Battery packs and devices containing them

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery module; a pack frame in which the battery module is housed and which is open on one side; a pack cover that covers the open side of the pack frame; and a fire-resistant sheet attached to one end of the pack cover. The battery module includes a battery cell laminate in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a venting section formed on one side of the battery module for the discharge of venting gas; and a protruding pin that protrudes toward the pack cover on one side of the battery module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2024 - 0057822, filed on April 30, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the literature of the Korean patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery pack and a device including the same, and more particularly, to a battery pack capable of effectively controlling heat propagation and a device including the same.

Background Art

[0003] In modern society, as the use of portable devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers, video cameras, and digital cameras has become common, the development of technologies in the field related to such mobile devices has been active. In addition, rechargeable secondary batteries are used as power sources for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug - in hybrid electric vehicles (P - HEVs), etc. as a solution to problems such as air pollution caused by existing gasoline vehicles using fossil fuels. Therefore, the need for the development of secondary batteries is increasing.

[0004] Currently, commercially available secondary batteries include nickel - cadmium batteries, nickel - metal hydride batteries, nickel - zinc batteries, lithium secondary batteries, etc. Among these, lithium secondary batteries have attracted attention because they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel - based secondary batteries, are free from charge - discharge restrictions, have a very low self - discharge rate, and have a high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium - based oxides and carbon materials as the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material, respectively. A lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with such positive electrode active material and negative electrode active material, respectively, are arranged with a separator interposed therebetween, and a battery case for hermetically storing the electrode assembly together with an electrolytic solution.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into two types based on the shape of their casing: can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in an aluminum laminate sheet pouch.

[0007] In the case of secondary batteries used in small devices, two to three battery cells are arranged, but in the case of secondary batteries used in medium to large devices such as automobiles, a battery module is used in which many battery cells are electrically connected. In such battery modules, the capacity and output are improved by connecting many battery cells in series or parallel to each other to form a stack of battery cells. Furthermore, one or more battery modules can be attached together with various control and protection systems such as a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit), a BMS (Battery Management System), and a cooling system to form a battery pack.

[0008] A battery pack may include battery modules as a sub-concept, and a battery module may include battery cells as a sub-concept. The number of battery cells included in a battery module or the number of battery modules included in a battery pack may be determined in various ways depending on the output and capacity of the battery pack required for the electric vehicle.

[0009] However, one of the most important issues with such battery packs is safety. In particular, if a thermal event occurs in at least one of the many battery cells contained in the battery pack, high-temperature venting gas and heat will be generated. To protect the battery pack from such high-temperature venting gas and heat and to expel the high-temperature venting gas and heat to the outside, a venting space must be secured and maintained inside the battery pack.

[0010] A battery pack may include a pack cover that covers one end of the battery pack, and a fire-resistant sheet may be attached to one end of the pack cover. Such a fire-resistant sheet can protect the pack cover from the high-temperature venting gases and heat emitted from the battery module. However, over time or when a thermal event occurs, the heat may degrade the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive, causing the fire-resistant sheet to separate from the pack cover. If the fire-resistant sheet sags or separates from the pack cover, the venting space through which venting gases are released will be reduced, potentially degrading the thermal management performance of the battery module. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to prevent the fire-resistant sheet from sagging or separating from the pack cover as time passes or a thermal event occurs. Specifically, the invention aims to provide a battery module and a battery pack containing the same that can prevent the fire-resistant sheet from sagging or separating from the pack cover and can effectively control heat propagation.

[0012] However, the problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to those described above, and can be broadly expanded within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery module; a pack frame in which the battery module is housed and which is open on one side; a pack cover that covers the open side of the pack frame; and a fire-resistant sheet attached to one end of the pack cover. The battery module includes a battery cell laminate in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a venting portion formed on one surface of the battery module for the discharge of venting gas; and a protruding pin that protrudes toward the pack cover on one surface of the battery module.

[0014] The protruding pins may extend along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0015] The protruding pins may extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0016] The protruding pin may be positioned between the venting portions.

[0017] The protruding pin may come into contact with the fire-resistant sheet.

[0018] The battery module includes a module frame in which the stack of battery cells is housed and which has one open side; and a top cover assembly that covers the open side of the module frame; the protruding pin may be provided on the top cover assembly.

[0019] The top cover assembly may include a top plate located on one side of the battery cell, and a top cover that covers one side of the top plate.

[0020] The protruding pin may be formed in the top plate and protrude to one side through the top cover.

[0021] The venting portion is formed in the top plate and may include at least one venting hole for discharging gas from inside the module frame.

[0022] The venting portion may include a rupture portion formed in the top cover, positioned to correspond to the venting hole, and having a structure that ruptures when the pressure exceeds a certain level.

[0023] An open portion may be formed in the area of ​​the periphery of the rupture portion excluding the connecting portion, and the rupture portion may be formed to be connected to the top cover by the connecting portion.

[0024] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device including the battery pack is provided.

Advantages of the Invention

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by applying a plurality of protruding pins protruding in the direction of the pack cover to the module top plate provided at one end of the battery module, it is possible to prevent the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the pack cover and effectively control heat propagation.

[0026] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned should be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] It is a partial perspective view showing a part of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the cross-section cut along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a plan view of the battery module of FIG. 3 seen from above. [Figure 5] It is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view showing a battery cell laminate, a first bus bar frame, and a second bus bar frame included in the battery module of FIGS. 3 and 5. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is an exploded perspective view of a top cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the top plate of the top cover assembly. [Figure 12] This is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of section "B" in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the top cover of the top cover assembly. [Figure 14] This is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of section "C" in Figure 13. [Figure 15] This is a top view of a top plate according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a top view of a top cover according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view showing a venting section according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a cross-sectional view showing a venting section according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The following description, with reference to the attached drawings, will detail various embodiments of the present invention so that those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. The present invention can be embodied in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0029] To clearly explain the present invention, unnecessary explanatory parts have been omitted, and the same or similar reference numerals are used throughout the specification for identical or similar components.

[0030] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrary for the sake of explanation and are not necessarily limited to those shown in the present invention. The thicknesses are shown enlarged in the drawings to clearly represent multiple layers and regions. In addition, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated in the drawings for the sake of explanation.

[0031] Furthermore, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is said to be "on top of" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly above" the other part, but also the case where the other part is in between. Conversely, when one part is said to be "directly above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Also, being "on top of" a reference part means being located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean being located "up" in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0032] Furthermore, when a specification states that a part of it "includes" a certain component, unless otherwise stated, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included.

[0033] Furthermore, throughout the specification, "on a plane" means when the subject is viewed from above, and "on a cross-section" means when the subject is viewed from the side of a cross-section obtained by cutting the subject perpendicularly.

[0034] Figure 1 is a partial perspective view showing a portion of a battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross section obtained by cutting along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1.

[0035] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery module 100; a pack frame 1100 in which the battery module 100 is housed and which is open on one side; a pack cover 1200 that covers the open side of the pack frame 1100; and a fire-resistant sheet 1300 attached to one end of the pack cover 1200.

[0036] The pack frame 1100 may include a bottom frame 1110 on which at least one battery module 100 is placed, and a side frame 1120 connected along the periphery of the bottom frame 1110. Such a side frame 1120 may extend perpendicularly to one side of the bottom frame 1110. The bottom frame 1110 and the side frame 1120 provide an internal space that is open on one side, and at least one battery module 100 may be housed in such an internal space.

[0037] On the other hand, the pack cover 1200 can cover the open side of the pack frame 1100.

[0038] The battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment may further include a fire-resistant sheet 1300 that is attached to the underside of the pack cover 1200 between the battery module 100 and the pack cover 1200. The fire-resistant sheet 1300 can protect the pack cover 1200 from high-temperature venting gas and heat emitted from the battery module 100. For example, the fire-resistant sheet 1300 may be a thin, plate-shaped sheet containing MICA material, and may be attached to the underside of the pack cover 1200 with a heat-resistant adhesive.

[0039] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a battery module 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a top view of the battery module 100 of Figure 3. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module 100 of Figure 3. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the battery cell stack 120, the first busbar frame 410, and the second busbar frame 420 included in the battery module 100 of Figures 3 and 5.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, a battery module 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 120 in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked; a venting section 220V formed on one surface of the battery module 100 for the discharge of venting gas; and a protruding pin 600 that protrudes toward the pack cover 1200 on one surface of the battery module 100.

[0041] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of battery cells 110. The battery cells 110 according to this embodiment may be of various forms, for example, pouch-type battery cells, prismatic battery cells, or cylindrical battery cells. As an example, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, the battery cells 110 according to this embodiment may be pouch-type battery cells. The following description will focus on pouch-type battery cells, but the battery cells 110 according to this embodiment are not limited to these, and various types of battery cells may be applied.

[0042] A battery module 100 may consist of multiple battery cells 110. For example, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked along one direction so that they can be electrically interconnected to form a battery cell stack 120. For example, multiple battery cells 110 may be stacked upright along a direction parallel to the x-axis. Battery cells 110 may be stacked from one side portion 212 of the bottom frame 210 to another side portion 212, with one face of each battery cell 110 parallel to the side portion 212 of the bottom frame 210. In this case, the electrode leads 111 may protrude perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. In a battery cell 110, one electrode lead 111 may protrude in the y-axis direction, and the other electrode lead 111 may protrude in the -y-axis direction. If the electrode leads 111 protrude in only one direction, the electrode leads 111 may protrude in either the y-axis direction or the -y-axis direction.

[0043] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may have a one-sided venting structure that discharges high-temperature venting gas and heat in one direction due to a thermal event.

[0044] In this invention, the venting section 220V is a general term for a device that discharges high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module 100 to the outside of the battery module 100. In other words, there are no special restrictions on the structure or form of the venting section 220V as long as it is possible to discharge high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module 100 by a thermal event. In the case of the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, high-temperature venting gas and heat due to a thermal event may be discharged in one direction through the venting section 220V.

[0045] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment includes a protruding pin 600 that protrudes in one direction from one surface of the battery module 100. The protruding pin 600 may protrude from one surface of the battery module 100 toward the pack cover 1200. Such a protruding pin 600 can secure and maintain a venting space between the battery module 100 and the pack cover 1200 through which high-temperature venting gas and heat can flow.

[0046] At this time, the protruding pin 600 that protrudes in one direction from one side of the battery module 100 can secure and maintain a venting space VS between the battery module 100 and the pack cover 1200 through which high-temperature venting gas and heat can flow. In order to protect the battery pack 1000 from high-temperature venting gas and heat generated by thermal events or thermal runaway, and to stably discharge them to the outside of the battery pack 1000, a stably secured and maintained venting space VS must be secured within the battery pack 1000. If the pack cover 1200 bends inward or is tightly attached to the battery module 100 and a sufficient venting space VS cannot be secured and maintained, the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting section 220V of the battery module 100 will have difficulty being discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000. If high-temperature venting gas and heat cannot be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000, it may lead to an explosion or fire of the battery pack 1000. Furthermore, over time, the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive may deteriorate due to heat, causing the fire-resistant sheet 1300 to separate from the pack cover 1200.

[0047] Therefore, in this embodiment, a structure capable of supporting the pack cover 1200 and the fire-resistant sheet 1300 is realized by providing a protruding pin 600 that protrudes in one direction on one side of the battery module 100. There are no special restrictions on the degree of protrusion of the protruding pin 600, as long as a minimum venting space VS can be secured. The degree of protrusion of such a protruding pin 600 may be adjusted considering the size of the battery module 100 and the distance between the battery module 100 and the pack cover 1200, and the protruding pin 600 may be in contact with the pack cover 1200 or separated from the pack cover 1200. In other words, in the case of the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, a venting space VS through which high-temperature venting gas and heat can flow can be secured and maintained between the battery module 100 and the pack cover 1200, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack 1000.

[0048] If there were no protruding pins 600 that project toward the fire-resistant sheet 1300, the detached fire-resistant sheet 1300 would cover the venting section 220V, preventing proper discharge of high-temperature venting gas and heat. In contrast, in this embodiment, even if the fire-resistant sheet 1300 is separated from the pack cover 1200, the protruding pins 600 support the separated fire-resistant sheet 1300, ensuring and maintaining the venting space VS between the battery module 100 and the fire-resistant sheet 1300. In other words, in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, the venting space VS through which high-temperature venting gas and heat flow can be ensured and maintained between the battery module 100 and the fire-resistant sheet 1300, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack 1000.

[0049] There are no special restrictions on the number of protruding pins 600, but it is preferable to have multiple pins so that they are evenly distributed across one surface of the battery module 100 in order to secure and maintain the venting space VS. Furthermore, there are no special restrictions on the specific form or configuration of the protruding pins 600, as long as they protrude from one surface of the battery module 100.

[0050] The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 will be described in detail below.

[0051] Referring again to Figures 1 to 6, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin 600 can extend along the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked.

[0052] As described above, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked in one direction (the x-axis direction in Figure 5) so that they can be electrically interconnected, thereby forming a battery cell stack 120. In particular, referring to Figures 3 to 5, the protruding pins 600 may extend in the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked, thereby guiding the direction of discharge of the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting section 220V, which will be described in more detail later. In other words, as in this embodiment, when the protruding pins 600 are stacked in the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked, the high-temperature venting gas and heat may be discharged in the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked (the x-axis direction in Figure 5).

[0053] The following describes a battery module 100 in which protruding pins 600 are applied in various ways to guide the direction of exhaust of high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting section 220V.

[0054] Figures 7 to 9 are perspective views showing a battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to Figure 7, in one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pins 600 extend along the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. However, each protruding pin 600 is not continuously connected from one end to the other of the battery module, and there may be a break in the middle of the protruding pin 600. In other words, compared to the protruding pins 600 shown in Figure 6, the protruding pins 600 in this embodiment play a less significant role in guiding the direction of exhaust of the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting section 220V.

[0056] Referring to Figure 8, the protruding pin 600 according to one embodiment of the present invention can extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. In other words, the protruding pin 600 can extend along the vertical direction (y-axis direction in Figure 8) in which multiple battery cells 110 are stacked.

[0057] If the protruding pins 600 are stacked along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked, the high-temperature venting gas and heat may be discharged along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked (the y-axis direction in Figure 5).

[0058] Referring to Figure 9, in one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pins 600 extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. However, each protruding pin 600 is not continuously connected from one end to the other of the battery module, and there may be a break in the middle of the protruding pin 600. In other words, compared to the protruding pins 600 shown in Figure 8, the protruding pins 600 in this embodiment play a less significant role in guiding the direction of exhaust of the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting section 220V.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin 600 may be positioned between the venting sections 220V. That is, by providing the protruding pin 600 between the venting sections 220V, the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting sections 220V can be guided to be discharged in the intended direction without hindering the discharge of high-temperature venting gas and heat from the venting sections 220V.

[0060] The direction, shape, dimensions, etc., of the protruding pin 600 can be intentionally designed based on the position of the venting valve (not shown) provided in the battery pack 1000, the venting method of the battery pack 1000, the components of the battery module 100 and the battery pack 1000, and the arrangement of those components. Specifically, for example, a combination of protruding pins 600 extending along the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked and protruding pins 600 extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked may be applied. The direction, shape, dimensions, etc., of the protruding pin 600 are not limited to the embodiments mentioned above.

[0061] On the other hand, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin 600 can contact the fire-resistant sheet 1300. In this embodiment, since the protruding pin 600 is in contact with the fire-resistant sheet 1300, even if the fire-resistant sheet 1300 is separated from the pack cover 1200, the protruding pin 600 is in contact with and supporting the separated fire-resistant sheet 1300, thus ensuring and maintaining the venting space VS between the battery module 100 and the fire-resistant sheet 1300. In other words, in the case of the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, the venting space VS through which high-temperature venting gas and heat flow can be ensured and maintained between the battery module 100 and the fire-resistant sheet 1300, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack 1000. However, in the present invention, the protruding pin 600 is not limited to a form in which it is in contact with the fire-resistant sheet 1300. The protruding pin 600 may be separated from the fire-resistant sheet 1300 by a predetermined distance, as long as it protrudes to an extent that it can ensure and maintain the venting space VS.

[0062] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a top cover assembly 220 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Referring to Figures 3 to 6 and Figure 10, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery module 100 includes a module frame 200 in which a stack of battery cells 120 is housed and which has one open side; and a top cover assembly 220 that covers the open side of the module frame 200, and the protruding pins 600 may be provided on the top cover assembly 220.

[0064] The protruding pin 600 may be formed on the module frame 200. More specifically, the protruding pin 600 may be formed on the top cover assembly 220 of the module frame 200.

[0065] On the other hand, the battery module 100 may include a module frame 200 that houses the battery cells 110. For example, a battery cell stack 120 may be housed inside the module frame 200. The venting portion 220V may be formed on one surface of the module frame 200.

[0066] Specifically, the module frame 200 may include a bottom frame 210 on which the battery cells 110 are placed and a top cover assembly 220 that covers one side of the battery cells 110. The venting portion 220V in this embodiment may be formed in the top cover assembly 220. The battery cells 110 may be housed in the space formed by the bottom frame 210 and the top cover assembly 220. The bottom frame 210 and the top cover assembly 220 are joined to each other at corresponding corners by methods such as welding, so that the module frame 200 can cover the upper, lower, and both sides of the battery cell stack 120.

[0067] For example, the bottom frame 210 according to this embodiment may include a bottom portion 211 and two side portions 212. The two side portions 212 may extend upward along opposite edges of the bottom portion 211, perpendicular to one surface of the bottom portion 211. The bottom portion 211 and the two side portions 212 may cover the bottom surface and both sides of the battery cell stack 120. As described above, one surface of a battery cell 110 within the battery cell stack 120 is parallel to the side portion 212 of the bottom frame 210, and the battery cells 110 may be stacked along a direction from one side portion 212 to the other. The detailed structure of the top cover assembly 220 according to this embodiment will be described later with reference to Figures 10 to 18.

[0068] On the other hand, in the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, a first end plate 310 and a second end plate 320 may be arranged on one side of the battery cell stack 120 in the direction in which the electrode leads 111 protrude, and on the opposite side. Such first end plates 310 and second end plates 320 may be joined to the module frame 200 by methods such as welding. The module frame 200, the first end plate 310, and the second end plate 320 may include a metal material to have a predetermined strength. The battery cell stack 120 can be covered by the module frame 200, the first end plate 310, and the second end plate 320, and protected from external shocks and vibrations.

[0069] A battery module 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first insulating cover 810 that covers the inner surface of a first end plate 310 and a second insulating cover 820 that covers the inner surface of a second end plate 320. The first insulating cover 810 may be located between the first end plate 310 and the first busbar frame 410, and the second insulating cover 820 may be located between the second end plate 320 and the second busbar frame 420. The first insulating cover 810 and the second insulating cover 820 may contain an electrically insulating material, which prevents the first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 from coming into contact with the electrode leads 111, busbars 510, etc., and causing a short circuit.

[0070] On the other hand, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment may include a first busbar frame 410 and a second busbar frame 420 that cover one side of the battery cell stack 120 in the direction in which the electrode leads 111 protrude, and the opposite side, respectively. The first busbar frame 410 may be located between the battery cell stack 120 and the first end plate 310, and the second busbar frame 420 may be located between the battery cell stack 120 and the second end plate 320. The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 may include an electrically insulating material, which prevents the busbars 510 and terminal busbars 520 (described later) from coming into contact with other parts of the battery cell 110 other than the electrode leads 111 and causing a short circuit.

[0071] Busbars 510, terminal busbars 520, and module connectors 530 may be attached to each of the first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420. Specifically, the busbars 510, terminal busbars 520, and module connectors 530 may be attached to the opposite side of the first and second busbar frames 410 and 420 from the side facing the battery cell stack 120. The busbars 510 can be electrically connected to the electrode leads 111 of the battery cells 110. For example, the busbars 510 and the electrode leads 111 may be joined by welding. Slits may be formed in the first and second busbar frames 410 and 420, and the electrode leads 111 may pass through such slits to be connected to the busbars 510. The battery cells 110 can be electrically connected in series or parallel via such busbars 510.

[0072] The terminal busbar 520 may be electrically connected to the electrode leads 111, and a portion of it may be exposed to the outside of the battery module 100. The battery module 100 can form an HV (High Voltage) connection with other battery modules or electrical components through such a terminal busbar 520. Here, an HV connection is a power supply connection that provides power requiring high voltage, and means a connection between battery cells or between battery modules.

[0073] The module connector 530 can perform the function of transmitting voltage information of the battery cell 110 and temperature information inside the battery module 100 to the outside. Therefore, a part of the module connector 530 can also be exposed to the outside of the battery module 100.

[0074] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the top plate 221 of the top cover assembly 220 in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of section "B" in Figure 11. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the top cover 222 of the top cover assembly 220 in Figure 10. Figure 14 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of section "C" in Figure 13.

[0075] Referring to Figures 10 to 14, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the top cover assembly 220 may include a top plate 221 located on one side of the battery cell 110, and a top cover 222 that covers one side of the top plate 221.

[0076] For example, the top plate 221 may include a metal material and be welded to the bottom frame 210 (see Figure 4). In contrast, the top cover 222 may include FRB-silicone or MICA material. The top cover 222 may not be made of metal in order to induce the connecting portion 222C, which connects the rupture section 222R, to rupture under a certain pressure.

[0077] Even if welding between the top plate 221 and the top cover 222 is not possible, the top cover 222 can be fixed to the top plate 221 through flange bolts (not shown) and spacers (not shown). Fixing the top cover 222 using flange bolts and spacers is useful from the standpoint of the materials of the top plate 221 and the top cover 222.

[0078] Referring again to Figures 10 to 14, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin 600 may be formed on the top plate 221 and protrude to one side through the top cover 222. In other words, the protruding pin 600 formed on the top plate 221 may protrude toward the other end through a slit 600b formed in the top cover 222 which is located at one end of the top plate 221.

[0079] Alternatively, a protrusion (not shown) may be formed on the top cover 222 into which the protruding pin 600 can be inserted. In this case, the protruding pin 600 formed on the top plate 221 may be coupled to the protrusion on the top cover 222.

[0080] Figure 15 is a top view of a top plate 221 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 is a top view of a top cover 222 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 10 to 16, a venting section 220V according to one embodiment of the present invention is formed on the top plate 221 and may include at least one venting hole 221VH for gas discharge from inside the module frame 200.

[0082] Furthermore, the venting section 220V is formed in the top cover 222, positioned to correspond to the venting hole 221VH, and may include a rupture section 222R that ruptures above a certain pressure.

[0083] As mentioned above, the venting section 220V is a general term for a device that discharges high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module 100 to the outside of the battery module 100. In this embodiment, the venting section 220V may refer to a component that integrates the venting hole 221VH and the rupture section 222R.

[0084] As previously explained, the module frame 200 may include a bottom frame 210 on which the battery cells 110 are placed and a top cover assembly 220 that covers one side of the battery cells 110, and the venting portion 220V may be formed in the top cover assembly 220. As mentioned above, the top cover assembly 220 may include a top plate 221 located on one side of the battery cells 110 and a top cover 222 that covers one side of the top plate 221.

[0085] The venting section 220V may include a venting hole 221VH formed in the top plate 221 and a rupture section 222R formed in the top cover 222 and located corresponding to the venting hole 221VH. The rupture section 222R may have a structure that ruptures above a certain pressure.

[0086] The venting hole 221VH may be a through-hole formed in the top plate 221. The rupture section 222R can cover such a venting hole 221VH on one side of the top plate 221.

[0087] Referring again to Figures 1, 2, and 10 to 16, an open portion 222P may be formed in the region of the periphery of the rupture portion 222R according to one embodiment of the present invention, excluding the connecting portion 222C, and the rupture portion 222R may be formed to be connected to the top cover 222 by the connecting portion 222C.

[0088] An open portion 222P may be formed in the area around the rupture portion 222R, excluding the connecting portion 222C. The open portion 222P represents the open part of the top cover 222. The rupture portion 222R according to this embodiment may be formed to be connected to the top cover 222 by the connecting portion 222C. In other words, the rupture portion 222R can be provided on the top cover 222 by forming an open portion 222P on the top cover 222, excluding only the connecting portion 222C.

[0089] Furthermore, when viewed along one surface of the top cover 222 perpendicular to it, the opening 222P can be located on the outer edge of the venting hole 221VH. Viewing along one surface of the top cover 222 perpendicular to it can correspond to viewing along the -z axis on the xy plane, as shown in Figures 4, 15, and 16. Also, Figures 14 and 16 show that in one of the venting holes 221VH, the opening 222P is provided outside the venting hole 221VH.

[0090] Through the structure described above, when the venting section 220V is viewed from inside the battery module 100, the venting hole 221VH is blocked by the rupture section 222R, and the open section 222P is covered by the top plate 221. In other words, because the venting hole 221VH is formed in an area inside the open section 222P, when viewed from inside the battery module 100, only the rupture section 222R is exposed through the venting hole 221VH, and the open section 222P is not exposed.

[0091] As a result, under normal conditions where no thermal events occur, the venting hole 221VH is blocked by the rupture section 222R, and therefore the venting section 220V does not release internal gas. However, if a thermal event or thermal runaway phenomenon generates high-temperature venting gas and heat inside the battery module 100, and the internal pressure of the battery module 100 increases, the rupture section 222R can rupture. Specifically, if the increased internal pressure of the battery module 100 exceeds the limit strength of the connecting section 222C, the connecting section 222C may break, and the rupture section 222R may separate from the top cover 222. This may open the venting hole 221VH, and the high-temperature venting gas and heat may be released to the outside of the battery module 100 through the venting hole 221VH. More specifically, the high-temperature venting gas and heat may be released through the venting hole 221VH into the venting space VS between the pack cover 1200 and the battery module 100. The high-temperature venting gas and heat flowing along the venting space VS may be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 through venting devices (not shown) provided on the pack frame 1100 or pack cover 1200.

[0092] Figures 17 and 18 are cross-sectional views showing venting sections 220V' and 220V'' according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, as mentioned above, the venting sections 220V' and 220V'' are commonly referred to as devices for discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module to the outside of the battery module. In another embodiment of the present invention, the venting section 220V' may be a thinner portion than the adjacent area in order to discharge high-temperature venting gas and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly 220' of the module frame 200 may be a single plate-like form, and the venting section 220V' may be a thinner portion of such a top cover assembly 220' compared to the surrounding area. When high-temperature venting gas and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the venting section 220V', which has a relatively thin thickness, ruptures, allowing the high-temperature venting gas and heat to be discharged.

[0094] On the other hand, in yet another embodiment of the present invention, the venting portion 220V'' may be a portion in which a groove 220G is formed along the periphery to discharge high-temperature venting gas and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly 220'' of the module frame 200 may be in a single plate-like form, and the venting portion 220V'' may be the inner portion of the groove 220G formed in such a top cover assembly 220''. When high-temperature venting gas and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the groove 220G will first rupture, opening the venting portion 220V'' and allowing the high-temperature venting gas and heat to be discharged.

[0095] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device including a battery pack 1000 is provided.

[0096] One or more battery modules according to the above-described embodiment can be mounted together with various control and protection systems such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit), and a cooling system to form a battery pack 1000.

[0097] The battery module 100 and battery pack 1000 may be applied to a variety of devices. Specifically, they may be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrids, but are not limited to these, and are applicable to a variety of devices that can use secondary batteries.

[0098] In this embodiment, terms indicating direction such as front, back, left, right, and up and down were used, but such terms are merely for the convenience of explanation and may change depending on the position of the object in question, the observer's position, etc.

[0099] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications and improvements of the basic concepts of the present invention, as defined in the following claims, also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 100: Battery Module 110: Battery cell 120: Battery cell stack 220: Top cover assembly 221: Top plate 222: Top cover 220V: Venting section 600: Protruding pin 1000: Battery pack 1300: Fire-resistant sheet

Claims

1. Battery module; A pack frame in which the aforementioned battery module is housed, with one side open; A pack cover that covers one open side of the pack frame; and A fire-resistant sheet attached to one end of the pack cover; The aforementioned battery module is A stack of battery cells, consisting of multiple battery cells stacked on top of each other; A vent formed on one side of the battery module for the discharge of venting gas; and A battery pack including a protruding pin that protrudes toward the pack cover from one side of the battery module.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the protruding pins extend in the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the protruding pin extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the protruding pin is positioned between the venting portions.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the protruding pins abut the fire-resistant sheet.

6. The battery module includes a module frame in which the stack of battery cells is housed and which has one open side; and a top cover assembly that covers the open side of the module frame; The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the protruding pin is provided in the top cover assembly.

7. The aforementioned top cover assembly, A top plate located on one side of the battery cell; and The battery pack according to claim 6, further comprising a top cover that covers one surface of the top plate.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the protruding pin is formed in the top plate and protrudes to one side through the top cover.

9. The battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the venting portion is formed in the top plate and includes at least one venting hole for venting gas from inside the module frame.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein the venting portion is formed in the top cover, is positioned to correspond to the venting hole, and includes a rupture portion that ruptures when a certain pressure is exceeded.

11. An open portion is formed in the region of the periphery of the ruptured portion, excluding the connecting portion. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein the rupture portion is formed to be connected to the top cover by the connecting portion.

12. A device comprising the battery pack described in claim 1.

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