which the secondary battery is accommodated.

Further, the bus bar <NUM> may be inserted between one rib R1 and another rib R1 adjacent in the front and back direction. Specifically, one end and the other end of the bus bar <NUM> in the front and back direction may be configured to respectively contact the one rib R1 and the other adjacent rib R1 arranged in the front and back direction. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the bus bar <NUM> may be configured such that a front end contacts the rear end of the one rib R1, and a rear end of the bus bar <NUM> contacts the front end of the other adjacent rib R1.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the bus bar <NUM> is inserted between the one rib R1 and the other adjacent rib R1 formed in a hollow, and thus a process of positioning the bus bar <NUM> in the mounting portion <NUM> of the module case <NUM> may be facilitated. In addition, after the bus bar <NUM> is inserted, in a welding process with the electrode terminals <NUM> of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM>, it is possible to prevent the bus bar <NUM> from flowing in the front and back direction, and thus the welding process may be performed quickly and completely.

Referring back to <FIG>, a curved groove G2 intended in the inner direction of the body may be formed in the end portion of the rib R1 connected to the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. The curved groove G2 of the rib R1 may be formed in the end portion in a direction in which the bus bar <NUM> is positioned. The position of the bus bar <NUM> may be fixed by inserting one end (front end) into the curved groove G2 of the rib R1 and inserting the other end (rear end) into the curved groove G2 of the other rib R1.

For example, as shown in <FIG>, the bus bar <NUM> may be interposed between two ribs R1 arranged in the front and back direction and mounted on the mounting portion <NUM>. At this time, the curved grooves G2 may be formed in each of the two ribs R1. In addition, the position of the bus bar <NUM> may be fixed by inserting the front end into the curved groove G2 of the rib R1 and inserting the rear end into the curved groove G2 of the other rib R1.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, both ends of the bus bar <NUM> are inserted into and fixed to the curved groove G2 of the rib R1, and thus the bus bar <NUM> may be fixed not to shaking. Accordingly, there is an advantage that without a separate fixing member for fixing the bus bar <NUM> on the mounting portion <NUM>, it is possible to manufacture, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and manufacturing time. In addition, in a welding process between the electrode terminals <NUM> of the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> and the bus bars <NUM>, it is possible to prevent the bus bars <NUM> from shaking, and thus the welding process may be performed quickly and reliably.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically showing a module case which is a partial component of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, <FIG> is a left perspective view schematically showing a module case which is a partial component of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> together with <FIG>, the module case <NUM> may be provided with a bumper portion <NUM> to absorb external impact applied to the battery module <NUM>. Specifically, the bumper portion <NUM> may be formed on the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the bumper portion <NUM> may be formed on each of the front outer wall 210c1 and the rear outer wall 210c2 of the module case <NUM>.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the module case <NUM> is provided with the bumper portion <NUM> configured to absorb the external impact applied to the battery module <NUM>, and when the external impact occurs in the battery module <NUM>, the bumper unit <NUM> may preferentially absorb the impact to protect the embedded secondary battery <NUM>. Accordingly, the stability of the battery module <NUM> may be increased.

In addition, the bumper portion <NUM> may be formed to protrude in an outer direction from the outer surface of the outer wall 210c. More specifically, the bumper portion <NUM> may have an extension part <NUM> and a plate-shaped part <NUM>. Here, the extension part <NUM> may have a shape protruding and extending in the outer direction from the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>.

Moreover, the extension portion <NUM> may be configured to separate the plate-shaped part <NUM> apart from the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM> by a predetermined distance. The bumper portion <NUM> secures a distance apart from the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>, and thus the external impact applied to the battery module <NUM> is not directly transferred to the embedded secondary battery <NUM>, and the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c may preferentially collide with each other to cause the bumper portion <NUM> to absorb more external impact.

In addition, the plate-shaped part <NUM> may have a shape curved and extending from an end portion of the extension part <NUM> in the extension direction to a direction corresponding to the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. Further, a linear rib R2 may be formed on the outer surface of the plate shape in the plate-shaped part <NUM>. For example, when viewed from the F direction of <FIG>, the linear ribs R2 may have a lattice shape in which the linear ribs R2 extending in the left and right direction (X direction) and the up and down direction (Z direction) intersect each other.

In addition, the plate-shaped part <NUM> may have a curved surface such that the center of the body protrudes convexly on the outer surface in the outer direction. Furthermore, the plate-shaped part <NUM> may have a plate shape in which the center of the body is convexly curved in the outer direction. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the plate-shaped part <NUM> may also have a plate shape in which the center of the body is convexly curved forward.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the bumper portion <NUM> is provided with the extension part <NUM> securing the distance and the plate-shaped part <NUM> on which the linear rib R2 is formed, and thus the bumper portion <NUM> may effectively absorb the external impact applied to the battery module <NUM>. Accordingly, the secondary battery <NUM> embedded in the battery module <NUM> is protected from the external impact, thereby effectively preventing fire or explosion.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some separated components of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring back to <FIG> together with <FIG> and <FIG>, the bus bar 220a mounted on the one module case <NUM> may be provided with an expansion portion <NUM> so as to be connected to the bus bar 220b mounted on the other module case <NUM>. The expansion portion <NUM> may have a shape extending from the body portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> in a vertical direction. A coupling hole H4 for bolt fastening may be formed in the expansion portion <NUM>. The expansion portion <NUM> may be coupled to the connection bus bar <NUM> to electrically connect the plurality of secondary batteries <NUM> mounted on each of the two module cases <NUM>.

For example, each of the two bus bars 220a and 220b provided in the two module cases <NUM> may further include the expansion portion <NUM> unlike the other bus bar <NUM>. The expansion portion <NUM> may have a shape curved in the left or right direction from the body portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM>. In addition, three coupling holes H4 for bolt fastening may be formed in the expansion portion <NUM>.

The expansion portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> may be positioned between the plate-shaped part <NUM> of the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. Specifically, the expansion portion <NUM> of the bus bar <NUM> may be positioned between the plate-shaped part <NUM> of the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the expansion portions <NUM> of the two bus bars <NUM> may be positioned between the plate-shaped part <NUM> of the bumper portion <NUM> and the front outer wall 210c1 of the module case <NUM>.

Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, the bumper portion <NUM> of the module case <NUM> covers a part of the bus bar <NUM> which is easily exposed in the front and back direction, thereby preventing contact or collision with an external conductive material and maintaining an electrical insulation from the outside. Accordingly, when an external impact occurs, a secondary accident due to the electric leakage of the battery module <NUM> may be prevented.

Furthermore, referring to <FIG> and <FIG> again, an auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> may be further formed in the module case <NUM>. Specifically, the auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> may be further formed between the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. That is, the auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> may be positioned in a space apart between the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>. In addition, the auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> may have the plate-shaped part <NUM> on which a linear rib R3 protruding in the inner direction is formed. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, eight auxiliary bumper portions <NUM> positioned inside the four bumper portions <NUM> may be formed on the front outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>.

Accordingly, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, by further forming the auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> in the space apart between the bumper portion <NUM> and the outer wall 210c of the module case <NUM>, the bumper portion <NUM> and the auxiliary bumper portion <NUM> may more effectively absorb external impact applied to the battery module <NUM>. Accordingly, the secondary battery <NUM> embedded in the battery module <NUM> is protected from the external impact, thereby effectively preventing fire or explosion.

Meanwhile, a battery pack (not shown) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one battery module <NUM>. Further, the battery pack may further include various devices (not shown) for controlling charging and discharging of the battery module <NUM>, for example, a battery management system (BMS), a current sensor, a fuse, etc..

Meanwhile, an electronic device (not shown) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the at least one battery module <NUM> described above. The electronic device may further include a device housing (not shown) provided with an accommodation space for accommodating the battery module <NUM> and a display unit that allows a user to check a state of charging of the battery module <NUM>.

In addition, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be included in a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be mounted with the battery pack including at least one battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described above on a vehicle body.

Claim 1:
A battery module (<NUM>) comprising:
a plurality of can type secondary batteries (<NUM>) arranged to be laid down in a horizontal direction;
a bus bar (<NUM>) at least partially formed of an electrically conductive material to electrically connect the plurality of can type secondary batteries (<NUM>);
two or more module cases (<NUM>) with an empty space formed inside to insert and accommodate the plurality of can type secondary batteries (<NUM>), comprising an outer wall formed to surround the empty space inside and two or more ribs (R1) formed to protrude from the outer wall in an outer direction, and configured to be stacked in a direction in which the can type secondary batteries (<NUM>) are laid down; and
an internal plate (<NUM>) interposed between the two or more module cases (<NUM>) and configured to be erected in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the module cases (<NUM>) are stacked,
wherein the internal plate (<NUM>) is positioned to contact a protruding end portion of the rib (R1).