Battery module, Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module characterized by comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed on at least one side; and a barrier member provided inside the module case, dividing the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups and configured to cover a venting hole corresponding to each cell group.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile. Specifically, the present invention relates to a battery module in which heat propagation within the battery module can be suppressed, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] Meanwhile, since battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade if used in environments higher than the optimal temperature; furthermore, if thermal control is not maintained at the appropriate temperature, there is a constant risk of unexpected ignition or explosion. Additionally, battery modules are structured to house these battery cells intensively within a module housing. Consequently, if a thermal event occurs in a single battery cell, the emitted high-temperature gases or flames can transfer to adjacent cells, potentially leading to a chain reaction of explosions, making this situation extremely dangerous.

[0005] Therefore, conventional battery modules were designed to vent venting gases or flames to the outside of the module case by providing venting holes on the upper or lower surface of the module case in the event of a thermal event in the battery cell. However, such conventional battery modules had a problem in that not only was excessive heat concentrated on the venting hole side, but the vented flames or sparks were also re-entered through the venting hole, accelerating heat transfer to adjacent battery cells.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure capable of suppressing and delaying thermal propagation so that even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within a battery module, gases or flames may transfer to other battery cells within the module and cause thermal runaway. The problem to be solved

[0007] Therefore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery module in which the thermal runaway propagation between battery cells can be effectively prevented or delayed by reliably partitioning the battery cells.

[0008] Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack and an automobile including such a battery module.

[0009] However, the problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. means of solving the problem

[0010] To solve the above problem, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed on at least one side; and a barrier member provided inside the module case, dividing the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups and configured to cover a venting hole corresponding to each cell group.

[0011] The above module case may have a first venting hole formed on one side of the module case and a second venting hole formed on the other side of the module case.

[0012] The first venting hole and the second venting hole may be arranged staggered relative to each other.

[0013] The above barrier member may be composed of a single plate bent multiple times.

[0014] The above barrier member may be folded multiple times to form multiple receiving spaces, and configured so that each of the cell groups is accommodated in the receiving spaces.

[0015] The above receiving space may be configured to open toward the opposite side of the venting hole.

[0016] The open portion of the above receiving space may be arranged staggered with the above venting hole.

[0017] The barrier member may be in a folded form and may include a horizontal portion configured to extend along the stacking direction of the battery cell to cover the venting hole, and a vertical portion configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell.

[0018] The above horizontal section may include a first horizontal section configured to cover the lower part of the cell group and a second horizontal section configured to cover the upper part of the cell group.

[0019] The first horizontal section and the second horizontal section may be arranged staggered relative to each other.

[0020] The barrier member may have an inclined portion such that the horizontal portion is at least partially inclined toward the venting hole.

[0021] The above horizontal section may be configured in a mesh form at least partially.

[0022] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0023] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gases or flames generated in battery cells within a battery module can be vented in various directions and smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module, thereby preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway caused by an increase in the internal pressure of the battery module. As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be guaranteed.

[0025] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, the venting hole is covered by a barrier member, thereby preventing venting gas, flames, sparks, etc. from re-entering the battery module through the venting hole. Accordingly, the occurrence of a fire inside the battery module can be suppressed.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, a group of cells within a battery module is reliably partitioned by a barrier member, so that even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, it is possible to effectively prevent or delay the transfer of gas or flames to other battery cells within the battery module and cause thermal runaway.

[0027] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, since the barrier member is folded multiple times to form a zigzag shape, multiple cell groups can be partitioned, thereby improving productivity during the manufacturing of a battery module.

[0028] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, by fixing a cell group by a barrier member, deformation or damage to the battery cells can be prevented in the event of thermal runaway within the battery module or swelling of the battery cells. Thus, structural stability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway phenomena in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with them can be prevented or delayed.

[0030] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0031] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a lower perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 4 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a barrier member included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a barrier member and a cell group included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 4. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a barrier member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a barrier member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a barrier member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0033] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0034] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0035] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in the present invention, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0036] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, i.e., the stacking direction of the battery cell; the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), i.e., the length direction of the battery cell; and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction), i.e., the height direction of the battery cell, which is perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 4 may be a drawing showing the cross-section along I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100), a module case (200), and a barrier member (300).

[0040] The battery cells (100) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple battery cells (100) may be provided stacked in one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, multiple battery cells (100) may be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0041] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly and a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly. The cell case may have a storage portion configured to accommodate the electrode assembly and a sealing portion formed by heat-fusing the perimeter around the storage portion. The sealing portion may be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell (100).

[0042] Additionally, a plurality of battery cells (100) may each be provided with an electrode lead (110). The electrode lead (110) is connected to an electrode assembly and can be drawn out to the outside of the cell case to function as an electrode terminal.

[0043] The electrode leads (110) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (110) may be drawn out at both ends of the battery cell (100), that is, in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (110) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (100) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (110) are located only at one end in the Y-axis direction, for example, at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[0044] A battery cell (100) may be provided in an upright position with the side not containing the sealing portion facing downward. As illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). At this time, each battery cell (100) may have the sealing portion facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upward direction (+Z-axis direction), and the storage portion facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0045] By arranging the battery cells (100) in this way, it is easy to control the venting direction to one side, and cooling performance can be secured by performing edge cooling through the surface that does not include the sealing part.

[0046] The present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of such battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is used as shown in the drawing, but it is understood that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries may be applied as battery cells (100).

[0047] Additionally, the battery cell (100) of the present invention may mean one battery or a group of more batteries.

[0048] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (400). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be provided inside the module case (200) and configured to cover at least one side of a plurality of battery cells (100). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the busbar frame assembly (400) may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0049] The busbar frame assembly (400) may include a busbar frame (410) and a plurality of busbars (420). The busbar frame (410) may be configured to be coupled to the front and rear of approximately a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar frame (410) may have slits that allow the electrode leads (110) of the battery cells (100) to be drawn out in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. Additionally, the busbar frame (410) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic, and configured to allow busbars (420) to be attached to its outer surface.

[0050] Multiple busbars (420) are made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and can be provided in the form of rods as a means for connecting battery cells (100) in series and / or in parallel. The electrode leads (110) of the battery cells (100) pass through a slit in the busbar frame (410) and are drawn out to the outside of the busbar frame (410), and the drawn-out portion can be attached to the surface of the busbar (420) by means such as welding.

[0051] The above module case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). Specifically, the module case (200) may have an internal space formed therein and may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space.

[0052] Venting holes (H) may be formed in the module case (200). Multiple venting holes (H) may be provided and may be arranged at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction). The venting holes (H) may be provided to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to the outside of the module case (200).

[0053] A venting hole (H) may be formed on at least one side of the module case (200). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the venting hole (H) may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the module case (200). Thus, directional venting of the battery module (10) in both upward and downward directions may be possible through the venting hole (H).

[0054] The barrier member (300) may be provided inside the module case (200). The barrier member (300) may be configured to group a plurality of battery cells (100). The barrier member (300) may be configured to divide a plurality of battery cells (100) into a plurality of cell groups (G). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the barrier member (300) may be configured to group the battery cells (100) into groups of four. That is, one cell group (G) may include four battery cells (100).

[0055] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of cell groups (G) are partitioned or separated so that gas or flames generated in one cell group (G) can be prevented from moving to an adjacent cell group (G) and transferring heat. As a result, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be prevented or delayed.

[0056] These barrier members (300) may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the barrier members (300) may be made of mica. This allows the structure to be configured so that it does not deform even under high heat and high pressure and maintains an airtight structure.

[0057] Additionally, the barrier member (300) may be made of a compressible material. For example, the barrier member (300) may be made of any one of the following materials: silicone, aerogel, polyurethane, etc. Accordingly, the barrier member (300) may be configured to be in complete contact with an adjacent battery cell (100).

[0058] Additionally, the barrier member (300) may be made of a material having electrical insulation properties. This ensures electrical insulation between the battery cells (100).

[0059] Meanwhile, the venting hole (H) may be provided to correspond to each cell group (G). In this case, the barrier member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) corresponding to each cell group (G).

[0060] More specifically, the barrier member (300) may be configured to cover some of the six sides of the cell group (G). In this case, the barrier member (300) may be configured to cover the side of the cell group (G) located on the side of the venting hole (H). For example, if the venting hole (H) is provided on the top of the cell group (G), the barrier member (300) may be configured to cover the left side, the right side, and the top side of the cell group (G).

[0061] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting hole (H) is covered by the barrier member (300), thereby preventing venting gas or flames discharged to the outside through the venting hole (H) from flowing back into the battery module (10). Therefore, since heat propagation to neighboring battery modules (10) can be minimized and heat runaway propagation can be effectively prevented or delayed, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0062] In particular, if flames or sparks are re-entered into the battery module (10) through the venting hole (H), they may come into contact with oxygen inside the battery module (10) and accelerate an explosion. However, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, sparks or the like are prevented from entering into the battery module (10) by the barrier member (300), thereby suppressing the occurrence of a fire inside the battery module (10).

[0064] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3, the module case (200) may be provided with a case body (210) and a top plate (220). The case body (210) may be configured so that at least the top surface is open. For example, the case body (210) may be configured so that the top surface, front surface, and rear surface are open. That is, the case body (210) may be provided as a U-frame.

[0065] The case body (210) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cell (100).

[0066] The top plate (220) may be provided to form the upper surface of the module case (200). The top plate (220) may be attached to the open upper surface of the case body (210). The top plate (220) may be welded to the case body (210) to be joined together. At this time, the combined shape of the top plate (220) and the case body (210) may be a rectangular tubular shape with the front and rear sides open.

[0067] Meanwhile, the module case (200) may include an end plate (230) provided on the open front and rear of the case body (210). The end plate (230) may be welded to the case body (210). Meanwhile, although not illustrated for convenience, the end plate (230) may, for example, be made of an insulating material on the inside and a metal material on the outside. Additionally, the end plate (230) may be partially provided with holes or slits to expose parts that need to be exposed to the outside, such as the positive terminal and negative terminal or connector of the battery module (10).

[0068] In addition, the module case (200) may be formed in various other forms. For example, the module case (200) may have a box-shaped lower case having an upper open end and an upper cover that closes the upper open end of the lower case. Alternatively, the module case (200) may be composed of a monoframe.

[0069] Meanwhile, the module case (200) may be provided with a first venting hole (H1) and a second venting hole (H2). The first venting hole (H1) may be formed on one side of the module case (200). The second venting hole (H2) may be formed on the other side of the module case (200). That is, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be formed on different sides of the module case (200). Accordingly, venting gas, etc. generated in the cell group (G) can be discharged in various directions rather than in a single direction.

[0070] In particular, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be formed on opposite sides of the module case (200). That is, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be formed on opposite sides of the module case (200). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the venting path can be separated in both directions, heat concentration in either direction can be prevented. Accordingly, heat propagation of the battery module (10) can be suppressed or prevented.

[0071] At this time, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the first venting hole (H1) may be formed on the upper surface of the module case (200), such as the top plate (220). Additionally, the second venting hole (H2) may be formed on the lower surface of the module case (200). Accordingly, venting gas or flames generated in the cell group (G) can be discharged upward or downward through the venting hole (H) provided on the upper or lower part of the cell group (G).

[0072] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames, etc., can be prevented from moving to other adjacent cell groups (G) by ensuring that they do not face the stacking direction of the battery cell (100). Additionally, venting gas or flames, etc., can be smoothly discharged in a vertical direction without obstruction by other adjacent structures.

[0073] Furthermore, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be arranged staggered relative to each other. That is, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be arranged staggered relative to each other along the horizontal direction, such as the stacking direction of the battery cell (100). The first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be provided at opposite positions for each cell group (G).

[0074] More specifically, referring to FIG. 4, the barrier member (300) may be configured to partition a first cell group (G1) and a second cell group (G2). The first cell group (G1) and the second cell group (G2) may be arranged alternately along the stacking direction of the battery cells (100) by the barrier member (300).

[0075] At this time, the first venting hole (H1) may be provided on the upper part of the first cell group (G1). The barrier member (300) may be configured to cover the upper surface of the first cell group (G). Additionally, the second venting hole (H2) may be provided on the lower part of the second cell group (G2). The barrier member (300) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the second cell group (G2).

[0076] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) are provided at positions that are staggered from each other, thereby minimizing the movement of heat, such as venting gas or flame, toward other cell groups (G).

[0078] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a barrier member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a barrier member and a cell group included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Also, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 4.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the barrier member (300) may be formed by folding a single plate multiple times. The barrier member (300) may be formed by folding a single plate multiple times in opposite directions. The barrier member (300) may be formed by folding a single plate 180 degrees. Accordingly, the barrier member (300) may be formed in a zigzag shape. Additionally, the barrier member (300) may be formed in a Z shape.

[0080] A plurality of such barrier members (300) may be provided inside the module case (200). Alternatively, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, a single barrier member (300) may be provided inside the module case (200) and configured to cover all battery cells (100).

[0081] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the barrier member (300) is folded multiple times to form a zigzag shape, multiple cell groups (G) can be simply partitioned. Accordingly, productivity can be improved during the manufacturing of the battery module (10).

[0082] More specifically, the barrier member (300) can be folded multiple times to form a plurality of receiving spaces (S). In other words, a plurality of receiving spaces (S) can be formed as the barrier member (300) is folded multiple times. The plurality of receiving spaces (S) can be arranged alternately along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100).

[0083] A receiving space (S) may be configured to accommodate a cell group (G). Each cell group (G) may be provided for each receiving space (S). As a more specific example, a first receiving space (S1) may be configured to accommodate a first cell group (G1), and a second receiving space (S2) may be configured to accommodate a second cell group (G2).

[0084] At this time, each receiving space (S) may be configured to be open in different directions. The open portions of the receiving spaces (S) may be arranged alternately. The open portions of the receiving spaces (S) may be arranged alternately toward either the upper or the lower side. For example, the first receiving space (S1) may be configured to be open toward the lower side, and the second receiving space (S2) may be configured to be open toward the upper side.

[0085] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of venting holes (H) may be individually located in each receiving space (S). At this time, the receiving space (S) may be configured to open toward the opposite side of the venting hole (H). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the first venting hole (H1) may be located at the top of the first cell group (G1), and the first receiving space (S1) may be open toward the bottom side of the first cell group (G1). Conversely, the second venting hole (H2) may be located at the bottom of the second cell group (G2), and the second receiving space (S2) may be open toward the top side of the second cell group (G2).

[0086] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting induction directions of the first cell group (G1) and the second cell group (G2) can be configured differently from each other. Accordingly, the venting gas, etc. generated in the cell group (G) within the receiving space (S) can be configured to be guided and discharged only toward the venting hole (H) without moving toward the other cell group (G).

[0087] Furthermore, the open portions of the receiving space (S) may be arranged staggered with respect to the venting holes (H). The open portions of the receiving space (S) and the venting holes (H) may be arranged staggered along the horizontal direction, such as the stacking direction of the battery cells (100). The open portions of each receiving space (S) may be interposed between adjacent venting holes (H).

[0088] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the open portion of the first receiving space (S1) may be arranged staggered with respect to the second venting hole (H2). Additionally, the closed portion of the first receiving space (S1) may be configured to face the first venting hole (H1).

[0089] At this time, the first receiving space (S1) may be configured to be in communication with the second venting hole (H2). Additionally, the second receiving space (S2) may be configured to be in communication with the first venting hole (H1). In particular, the barrier member (300) may be configured to be spaced apart from the first venting hole (H1) by a predetermined distance. Accordingly, venting gas or flames generated in the second cell group (G2) within the second receiving space (S2) may move to both the left and right sides and be discharged upward through the first venting hole (H1).

[0090] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100) within a cell group (G), venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through venting holes (H) provided on both the left and right sides of each cell group (G). As a result, high-temperature gas or flames can be vented in various directions and smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10), thereby preventing or delaying the occurrence of thermal runaway propagation caused by an increase in the internal pressure of the battery module (10).

[0091] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, heat is discharged in both directions and heat concentration to one side is prevented, thereby allowing heat propagation of the battery module (10) to be suppressed or prevented more effectively.

[0093] The structure of the barrier member (300) is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 7. The barrier member (300) is in a folded form and may have a horizontal section (310) and a vertical section (320). That is, the horizontal section (310) and the vertical section (320) can be defined by the barrier member (300) being folded multiple times.

[0094] The horizontal portion (310) may be configured to extend along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100). The horizontal portion (310) may be configured in the form of a flat plate.

[0095] The vertical section (320) may be configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell (100). The vertical section (320) may be in a form that extends upward from the horizontal section (310). The angle between the vertical section (320) and the horizontal section (310) may be approximately 90 degrees. The vertical section (320) may be configured in the form of a flat plate.

[0096] The receiving space (S) can be formed by one horizontal section (310) and two vertical sections (320). The vertical sections (320) can be provided between adjacent cell groups (G). For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the vertical sections (320) can be provided between the first cell group (G1) and the second cell group (G2). The vertical sections (320) can be provided on both the left and right sides of the cell groups (G). That is, the vertical sections (320) can be configured to partition a plurality of cell groups (G).

[0097] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the cell group (G) is configured to be at least partially surrounded by the vertical portion (320) and the horizontal portion (310), heat propagation between the battery cells (100) can be suppressed.

[0098] Furthermore, the vertical member (320) may be configured to fix the cell group (G) from both sides. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the barrier member (300) can suppress swelling of the battery cell (100) by compressing the cell group (G) from both sides when swelling of the battery cell (100) occurs. Accordingly, the barrier member (300) can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (100).

[0099] The horizontal section (310) may be provided with a first horizontal section (311) and a second horizontal section (312). The first horizontal section (311) may be configured to cover the lower part of the cell group (G). That is, the first horizontal section (311) may be provided at the lower part of the second horizontal section (312). The first horizontal section (311) may be configured to allow the second cell group (G2) to be seated. Additionally, the first horizontal section (311) may be configured to face the second venting hole (H2).

[0100] Additionally, the second horizontal section (312) may be configured to cover the upper part of the cell group (G). That is, the second horizontal section (312) may be provided on the upper part of the first horizontal section (311). Additionally, the second horizontal section (312) may be configured to face the first venting hole (H1).

[0101] The first horizontal section (311) and the second horizontal section (312) may be arranged alternately with respect to each other. The first horizontal section (311) and the second horizontal section (312) may be arranged alternately with respect to each other along the horizontal direction, such as the arrangement direction of the cell group (G). For example, the first horizontal section (311) may be provided at the bottom, and the second horizontal section (312) may be provided at the top. These first horizontal section (311), second horizontal section (312), and vertical section (320) may be formed as the barrier member (300) is configured in a Z shape.

[0103] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a barrier member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0104] As another embodiment, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the barrier member (300) may have an inclined portion (330). The inclined portion (330) may be a part where the horizontal portion (310) is configured to be at least partially inclined. The inclined portion (330) may be formed by bending the horizontal portion (310) of the barrier member (300) multiple times. The inclined portion (330) may be configured to guide venting gas or flames toward the venting hole (H). The inclined portion (330) may be configured to be inclined toward the venting hole (H). The inclined portion (330) may be configured in a diagonal shape.

[0105] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flame generated in a cell group (G) is guided to the venting hole (H) by the inclined portion (330) and can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through the venting hole (H).

[0106] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, directional venting in both directions can be induced more effectively. Accordingly, heat can be rapidly dispersed within the cell group (G), thereby preventing heat propagation between battery cells (100).

[0108] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a barrier member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a barrier member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0109] In another embodiment, the horizontal portion (310) may be configured in a mesh form at least partially. That is, the barrier member (300) may be provided with a mesh member (M). The mesh member (M) may be configured to filter flames and allow venting gas to pass through. Such a mesh member (M) may be configured in a form in which a plurality of pores are formed in a plate-like member, or in a form in which a plurality of wires are woven like a net. In this case, the pores may be configured to a size capable of filtering flames discharged from the cell group (G) to the outside of the barrier member (300).

[0110] In particular, the mesh member (M) may be provided at a position corresponding to the venting hole (H). That is, the mesh member (M) can prevent flames from being discharged outside the module case (200) through the venting hole (H) and acting as an ignition factor.

[0111] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the passage of the flame can be minimized through a mesh structure formed at a position corresponding to the venting hole (H), while allowing the venting gas to pass through. Accordingly, there is an advantage that not only is the exposure of the flame to the outside of the module case (200) minimized, but the venting gas can also be rapidly discharged.

[0112] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the mesh member (M) is provided in the barrier member (300), it can perform a screening function for particles (discharges) such as sparks. That is, through the mesh structure formed in the barrier member (300), internal gas is effectively induced to flow out to the outside, and at the same time, physical blocking of ignition factors such as high-temperature particles and sparks, as well as restraint or containment, can be effectively implemented, thereby effectively reducing and suppressing the leakage of particles such as sparks to the outside. Furthermore, it can suppress particles such as sparks discharged to the outside through another venting hole (H) from flowing back into the cell group (G) through the venting hole (H).

[0114] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 11, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating components such as a Battery Management System (BMS) for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules, a current sensor, a fuse, etc., as described above.

[0117] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 12, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention or battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (1) to the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Although the present invention has been described above by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Explanation of the symbols

[0121] 3 : Cars 1 : Battery pack 10: Battery Module G: Cell group 100 : Battery cell 110: Electrode lead 200 : Module case H: Venting hole 210 : Case body 220 : Top Plate 230 : End plate 300 : Barrier absence S: Accommodation space 310 : Horizontal section 320 : Vertical section 330 : Inclined section 400 : Busbar frame assembly 410 : Busbar frame 420 : Busbar

Claims

Claim 1 A battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed on at least one side; and a barrier member provided inside the module case, dividing the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups and configured to cover a venting hole corresponding to each cell group, wherein the barrier member is folded multiple times to form a plurality of receiving spaces, each receiving space is configured to accommodate the cell group, and the receiving spaces are configured to be open toward the opposite side of the venting holes. Claim 2 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the module case comprises a first venting hole formed on one side of the module case and a second venting hole formed on the other side of the module case. Claim 3 A battery module according to paragraph 2, characterized in that the first venting hole and the second venting hole are arranged in an alternating manner. Claim 4 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the barrier member is formed by folding a single plate multiple times. Claim 5 delete Claim 6 delete Claim 7 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the open portion of the receiving space is arranged staggered with respect to the venting hole. Claim 8 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the barrier member is in a folded form and comprises a horizontal portion configured to extend along the stacking direction of the battery cell to cover the venting hole and a vertical portion configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell. Claim 9 A battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that the horizontal portion comprises a first horizontal portion configured to cover the lower part of the cell group and a second horizontal portion configured to cover the upper part of the cell group. Claim 10 A battery module according to claim 9, characterized in that the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section are arranged staggered relative to each other. Claim 11 A battery module according to claim 8, wherein the barrier member comprises an inclined portion such that the horizontal portion is at least partially inclined toward the venting hole. Claim 12 A battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that the horizontal portion is at least partially configured in a mesh form. Claim 13 A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 4 and paragraphs 7 through 12. Claim 14 An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 4 and paragraphs 7 through 12.

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