Battery module with open venting hole by detaching the fireproof coating layer

Abstract

A battery module according to the present invention comprises: a cell assembly having a plurality of mutually stacked battery cells; a module case having a venting hole formed therein and housing the cell assembly in an internal space; and a cover member having a fire-resistant coating layer applied thereto that covers the venting hole and is disposed on the outer surface of the module case, and which is detached by the pressure of the venting gas when the venting gas is generated inside the module case.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, and more specifically, to a battery module in which a fire-resistant coating layer applied within a mesh plate on the upper part of the module can be partially detached to open a venting hole. Background Technology

[0002] Semi-permanent batteries that convert electrical energy into the form of chemical energy and can be repeatedly charged and discharged are referred to as secondary batteries to distinguish them from primary batteries, which cannot be reused after a single use.

[0003] Rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, lead-acid batteries, nickel-hydrogen (Ni-MH) batteries, air-zinc batteries, and alkaline manganese batteries. Among these, lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries are considered the most actively commercialized rechargeable batteries.

[0004] In particular, lithium-ion batteries are actively being utilized as electric vehicle batteries recently due to their high energy storage density, the ability to be lightweight and miniaturized, excellent safety, low discharge rate, and long lifespan. For reference, lithium-ion batteries are generally classified into cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch types depending on their manufacturing form, and their applications extend beyond electric vehicle batteries to include ESS batteries and other electrical devices.

[0005] Currently, the operating voltage of a single lithium secondary battery cell is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, in order to apply secondary batteries as an energy source for electric vehicles, a battery module is configured by connecting multiple lithium-ion battery cells in series and / or parallel, and a battery pack is configured by connecting the battery modules in series and / or parallel.

[0006] Meanwhile, since rechargeable batteries 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 intensively house these rechargeable batteries within a module housing; consequently, if even a single battery undergoes heat runaway and becomes a trigger cell, heat and flames rapidly propagate to surrounding batteries, making it easier for them to ignite in a chain reaction.

[0007] In particular, because as many battery modules as possible must be accommodated within a limited space in terms of density, sufficient empty space is not provided inside the battery modules. For example, in a battery pack containing one or more battery modules, the space between the module case and the pack case can be formed very narrowly.

[0008] Therefore, in addition to rapidly venting the venting gas even in such a narrow space, it is necessary to prevent the vented venting gas from flowing into other modules to delay or suppress TP (Thermal Pollution). The problem to be solved

[0009] The present invention was devised in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and has the primary objective of providing a battery module with an improved structure that can relieve internal pressure by discharging venting gas generated inside the battery module and also prevents the ingress of flames discharged from other surrounding battery modules.

[0010] The technical 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

[0011] A battery module according to the present invention may include: a cell assembly having a plurality of mutually stacked battery cells; a module case having a venting hole formed therein and housing the cell assembly in an internal space; and a cover member having a fire-resistant coating layer applied thereto that covers the venting hole and is disposed on the outer surface of the module case, and which is detached by the pressure of the venting gas when the venting gas is generated inside the module case.

[0012] The above venting hole may be formed on the upper side of the module case.

[0013] The above cover member may further include a base layer to which the fire-resistant coating layer is bonded, which is bonded facing the upper surface of the module case.

[0014] The above fire-resistant coating layer is provided over the entire surface area of ​​the base layer, and may be bonded to a portion or the entire section along the thickness direction of the base layer.

[0015] The base layer may include at least one mesh plate having a plurality of mesh bars and a void; and a support frame disposed at the edge of the mesh plate to support the mesh plate.

[0016] The above fire-resistant coating layer can be configured such that the fire-resistant coating material is bonded to the mesh bars to block the pores.

[0017] The above refractory coating layer may include one or more inorganic materials selected from ceramic, silicon, silica aerogel, and silica-based inorganic fibers.

[0018] The particle size of the above mineral material may be relatively smaller than the above pores.

[0019] The base layer may include a guide recess provided facing the venting hole to guide the inflow of the venting gas.

[0020] The above guide depression may form a slanted surface that contracts as it extends in the thickness direction of the base layer when viewed from the venting hole toward the upper side.

[0021] The above fire-resistant coating layer is partially provided on the plate surface of the base layer, and can be formed at a location on the base layer facing the venting hole.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery pack comprising one or more of the above-described battery modules may be provided. Effects of the invention

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, when venting gas is generated in the internal space of a battery module, the venting gas can be discharged to the outside to relieve internal pressure, and a battery module with an improved structure can be provided so that flames, etc. discharged from other surrounding battery modules do not enter the battery module.

[0024] In particular, even if the space between the battery module and the pack case is narrow while the battery module is housed inside the pack case, the venting hole can be opened as the fire-resistant coating layer detaches due to gas pressure, thereby ensuring a sufficient path for the exhaust of venting gas. Consequently, the rapid exhaust of venting gas to the outside can effectively prevent heat accumulation and thermal explosions in the battery module.

[0025] In addition, since there is no need to form a gap or space for opening a separate venting hole, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the energy density of the battery pack.

[0026] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, the venting holes of adjacent modules are kept closed by a heat-resistant coating layer, thereby preventing external foreign substances, venting gas discharged outside the battery module, or flames or sparks contained in such venting gas from entering other venting holes. Therefore, the phenomenon of chain ignition or thermal runaway to normal battery cells or battery modules caused by venting gas or flames can be delayed as much as possible. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0027] 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 schematic perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of the battery module of FIG. 1. FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4 are cross-sectional views of a cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a modified example of a cover member of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which a fire-resistant coating layer is bonded to a different section in the thickness direction of the base layer. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the structure of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the path through which venting gas is discharged through a cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0028] 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, and 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.

[0029] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0030] In the drawings, the size of each component or specific part constituting the component is exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for convenience and clarity of explanation. Accordingly, the size of each component does not entirely reflect its actual size. If it is determined that a detailed description of related known functions or configurations could unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention, such description shall be omitted.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of the battery module of FIG. 1.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery module (10) according to the present invention includes a cell assembly (100), a module case (200), and a cover member (300).

[0034] The cell assembly (100) may comprise one or more battery cells (110). Here, each battery cell (110) may represent a secondary battery. Referring mainly to FIG. 2, the battery cell (110) comprises an electrode assembly, a case housing the electrode assembly, and a pair of electrode leads (112) connected to the electrode assembly and drawn out to the outside of the case to function as electrode terminals. The pair of electrode leads (112) are drawn out at both ends of the battery cell (110), that is, in the longitudinal direction.

[0035] If necessary, the battery cell (110) may have a form in which the electrode lead (112) is located only at one end of the battery cell (110). Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of such battery cell (110), and various battery cells (110) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed to constitute the cell assembly (100) of the present invention. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is used, but it is understood that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries may be applied as the battery cell (110).

[0036] These battery cells (110) can be stacked in at least one direction. In this embodiment, with reference mainly to FIG. 2, the battery cells (110) can be stacked in a form arranged along the horizontal direction (the width direction of the battery module (10)) while standing upright in the vertical direction.

[0037] The cell assembly (100) is a collection of battery cells (110) formed by stacking a plurality of battery cells (110). That is, the cell assembly (100) may be a group of a plurality of pouch-type battery cells (110) stacked in one direction with a wide surface facing upright, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0039] The module case (200) may be configured to have an internal space formed therein and to accommodate battery cells (110) in the internal space. The module case (200) of the present embodiment may include a case body (210) and end plates (220) disposed on the front and rear of the case body (210).

[0040] The case body (210) may be configured in the shape of a square tube having an open end (O) with both ends in the longitudinal direction open and a hollow structure with an empty interior. For example, the case body (210) may be configured in the shape of a tube having an upper surface, a lower surface, a left side, and a right side, with openings formed at the front and rear ends, respectively.

[0041] And the above case body may be configured to allow battery cells (110) to be inserted inside along the longitudinal direction. That is, the case body (210) may be configured to allow battery cells (110) to be inserted inside by sliding or press fitting. For press fitting, there may be almost no gap between the upper and lower surfaces of the case body (210) and the upper and lower surfaces of the battery cells (110), and there may also be almost no gap between both sides of the case body (210) and both sides of the battery cells (110). Such a case body (210) may be composed of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cells (110).

[0042] The end plate (220) may be provided to be coupled to the open end (O) of the case body (210) facing the side of the cell assembly (100) where the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) are located, that is, the part where the electrode leads (112) are fixedly connected to the busbars on the busbar frame, so as not to be exposed to the outside. The end plate (220) may be configured such that, for example, the inside is made of an insulating material and the outside is made of a metal material, and may be configured to be fixedly coupled to the case body (210) by welding. Meanwhile, although not shown for convenience of drawing, the end plate (220) 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).

[0043] The module case (200) with such a configuration may have a venting hole (H1) formed on at least one side. As indicated by H1 in FIG. 2, a plurality of venting holes (H1) may be formed on the upper side of the module case (200), offset to the left and right. These venting holes (H1) may be configured so that when venting gas is generated and ejected from the cell assembly (100) housed in the internal space, the generated venting gas can be discharged to the external space of the module case (200). For example, the module case (200) may be configured in a sealed form except for the venting hole (H1). Additionally, the venting hole (H1) may be formed in a completely open form to penetrate the module case (200) in an internal and external direction.

[0045] The cover member (300) may be disposed on the outer surface of the module case (200) and configured to close the venting hole (H1) formed in the module case (200) in a normal state. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, it may be provided on the upper side of the module case (200). Accordingly, it may be configured to cover the venting hole (H1) formed on the upper surface of the module case (200).

[0046] The above-mentioned cover member (300) may be configured to selectively open a venting hole (H1) when venting gas is generated from at least one battery cell (110) among the cell assembly (100) housed inside the module case (200).

[0048] FIGS. 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a modified example of a cover member of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which a fire-resistant coating layer is bonded to another section in the thickness direction of the base layer.

[0049] With reference mainly to FIGS. 3 and 4, the above cover member (300) includes a base layer (310) coupled to the upper surface of the module case (200); and a fireproof coating layer (320) coated with a fireproof coating material (321) that is detached by the pressure of the venting gas when venting gas is generated inside the module case (200).

[0050] The base layer (310) is coupled to face the upper surface of the module case (200) and can be provided with a size substantially identical to that of the upper surface of the module case (200).

[0051] The above-mentioned base layer (310) may be at least one mesh plate (311) having a plurality of mesh bars (312) and a void (313). The above-mentioned base layer (310) may be configured to block high-temperature flames and sparks that may travel along with the venting gas. The above-mentioned base layer (310) is positioned to completely cover the venting hole (H1) to block the entry and exit of flames or sparks generated in the venting hole (H1). By doing so, flames or sparks accompanying the venting gas discharge are sufficiently filtered and blocked, preventing their discharge to the outside of the battery pack, thereby minimizing the risk of ignition of structures around the battery pack or other battery packs.

[0052] In addition, the base layer (310) may include a support frame (314) positioned at the edge of the mesh plate (311) to support the mesh plate (311). Through the support frame (314), the mesh plate (311) can be firmly held even when exposed to high temperatures, thereby preventing warping, deformation, or damage to the plate surface.

[0053] Meanwhile, a venting structure needs to be provided so that the venting gas discharged from inside the battery module (10) can be discharged quickly and effectively. In particular, a selectively opening and closing structure is required in which the venting hole (H1) remains closed under normal circumstances, but the venting hole (H1) opens when a thermal event occurs and venting gas is generated.

[0054] Accordingly, in this embodiment, a fireproof coating layer (320) coated with a fireproof coating material (321) that is detached by the pressure of the venting gas when venting gas is generated inside the module case (200) may be provided.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, the above fire-resistant coating layer (320) can be provided over the entire surface area of ​​the base layer (310).

[0056] Referring mainly to FIG. 4, the above-mentioned refractory coating layer (320) can be formed such that the refractory coating material (321) is bonded to the mesh bars (312) to block the pores (313). Here, the refractory coating layer (320) may include one or more inorganic materials selected from ceramic, silicon, silica aerogel, and silica-based inorganic fibers. The particle size of the inorganic material may be relatively smaller than the pores (313).

[0057] Additionally, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may further include a binder (322) that binds the fire-resistant coating material (321) to the mesh (312) and various additives. The binder (322) may be a metal-friendly resin, such as polyvinyl acetal resin, acrylic resin, polyvinyl chloride resin, polyolefin resin, and epoxy resin. The binder (322) includes the fire-resistant coating material (321) and facilitates attachment to the mesh (312). The additives may include an adhesion promoter, a dispersant, a release agent, a heat stabilizer, an antioxidant, etc.

[0058] This fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be bonded to a portion along the thickness direction of the base layer (310). For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be provided in an upper portion (a predetermined thickness) of the base layer (310) along the thickness direction of the base layer (310).

[0059] Alternatively, as another variation, as in FIG. 5(a), the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be provided along the entire length in the thickness direction of the base layer (310). In this case, compared to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5(b), the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be provided to the thickness of the base layer (310), so that the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is detached when the venting gas ejected from the venting hole (H1) is at a higher pressure. That is, the pressure range of the venting gas at which the venting hole (H1) is fully opened can be increased.

[0060] Additionally, as shown in Fig. 5(b), a fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be provided on the lower part of the base layer (310). In this case, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) can cover the venting hole (H1) of the module case (200) without any gaps, so the degree of sealing of the venting hole (H1) can be improved compared to Fig. 4, thereby blocking the inflow of foreign substances, flames, and sparks to a higher level. As such, the placement position of the fire-resistant coating layer (320) on the base layer (310) may be set differently depending on the degree of venting gas pressure, the sealing level, or other design factors.

[0061] Various methods can be considered for the process of applying such a fire-resistant coating layer (320) to the base layer (310). For example, a coating solution can be prepared by dissolving a fire-resistant coating material (321) in an adhesive solvent, and then a coating process can be performed by spraying it. Depending on the viscosity of the coating solution, the number of sprays may vary, and the time and temperature in subsequent processes such as drying may also be controlled in various ways. When the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is formed through such a spraying process, it may be advantageous during the process of applying the fire-resistant coating layer (320) as shown in (b) of FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5.

[0062] Alternatively, the coating process may be performed by impregnating the base layer (310) into a tank of coating liquid. In this case, it may be efficient to form a fire-resistant coating layer (320) over the entire thickness direction of the base layer (310) as shown in FIG. 5 (a).

[0064] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the structure of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a partial enlarged view of FIG. 6.

[0065] The following venting operation configuration is explained based on the state in which a fire-resistant coating layer (320) is provided over the entire thickness direction of the base layer (310) as in FIG. 5 (a).

[0066] Normally, the venting hole (H1) is covered by a fire-resistant coating layer (320) and remains closed.

[0067] If a specific event cell ignites and a large amount of venting gas is generated, it is ejected through the venting hole (H1) formed at the top.

[0068] At this time, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is separated from the mesh bars (312) and detached upward by the pressure of the venting gas (high pressure state). At the same time, the mesh plate (311) having the gaps (313) formed therein is exposed. The venting gas is discharged to the outside of the case body along the gaps (313) of the mesh plate (311). Meanwhile, flames or sparks are blocked from escaping to the outside of the case body by the mesh bars (312) of the mesh plate (311).

[0069] Venting gas ejected into the internal space (430) between the battery module (10) and the module case (200) (the space between the pack tray (410) and the pack cover (420)) can move to an adjacent battery module (10) (the right module in FIG. 6), but in this case, the cover member (300), particularly the fire-resistant coating layer (320), can withstand the heat of the venting gas and maintain a closed state. Accordingly, the entry of the venting gas into the battery module (10) can be blocked. In this case, even if the venting gas is in a state where the pressure is relatively low and the temperature is still high, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) has excellent heat resistance, so the fire-resistant coating layer (320) does not detach from the base layer (310).

[0070] According to this embodiment, even if the space between the battery module (10) and the module case (200) is narrow, the venting hole (H1) can be opened as the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is detached due to gas pressure, thereby ensuring a sufficient path for venting gas to be discharged. Therefore, by rapidly discharging the venting gas to the outside, heat accumulation and thermal explosion of the battery module (10) can be effectively prevented.

[0071] In addition, according to this embodiment, the venting hole (H1) of an adjacent module is kept closed by a heat-resistant coating layer (320) that maintains heat resistance, thereby preventing external foreign substances or venting gas discharged outside the battery module (10), or flames or sparks contained in such venting gas, from entering another venting hole (H1). Therefore, the phenomenon of chain ignition or thermal runaway to a normal battery cell (110) or battery module (10) caused by venting gas or flames can be delayed as much as possible.

[0072] In addition, to secure a large internal space (430) for venting gas or flames, the energy density of the battery module (10) or battery pack can be prevented from decreasing.

[0074] Next, other embodiments of the battery module of the present invention will be briefly described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0075] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the path through which venting gas is discharged through the cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Reference numbers identical to those in previous drawings indicate identical components. Duplicate descriptions of identical components will be omitted, and the explanation will focus on the differences from the previously described embodiments.

[0077] In a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, compared to the previously described embodiment, additional configuration is provided in the base layer (310) of the cover member (300A). That is, the base layer (310) may include a guide recess (330) provided facing the venting hole (H1) to guide the inflow of the venting gas.

[0078] The guide recess (330) may be provided on the bottom surface of the base layer (310) as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. The guide recess (330) may be positioned in direct contact with the venting hole (H1). The guide recess (330) may be provided by partially pressing or partially cutting the bottom surface of the base layer (310).

[0079] And in the guide recess (330), a axial inclined surface (331) that becomes axial as it extends toward the thickness direction of the base layer (310) when viewed from the venting hole (H1) toward the upper side may be formed.

[0080] This inclined surface (331) of the pipe can be connected in succession to the venting hole (H1) and formed so that the inner diameter is reduced. This allows the venting gas to be easily guided to enter the cover member (300). In particular, the venting gas that has entered the venting hole (H1) can easily enter upward along the inclined surface (331) of the pipe in the thickness direction of the base layer (310).

[0081] In addition, as the inner diameter is reduced due to the inclined surface of the shaft (331), the flow rate of the venting gas can be increased, thereby locally increasing the pressure of the venting gas and assisting in the detachment of the refractory coating layer (320).

[0082] Additionally, a guide recess (330) is provided so that the thickness of the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be reduced compared to the first embodiment, and the ratio of the fire-resistant coating layer (320) to the base layer (310) may be adjusted by adjusting the depth of the guide recess (330). Additionally, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) may be configured to detach relatively easily according to the pressure of the venting gas.

[0083] According to this embodiment, even if the space between the battery module and the module case (200) is narrow, the venting hole (H1) can be opened as the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is detached due to gas pressure, thereby ensuring a sufficient path for venting gas to be discharged. Therefore, by rapidly discharging the venting gas to the outside, heat accumulation and thermal explosion of the battery module can be effectively prevented.

[0084] In addition, according to this embodiment, the venting hole (H1) of an adjacent module is kept closed by a heat-resistant coating layer (320) that maintains heat resistance, thereby preventing external foreign substances or venting gas discharged outside the battery module, or flames or sparks contained in such venting gas, from entering another venting hole (H1). Therefore, the phenomenon of chain ignition or thermal runaway to a normal battery cell (110) or battery module caused by venting gas or flames can be delayed as much as possible.

[0086] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cover member in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] In another embodiment of the present invention, the fire-resistant coating layer (320) of another battery module, with reference to FIG. 10, is partially provided on the plate surface of the base layer (310) and may be formed at a position of the base layer (310) facing the venting hole (H1).

[0088] In this case, the cover member (300B) can be manufactured with relatively low cost and minimal labor, while the function of the fire-resistant coating layer (320) that blocks the venting hole (H1)—that is, the function of closing the venting hole (H1) under normal conditions—is faithfully performed, and the so-called selective opening and closing configuration that is detached when venting gas is generated can be implemented.

[0089] According to this embodiment, even if the space between the battery module and the module case (200) is narrow, the venting hole (H1) can be opened as the fire-resistant coating layer (320) is detached due to gas pressure, thereby ensuring a sufficient path for venting gas to be discharged. Therefore, by rapidly discharging the venting gas to the outside, heat accumulation and thermal explosion of the battery module can be effectively prevented.

[0090] In addition, according to this embodiment, the venting hole (H1) of an adjacent module is kept closed by a heat-resistant coating layer (320) that maintains heat resistance, thereby preventing external foreign substances or venting gas discharged outside the battery module, or flames or sparks contained in such venting gas, from entering another venting hole (H1). Therefore, the phenomenon of chain ignition or thermal runaway to a normal battery cell (110) or battery module caused by venting gas or flames can be delayed as much as possible.

[0092] A battery pack according to the present invention may include one or more battery modules according to the present invention as described above. In particular, to increase capacity and / or output, a battery pack according to the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules according to the present invention. At this time, various configurations described above may be applied to each battery module. For example, each battery module may include a cell assembly (100), a module case (200), and a cover member (300). Furthermore, such a plurality of battery modules may be accommodated inside a pack case. Moreover, in the case of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, even if another battery module is located on the front or rear side, the propagation of thermal runaway between modules can be effectively prevented.

[0093] The battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery module or pack case, such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a busbar, a relay, a current sensor, a fuse, etc., components of a battery pack known at the time of filing the present invention, within the internal space of the pack case.

[0094] A battery module or a battery pack according to the present invention may be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, a vehicle according to the present invention may include a battery module or a battery pack according to the present invention. In addition, a vehicle according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to such a battery module or battery pack. For example, a vehicle according to the present invention may further include, in addition to the battery module according to the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0095] In addition, the battery module or battery pack according to the present invention may be applied to an energy storage system (ESS). That is, the energy storage system according to the present invention may include the battery module or battery pack according to the present invention.

[0096] As described above, although the present invention has been explained 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.

[0097] Meanwhile, where terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of this invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0098] 10: Battery module 100: Cell assembly 110: Battery cell 112: Electrode Lead 200: Module Case 210 : Case body H1 : Venting hole 220: End plate 300 : Cover member 310 : Base layer 311 : Mesh Plate 312 : Mesh Mesh Bar 313 : Void 314 : Support frame 320 : Fireproof coating layer 330: Guide depression 331: Shaft inclined surface

Claims

Claim 1 A battery module comprising: a cell assembly having a plurality of mutually stacked battery cells; a module case having a venting hole formed therein that accommodates the cell assembly in an internal space; and a cover member having a fireproof coating layer that covers the venting hole and is disposed on the outer surface of the module case, and has a fireproof coating material applied thereto that is detached by the pressure of the venting gas when the venting gas is generated inside the module case, wherein the cover member comprises a base layer having a plurality of mesh bars and at least one mesh plate having a void, and the fireproof coating layer is configured such that the fireproof coating material is bonded to the mesh bars to block the void. Claim 2 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the venting hole is formed on the upper side of the module case. Claim 3 A battery module according to paragraph 2, wherein the cover member is coupled to face the upper surface of the module case. Claim 4 A battery module according to paragraph 3, wherein the fire-resistant coating layer is provided over the entire surface area of ​​the base layer, and is coupled to a portion or the entire section along the thickness direction of the base layer. Claim 5 A battery module according to paragraph 3, characterized by including a support frame disposed at the edge of the mesh plate and supporting the mesh plate. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 A battery module according to claim 5, wherein the fire-resistant coating layer comprises one or more inorganic materials selected from ceramic, silicon, silica aerogel, and silica-based inorganic fibers. Claim 8 A battery module according to claim 7, characterized in that the particle size of the inorganic material is relatively smaller than the voids. Claim 9 A battery module according to claim 4, wherein the base layer comprises a guide recess provided facing the venting hole to guide the inflow of the venting gas. Claim 10 A battery module according to claim 9, wherein the guide recess is characterized by having an inclined surface formed that becomes more converging in the thickness direction of the base layer when viewed from the venting hole toward the upper side. Claim 11 A battery module according to paragraph 3, wherein the fire-resistant coating layer is partially provided on the plate surface of the base layer and is formed at a position of the base layer facing the venting hole. Claim 12 A battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and claims 7 to 11.

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