WO2008035875A1 - Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same - Google Patents

Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2008035875A1
WO2008035875A1 PCT/KR2007/004294 KR2007004294W WO2008035875A1 WO 2008035875 A1 WO2008035875 A1 WO 2008035875A1 KR 2007004294 W KR2007004294 W KR 2007004294W WO 2008035875 A1 WO2008035875 A1 WO 2008035875A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
battery
module
module case
variable grip
coupling
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/KR2007/004294
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jin Woong Ha
Jeeho Kim
Yongshik Shin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LG Chem Ltd
Original Assignee
LG Chem Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by LG Chem Ltd filed Critical LG Chem Ltd
Priority to EP07808087.6A priority Critical patent/EP2064761B1/en
Priority to CN2007800344445A priority patent/CN101517777B/en
Priority to US12/310,871 priority patent/US7713655B2/en
Priority to JP2009529107A priority patent/JP5220750B2/en
Publication of WO2008035875A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008035875A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
    • H01M10/61—Types of temperature control
    • H01M10/613—Cooling or keeping cold
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
    • H01M10/64—Heating or cooling; Temperature control characterised by the shape of the cells
    • H01M10/647—Prismatic or flat cells, e.g. pouch cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
    • H01M10/65—Means for temperature control structurally associated with the cells
    • H01M10/656—Means for temperature control structurally associated with the cells characterised by the type of heat-exchange fluid
    • H01M10/6561—Gases
    • H01M10/6563—Gases with forced flow, e.g. by blowers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/102—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by their shape or physical structure
    • H01M50/105—Pouches or flexible bags
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/116—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material
    • H01M50/117—Inorganic material
    • H01M50/119—Metals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/116—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material
    • H01M50/121—Organic material
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/116—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material
    • H01M50/124—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material having a layered structure
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/116—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material
    • H01M50/124—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material having a layered structure
    • H01M50/1243—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings characterised by the material having a layered structure characterised by the internal coating on the casing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/204—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
    • H01M50/207—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape
    • H01M50/211—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape adapted for pouch cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/218—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by the material
    • H01M50/22—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by the material of the casings or racks
    • H01M50/222—Inorganic material
    • H01M50/224—Metals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/256—Carrying devices, e.g. belts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/258—Modular batteries; Casings provided with means for assembling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/262—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders with fastening means, e.g. locks
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/296—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by terminals of battery packs
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a battery module having a specific structure and a battery pack including a plurality of such battery modules, and, more particularly, to a battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein the module case is provided at at least one side thereof with a sliding coupling structure, and the battery module has a variable grip mounted thereto, and a battery pack including the same.
  • a cell stack including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density
  • a secondary battery which can be charged and discharged, has been widely used as an energy source for wireless mobile devices. Also, the secondary battery has attracted considerable attention as a power source for electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), which have been developed to solve problems, such as air pollution, caused by existing gasoline and diesel vehicles using fossil fuel.
  • EV electric vehicles
  • HEV hybrid electric vehicles
  • Small-sized mobile devices use one or several battery cells for each device.
  • middle- or large-sized devices such as vehicles, use a middle- or large-sized battery module having a plurality of battery cells electrically connected with each other because high output and large capacity are necessary for the middle- or large- sized devices.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery module is manufactured with small size and small weight if possible.
  • a prismatic battery or a pouch- shaped battery which can be stacked with high integration and has a small weight to capacity ratio, is usually used as a battery cell of the middle- or large-sized battery module.
  • much interest is currently generated in the pouch-shaped battery, which uses an aluminum laminate sheet as a sheathing member, because the weight of the pouch-shaped battery is small, the manufacturing costs of the pouch-shaped battery are low, and it is easy to modify the shape of the pouch-shaped battery.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery module For the middle- or large-sized battery module to provide output and capacity required by a specific apparatus or device, it is necessary for the middle- or large-sized battery module to be constructed in a structure in which a plurality of battery cells are electrically connected in series or parallel with each other, and the battery cells are stable against an external force.
  • a middle- or large-sized battery module is constructed using a plurality of battery cells, a plurality of members for mechanical coupling and electrical connection between the battery cells are generally needed, and, as a result, a process for assembling the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members is very complicated. Furthermore, there is needed a space for coupling, welding, or soldering the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members, with the result that the total size of the system is increased.
  • the increase in size of the system is not preferred in the aspect of the spatial limit of an apparatus or device in which the middle- or large-sized battery module is mounted.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery module must be constructed in a more compact structure in order that the middle- or large-sized battery module is effectively mounted in a limited inner space, such as a vehicle.
  • the present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and other technical problems that have yet to be resolved.
  • a battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein the module case is provided at at least one side thereof with a sliding coupling structure.
  • a cell stack including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density
  • the sliding coupling structure is provided at the top and bottom and/or the right and left sides of the module case. Consequently, the coupling between the battery modules is accomplished through the sliding coupling structure without using additional connection members. Also, a middle- or large-sized battery pack including a plurality of such battery modules is constructed generally in a compact and stable coupling structure.
  • the battery module is constructed in a structure in which the battery cells or the unit modules are connected in series or parallel with each other.
  • the battery module may be manufactured by stacking two or more plate-shaped battery cells.
  • the battery module is manufactured by stacking two or more unit modules.
  • Each unit module may be constructed in various structures, preferred examples of which will be described below.
  • the unit module is constructed in a structure in which plate-shaped battery cells, each of which has electrode terminals formed at the upper and lower ends thereof, are connected in series with each other.
  • the unit module includes two or more battery cells, constructed in a structure in which the connections between the battery cells are bent such that the battery cells are stacked, and a high-strength cell cover coupled to the battery cells such that the cell cover surrounds the outer surfaces of the battery cells.
  • the plate-shaped battery cells are secondary batteries having a small thickness and a relatively large width and length sufficient to minimize the total size of the plate- shaped battery cells when the plate-shaped battery cells are stacked to construct the battery module.
  • each battery cell is a secondary battery constructed in a structure in which an electrode assembly is mounted in a battery case made of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer, and electrode terminals protrude from the upper and lower end of the battery case.
  • the battery cell may be constructed in a structure in which an electrode assembly is mounted in a pouch-shaped battery case made of an aluminum laminate sheet.
  • the secondary battery with the above-described construction may be referred to as a pouch-shaped battery cell.
  • the battery cells in each unit module or between the respective unit modules are connected in series and/or parallel with each other.
  • the coupling between the electrode terminals is accomplished in various manners, such as welding, soldering, and mechanical coupling.
  • the coupling between the electrode terminals is accomplished by welding.
  • the battery cells or unit modules constructed in a structure in which the electrode terminals are connected to each other and the battery cells or unit modules are stacked with high integration, are vertically mounted in the module case, which includes upper and lower separate cases coupled to each other by an assembly coupling structure, to construct the battery module.
  • the material for the module case is not particularly restricted.
  • the module case is made of a metal material such that the module case exhibits a specific mechanical strength sufficient to protect the battery cells, mounted in the module case, from external impacts and a high manufacturing processability for easy formation of a coupling structure.
  • the sliding coupling structure is formed at the module case.
  • the sliding coupling structure includes sliding grooves formed at the top of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case and corresponding sliding protrusions formed at the bottom of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case. Consequently, when two or more battery modules are stacked in the height direction, the sliding protrusions formed at the bottom of the module case of the upper battery module are engaged in the corresponding sliding grooves formed at the top of the module case of the lower battery module, with the result that the mechanical coupling between the battery modules is accomplished without using additional connection members.
  • the sliding grooves are formed at the right and left sides of the top of the module case, and the sliding protrusions are formed at the right and left sides of the bottom of the module case to maximize the coupling force between the battery modules.
  • the module case is provided at the top and bottom thereof with a plurality of through-holes defining a coolant flow channel.
  • a coolant (air) flow through the through-holes to remove heat generated from the battery cells during the charge and discharge of the battery cells.
  • the battery module according to the present invention may be constructed in a rectangular parallelepiped structure having a large height to width ratio in vertical section. Consequently, the battery module has a very compact and stable structure, and therefore, when a battery module assembly is mounted in a predetermined region, such as an inner space of a vehicle, the size-related problem is solved. Also, the plate- shaped battery cells or unit modules are stacked in the battery module while the plate- shaped battery cells or unit modules are erected vertically to the stacked surface between the battery modules, whereby the inner space utilizability is improved. In addition, the flowing through direction of the through-holes coincides with the stacking direction of the battery cells, and therefore, the flow of the coolant is smoother, whereby the cooling efficiency is improved.
  • variable grip is mounted to one side of the battery module.
  • the variable grip may be constructed in a structure in which one end of the variable grip is hingedly mounted to the front of the module case such that the variable grip is separated from the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the variable grip, if necessary. Since the grip is hingedly mounted to the battery module, the increase in volume of the battery module due to the attachment of the grip is minimized.
  • the grip when the grip is used, the grip is separated from the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the grip, whereby the use of the grip is not limited.
  • the grip when the grip is not used, the grip is brought into tight contact with the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the grip in the direction opposite to the above-mentioned direction.
  • variable grip is provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling groove
  • module case is provided at the front thereof with a coupling protrusion corresponding to the coupling groove of the variable grip.
  • the coupling groove may be formed at the front of the module case
  • the coupling protrusion may be formed at the end of the variable grip.
  • variable grip may be provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling hole
  • module case may be provided at the front thereof with a coupling groove corresponding to the coupling hole of the variable grip.
  • coupling between the variable grip and the module case is accomplished by inserting a coupling member, such as a bolt, into the coupling groove of the module case through the coupling hole of the variable grip while the variable grip is in tight contact with the front of the module case.
  • variable grip is constructed in a plate-shaped structure in which the variable grip is depressed at one side thereof.
  • the plate-shaped structure it is possible to minimize the increase in volume of the battery module due to the attachment of the grip.
  • the formation of the grip, such that the grip is depressed at one side thereof improves the work efficiency during the assembly or disassembly of the battery module.
  • a middle- or large-sized battery pack having a high output and large capacity, which includes a plurality of such battery modules.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery pack is constructed in a structure in which the battery modules are mounted in a pack case, which is open at the front and rear thereof, while the battery modules are stacked in the height direction and in the lateral direction.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery pack according to the present invention may be used as a power source for electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), idle reduction devices, and energy storage devices, which have a limited installation space and are exposed to frequent vibration and strong impact, in consideration of the installation efficiency and structural stability of the battery pack.
  • the middle- or large-sized battery pack according to the present invention is preferably used as a charging and discharging power source for electric vehicles.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a battery module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, respectively;
  • FIG. 3 is a typical view illustrating the electrical connection structure between rear connectors and battery cells in the battery module
  • FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a variable grip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating the battery module of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module stack constructed by stacking a plurality of battery modules, one of which is shown in FIG. 1 ; and FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a middle- or large-sized battery pack including a battery pack case surrounding the battery module stack shown in FIG. 6.
  • variable grip 400 module connector
  • battery module stack 600 middle- or large-sized battery pack
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views typically illustrating the front and rear of a battery module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, respectively.
  • a module case 200 is mounted to the outside of the battery module 100.
  • a plurality of through-holes 210a for cooling battery cells of the battery module 100.
  • sliding grooves 220 which extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200.
  • sliding protrusions 230 corresponding to the sliding grooves 220. Consequently, when battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, the sliding protrusions 230 formed at the bottom of the upper battery module are engaged in the corresponding sliding grooves 220 formed at the top of the lower battery module, and therefore, the mechanical coupling between the battery modules is accomplished without using additional connecting members.
  • the sliding grooves 220 may be formed at the bottom of the module case 200, and the sliding protrusions 230 may be formed at the top of the module case 200.
  • variable grip 300 To the front of the module case 200 is hingedly mounted a variable grip 300. As shown in the drawing, the variable grip 300 is folded such that the variable grip 300 is in tight contact with the front of the module case 200.
  • the variable grip 300 is constructed in a plate-shaped structure in which the variable grip 300 is depressed at one side thereof. Consequently, the work efficiency is improved during the assembly or disassembly of the battery module 100, and, at the same time, the increase in volume of the battery module 100 due to the attachment of the grip 300 is minimized.
  • the variable grip 300 will be described below in more detail with reference to FIG. 4.
  • a plurality of through-holes 210b are formed at the middle of the bottom of the module case 200 such that a coolant (air), introduced into the module case 200 through the upper through-holes 210a, is easily discharged out of the module case 200 through the through-holes 210b.
  • the sliding protrusions 230 are formed at the right and left sides of the through-holes 210b such that the sliding protrusions 230 extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200.
  • a power connector 420 and a communication connector 410 are located at the rear of the battery module 100 a power connector 420 and a communication connector 410, through which the battery module 100 is electrically connected to an external circuit.
  • FIG. 3 is a typical view illustrating the electrical connection structure between the rear connectors and the battery cells in the battery module.
  • An anode power cable 422, connected to anode plates of the battery cells, is connected to an anode connector of the power connector 420 located at the rear of the module case 200, and a cathode power cable 321 is connected to a cathode connector of the power connector 420, via a switching element, such as a field effect transistor (FET) element, for controlling the overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent of the battery cells.
  • a switching element such as a field effect transistor (FET) element
  • a communication port for detection of voltage and communication with another battery module, is connected between a main board assembly of the battery module and the communication connector 410 located at the rear of the battery module.
  • FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a variable grip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • the variable grip 300 is mounted to the front of the module case 200 such that one end of the variable grip 300 is hingedly connected to the module case 200.
  • a small-sized coupling groove 310 is formed at the other end of the variable grip 300, opposite to the end of the variable grip 300 where the variable grip 300 is hingedly connected to the module case 200.
  • a small-sized coupling groove 310 At the front of the module case 200 is formed a coupling protrusion 320 corresponding to the coupling groove 310.
  • the coupling and separation between the coupling groove 310 and the coupling protrusion 320 are possible. Consequently, when the variable grip 300 is used, as shown in FIG.
  • variable grip 300 is separated from the module case 200 by the pivot rotation of the variable grip 300.
  • variable grip 300 is not used, as shown in FIG. 5, the variable grip 300 is brought into tight contact with the front of the module case 200 by the pivot rotation of the variable grip 300 in the direction opposite to the direction shown in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 5 is a front view of the battery module.
  • the sliding grooves 220a and 220b are formed at the top of the module case 200 such that the sliding grooves 220a and 220b extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200, and the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b are formed at the bottom of the module case 200 such that the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200.
  • the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b correspond to the sliding grooves 220a and 220b, respectively, such that the coupling between the battery modules 100 is accomplished by the engagement of the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b in the corresponding sliding grooves 220a and 220b.
  • the variable grip 300 is mounted to the front of the module case 200 while the variable grip 300 is in tight contact with the module case 200.
  • a coupling hole (not shown) is formed through the variable grip 300, and a coupling groove (not shown), corresponding to the coupling hole, is formed at the front of the module case 200.
  • a bolt 330 is inserted into the coupling groove of the module case 100 through the coupling hole of the variable grip 300 such that the tight contact between the variable grip 300 and the module case 200 is achieved.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module stack constructed by stacking a plurality of battery modules.
  • two battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, and five battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in the lateral direction.
  • the through-holes 210a and 210b are formed at the top and bottom of each battery module case 200, respectively, such that a coolant flows in the vertical direction, thereby greatly improving the cooling efficiency of the battery cells.
  • the sliding grooves 220 and the sliding protrusions are formed at the top and bottom of each battery module case 200, respectively, such that the sliding grooves and the sliding protrusions extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200, whereby the battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in a sliding fashion. Consequently, when the battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, the battery modules 100 are coupled to each other (see reference numeral 240) by the sliding coupling structure.
  • the variable grip 300 is hingedly mounted to the front of the module case 200.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a middle- or large-sized battery pack constructed in a structure in which the battery module stack shown in FIG. 6 is surrounded by a battery pack case.
  • the battery pack case 610 is mounted to the battery module stack 500 (see FIG. 6), such that the battery module stack 500 is surrounded by the battery pack case 610, whereby the mechanical coupling and electrical connection between the respective battery modules are accomplished.
  • the respective battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in the height direction by the sliding coupling structure. All the battery modules 100 are mounted in the battery pack case 610 to construct a middle- or large-sized battery pack.
  • the battery pack case 610 is open at the front and rear thereof.
  • the battery pack case 610 is provided at the top and bottom thereof with through-holes 612a and 612b, respectively, through which a coolant flows.
  • the through-holes 612a and 612b extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery modules 100 such that the through-holes 210a and 210b of the battery modules 100 are exposed to the outside through the through-holes 612a and 612b of the battery pack case 610. Also, a module connector 400, including the power connector 420 and the communication connector 410, of each battery module 100 is exposed at the rear of the middle- or large-sized battery pack 600 such that the connection between the battery modules 100 and an external circuit is easily performed.
  • the battery module according to the present invention is constructed in a compact structure in which the battery module is stably mounted in a limited space, such as a vehicle, by the sliding coupling structure. Also, the number of the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members is small, and the battery module is assembled by a simple method. Furthermore, the assembly and disassembly of the battery module are easily performed by the variable grip, whereby the work efficiency is improved.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Inorganic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Battery Mounting, Suspending (AREA)
  • Secondary Cells (AREA)

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein the module case is provided at at least one side thereof with a sliding coupling structure, and the battery module has a variable grip mounted thereto.

Description

BATTERY MODULE AND MIDDLE OR LARGE-SIZED BATTERY PACK CONTAINING THE SAME
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a battery module having a specific structure and a battery pack including a plurality of such battery modules, and, more particularly, to a battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein the module case is provided at at least one side thereof with a sliding coupling structure, and the battery module has a variable grip mounted thereto, and a battery pack including the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Recently, a secondary battery, which can be charged and discharged, has been widely used as an energy source for wireless mobile devices. Also, the secondary battery has attracted considerable attention as a power source for electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), which have been developed to solve problems, such as air pollution, caused by existing gasoline and diesel vehicles using fossil fuel.
Small-sized mobile devices use one or several battery cells for each device.
On the other hand, middle- or large-sized devices, such as vehicles, use a middle- or large-sized battery module having a plurality of battery cells electrically connected with each other because high output and large capacity are necessary for the middle- or large- sized devices.
Preferably, the middle- or large-sized battery module is manufactured with small size and small weight if possible. For this reason, a prismatic battery or a pouch- shaped battery, which can be stacked with high integration and has a small weight to capacity ratio, is usually used as a battery cell of the middle- or large-sized battery module. Especially, much interest is currently generated in the pouch-shaped battery, which uses an aluminum laminate sheet as a sheathing member, because the weight of the pouch-shaped battery is small, the manufacturing costs of the pouch-shaped battery are low, and it is easy to modify the shape of the pouch-shaped battery.
For the middle- or large-sized battery module to provide output and capacity required by a specific apparatus or device, it is necessary for the middle- or large-sized battery module to be constructed in a structure in which a plurality of battery cells are electrically connected in series or parallel with each other, and the battery cells are stable against an external force.
Consequently, when a middle- or large-sized battery module is constructed using a plurality of battery cells, a plurality of members for mechanical coupling and electrical connection between the battery cells are generally needed, and, as a result, a process for assembling the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members is very complicated. Furthermore, there is needed a space for coupling, welding, or soldering the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members, with the result that the total size of the system is increased. The increase in size of the system is not preferred in the aspect of the spatial limit of an apparatus or device in which the middle- or large-sized battery module is mounted. Furthermore, the middle- or large-sized battery module must be constructed in a more compact structure in order that the middle- or large-sized battery module is effectively mounted in a limited inner space, such as a vehicle.
In addition, when some of the battery modules, constituting the middle- or large-sized battery module, are abnormally operated, it takes a large amount of time and a large number of processes during the disassembly and assembly of the battery modules to replace the abnormally operated battery modules with new ones. Also, additional members may be mounted to improve the work efficiency; however, these members may act as a factor increasing the size of the battery module.
Consequently, there is a high necessity for a battery module assembly that is more compact, structurally stable, and easily disassembled and assembled, as previously described.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and other technical problems that have yet to be resolved.
Specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a battery module having a compact structure in which the battery module is stably mounted in a limited space, such as a vehicle, and that is easily assembled and disassembled, thereby improving the work efficiency, and a middle- or large-sized battery pack including the same.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects can be accomplished by the provision of a battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells') or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein the module case is provided at at least one side thereof with a sliding coupling structure.
In the battery module according to the present invention, the sliding coupling structure is provided at the top and bottom and/or the right and left sides of the module case. Consequently, the coupling between the battery modules is accomplished through the sliding coupling structure without using additional connection members. Also, a middle- or large-sized battery pack including a plurality of such battery modules is constructed generally in a compact and stable coupling structure.
The battery module is constructed in a structure in which the battery cells or the unit modules are connected in series or parallel with each other. For example, the battery module may be manufactured by stacking two or more plate-shaped battery cells. Preferably, the battery module is manufactured by stacking two or more unit modules.
Each unit module may be constructed in various structures, preferred examples of which will be described below.
The unit module is constructed in a structure in which plate-shaped battery cells, each of which has electrode terminals formed at the upper and lower ends thereof, are connected in series with each other. Specifically, the unit module includes two or more battery cells, constructed in a structure in which the connections between the battery cells are bent such that the battery cells are stacked, and a high-strength cell cover coupled to the battery cells such that the cell cover surrounds the outer surfaces of the battery cells. The plate-shaped battery cells are secondary batteries having a small thickness and a relatively large width and length sufficient to minimize the total size of the plate- shaped battery cells when the plate-shaped battery cells are stacked to construct the battery module. In a preferred embodiment, each battery cell is a secondary battery constructed in a structure in which an electrode assembly is mounted in a battery case made of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer, and electrode terminals protrude from the upper and lower end of the battery case. Specifically, the battery cell may be constructed in a structure in which an electrode assembly is mounted in a pouch-shaped battery case made of an aluminum laminate sheet. The secondary battery with the above-described construction may be referred to as a pouch-shaped battery cell.
The battery cells in each unit module or between the respective unit modules are connected in series and/or parallel with each other. The coupling between the electrode terminals is accomplished in various manners, such as welding, soldering, and mechanical coupling. Preferably, the coupling between the electrode terminals is accomplished by welding.
The battery cells or unit modules, constructed in a structure in which the electrode terminals are connected to each other and the battery cells or unit modules are stacked with high integration, are vertically mounted in the module case, which includes upper and lower separate cases coupled to each other by an assembly coupling structure, to construct the battery module.
The material for the module case is not particularly restricted. Preferably, however, the module case is made of a metal material such that the module case exhibits a specific mechanical strength sufficient to protect the battery cells, mounted in the module case, from external impacts and a high manufacturing processability for easy formation of a coupling structure.
According to the present invention, the sliding coupling structure is formed at the module case. Specifically, the sliding coupling structure includes sliding grooves formed at the top of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case and corresponding sliding protrusions formed at the bottom of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case. Consequently, when two or more battery modules are stacked in the height direction, the sliding protrusions formed at the bottom of the module case of the upper battery module are engaged in the corresponding sliding grooves formed at the top of the module case of the lower battery module, with the result that the mechanical coupling between the battery modules is accomplished without using additional connection members. Preferably, the sliding grooves are formed at the right and left sides of the top of the module case, and the sliding protrusions are formed at the right and left sides of the bottom of the module case to maximize the coupling force between the battery modules.
Also, the module case is provided at the top and bottom thereof with a plurality of through-holes defining a coolant flow channel. A coolant (air) flow through the through-holes to remove heat generated from the battery cells during the charge and discharge of the battery cells.
The battery module according to the present invention may be constructed in a rectangular parallelepiped structure having a large height to width ratio in vertical section. Consequently, the battery module has a very compact and stable structure, and therefore, when a battery module assembly is mounted in a predetermined region, such as an inner space of a vehicle, the size-related problem is solved. Also, the plate- shaped battery cells or unit modules are stacked in the battery module while the plate- shaped battery cells or unit modules are erected vertically to the stacked surface between the battery modules, whereby the inner space utilizability is improved. In addition, the flowing through direction of the through-holes coincides with the stacking direction of the battery cells, and therefore, the flow of the coolant is smoother, whereby the cooling efficiency is improved.
In a preferred embodiment, a variable grip is mounted to one side of the battery module. For example, the variable grip may be constructed in a structure in which one end of the variable grip is hingedly mounted to the front of the module case such that the variable grip is separated from the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the variable grip, if necessary. Since the grip is hingedly mounted to the battery module, the increase in volume of the battery module due to the attachment of the grip is minimized.
Specifically, when the grip is used, the grip is separated from the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the grip, whereby the use of the grip is not limited. On the other hand, when the grip is not used, the grip is brought into tight contact with the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the grip in the direction opposite to the above-mentioned direction.
Preferably, the variable grip is provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling groove, and the module case is provided at the front thereof with a coupling protrusion corresponding to the coupling groove of the variable grip. In this case, when the variable grip is brought into tight contact with the front of the module case, the coupling protrusion of the module case is engaged into the coupling groove of the variable grip, whereby the movement of the grip is prevented. Alternatively, the coupling groove may be formed at the front of the module case, and the coupling protrusion may be formed at the end of the variable grip. According to circumstances, the variable grip may be provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling hole, and the module case may be provided at the front thereof with a coupling groove corresponding to the coupling hole of the variable grip. In this case, the coupling between the variable grip and the module case is accomplished by inserting a coupling member, such as a bolt, into the coupling groove of the module case through the coupling hole of the variable grip while the variable grip is in tight contact with the front of the module case.
More preferably, the variable grip is constructed in a plate-shaped structure in which the variable grip is depressed at one side thereof. With the adoption of the plate-shaped structure, it is possible to minimize the increase in volume of the battery module due to the attachment of the grip. In addition, the formation of the grip, such that the grip is depressed at one side thereof, improves the work efficiency during the assembly or disassembly of the battery module.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a middle- or large-sized battery pack having a high output and large capacity, which includes a plurality of such battery modules. Preferably, the middle- or large-sized battery pack is constructed in a structure in which the battery modules are mounted in a pack case, which is open at the front and rear thereof, while the battery modules are stacked in the height direction and in the lateral direction. The middle- or large-sized battery pack according to the present invention may be used as a power source for electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), idle reduction devices, and energy storage devices, which have a limited installation space and are exposed to frequent vibration and strong impact, in consideration of the installation efficiency and structural stability of the battery pack. Especially, the middle- or large-sized battery pack according to the present invention is preferably used as a charging and discharging power source for electric vehicles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a battery module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, respectively;
FIG. 3 is a typical view illustrating the electrical connection structure between rear connectors and battery cells in the battery module;
FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a variable grip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating the battery module of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module stack constructed by stacking a plurality of battery modules, one of which is shown in FIG. 1 ; and FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a middle- or large-sized battery pack including a battery pack case surrounding the battery module stack shown in FIG. 6.
<Description of Main Reference Numerals of the Drawings>
100: battery module 200: module case
300: variable grip 400: module connector
500: battery module stack 600: middle- or large-sized battery pack
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Now, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted, however, that the scope of the present invention is not limited by the illustrated embodiments.
FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views typically illustrating the front and rear of a battery module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, respectively.
Referring first to FIG. 1, a module case 200 is mounted to the outside of the battery module 100. At the middle of the top of the module case 200 are formed a plurality of through-holes 210a for cooling battery cells of the battery module 100. At the right and left sides of the through-holes 210a are formed sliding grooves 220, which extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200. At the bottom of the module case 200 are formed sliding protrusions 230 corresponding to the sliding grooves 220. Consequently, when battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, the sliding protrusions 230 formed at the bottom of the upper battery module are engaged in the corresponding sliding grooves 220 formed at the top of the lower battery module, and therefore, the mechanical coupling between the battery modules is accomplished without using additional connecting members. According to circumstances, the sliding grooves 220 may be formed at the bottom of the module case 200, and the sliding protrusions 230 may be formed at the top of the module case 200.
To the front of the module case 200 is hingedly mounted a variable grip 300. As shown in the drawing, the variable grip 300 is folded such that the variable grip 300 is in tight contact with the front of the module case 200. The variable grip 300 is constructed in a plate-shaped structure in which the variable grip 300 is depressed at one side thereof. Consequently, the work efficiency is improved during the assembly or disassembly of the battery module 100, and, at the same time, the increase in volume of the battery module 100 due to the attachment of the grip 300 is minimized. The variable grip 300 will be described below in more detail with reference to FIG. 4.
Referring now to FIG. 2, a plurality of through-holes 210b are formed at the middle of the bottom of the module case 200 such that a coolant (air), introduced into the module case 200 through the upper through-holes 210a, is easily discharged out of the module case 200 through the through-holes 210b. The sliding protrusions 230 are formed at the right and left sides of the through-holes 210b such that the sliding protrusions 230 extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200. At the rear of the battery module 100 are located a power connector 420 and a communication connector 410, through which the battery module 100 is electrically connected to an external circuit. FIG. 3 is a typical view illustrating the electrical connection structure between the rear connectors and the battery cells in the battery module.
An anode power cable 422, connected to anode plates of the battery cells, is connected to an anode connector of the power connector 420 located at the rear of the module case 200, and a cathode power cable 321 is connected to a cathode connector of the power connector 420, via a switching element, such as a field effect transistor (FET) element, for controlling the overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent of the battery cells.
Also, a communication port, for detection of voltage and communication with another battery module, is connected between a main board assembly of the battery module and the communication connector 410 located at the rear of the battery module.
FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a variable grip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The variable grip 300 is mounted to the front of the module case 200 such that one end of the variable grip 300 is hingedly connected to the module case 200. At the other end of the variable grip 300, opposite to the end of the variable grip 300 where the variable grip 300 is hingedly connected to the module case 200, is formed a small-sized coupling groove 310. At the front of the module case 200 is formed a coupling protrusion 320 corresponding to the coupling groove 310. The coupling and separation between the coupling groove 310 and the coupling protrusion 320 are possible. Consequently, when the variable grip 300 is used, as shown in FIG. 4, the variable grip 300 is separated from the module case 200 by the pivot rotation of the variable grip 300. On the other hand, when the variable grip 300 is not used, as shown in FIG. 5, the variable grip 300 is brought into tight contact with the front of the module case 200 by the pivot rotation of the variable grip 300 in the direction opposite to the direction shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 5 is a front view of the battery module. The sliding grooves 220a and 220b are formed at the top of the module case 200 such that the sliding grooves 220a and 220b extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200, and the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b are formed at the bottom of the module case 200 such that the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200. The sliding protrusions 230a and 230b correspond to the sliding grooves 220a and 220b, respectively, such that the coupling between the battery modules 100 is accomplished by the engagement of the sliding protrusions 230a and 230b in the corresponding sliding grooves 220a and 220b. The variable grip 300 is mounted to the front of the module case 200 while the variable grip 300 is in tight contact with the module case 200. In this embodiment, a coupling hole (not shown) is formed through the variable grip 300, and a coupling groove (not shown), corresponding to the coupling hole, is formed at the front of the module case 200. In this case, a bolt 330 is inserted into the coupling groove of the module case 100 through the coupling hole of the variable grip 300 such that the tight contact between the variable grip 300 and the module case 200 is achieved.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module stack constructed by stacking a plurality of battery modules.
Referring to FIG. 6, two battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, and five battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in the lateral direction. The through-holes 210a and 210b (see FIG. 2) are formed at the top and bottom of each battery module case 200, respectively, such that a coolant flows in the vertical direction, thereby greatly improving the cooling efficiency of the battery cells. Also, the sliding grooves 220 and the sliding protrusions (not shown) are formed at the top and bottom of each battery module case 200, respectively, such that the sliding grooves and the sliding protrusions extend in the longitudinal direction of the module case 200, whereby the battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in a sliding fashion. Consequently, when the battery modules 100 are stacked in the height direction, the battery modules 100 are coupled to each other (see reference numeral 240) by the sliding coupling structure. Also, the variable grip 300 is hingedly mounted to the front of the module case 200.
FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views illustrating the front and rear of a middle- or large-sized battery pack constructed in a structure in which the battery module stack shown in FIG. 6 is surrounded by a battery pack case.
Referring to these drawings, the battery pack case 610 is mounted to the battery module stack 500 (see FIG. 6), such that the battery module stack 500 is surrounded by the battery pack case 610, whereby the mechanical coupling and electrical connection between the respective battery modules are accomplished. The respective battery modules 100 are coupled to each other in the height direction by the sliding coupling structure. All the battery modules 100 are mounted in the battery pack case 610 to construct a middle- or large-sized battery pack. The battery pack case 610 is open at the front and rear thereof. The battery pack case 610 is provided at the top and bottom thereof with through-holes 612a and 612b, respectively, through which a coolant flows. The through-holes 612a and 612b extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery modules 100 such that the through-holes 210a and 210b of the battery modules 100 are exposed to the outside through the through-holes 612a and 612b of the battery pack case 610. Also, a module connector 400, including the power connector 420 and the communication connector 410, of each battery module 100 is exposed at the rear of the middle- or large-sized battery pack 600 such that the connection between the battery modules 100 and an external circuit is easily performed.
Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
As apparent from the above description, the battery module according to the present invention is constructed in a compact structure in which the battery module is stably mounted in a limited space, such as a vehicle, by the sliding coupling structure. Also, the number of the mechanical coupling and electrical connection members is small, and the battery module is assembled by a simple method. Furthermore, the assembly and disassembly of the battery module are easily performed by the variable grip, whereby the work efficiency is improved.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A battery module constructed in a structure in which a cell stack, including a plurality of secondary battery cells ('battery cells'), which can be charged and discharged, or a plurality of unit modules, each of which including a plurality of battery cells, stacked with high density, is mounted in a hexahedral module case, wherein
the module case is provided at the top and bottom and/or the right and left sides thereof with a sliding coupling structure.
2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein each battery cell is a plate- shaped battery cell having an electrode assembly mounted in a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer.
3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the module case is made of a metal material.
4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the sliding coupling structure includes sliding grooves formed at the top of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case and corresponding sliding protrusions formed at the bottom of the module case in the longitudinal direction of the module case.
5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein the sliding grooves are formed at the right and left sides of the top of the module case, and the sliding protrusions are formed at the right and left sides of the bottom of the module case.
6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the module case is provided at the top and bottom thereof with a plurality of through-holes defining a coolant flow channel.
7. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the battery module is constructed in a rectangular parallelepiped structure having a large height to width ratio in vertical section, and the plate-shaped battery cells or unit modules are stacked in the battery module while the plate-shaped battery cells or unit modules are erected.
8. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein a variable grip is mounted to one side of the battery module.
9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein the variable grip is constructed in a structure in which one end of the variable grip is hingedly mounted to the front of the module case such that the variable grip is separated from the front of the module case by the pivot rotation of the variable grip, if necessary.
10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein
the variable grip is provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling groove or coupling protrusion, and
the module case is provided at the front thereof with a coupling protrusion or coupling groove corresponding to the coupling groove or coupling protrusion of the variable grip.
11. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein the variable grip is provided, at the other end opposite to the end of the variable grip where the variable grip is hingedly connected to the module case, with a small-sized coupling hole, and
the module case is provided at the front thereof with a coupling groove corresponding to the coupling hole of the variable grip, whereby
the coupling between the variable grip and the module case is accomplished by inserting a coupling member into the coupling groove of the module case through the coupling hole of the variable grip while the variable grip is in tight contact with the front of the module case.
12. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein the variable grip is constructed in a plate-shaped structure in which the variable grip is depressed at one side thereof.
13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the battery module is provided at the rear thereof with an external input and output connector and a communication connector.
14. A middle- or large-sized battery pack having a high output and large capacity, which includes a plurality of battery modules according to any one of claims 1 to 13.
15. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein the battery pack is constructed in a structure in which the battery modules are mounted in a pack case, which is open at the front and rear thereof, while the battery modules are stacked in the height direction and in the lateral direction.
16. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein the battery pack is used as a charging and discharging power source for electric vehicles or hybrid electric vehicles.
17. The battery pack according to claim 16, wherein the battery pack is used as a charging and discharging power source for electric vehicles.
PCT/KR2007/004294 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same Ceased WO2008035875A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP07808087.6A EP2064761B1 (en) 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same
CN2007800344445A CN101517777B (en) 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 Battery modules and medium or large battery packs containing the battery modules
US12/310,871 US7713655B2 (en) 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same
JP2009529107A JP5220750B2 (en) 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 battery pack

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
KR1020060089897A KR100892047B1 (en) 2006-09-18 2006-09-18 Battery Modules and Medium and Large Battery Packs
KR10-2006-0089897 2006-09-18

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2008035875A1 true WO2008035875A1 (en) 2008-03-27

Family

ID=39200675

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/KR2007/004294 Ceased WO2008035875A1 (en) 2006-09-18 2007-09-06 Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US7713655B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2064761B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5220750B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100892047B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101517777B (en)
WO (1) WO2008035875A1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2010055157A1 (en) * 2008-11-17 2010-05-20 Abb Research Ltd Arrangement of stationary batteries
JP2011108653A (en) * 2009-11-19 2011-06-02 Sb Limotive Co Ltd Battery pack, vehicle, and battery pack manufacturing method
EP2341569A1 (en) * 2010-01-05 2011-07-06 SB LiMotive Co., Ltd. Battery Pack
EP2434564A4 (en) * 2010-02-10 2013-11-20 Lg Chemical Ltd RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM BATTERY IN POCKET FORM
EP2991131A4 (en) * 2013-05-15 2016-06-01 Lg Chemical Ltd BATTERY MODULE ASSEMBLY HAVING A NEW STRUCTURE
WO2018206072A1 (en) * 2017-05-08 2018-11-15 Ads-Tec Gmbh Capacity container
EP3624215A4 (en) * 2017-10-24 2020-06-24 LG Chem, Ltd. BATTERY PACK AND VEHICLE COMPRISING THE SAME
KR20210026485A (en) * 2019-08-30 2021-03-10 주식회사 엘지화학 Battery rack and energy storage system comprising the battery rack

Families Citing this family (47)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP4787279B2 (en) * 2008-01-31 2011-10-05 三菱自動車工業株式会社 Battery module case and method of using battery module case
KR100937897B1 (en) * 2008-12-12 2010-01-21 주식회사 엘지화학 Middle or large-sized battery pack of novel air cooling structure
CN104253250B (en) 2009-05-04 2016-09-07 株式会社Lg化学 Battery module and battery pack including the battery module
KR101091426B1 (en) * 2009-11-06 2011-12-07 주식회사 니프코코리아 Battery case
JP5646041B2 (en) * 2010-04-13 2014-12-24 エルジー・ケム・リミテッド Battery pack case with new structure
US9263713B2 (en) * 2010-05-26 2016-02-16 Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. Battery pack
JP5360039B2 (en) * 2010-12-06 2013-12-04 三菱自動車工業株式会社 Battery module protection structure
DE102011000353B4 (en) * 2011-01-27 2026-02-05 Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft battery
KR101255542B1 (en) * 2011-05-12 2013-04-16 삼성에스디아이 주식회사 Battery pack
KR101284950B1 (en) * 2011-07-11 2013-07-10 세방전지(주) Battery case with connecting structure of insert type
KR101287107B1 (en) 2011-08-25 2013-07-17 로베르트 보쉬 게엠베하 Battery module with connecting member
KR101480385B1 (en) * 2011-12-14 2015-01-09 주식회사 엘지화학 Battery Module Assembly Having Bus Bar Assembly on Front and Battery Pack Employed with the Same
DE102011089142A1 (en) 2011-12-20 2013-06-20 Robert Bosch Gmbh Stackable battery module
KR101171226B1 (en) * 2012-03-14 2012-08-06 국방과학연구소 Structure for securing power supply using rechargeable battery
KR101515350B1 (en) * 2012-04-17 2015-04-27 주식회사 엘지화학 Cathode Active Material and Lithium Secondary Battery Comprising The Same
US9111662B2 (en) * 2012-04-18 2015-08-18 Lg Chem, Ltd. Cathode active material and lithium secondary battery comprising the same
US9246189B2 (en) * 2012-04-19 2016-01-26 Lg Chem, Ltd. Secondary battery including electrolyte additive
KR101227654B1 (en) * 2012-06-14 2013-01-30 주식회사 리튜마 Battery pack assembly
DE102013206503A1 (en) * 2013-04-12 2014-10-16 Robert Bosch Gmbh Device for receiving battery cells, battery module and motor vehicle
JP6122150B2 (en) 2013-05-15 2017-04-26 エルジー・ケム・リミテッド Battery module assembly with new structure
CN103311592B (en) * 2013-06-27 2015-08-05 长城汽车股份有限公司 Electrokinetic cell system and there is its vehicle
KR101499930B1 (en) * 2013-07-29 2015-03-09 주식회사 이랜텍 Batterypack case
US9831482B2 (en) 2013-09-06 2017-11-28 Johnson Controls Technology Company Battery module lid system and method
KR101584295B1 (en) * 2014-07-03 2016-01-25 인셀(주) Battery System Having Rack Structure
KR101806995B1 (en) * 2015-05-18 2017-12-08 주식회사 엘지화학 Battery pack
CN105469578B (en) * 2015-12-30 2019-01-01 中国石油集团长城钻探工程有限公司 A kind of wireless sensor device
US10632857B2 (en) 2016-08-17 2020-04-28 Shape Corp. Battery support and protection structure for a vehicle
TWM533365U (en) * 2016-08-25 2016-12-01 Formosa Electronic Ind Inc Plug-in connection structure of stacked energy-storage battery module
CN110383526A (en) 2017-01-04 2019-10-25 形状集团 Node Modular Vehicle Battery Tray Structure
JP6928826B2 (en) * 2017-04-12 2021-09-01 パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社 Battery module and power storage unit
US10886513B2 (en) 2017-05-16 2021-01-05 Shape Corp. Vehicle battery tray having tub-based integration
WO2018213383A1 (en) 2017-05-16 2018-11-22 Shape Corp. Vehicle battery tray with integrated battery retention and support features
US10483510B2 (en) 2017-05-16 2019-11-19 Shape Corp. Polarized battery tray for a vehicle
WO2019036002A2 (en) 2017-08-18 2019-02-21 Hyliion Inc. Battery pack optimization for thermal management
US12347879B2 (en) 2017-09-13 2025-07-01 Shape Corp. Vehicle battery tray with tubular peripheral wall
CN111108015A (en) 2017-09-13 2020-05-05 形状集团 Vehicle battery tray with tubular peripheral wall
WO2019071013A1 (en) 2017-10-04 2019-04-11 Shape Corp. Battery tray floor assembly for electric vehicles
CN107742680B (en) * 2017-10-13 2023-06-27 常州普莱德新能源电池科技有限公司 Power battery module upper cover and battery module with same
KR102248230B1 (en) * 2017-12-07 2021-05-03 주식회사 엘지화학 Secondary battery module
EP3759761B1 (en) 2018-03-01 2026-04-08 Shape Corp. Cooling system integrated with vehicle battery tray
US11688910B2 (en) 2018-03-15 2023-06-27 Shape Corp. Vehicle battery tray having tub-based component
CN109786607B (en) * 2019-01-23 2022-04-19 上海良亿新能源科技有限公司 New energy electric automobile soft package battery box and welding method thereof
JP7339354B2 (en) * 2019-10-03 2023-09-05 本田技研工業株式会社 Battery modules, electric power units, and implements
KR102798544B1 (en) * 2020-04-01 2025-04-18 주식회사 엘지에너지솔루션 Battery module and battery pack including the same
KR102798590B1 (en) * 2020-04-01 2025-04-18 주식회사 엘지에너지솔루션 Battery module and battery pack including the same
JP7815768B2 (en) * 2022-01-07 2026-02-18 株式会社デンソー Battery pack, setup method, processing method, processing program
EP4383428A4 (en) * 2022-07-20 2025-06-18 LG Energy Solution, Ltd. BATTERY ARRANGEMENT AS WELL AS BATTERY PACK AND VEHICLE THEREOF

Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH05159761A (en) 1991-12-02 1993-06-25 Honda Motor Co Ltd Battery container for electric automobile
EP0673076A1 (en) 1994-03-15 1995-09-20 Electric Fuel (E.F.L.) Ltd. A cell for a metal-air battery
US5639571A (en) * 1996-06-24 1997-06-17 General Motors Corporation Battery pack
JP2000151137A (en) 1998-11-16 2000-05-30 Nec Saitama Ltd Structure of stacked communication equipment
US6310783B1 (en) 2000-03-29 2001-10-30 Powerware Corporation Modular method and apparatus for building an uninterruptible power system (UPS)
US20020021107A1 (en) 2000-06-13 2002-02-21 Sociedad Espanola Del Acumulador Tudor, S.A. Electrical storage cell batteries
US6451475B1 (en) 2000-07-05 2002-09-17 East Penn Manufacturing Company, Inc. Front access interlocking modular cell tray assembly
US20020179552A1 (en) 2001-05-30 2002-12-05 Andrew Marraffa Battery rack and system
US20040021442A1 (en) * 2002-07-30 2004-02-05 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Battery module
US20040058233A1 (en) * 2002-09-20 2004-03-25 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Battery pack

Family Cites Families (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3147101A (en) * 1961-09-18 1964-09-01 Holley Carburetor Co Apparatus for attaching an aircleaner to a carburetor
US3463672A (en) * 1967-08-10 1969-08-26 Mc Graw Edison Co Battery construction
US4347294A (en) * 1981-02-12 1982-08-31 Santiago Mejia Novel electric storage battery assembly
JPS60208897A (en) * 1984-04-03 1985-10-21 富士通株式会社 Grip structure of drawer type unit
JPH0430771U (en) * 1990-07-03 1992-03-12
JP3355858B2 (en) * 1994-05-24 2002-12-09 松下電器産業株式会社 Lead storage battery and method of manufacturing the same
JP4310010B2 (en) * 1999-10-08 2009-08-05 パナソニック株式会社 Unit battery
JP3670925B2 (en) * 2000-03-08 2005-07-13 三洋電機株式会社 Assembled battery
US6384574B1 (en) * 2000-10-20 2002-05-07 The Gillette Company Battery system
JP2003142052A (en) * 2001-11-05 2003-05-16 Mitsubishi Heavy Ind Ltd Secondary battery module and secondary battery module assembly
JP4894140B2 (en) * 2004-11-29 2012-03-14 日産自動車株式会社 Assembled battery
WO2006059421A1 (en) * 2004-11-30 2006-06-08 Nec Corporation Electric device aggregation
JP2007048637A (en) * 2005-08-10 2007-02-22 Nissan Motor Co Ltd Battery pack and battery pack case

Patent Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH05159761A (en) 1991-12-02 1993-06-25 Honda Motor Co Ltd Battery container for electric automobile
EP0673076A1 (en) 1994-03-15 1995-09-20 Electric Fuel (E.F.L.) Ltd. A cell for a metal-air battery
US5639571A (en) * 1996-06-24 1997-06-17 General Motors Corporation Battery pack
JP2000151137A (en) 1998-11-16 2000-05-30 Nec Saitama Ltd Structure of stacked communication equipment
US6310783B1 (en) 2000-03-29 2001-10-30 Powerware Corporation Modular method and apparatus for building an uninterruptible power system (UPS)
US20020021107A1 (en) 2000-06-13 2002-02-21 Sociedad Espanola Del Acumulador Tudor, S.A. Electrical storage cell batteries
US6451475B1 (en) 2000-07-05 2002-09-17 East Penn Manufacturing Company, Inc. Front access interlocking modular cell tray assembly
US20020179552A1 (en) 2001-05-30 2002-12-05 Andrew Marraffa Battery rack and system
US20040021442A1 (en) * 2002-07-30 2004-02-05 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Battery module
US20040058233A1 (en) * 2002-09-20 2004-03-25 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Battery pack

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP2064761A4

Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110217575A1 (en) * 2008-11-17 2011-09-08 Willy Hermansson Arrangement Of Stationary Batteries
CN102210039A (en) * 2008-11-17 2011-10-05 Abb研究有限公司 Arrangement of stationary batteries
WO2010055157A1 (en) * 2008-11-17 2010-05-20 Abb Research Ltd Arrangement of stationary batteries
US9318731B2 (en) 2009-11-19 2016-04-19 Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. Battery pack
JP2011108653A (en) * 2009-11-19 2011-06-02 Sb Limotive Co Ltd Battery pack, vehicle, and battery pack manufacturing method
EP2341569A1 (en) * 2010-01-05 2011-07-06 SB LiMotive Co., Ltd. Battery Pack
US9537173B2 (en) 2010-02-10 2017-01-03 Lg Chem, Ltd. Pouch type lithium secondary battery
EP2434564A4 (en) * 2010-02-10 2013-11-20 Lg Chemical Ltd RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM BATTERY IN POCKET FORM
EP2991131A4 (en) * 2013-05-15 2016-06-01 Lg Chemical Ltd BATTERY MODULE ASSEMBLY HAVING A NEW STRUCTURE
US9876204B2 (en) 2013-05-15 2018-01-23 Lg Chem, Ltd. Battery module assembly with novel structure
WO2018206072A1 (en) * 2017-05-08 2018-11-15 Ads-Tec Gmbh Capacity container
EP3624215A4 (en) * 2017-10-24 2020-06-24 LG Chem, Ltd. BATTERY PACK AND VEHICLE COMPRISING THE SAME
US11342623B2 (en) 2017-10-24 2022-05-24 Lg Energy Solution, Ltd. Battery pack and vehicle including same
KR20210026485A (en) * 2019-08-30 2021-03-10 주식회사 엘지화학 Battery rack and energy storage system comprising the battery rack
EP3989343A4 (en) * 2019-08-30 2022-11-30 LG Energy Solution, Ltd. BATTERY FRAME AND ENERGY STORAGE APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME
US12308410B2 (en) 2019-08-30 2025-05-20 Lg Energy Solution, Ltd. Battery rack including bracket creating space between walls and rack case and power storage apparatus comprising same
KR102906401B1 (en) * 2019-08-30 2025-12-30 주식회사 엘지에너지솔루션 Battery rack and energy storage system comprising the battery rack

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2010503973A (en) 2010-02-04
US20100035142A1 (en) 2010-02-11
KR100892047B1 (en) 2009-04-07
US7713655B2 (en) 2010-05-11
EP2064761B1 (en) 2015-03-25
JP5220750B2 (en) 2013-06-26
CN101517777B (en) 2012-07-04
EP2064761A4 (en) 2011-01-19
CN101517777A (en) 2009-08-26
EP2064761A1 (en) 2009-06-03
KR20080025428A (en) 2008-03-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7713655B2 (en) Battery module and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same
US8034476B2 (en) Battery module, and middle or large-sized battery pack containing the same
EP2595238B1 (en) Battery pack having compact structure
EP2765632B1 (en) Battery module assembly having improved reliability and medium or large-sized battery pack including same
US7858229B2 (en) Cell-module cartridge, cell-module including the cell-module cartridge, and battery module including the cell-module
US9203065B2 (en) Battery module
JP4987985B2 (en) Electrode connection member in battery module
KR101287107B1 (en) Battery module with connecting member
US20100247979A1 (en) Battery module interface
US7947389B2 (en) Cartridge frame with connectors for battery pack
CN121444266A (en) Battery pack and vehicle including the battery pack
KR20250158505A (en) Cell assembly and battery pack containing same

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 200780034444.5

Country of ref document: CN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 07808087

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 1706/DELNP/2009

Country of ref document: IN

Ref document number: 2007808087

Country of ref document: EP

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2009529107

Country of ref document: JP

Kind code of ref document: A

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 12310871

Country of ref document: US