Battery pack
Patent Information
- Application Number
- KR1020240079882
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-16
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-06-19
Smart Images

Figure 112024066455208-PAT00001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack. Background Technology
[0002] As the demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches increases significantly and electric vehicles become increasingly widespread, research on batteries installed in them, particularly secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging, is actively underway.
[0003] Currently commercialized rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium, nickel-hydrogen, nickel-zinc, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to charge and discharge freely with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.
[0004] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, each coated with the positive and negative active materials, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, namely a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.
[0005] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified according to the shape of the casing into can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch of aluminum laminate sheet.
[0006] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for driving or energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium-to-large devices such as electric vehicles and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). A single battery module can be formed by housing multiple such secondary batteries together inside a module case while electrically connected. In this case, each secondary battery included in a single battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form a single battery pack.
[0007] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery modules, and each module contains multiple battery cells, it may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between modules or cells. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, it is necessary to suppress the propagation of this runaway to other battery modules or cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between modules or cells is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific module or cell may trigger a chain reaction of thermal reactions in other modules or cells, potentially causing explosions or fires, or significantly amplifying their scale.
[0008] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, gases or flames may be randomly released to the outside. If the release of such gases or flames is not properly controlled, they may be released toward other battery modules, potentially causing a thermal chain reaction in those modules. Specifically, module terminals may be located on the front side of a battery module to provide electrical connections to other battery modules or battery packs, such as module busbars. Therefore, if flames are released toward the front of such a battery module, they can damage the module terminals within the battery pack and cause an electrical short circuit. Furthermore, since other battery modules may be located in front of a specific battery module, if flames are released toward the front of that module, the emitted flames may spread toward other modules, making it easy for fire to spread between battery modules.
[0009] If thermal propagation between battery modules or between battery cells is not properly controlled, a rapid voltage drop in the battery module or battery pack may occur. This can lead to a sudden shutdown of the device equipped with the battery module or battery pack, causing unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop in the battery pack occurs while an electric vehicle is in operation, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.
[0010] Furthermore, if thermal propagation between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled and a fire or explosion occurs suddenly, there is a high possibility of causing casualties to users. For example, if thermal runaway occurs in an electric vehicle and a certain amount of time is not secured before it progresses into a full-scale fire, the occupants may not be able to escape safely. The problem to be solved
[0011] Accordingly, the present invention is devised to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a battery pack with an improved structure capable of appropriately controlling the discharge of flames, etc. generated inside the battery module, and a vehicle including the same.
[0012] In addition, the present invention may aim to provide a structure that prevents the exterior of a battery pack from being damaged when a thermal event occurs.
[0013] In addition, the present invention may aim to prevent flames or flammable particles from being emitted to the outside of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs.
[0014] In addition, the present invention may aim to provide a structure capable of suppressing heat propagation between battery modules.
[0015] However, 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
[0016] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a case providing a space inside; a battery module including a rear end cover located inside the case and having a venting hole; and a venting channel including a body providing a space inside and communicating with the venting hole, and a guide located inside the body and facing the venting hole.
[0017] In addition, the guide extends along the vertical direction and can partition the interior of the body.
[0018] In addition, the body may have: an inlet hole facing the venting hole; and an outlet hole formed on the upper surface.
[0019] In addition, the above case includes a pack cover that covers the upper surface of the battery module, and the discharge hole may face the pack cover.
[0020] In addition, the above guide can be positioned at an angle to the above venting hole.
[0021] In addition, the above guides are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple guides can be arranged along the left and right directions.
[0022] In addition, the plurality of guides may divide the space provided by the body into a plurality of venting spaces, and each of the plurality of venting spaces may have an inlet hole facing the rear end cover.
[0023] In addition, each of the plurality of guides may be positioned obliquely on the rear end cover.
[0024] In addition, each of the above multiple guides can face an adjacent guide.
[0025] In addition, the battery module may further include a fireproof sheet located on the inner side of the rear end cover and covering the venting hole.
[0026] In addition, the case comprises: a base plate on which the battery module is installed; and a side wall installed on the base plate, and the venting channel may be disposed between the rear end cover and the side wall.
[0027] In addition, the venting channel can be connected to the rear end cover.
[0028] In addition, the battery module may further include a power terminal protruding forward.
[0029] An automobile according to one aspect of the present invention includes a battery pack of the present invention. Effects of the invention
[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when gas or flame is generated inside a battery module, the discharge of such gas or flame can be appropriately controlled.
[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, external damage to the battery pack can be prevented even if a thermal event occurs.
[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the electrical safety of the battery pack can be improved.
[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, heat propagation between battery modules can be suppressed when a thermal event occurs. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0034] 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 drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of Figure 1 separated. Figure 3 is a drawing showing the battery module of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery module of Figure 3 separated. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of section C of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of Figure 5 in a different direction. Figure 7 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Figure 6. Figures 8 and 9 are drawings showing the venting channel of Figure 2. Figures 10 and 11 are drawings showing the combination of the venting channel of Figure 2 and the battery module. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 1. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the change in the configuration of Figure 12 when a thermal event occurs. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. Figure 15 is a diagram showing the change in the configuration of Figure 14 when a thermal event occurs. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0035] 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.
[0036] 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 aspects of the technical concept 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.
[0037] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a battery module (200) of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery module (200) of FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case (100), a battery module (200), and a venting channel (400).
[0038] The case (100) may provide internal space. The case (100) may include a base plate (110), a side wall (120), and a pack cover (150). The base plate (110) may have a rectangular shape. The base plate (110) may have a flat shape. The base plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The base plate (110) may provide internal space for the battery pack.
[0039] The pack cover (150) may have a square plate shape. The pack cover (150) may have a flat plate shape. The pack cover (150) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The pack cover (150) may cover the internal space of the battery pack.
[0040] The battery module (200) may be located inside the case (100). Additionally, the battery module (200) may include a plurality of battery cells (220). The battery module (200) may include a rear end cover (242). The rear end cover (242) may include a third venting hole (242a). The battery module (200) may be provided in multiple numbers.
[0041] The venting channel (400) may be equipped with a body (410) and a guide (420). The body (410) may provide a space inside. Additionally, the body (410) may be in communication with the third venting hole (242a). The guide (420) may face the third venting hole (242a). The guide (420) may guide the flow of the venting gas (G) discharged from the third venting hole (242a).
[0042] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery module (200), the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can be discharged through the third venting hole (242a). At this time, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) may collide with the guide (420). After colliding with the guide (420), the flammable particles (F) may lose energy and fall downward. As a result, the flammable particles (F) may be prevented from moving inside the battery pack and propagating heat. Additionally, the venting gas (G) may lose energy after colliding with the guide (420) and move upward. By reducing the energy of the venting gas (G), damage to the case (100) caused by the venting gas (G) can be prevented. Additionally, as the venting gas (G) moves upward, the inflow of the venting gas (G) into the battery module (200) can be blocked. As a result, the propagation of a thermal event can be suppressed.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a partition wall (300) and a venting device (500). The partition wall (300) may include a first partition wall (310) and a second partition wall (320). The partition wall (300) may be provided in multiple numbers. The partition wall (300) may be installed, fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of a base plate (110). The partition wall (300) may partition the internal space of the battery pack. A battery module (200) or a battery cell (220) may be located in the space partitioned by the partition wall (300).
[0044] A venting device (500) may be installed on a side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be installed on a front side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be a gas valve. The venting device (500) may open to discharge gas when the pressure inside the case (100) increases. Additionally, the venting device (500) may block external air from entering the case (100). Multiple venting devices (500) may be provided.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules (200). A battery module (200) may include a module case (210), a plurality of battery cells (220), a pad (250), a front busbar frame assembly (231), a rear busbar frame assembly (232), a front insulating cover (261), a rear insulating cover (262), a front end cover (241), and a rear end cover (242).
[0046] The module case (210) may have a rectangular shape. The module case (210) may provide space inside. The module case (210) may be equipped with a top plate, a bottom plate, and a pair of side plates. Additionally, the module case (210) may have a shape with the front and rear open.
[0047] A battery cell (220) can be accommodated inside a module case (210). A plurality of battery cells (220) can be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. A battery cell (220) may include a storage portion (221) having an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion (222) protruding to the front and rear sides of the storage portion (221), and a second sealing portion (223) protruding to the upper side of the storage portion (221). Additionally, a battery cell (220) may include electrode leads (224) protruding to the front and rear sides of the first sealing portion (222), respectively. Each battery cell (220) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The electrode leads (224) may protrude to the front and rear of each battery cell (220).
[0048] The battery cell (220) may refer to a secondary battery. In particular, the battery cell (220) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, the shape of the battery cell (220) is not limited to a pouch shape and may have various shapes such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular shape. The battery cell (220) may be provided in multiple quantities.
[0049] A pad (250) may be placed between multiple battery cells (220). The pad (250) may be placed between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or on the outer edge of the stack. For example, the pad (250) may be configured to be placed between every four battery cells (220) stacked in the left-right direction.
[0050] These pads (250) may be provided with an elastic material to absorb swelling of the battery cell (220). For example, the pads (250) may be made of a foam material such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the pads (250) may be provided with a material capable of blocking heat or flames. For example, the pads (250) may be provided with an insulating or fireproof material such as silicone or mica.
[0051] A front busbar frame assembly (231) may be provided in front of a plurality of battery cells (220). The front busbar frame assembly (231) may be electrically connected to the front side electrode leads (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220).
[0052] The rear busbar frame assembly (232) may be provided at the rear of a plurality of battery cells (220). The rear busbar frame assembly (232) may be electrically connected to the rear side electrode leads (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220).
[0053] The front end cover (241) can be attached to the front of the module case (210). The front end cover (241) can cover the front of the module case (210). The front end cover (241) can have a rectangular shape.
[0054] The rear end cover (242) can be attached to the rear of the module case (210). The rear end cover (242) can cover the rear of the module case (210). The rear end cover (242) can have a square shape.
[0055] The front insulation cover (261) may be positioned between the front end cover (241) and the front busbar frame assembly (231). The front insulation cover (261) may electrically insulate the front busbar frame assembly (231) and the front end cover (241).
[0056] The rear insulation cover (262) may be positioned between the rear end cover (242) and the rear busbar frame assembly (232). The rear insulation cover (262) may electrically insulate the rear busbar frame assembly (232) and the rear end cover (242).
[0057] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of section C of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a view showing the configuration of FIG. 5 in a different direction. Referring to FIG. 3 through 6, a rear busbar frame assembly (232) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a frame (232a) and a busbar (232b). The busbar (232b) may be installed on the frame (232a). The busbar (232b) may be electrically connected to the rear side electrode leads (224) of a plurality of battery cells (220). A plurality of busbars (232b) may be provided. A plurality of busbars (232b) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Additionally, the frame (232a) may have a first venting hole (232c). The first venting hole (232c) may be a through hole. The first venting hole (232c) may face the first sealing portion (222) on the rear side of the battery cell (220). The first venting hole (232c) may be provided in multiple numbers. Some of the multiple first venting holes (232c) may be positioned between two adjacent busbars (232b).
[0058] According to this configuration of the present invention, venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) generated inside the battery module (200) can be discharged to the rear of the battery module (200) through the first venting hole (232c).
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 3 through 6, a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a power terminal (231a) protruding forward. The power terminal (231a) may be provided in a front busbar frame assembly (231). Additionally, the power terminal (231a) may protrude from the front busbar assembly (231). The power terminal (231a) may be provided as a pair. The power terminal (231a) may be exposed to the outside of the battery module (200).
[0060] Additionally, the power terminal (231a) can be electrically connected to the power terminal (231a) of an adjacent battery module (200). The interbusbar (600) can electrically connect the adjacent battery module (200).
[0061] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. Major components such as a power terminal (231a), a control terminal, and an interbusbar (600) can be arranged on the front side of the battery module (200). By venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) to the rear side of the battery module (200), damage to the front side of the battery module (200) can be minimized. By minimizing damage to the front side of the battery module (200), the propagation of thermal events to neighboring battery modules (200) can be suppressed.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 3 through 6, a rear insulating cover (262) of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a second venting hole (262a). The second venting hole (262a) may be a through hole. The second venting hole (262a) may face a rear busbar frame assembly (232) or a first venting hole (232c). Additionally, the second venting hole (262a) may be in communication with the first venting hole (232c). The second venting hole (262a) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple second venting holes (262a) may be in communication with multiple first venting holes (232c).
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 3 through 6, a battery module (200) of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fireproof sheet (270). The fireproof sheet (270) may include a material with high heat resistance or fire resistance. The fireproof sheet (270) may be located on the inner side of the rear end cover (242). Additionally, the fireproof sheet (270) may be located between the rear end cover (242) and the rear insulation cover (262). Additionally, the fireproof sheet (270) may be fixed between the rear end cover (242) and the rear insulation cover (262).
[0064] The fireproof sheet (270) may be positioned between the third venting hole (242a) and the second venting hole (262a). The fireproof sheet (270) may cover a plurality of third venting holes (242a) and a plurality of second venting holes (262a).
[0065] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. When a thermal event occurs, the internal pressure of the module case (210) may increase due to venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F). As a result, a portion of the fireproof sheet (270) may rupture. And due to the rupture of the fireproof sheet (270), some of the second venting holes (262a) and some of the third venting holes (242a) may be connected, and the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) may be discharged. Additionally, the unruptured portion of the fireproof sheet (270) may still cover the remaining second venting holes (262a) and the remaining third venting holes (242a). As a result, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) discharged to the outside of the battery module (200) may be prevented from entering the interior of the battery module (200).
[0066] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 7, a fireproof sheet (270) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a separation line (271). The separation line (271, score line) may be used as a general term including a perforated line (271, perforated line), a notching line (271, notching line), a cutting line (271, cutting line), a shredding line (271, shredding line), a tear line (271, tear line), or a separation line (271, separation line). The separation line (271) may be configured to be easily separated by pressure applied to the fireproof sheet (270).
[0067] FIGS. 8 and 9 are drawings showing the venting channel (400) of FIGS. 2. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the guide (420) of the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may extend along the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. Additionally, the guide (420) may partition the internal space of the body (410).
[0068] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. By the guide (420) partitioning the internal space of the body (410), the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) that have entered one space can be blocked from entering another space. As a result, the propagation of thermal events can be suppressed.
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the body (410) of a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have an inlet hole (411) and an outlet hole (412). The inlet hole (411) may face a third venting hole (242a). Alternatively, the inlet hole (411) may be in communication with the third venting hole (242a). The internal space of the body (410) may be in communication with the third venting hole (242a) through the inlet hole (411). The outlet hole (412) may be formed on the upper surface of the body (410).
[0070] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. Venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) introduced into the interior of the venting channel (400) through the inlet hole (411) may collide with the interior of the body (410) and the guide (420). At this time, the flammable particles (F) may lose energy and fall downward. On the other hand, the venting gas (G) may be discharged in an upward direction or in the +Z-axis direction through the discharge hole (412). As a result, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) may be prevented from entering other interior spaces of the venting channel (400) or into the battery module (200).
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a guide (420) of a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be positioned at an angle with respect to a third venting hole (242a). Additionally, the guide (420) may be positioned at an angle with respect to an inlet hole (411). Additionally, the guide (420) may be positioned at an angle with respect to the XZ plane.
[0072] According to this configuration of the present invention, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) introduced into the interior of the venting channel (400) through the inlet hole (411) can flow along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction after colliding with the inclined guide (420). Additionally, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can collide with the interior of the body (410). As a result, the energy of the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can be further reduced. Furthermore, by changing the flow direction of the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F), the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can be prevented from entering the battery module (200).
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the guides (420) of the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of guides (420) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.
[0074] A plurality of guides (420) can divide the internal space of the body (410) into multiple sections. At this time, each divided space may be referred to as a venting space (VS). Each venting space (VS) may have one or more inlet holes (411). Additionally, each venting space (VS) may have one or more discharge holes (412).
[0075] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. Due to the plurality of venting spaces (VS), the space through which venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can propagate can be limited to be smaller. As a result, the propagation of thermal events can be more strongly suppressed.
[0076] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a plurality of guides (420) of a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may each be positioned obliquely to a rear end cover (242). Additionally, a plurality of guides (420) may each be positioned obliquely to an inlet hole (411). Additionally, a plurality of guides (420) may each be positioned obliquely to a third venting hole (242a). Additionally, a plurality of guides (420) may each be positioned obliquely with respect to the XZ plane.
[0077] At this time, each guide (420) can be positioned at an angle along the same direction.
[0078] According to this configuration of the present invention, the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) introduced into one venting space (VS) through the inlet hole (411) can flow along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction after colliding with the inclined guide (420). Additionally, they can collide with the guide (420) of an adjacent venting space (VS). As a result, the energy of the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can be further reduced, and the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) can be prevented from entering the battery module (200).
[0079] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, each of the plurality of guides (420) of the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may face an adjacent guide (420). Each venting space (VS) may be surrounded by a body (410) and one or more guides (420).
[0080] FIGS. 10 and 11 are drawings illustrating the combination of the venting channel (400) of FIG. 2 and the battery module (200). Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to a rear end cover (242). The venting channel (400) may have a fastening part (430) protruding forward or in the +X-axis direction from the body (410). The fastening part (430) may be formed integrally with the body (410).
[0081] And the fastening part (430) and the rear end cover (242) can be joined through a fastening member (S).
[0082] According to this configuration of the present invention, the venting channel (400) can be stably coupled to the rear end cover (242). As a result, even if venting gas (G) or flammable particles (F) are discharged, the venting channel (400) can stably maintain a coupled state with the battery module (200).
[0083] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a change in the configuration of FIG. 12 when a thermal event occurs. Referring to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be located between a side wall (120) and a battery module (200). Additionally, the venting channel (400) may be located between a side wall (120) and a rear venting channel (400).
[0084] According to this configuration of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can move along the rearward or -X-axis direction through the first venting hole (232c) and the second venting hole (262a). The venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can rupture the fireproof sheet (270). Then, the venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can flow into the venting space (VS) through the ruptured part of the fireproof sheet (270) and the third venting hole (242a). The venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) flowing into the venting space (VS) can collide with one or more guides (420) and bodies (410), and their energy can be reduced. As a result, the venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can be prevented from flowing into an adjacent venting space (VS) or battery module (200). Additionally, the unruptured portion of the fireproof sheet (270) can more effectively block venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) from entering the battery module (200).
[0085] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the side wall (120) forming the exterior of the battery pack may not be damaged by the venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F). Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs, the exterior of the battery pack can stably maintain its shape. As a result, flammable particles (F) or flames may not be discharged to the outside of the battery pack. In addition, the venting gas (G), with reduced energy and lowered temperature, may be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting device (500).
[0086] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a change in the configuration of FIG. 14 when a thermal event occurs. Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, the discharge hole (412) of the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may face the pack cover (150).
[0087] According to this configuration of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G), whose energy has been reduced in the venting space (VS), can move along the upward direction or the +Z axis direction through the discharge hole (412). The venting gas (G) can then flow between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) and be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting device (500).
[0088] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the pack cover (150) forming the exterior of the battery pack may not be damaged by venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F). Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs, the exterior of the battery pack can stably maintain its shape.
[0089] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery module, such as various battery pack components known at the time of filing the present invention, such as a BMS, busbar, relay, current sensor, etc.
[0090] The battery pack according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle according to the present invention may include the battery pack according to the present invention. In addition, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to such a battery pack. For example, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.
[0091] 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. Explanation of the symbols
[0092] 100: Case 110: Base Plate 120: Sidewall 150: Pack Cover 200: Battery module 210: Modular Case 220: Battery cell 221: Storage compartment 222: 1st sealing section 223: Second sealing section 224: Electrode Lead 231: Front busbar frame assembly 231a: Power terminal 232: Rear busbar frame assembly 232a: Frame 232b: Busbar 232c: First venting hole 241: Front End Cover 242: Rear end cover 242a: Third venting hole 250: Pad 261: Front insulation cover 262: Rear insulation cover 262a: Second venting hole 270: Fireproof sheet 271: Separator line 300: Partition Wall 310: 1st Partition Wall 320: Second Partition Wall 400: Venting Channel 410: Body 411: Inflow hole 412: Exhaust hole 420: Guide 430: Connecting part 500: Venting device 600: Interbusbar F: Flammable particles G: Venting gas S: Fastening member VS: Venting space
Claims
Claim 1 A battery pack comprising: a case providing an internal space; a rear end cover located inside the case and having a venting hole; a body providing an internal space and communicating with the venting hole, and a venting channel located inside the body and having a guide facing the venting hole, wherein the body comprises: an inlet hole facing the venting hole; and an outlet hole formed on an upper surface. Claim 2 In claim 1, the guide extends along the vertical direction and is a battery pack that partitions the interior of the body. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 In claim 1, the case includes a pack cover that covers the upper surface of the battery module, and the discharge hole is a battery pack facing the pack cover. Claim 5 In claim 2, the guide is a battery pack positioned at an angle with respect to the venting hole. Claim 6 In claim 1, the guide is provided in plurality, and the plurality of guides are arranged along the left-right direction of the battery pack. Claim 7 In claim 6, the plurality of guides divide the space provided by the body into a plurality of venting spaces, and each of the plurality of venting spaces has an inlet hole facing the rear end cover, forming a battery pack. Claim 8 In claim 6, each of the plurality of guides is a battery pack positioned obliquely on the rear end cover. Claim 9 In claim 8, each of the plurality of guides is a battery pack facing an adjacent guide. Claim 10 In claim 1, the battery module comprises: a battery pack further comprising a fireproof sheet located on the inner side of the rear end cover and covering the venting hole. Claim 11 In claim 1, the case comprises: a base plate on which the battery module is installed; and a side wall installed on the base plate, and the venting channel is a battery pack disposed between the rear end cover and the side wall. Claim 12 In claim 1, the venting channel is a battery pack connected to the rear end cover. Claim 13 In claim 1, the battery module further comprises a battery pack including a power terminal protruding forward. Claim 14 An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1, 2 and 4 through 13.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Battery module and battery pack including the same
KR1020220129323A
Battery module, battery pack and vehicle comprising the battery module
KR1020220165133A
Battery module
KR1020230098080A
Battery module improved flame path and battery pack including the same
KR1020240074455A
Battery pack and vehicle comprising the same
KR1020230170600A
