Battery unit, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery unit according to the present invention may comprise: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a case accommodating the cell assembly; a busbar frame assembly having a first busbar frame covering one surface of the cell assembly, a second busbar frame covering another surface of the cell assembly, and a top frame connecting the first busbar frame and the second busbar frame above the cell assembly; a cover member covering the top of the cell assembly; and block members positioned between the case and the cell assembly and partitioning the space between the cell assembly and the case.

Description

Battery unit, battery pack including the same, and automobile

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery unit, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile.

[0002] This application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0178665 filed on December 4, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003]

[0004] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product categories, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources.

[0005] These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of being able to drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, but also because they do not generate any by-products from the use of energy.

[0006] 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 unit or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery unit or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery unit or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0007] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first construct a battery unit containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery unit to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Alternatively, recently, battery packs in the form of a "Cell-to-Pack," in which multiple battery cells are directly housed in a pack housing without modularization, are also being manufactured.

[0008] However, when multiple battery units are contained within a battery pack in this manner, it may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the units. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery unit, this runaway can propagate to other battery units. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery units is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific battery unit can trigger a chain reaction across multiple units, potentially causing major problems such as explosions or fires.

[0009] 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 a battery cell within a battery unit, gases or flames may transfer to other cells within the battery unit or to adjacent battery units, thereby preventing thermal runaway.

[0010] In addition, there is a need to develop a structure that can rapidly expel high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery unit to the outside in the event of thermal runaway in the battery unit, thereby resolving heat accumulation inside the battery unit.

[0011]

[0012] Therefore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery unit capable of rapidly discharging high-temperature gases or flames generated in the battery unit to the outside when thermal runaway occurs in the battery unit, thereby resolving heat accumulation inside the battery unit.

[0013] Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack including such a battery unit and a vehicle.

[0014] 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.

[0015]

[0016] To solve the above problem, the battery unit of the present invention may include a cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells, a case accommodating the cell assembly, a busbar frame assembly having a first busbar frame covering one side of the cell assembly, a second busbar frame covering the other side of the cell assembly, and a top frame connecting the first busbar frame and the second busbar frame at the upper side of the cell assembly, a cover member covering the top of the cell assembly, and a block member located between the case and the cell assembly and partitioning the space between the cell assembly and the case.

[0017] The above case may be characterized by having a first hole formed on one side configured to allow gas generated from the battery cell to be discharged to the outside, and a second hole formed in the first busbar frame facing the first hole of the case and configured to allow the gas to pass through.

[0018] The above cover member and the above block member may be characterized as being formed integrally.

[0019] The above block members may be characterized by a plurality of them being spaced apart along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0020] The above block member may be characterized by being configured to extend long in the height direction of the first busbar frame.

[0021] The above cover member may be characterized by being provided to fill the space between the top of the cell assembly and the inner surface of the top plate of the case.

[0022] The above cover member may be characterized by being located between the top frame and the cell assembly.

[0023] The above block member may be characterized by being provided on the outer side of the first busbar frame.

[0024] The above block member may be characterized by being configured to penetrate the above busbar frame assembly.

[0025] The busbar frame assembly may further comprise at least one fastening member configured to combine the top frame and the first busbar frame.

[0026] The above fastening member may be characterized by including a plurality of fastening members spaced apart at a predetermined interval, and the block member being configured to pass through between the plurality of fastening members.

[0027] It may be characterized by further including a vent stop block interposed between the cell assembly and the first busbar frame.

[0028] The cell assembly further includes a barrier member provided between the battery cells, and the vent block may be characterized by being provided between the barrier member and the cell terrace from which the electrode lead is drawn from the battery cell.

[0029] The above vent block may be characterized in that a plurality of them are arranged on one side and the other side of the battery cell, respectively, and the vent block may be provided in a greater number on one side of the battery cell than on the other side of the battery cell.

[0030] The battery cell may be characterized by including a fixing member configured to fix the upper surface.

[0031] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery according to the present invention.

[0032] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0033]

[0034] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery unit having a directional vent structure capable of stably discharging gas or flame in an intended direction when a battery cell ignites may be provided.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gases or flames generated in a battery cell within a battery unit can be rapidly discharged to the outside by inducing directional venting toward the rear side where no module terminal is provided. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery unit.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, heat transfer from the top of the battery cells can be suppressed by filling the space between the top of the battery cells and the upper surface of the case.

[0037] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, battery cells within a battery unit are partitioned so that even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery unit, gas or flames may be effectively prevented from being transferred to other battery cells within the battery unit and causing thermal runaway.

[0038] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames discharged to the outside of the battery unit can be prevented from flowing back into the interior of the battery unit.

[0039] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, even in a battery pack unit comprising a plurality of battery units, high-temperature gases or flames, etc., can be directionally vented and rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack.

[0040] 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 units or a device equipped with them can be prevented or delayed.

[0041] 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.

[0042]

[0043] 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.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a battery unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a battery unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery unit of Figure 2.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a side view of a battery cell included in a battery unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a rear cross-sectional view of a battery unit according to I-I' of FIG. 2.

[0049] FIG. 6 is an upper cross-sectional view of a battery unit according to II-II' of FIG. 2.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a front view of a rear end cover of a module case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a state in which a busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is rotatably coupled.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a front view of a first busbar frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a cover member and a block member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a block member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a block member rotated and bent according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view showing a busbar frame assembly in a state where it is rotatably coupled.

[0057] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the combination of a block member and a busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a state in which a block member and a busbar frame assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention are assembled in a battery unit.

[0059] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing the state in which the block member of FIG. 15 is rotated and assembled to the first busbar frame.

[0060] FIG. 17 is a front view showing the battery unit of FIG. 16.

[0061] FIG. 18 is a side cross-sectional view showing the battery unit of FIG. 16.

[0062] FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing at least a part of a battery unit combined with a block member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing at least a part of a battery unit including a rear end cover in FIG. 19.

[0064] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the rear side of a battery unit to which a vent stop block according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0065] FIG. 22 is an internal rear perspective view of a battery unit to which a vent block according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0066] FIG. 23 is a front cross-sectional view of a battery unit to which a vent stop block according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0067] FIG. 24 is an internal front perspective view of a battery unit to which a vent block according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0068] FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 26 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 15.

[0070]

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.

[0075] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0076] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0077] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0078] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0079] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.

[0080] Throughout the specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0081] 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.

[0082] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, 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.

[0083] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a battery unit (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a battery unit (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery unit (10) of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is a side view of a battery cell included in the battery unit (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a rear side cross-sectional view of the battery unit (10) according to I-I' of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is an upper side cross-sectional view of the battery unit (10) according to II-II' of FIG. 2.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cell assembly (100), a busbar frame assembly (200), a case (300), a cover member (400), and a block member (500). In addition to the components described above, the battery unit (10) may additionally include a vent stop block (600), a busbar (700), and a module terminal (800). Here, the battery unit (10) may refer to a battery module or a cell stack, etc.

[0085] First, referring primarily to FIG. 3, the cell assembly (100) may include battery cells (110). The battery cells (110) may be provided in multiple numbers. At this time, the multiple battery cells (110) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0086] Multiple battery cells (110) can be stacked along one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, multiple battery cells (110) can be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0087] More specifically, referring to FIG. 4, a plurality of battery cells (110) may include an electrode assembly and a cell case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly. The cell case (111) may be a laminate sheet comprising a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, when the battery cell (110) of the present invention is provided as a pouch-type battery cell, the cell case (111) may include a storage portion (111a) and a sealing portion (111b).

[0089] The storage portion (111a) may be configured to accommodate an electrode assembly. The storage portion (111a) is an internal space with a concave shape facing the electrode assembly, and the electrode assembly may be mounted in this internal space. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the storage portion (111a) may be a double cup shape formed on both sides of the cell case (111).

[0090] The storage portion (111a) can be configured to extend in one direction. That is, the storage portion (111a) can be configured to extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110).

[0091] The rim around the storage portion (111a) can be heat-fused to form a sealing portion (111b). That is, the sealing portion (111b) can be provided by sealing the outer periphery of the storage portion (111a). As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the sealing portion (111b) can be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell (110).

[0092] At this time, the sealing portion (111b) may be configured to protrude in one direction from the storage portion (111a). The sealing portion (111b) may be configured to protrude further than the storage portion (111a) along one direction. At the end portion of the battery cell (110), the storage portion (111a) is provided in close contact with each other, and a predetermined space may be formed between the sealing portions (111b).

[0093] Additionally, the electrode lead (112) may be configured to protrude toward the front and / or rear side of the housing portion (111a) or sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110).

[0094] Meanwhile, the battery cell (110) may be provided in an upright position with the side not containing the sealing portion (111b) facing downward. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a plurality of battery cells (110) 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 (110) may have the sealing portion (111b) facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and upward (+Z-axis direction), and the storage portion (111a) facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0095] Additionally, a plurality of battery cells (110) may each be provided with an electrode lead (112). The electrode lead (112) is connected to an electrode assembly and can be drawn out to the outside of the cell case (111) to function as an electrode terminal.

[0096] The electrode leads (112) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (112) may be drawn out from both ends of the battery cell (110), i.e., in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (112) may be a positive lead and a negative lead.

[0097] Additionally, referring to FIG. 3, a cell assembly (100) of a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a barrier member (120). The barrier member (120) may be configured to be provided between battery cells (110) to partition between a plurality of battery cells (110). In particular, at least one barrier member (120) may be included in one battery unit (10). A plurality of barrier members (120) may be provided along one direction in which the battery cells (110) are arranged.

[0098] The barrier member (120) may be provided in a form that is arranged for at least one battery cell (110). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a barrier member (120) may be arranged for every two battery cells (110).

[0099] The barrier member (120) may be provided as an insulating pad that is thinner than the battery cell (110). The barrier member (120) may be provided as a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Alternatively, the barrier member (120) may be provided as a pad with compressible force, for example, made of a material such as silicone or aerogel.

[0100] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells (110) can be partitioned or separated to prevent gas or flames from passing over to an adjacent barrier member (120) and preventing heat from propagating to another battery cell (110). Additionally, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the barrier member (120) can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (110) by compressing the battery cell (110) during the swelling phenomenon of the battery cell (110).

[0101] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape 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 battery unit (10) of the present invention. 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 also be applied as battery cells (110).

[0102] Referring to FIG. 3, the busbar frame assembly (200) may comprise a first busbar frame (210), a second busbar frame (220), and a top frame (230). The first busbar frame (210) may cover one side of the cell assembly (100). The second busbar frame (220) may cover the other side of the cell assembly (100). The first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) may be arranged to face each other. For example, the first busbar frame (210) may cover the rear side (one side facing the +Y-axis direction) of the cell assembly (100), and the second busbar frame (220) may cover the front side (one side facing the -Y-axis direction) of the cell assembly (100).

[0103] The first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) serve to support a busbar (700) or module terminal (800) connected to an electrode lead (112) provided in each of the plurality of battery cells (110). The first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) may be formed from a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic.

[0104] The top frame (230) can connect the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220). The top frame (230) can connect the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) on the upper side of the cell assembly (100). The top frame (230) can be positioned on the upper side of the cell assembly (100).

[0105] According to an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to FIG. 6, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), the venting gas can be suppressed or blocked from being discharged toward the top of the battery cell (110). In addition, since the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) can be connected and assembled as a single unit, assembly is improved and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 3, a case (300) may be configured to accommodate a cell assembly (100). Specifically, the case (300) may be configured to have a receiving space formed therein and to accommodate the cell assembly (100) in the receiving space. Such a case (300) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated cell assembly (100).

[0107] More specifically, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the case (300) may include a case (300) body (310), a front end cover (320), and a rear end cover (330).

[0108] The case (300) body (310) may include a U-frame (311) and a top plate (312). The U-frame (311) may include a pair of side plates covering the left and right sides of the cell assembly (100) and a base plate covering the bottom side of the cell assembly (100). The pair of side plates and the base plate may be formed as a single unit.

[0109] The top plate (312) may be configured to cover the upper surface of the cell assembly (100). This top plate (312) may be joined to the U-frame (311) by welding. The body (310) of this case (300) may be formed in a rectangular tubular shape with the front and rear open. As an alternative to the present embodiment, a case (300) in the form of a monoframe in which the U-frame (311) and the top plate (312) are integrated may be adopted.

[0110] The front end cover (320) and the rear end cover (330) can be attached to the open front and rear of the case body (310), respectively. The front end cover (320) and the rear end cover (330) can be attached to the case body (310) by welding or a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0111] With reference primarily to FIG. 3, the cover member (400) may cover the top of the cell assembly (100). For example, the cover member (400) may be in the shape of a plate or a sheet. The cover member (400) may be configured to suppress upward venting of gas from the battery cell (110). Such a cover member (400) may be provided with a material having excellent fire resistance. The cover member (400) may include, for example, a fire-resistant and / or heat-resistant and / or thermal insulation material. For example, the cover member (400) may be implemented with flame-retardant urethane foam, polyurethane foam, or a silicone foam pad.

[0112] The cover member (400) may preferably be provided to fill the space between the top of the cell assembly (100) and the inner surface of the top plate of the case (300). According to one embodiment, the cover member (400) may be provided with a compressible material so as to completely fill the space between the top of the cell assembly (100) and the inner surface of the top plate (e.g., top plate (312)) of the case (300). For example, the cover member (400) may be configured to be pressed toward the top of the cell assembly (100) by the aforementioned top plate (312), i.e., the top plate of the case (300), so as to fill the space between the top of the cell assembly (100) and the top plate of the case (300).

[0113] According to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), the upward ejection of gas from the battery cell (110) can be suppressed. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6, since there is no empty space between the top plate (312) of the case (300) and the top of the cell assembly (100), the propagation of thermal energy between the battery cells (110) through the top of the cell assembly (100) can be prevented. To elaborate, a gap may exist between the top of the cell assembly (100) and the upper surface of the case (300) due to a difference in surface roughness. This gap may serve as a passage for gas or flame within the case (300). If gas or flame flows along the gap, the propagation of thermal energy between the battery cells (110) may be accelerated. Furthermore, the presence of the gap may also hinder directional venting toward the rear of the case (300). However, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the gap can be eliminated, thereby suppressing the propagation of thermal energy through the top of the cell assembly (100). In addition, the cover member (400) can also be advantageously used to directionally vent the gas generated in the battery cell (110) to the rear.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3, the block member (500) may be located between the case (300) and the cell assembly (100). The block member (500) may be provided inside the case (300) as shown in FIG. 5. Specifically, the block member (500) may be provided between one side of the case (300) having a first hole (H1) and the cell assembly (100).

[0115] The block member (500) can partition the space between the cell assembly (100) and the case (300). The block member (500) can be configured to partition the space into multiple sections through which gas, etc. can flow. The block member (500) can be configured to prevent venting gas from moving to adjacent venting spaces. The block member (500) can also be configured to guide the gas, etc. flowing through the space toward the first hole (H1).

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, as the space through which gas or the like can flow is partitioned, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110), the venting gas or flame or the like is prevented from being transferred to an adjacent battery cell (110), so the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (110) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0117] Meanwhile, a module terminal (800) may be provided on one side of the case (300). For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the module terminal (800) may be provided on the front of the case (300). That is, the module terminal (800) may be provided on the front end cover (320).

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the module terminal (800) may be configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (110). Additionally, the module terminal (800) may be configured to be exposed on the other side of the case (300). For example, the module terminal (800) may be configured such that one side is connected to the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) inside the case (300), and the other side is exposed to the outside of the front end cover (320) to be described later, so as to function as a positive terminal or a negative terminal of the battery unit (10). The module terminal (800) may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Additionally, the module terminal (800) may be configured to be electrically or telecommunicationally connected to a control device such as a BMS.

[0119] Additionally, a first hole (H1) may be formed in the case (300). The first hole (H1) may be configured to allow venting gas generated from the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the case (300). In particular, the first hole (H1) may be formed on the other side of the case (300), where the other side of the case (300) may refer to the side opposite to the one side of the case (300) equipped with the module terminal (800). That is, the module terminal (800) and the first hole (H1) may be provided on opposite sides. For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the first hole (H1) may be formed on the rear side of the case (300). That is, the module terminal (800) may be provided on the rear end cover (330).

[0120] In this way, the first hole (H1) provided in the rear end cover (330) can be configured to discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery unit (10) to the outside of the battery unit (10) when thermal runaway of the battery unit (10) occurs. The remaining part of the case (300) excluding the first hole (H1) is sealed, and the gas or flame can be discharged with a straight line toward the first hole (H1).

[0121] Thus, in a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, directional venting in one direction may be possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, directional venting to the rear of the battery unit (10) may be possible through the first hole (H1).

[0122] According to an embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (110), the gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) is discharged to the outside of the battery unit (10) through specific first holes (H1) provided at the rear of the battery cell (110), thereby facilitating venting.

[0123] FIG. 7 is a front view of a rear end cover (330) of a module case (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of first holes (H1) may be provided in the rear end cover (330). The first holes (H1) may be arranged in at least one direction. The first holes (H1) may be arranged along a plurality of rows. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first holes (H1) may be arranged in a line along the height direction of the rear end cover (330), and the plurality of first holes (H1) arranged in a line may be arranged in a plurality of rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), that is, the width direction of the rear end cover (330). These plurality of first holes (H1) may be provided at regular intervals from each other.

[0125] According to an embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells (110), venting gas or flame can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the case (300) through the first holes (H1).

[0126] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110) within a battery unit (10), the venting gas, etc., can be discharged only in one direction, such as the direction in which the first hole (H1) is formed, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5. That is, with respect to the block member (500), the outer periphery excluding the first hole (H1) is completely blocked, so that the directional venting of the venting gas can be more effectively induced toward the first hole (H1).

[0127] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a busbar frame assembly (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a state in which a busbar frame assembly (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention is rotatably coupled. FIG. 10 is a front view of a first busbar frame (210) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 8, the first busbar frame (210) serves to support a busbar (700) connected to electrode leads (112) provided in each of the plurality of battery cells (110). The first busbar frame (210) may be formed from a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 8, the second busbar frame (220) may be provided with a module terminal (800) connected to an electrode lead (112) provided to each of the plurality of battery cells (110). The second busbar frame (220) may be formed from a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic.

[0130] The top frame (230) can connect the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220). The top frame (230) may be, for example, in the shape of a plate. The top frame (230) may be, for example, made of plastic material. The top frame (230) may include, for example, either polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS) or MPPO (modified polyphenylene oxide).

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230), and the second busbar frame (220) and the top frame (230) can be rotatably joined. According to one embodiment, the busbar frame assembly (200) may further include at least one fastening member (240). The fastening member (240) may be configured to join the top frame (230) and the first busbar frame (210). Additionally, the fastening member (240) may be configured to join the top frame (230) and the second busbar frame (220).

[0132] The fastening member (240) can be coupled so that the top frame (230), the first busbar frame (210), the second busbar frame (220), and the top frame (230) can rotate relative to each other. The first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) can be rotated relative to the top frame (230) by, for example, approximately 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less.

[0133] When assembling the busbar frame assembly (200) to the battery unit (10), a first busbar frame (210), a top frame (230), and a second busbar frame (220) may be provided in a horizontally aligned manner. Afterward, the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) may be rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the top frame (230) to surround the upper, front, and rear sides of the cell assembly (100).

[0134] At least one fastening member (240) may be provided between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230), and between the second busbar frame (220) and the top frame (230). For example, referring to FIG. 8, two fastening members (240) may be placed between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230), and two fastening members (240) may be placed between the second busbar frame (220) and the top frame (230). The two fastening members (240) between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230) may be placed on the left and right sides, respectively.

[0135] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when assembling the busbar frame assembly (200) to the battery unit (10), the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) can be connected and assembled as a single unit, thereby improving assemblability. In addition, the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 10, the first busbar frame (210) of the present invention may have a second hole (H2) formed to face the first hole (H1) of the case (300) and configured to allow gas to pass through. However, the second busbar frame (220) may not be provided with a hole corresponding to the second hole (H2). According to such an embodiment, venting gas or flames, etc., can be more smoothly induced to be discharged in one direction, particularly to the rear of the case (300) in which the first busbar frame (210) is placed.

[0137] The second hole (H2) may be configured to be in communication with the first hole (H1). The second hole (H2) may be provided to face at least partially the first hole (H1). The first hole (H1) and the second hole (H2) may be arranged along an approximate straight line.

[0138] According to an embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames, etc., can be discharged to the outside along a roughly straight line through the first hole (H1) and the second hole (H2). As a result, venting gas or flames, etc., can be discharged to the outside of the battery unit (10) more quickly.

[0139] Thus, according to the present embodiment, venting gas can be rapidly guided to the second hole (H2) and the first hole (H1) and discharged to the outside. That is, according to the embodiment of the present invention, heat accumulation inside the battery unit (10) can be prevented or suppressed. Thus, the safety and reliability of the battery unit (10) can be guaranteed.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the first busbar frame (210) may further be provided with a lead slot (211). The lead slot (211) may be provided to allow at least a portion of the electrode leads (112) of a plurality of battery cells (110) to pass through. The lead slot (211) may be provided to allow the plurality of electrode leads (112) to pass through in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction (forward and backward direction).

[0141] Lead slots (211) may be provided in multiple numbers spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells (110). At this time, multiple electrode leads (112) passing through the lead slots (211) may be bent and attached to the busbar (700). Multiple battery cells (110) in which the electrode leads (112) are in contact with each other on the busbar (700) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0142] At this time, the busbar (e.g., the busbar (700) of FIG. 3) may be provided between a plurality of lead slots (211). Thus, the busbar (700) may be configured to be in direct contact with the electrode leads (112) passing through the lead slots (211). Specifically, the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) pass through the lead slots (211) of the first busbar frame (210) and are drawn out to the outside of the first busbar frame (210), and the drawn-out portion may be attached to the surface of the busbar (700) by means such as welding.

[0143] The busbar (700) may be made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc. Additionally, the busbar (700) may be made in the form of a rod extended in the height direction.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the first busbar frame (210) may further comprise a busbar coupling portion (212). A busbar (700) may be attached to the outer surface of the busbar coupling portion (212) of the first busbar frame (210). To this end, the busbar (700) may also be positioned inside the electrode lead (112). That is, the busbar (700) may be positioned between the bent electrode lead (112) and the first busbar frame (210). At this time, the stacked electrode lead (112) and the busbar (700) may each be provided as one for each busbar coupling portion (212).

[0145] The first busbar frame (210) may include a plurality of busbar coupling portions (212). The busbars (700) may be configured to be mounted one by one on the busbar coupling portions (212).

[0146] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 10, a plurality of second holes (H2) may be provided in the first busbar frame (210). A plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged along at least one direction. For example, a plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged in a line along the height direction of the first busbar frame (210). The second holes (H2) may be provided in a form that extends long along the height direction of the first busbar frame (210). At this time, when the first busbar frame (210) is viewed from the front, the second holes (H2) may be configured in a rib shape.

[0147] Additionally, a plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110). The second holes (H2) may be provided on the left and right sides relative to the busbar coupling portion (212). In this case, the second holes (H2) may be located on both sides of each busbar (700).

[0148] Additionally, some of the multiple second holes (H2) may be provided to be integrated with the lead slot (211). That is, the second holes (H2) may be configured so that at least some of the electrode leads (112) of the multiple battery cells (110) pass through them.

[0149] Among the plurality of second holes (H2), the remaining second holes (H2) may be provided at a predetermined distance from the lead slot (211). These remaining second holes (H2) may be configured to allow only fluid, such as venting gas, to pass through.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the first busbar frame (210) may further include a block coupling portion (213). The block coupling portion (213) may be configured to allow a block member (500) to be inserted. The block coupling portion (213) may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of block members (500).

[0151] The block coupling portion (213) may be configured such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the first busbar frame (210) protrudes outward. At this time, the block coupling portion (213) may be provided to extend further outward than the outer surface of the busbar coupling portion (212).

[0152] These block coupling portions (213) may be provided between adjacent second holes (H2). Additionally, the block member (500) may be provided on the outside of the second hole (H2). Accordingly, the block member (500) may be configured to face at least partially the second hole (H2). At the same time, the block member (500) may be configured to be spaced apart from the second hole (H2) by a predetermined distance. This prevents obstruction of the path of venting gas or flames discharged through the second hole (H2).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first busbar frame (210) may further include a recess (214). The recess (214) may be a portion recessed from the upper side to the lower side of the first busbar frame (210). The recess (214) may be configured to allow a block member (500) to be inserted. The recess (214) may be formed at a position corresponding to the block coupling portion (213). The recess (214) may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of block members (500). A plurality of recess (214) may be placed on the upper side of each of the plurality of block coupling portions (213). By doing so, the block member (500) is inserted into the recess (214) and its position is fixed, making assembly more convenient.

[0154] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a cover member (400) and a block member (500) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view showing a block member (500) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a view showing a block member (500) according to an embodiment of the present invention rotated and bent. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a busbar frame assembly (200) is coupled so as to be rotatable.

[0155] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, the cover member (400) and the block member (500) may be formed integrally. In other words, the cover member (400) and the block member (500) may be formed integrally. The block member (500) may be provided at one end of the cover member (400). Here, the one end of the cover member (400) refers to the side facing the rear of the case (300). That is, the block member (500) may be formed by extending in the rearward direction from the rear end of the cover member (400).

[0156] The block member (500) may be bent and extended from one end of the cover member (400). Specifically, at least a portion of the block member (500) may be configured to be rotatable from the cover member (400). The block member (500) may have a bent portion (510) that is rotatable relative to the cover member (400). For example, the bent portion (510) may have a shape in which the upper surface of the block member (500) is notched. That is, the block member (500) may be configured to rotate downward relative to the bent portion (510).

[0157] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, upward venting is suppressed and rear venting is simultaneously induced, thereby more effectively inducing directional venting toward the rear. In addition, since the block member (500) and the cover member (400) can be assembled integrally without being assembled separately to the cell assembly (100), assembly ease can be improved.

[0158] According to one embodiment, a plurality of block members (500) may be provided. A plurality of block members (500) may be spaced apart along the direction in which battery cells (110) are stacked. That is, the block members (500) may be spaced apart from each other along the left and right directions of the first busbar frame (210). The block members (500) may be configured to divide a space in which gas, etc. can flow into a plurality of sections. The block members (500) may be configured to suppress the movement of venting gas into adjacent venting spaces.

[0159] A block member (500) may be positioned between the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330). The block member (500) may be configured to prevent gas from moving along the stacking direction (X-direction) of the battery cell (110) in the space between the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330). That is, the block member (500) may be provided on the outside of the first busbar frame (210) and arranged to block the lateral movement of gas passing through the second hole (H2) of the first busbar frame (210).

[0160] Accordingly, the block member (500) may be configured to be pressed in the front-rear direction by the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330). In this case, the block member (500) may be in close contact with the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330), thereby more effectively preventing venting gas or flames from leaking out through the gap.

[0161] The block member (500) may include a material having elasticity, such as silicone. Thus, the block member (500) can be compressed by a component inside the battery unit (10). Additionally, the block member (500) may have at least one of flame retardant performance and fire resistance performance.

[0162] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the space through which gas or the like can flow is partitioned, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110), the venting gas or flame or the like is prevented from being transferred to an adjacent battery cell (110), so the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (110) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0163] The block member (500) may be configured to extend long in the height direction of the first busbar frame (210). That is, the height of the block member (500) may be configured to correspond to the height of the first busbar frame (210). Additionally, the block member (500) may be formed to correspond to the shape and structure of the first busbar frame (210). For example, the block member (500) may further include a stepped portion (520).

[0164] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the block member (500) can more effectively separate the space along the height direction of the first busbar frame (210). By doing so, the movement of venting gas, etc., to another space where an adjacent battery cell (110) is located can be more effectively suppressed.

[0165] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a block member (500) and a busbar frame assembly (200) combined according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a state in which a block member (500) and a busbar frame assembly (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention are assembled to a battery unit (10). FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a state in which the block member (500) of FIG. 15 is rotated and assembled to a first busbar frame (210). FIG. 17 is a front view showing the battery unit (10) of FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a side cross-sectional view showing the battery unit (10) of FIG. 16. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing at least a part of the battery unit (10) to which the block member (500) according to an embodiment of the present invention is combined. FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing at least a part of the battery unit (10) including a rear end cover in FIG. 19.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 14, the cover member (400) may be positioned between the top frame (230) and the cell assembly (100). The cover member (400) may be positioned on the lower side of the top frame (230). According to one embodiment, the cover member (400) may be attached to the lower side of the top frame (230). For example, an adhesive may be applied between the cover member (400) and the top frame (230). For example, the lower side of the top frame (230) may have at least one concave portion and / or at least one convex portion protruding downward, and the upper side of the cover member (400) may have a convex portion protruding upward and inserted into the concave portion of the top frame (230), and a concave portion facing the convex portion of the top frame (230), thereby allowing the top frame (230) and the cover member (400) to be joined and fixed. However, the method of combining the cover member (400) and the top frame (230) is not limited by the above embodiment and can be designed in various ways.

[0167] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (400) can prevent the top frame (230) from melting from high-temperature gas, etc. If the top frame (230) melts from high-temperature gas, etc., the structure of the busbar frame assembly (200) may collapse, and the structure of the first busbar frame (210) combined with the top frame (230) may also collapse, thereby restricting directional venting toward the rear. In addition, the upper space where the top frame (230) was located may be empty, making it difficult to suppress venting toward the upper side. Therefore, the cover member (400) can be placed between the top frame (230) and the cell assembly (100) to delay the melting of the top frame (230).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 14, the block member (500) may be provided on the outside of the first busbar frame (210). The block member (500) may be positioned between the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330) of the case (300).

[0169] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the block member (500) can divide the space between the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330) of the case (300) into multiple sections through which gas, etc. can flow. It can block the gas passing through the first busbar frame (210) from moving along the direction in which battery cells (110) are stacked in the space between the first busbar frame (210) and the case (300).

[0170] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, with reference mainly to FIGS. 14 and FIGS. 20, the integrally formed cover member (400) and block member (500) may be positioned in different directions relative to the busbar frame assembly (200). That is, in the integrally formed cover member (400) and block member (500), the cover member (400) may be positioned on the inside of the top frame (230) of the busbar frame assembly (200). In addition, in the integrally formed cover member (400) and block member (500), the block member (500) may be positioned on the outside of the first busbar frame (210) of the busbar frame assembly (200).

[0171] Referring to FIG. 14, the block member (500) may be configured to penetrate the busbar frame assembly (200). That is, the block member (500) may be configured to penetrate between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230). As the block member (500) penetrates between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230), the block member (500) may be located on the outside of the busbar frame assembly (200), and the cover member (400) may be located on the inside of the busbar frame assembly (200).

[0172] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the assembly of the cover member (400) and the block member (500), which are integrally formed with the busbar frame assembly (200), can be simpler and easier. In addition, the assembly time can be shortened compared to arranging and assembling the cover member (400), the block member (500), the first busbar frame (210), and the top frame (230) separately.

[0173] Referring to FIGS. 8 and FIGS. 14, the fastening member (240) may be located between the top frame (230) and the first busbar frame (210). Additionally, the fastening member may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple fastening members (240) may be spaced apart at a predetermined interval. The multiple fastening members (240) may each be located at the left end and the right end. An empty space may be formed between the multiple fastening members (240). That is, an empty space surrounded by the multiple fastening members (240), the top frame (230), and the first busbar frame (210) may be formed.

[0174] The block member (500) may be configured to pass through between the plurality of fastening members (240). That is, at least a portion of the block member (500) and cover member (400), which are formed separately, may pass through between the plurality of fastening members (240) and between the top frame (230) and the first busbar frame (210).

[0175] However, the method of combining the busbar frame assembly (200), block member (500), and cover member (400) is not limited by the above embodiment and can be designed in various ways. For example, a hole may be formed in the busbar frame assembly (200), and the block member (500) and cover member (400) may be configured to pass through the hole.

[0176] Hereinafter, the assembly process of the busbar frame assembly (200), block member (500), and cover member (400) will be briefly examined. When the busbar frame assembly (200) is provided in a horizontally parallel state, the first busbar frame (210) and the second busbar frame (220) of the busbar frame assembly (200) can be rotated downwards with respect to the top frame (230).

[0177] In the next step, as shown in FIG. 14, at least a portion of the integrally formed block member (500) and cover member (400) may penetrate between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230). That is, the block member (500) located at the rear of the integrally formed block member (500) and cover member (400) may penetrate between a plurality of fastening members (240) formed between the first busbar frame (210) and the top frame (230). Afterward, the cover member (400) may be attached to the top frame (230). However, this process may be omitted or replaced in another way.

[0178] Next, with reference to FIG. 15, the combined busbar frame assembly (200), block member (500), and cover member (400) can cover the upper, front, and rear surfaces of the cell assembly (100).

[0179] Afterwards, when referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, the block member (500) can be folded downward relative to the cover member (400) and combined with the first busbar frame (210).

[0180] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the busbar frame assembly (200), the block member (500), and the cover member (400) can be joined and fixed in position without a separate joining member between the busbar frame assembly (200) and the block member (500), thus making assembly easy and reducing assembly time.

[0181] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a block member (500) may be provided between the busbars (700) and the electrode leads (112) connected thereto. In other words, the block member (500) may be positioned between the busbars (700) without obstructing the second hole (H2). Additionally, a plurality of block members (500) may be positioned so as not to obstruct the first holes (H1) of the rear end cover (330) and spaced apart from each other in the left and right directions at a predetermined distance. That is, the block member (500) may be positioned at an offset from the first hole (H1).

[0182] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the block member (500) can guide the venting gas, etc. toward the first hole (H1), thereby more reliably inducing directional venting of the venting gas, etc. Accordingly, directional venting of the gas, etc. toward the first hole (H1) can be more effectively induced.

[0183] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 20, the block member (500) may be configured so that at least a portion of the first busbar frame (210) is inserted.

[0184] Specifically, for example, the block member (500) may have an insertion groove (511) on its back surface. The insertion groove (511) may be provided in the form of a groove formed by indenting at least a portion of the block member (500). The block member (500) may be fixed to the first busbar frame (210) by fitting a block coupling part (213) provided on the first busbar frame (210) into the insertion groove (511).

[0185] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the adhesion and fixation of the block member (500) to the first busbar frame (210) can be stably secured. Accordingly, the space between the first busbar frame (210) and the rear end cover (330) can be more clearly and stably partitioned by the block member (500), and the lateral movement of gas or flame in the space can be prevented.

[0186] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the rear side of a battery unit (10) to which a vent stop block (600) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 22 is an internal perspective view of the rear side of a battery unit (10) to which a vent stop block (600) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the front side of a battery unit (10) to which a vent stop block (600) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 24 is an internal perspective view of the front side of a battery unit (10) to which a vent stop block (600) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a vent stop block (600).

[0188] The above-mentioned vent stop block (600) may be configured to induce the venting gas or flame, etc. to be discharged in one direction, toward the rear side of the battery unit (10). In particular, the above-mentioned vent stop block (600) may be configured to suppress the venting gas or flame, etc. from being discharged in a direction other than the rear side, particularly toward the front side.

[0189] The above vent stop block (600) may be interposed between the cell assembly (100) and the first busbar frame (210). The vent stop block (600)(800) may be provided on at least one side of the cell terrace (111b) from which the electrode lead (112) is drawn out from the battery cell (110). Specifically, the vent stop block (600) may be positioned on the front and / or rear side of the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110). In other words, due to the difference in thickness between the cell terrace (111b) and the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110), there may be empty space around the cell terrace (111b), and the vent stop block (600) may be interposed in these empty spaces to fill the empty space. For example, the vent stop block (600) may be provided in contact with the front and / or rear side of the storage portion (111a). Additionally, one side of the vent stop block (600) may be configured to contact the storage portion (111a), and the other side may be configured to contact the first busbar frame (210).

[0190] A vent stop block (600) may be interposed on the front and / or rear side of a cell assembly (100). The vent stop block (600) may include a rear vent stop block (600a) located at the rear of the cell assembly (100) and a front vent stop block (600b) located at the front of the cell assembly (100). However, in this embodiment, although the vent stop block (600) is provided on both the front and rear sides of the cell assembly (100), the rear vent stop block (600a) may be omitted and only the front vent stop block (600b) may be provided.

[0191] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the vent stop block (600) is provided, venting gas or flames, etc., can be guided to be discharged to the outside only in one direction, particularly through the first hole (H1) provided on the rear side of the battery unit (10).

[0192] The vent stop block (600) may be configured to pressurize the side of the cell terrace (111b) when the internal pressure inside the battery cell (110) increases. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, the vent stop block (600) pressurizes the cell terrace (111b), which is relatively easy to break, thereby preventing venting gas, etc. from being discharged through the cell terrace (111b).

[0193] Additionally, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell (110). For example, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to extend as much as the height of the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110).

[0194] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the vent block (600) can more reliably block the movement of venting gas or flame along the height direction of the battery cell (110). As a result, the movement of venting gas, etc. to adjacent battery cells (110) and heat propagation can be suppressed.

[0195] The above vent stop block (600) may include a material having elasticity. The above vent stop block (600) may include a material with high heat resistance. In addition, the above vent stop block (600) may include a material with high flame resistance. In addition, the above vent stop block (600) may include a material having electrical insulation properties. For example, the vent stop block (600) may include a silicone material.

[0196] The above-mentioned vent stop block (600) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple vent stop blocks (600) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cell (110), that is, the left and right directions. The vent stop block (600) may be provided between the battery cells (110). The vent stop block (600) may be provided on at least one side of the cell terrace (111b). That is, at least one side of the vent stop block (600) may be configured to be in contact with the cell terrace (111b). In other words, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to be in contact with the front and / or rear side of the storage portion (111a) and simultaneously in contact with the cell terrace (111b). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the vent stop block (600) may fix the cell terrace (111b).

[0197] Meanwhile, the barrier member (120) may be configured to extend in the front-rear direction and protrude beyond the sealing portion (111b) in the front-rear direction. That is, the length of the barrier member (120) may be longer than the length of the battery cell (110). Additionally, the barrier member (120) may be configured to contact the inner surface of the first busbar frame (210).

[0198] At this time, the vent stop block (600) may be provided between the barrier member (120) and the battery cell (110). The vent stop block (600) may be provided between the barrier member (120) and the sealing portion (111b). The vent stop block (600) may be provided between the barrier member (120) and the cell terrace (111b) from which the electrode lead (112) is drawn out from the battery cell (110). One side of the vent stop block (600) may be configured to contact the end portion of the barrier member (120), and the other side may be configured to contact the sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110).

[0199] The vent stop block (600) may be provided on both sides of the barrier member (120). The vent stop block (600) may be configured to compress the barrier member (120) from both sides. That is, the vent stop block (600) may compress the barrier member (120) in the left and right directions. By doing so, the position of the barrier member (120) can be fixed. In addition, the barrier member (120) can be prevented from bending or deforming by the vent stop block (600).

[0200] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs, the possibility of high-temperature, high-pressure venting gas or flames resulting therefrom pushing out the end portion of the barrier member (120) and transferring to another space can be reduced. Thus, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (110), the venting gas or flames, etc., moving to another battery cell (110) and spreading heat can be reliably suppressed or prevented.

[0201] Additionally, a second hole (H2) may be located between adjacent vent stop blocks (600). Thus, venting gas or flames generated in the battery cells (110) between adjacent vent stop blocks (600) can be discharged to the outside of the battery unit (10) through the second hole (H2).

[0202] For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 21, two battery cells (110) are provided between two adjacent barrier members (120), and each of these two barrier members (120) may have a vent stop block (600) provided on both rear sides. Additionally, a second hole (H2) may be provided between the vent stop blocks (600) provided inside the two barrier members (120).

[0203] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, gas or flames ejected from a battery cell (110) interposed between adjacent barrier members (120) can be discharged to the outside of the case (300) only through a second hole (H2) located between adjacent vent stop blocks (600). By doing so, the propagation of thermal runaway to other adjacent battery cells (110) can be prevented.

[0204] Meanwhile, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the first busbar frame (210). For example, the vent stop block (600) may be attached to the inner surface of the first busbar frame (210). Thus, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to contact the storage portion (111a) and the first busbar frame (210) in the front-rear direction, and the sealing portion (111b) and / or barrier member (120) in the left-right direction.

[0205] At this time, the vent stop block (600) may be configured to receive compressive forces from all directions. For example, the vent stop block (600) may be interposed in a compressed state by the storage portion (111a), the sealing portion (111b), the first busbar frame (210), and / or the barrier member (120). The vent stop block (600) may be configured to press the inner surface of the storage portion (111a) and the first busbar frame (210).

[0206] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the vent stop block (600) is compressed and interposed in the front-rear direction, the vent stop block (600) can be more closely attached to the inner surface of the storage portion (111a) and the first busbar frame (210). Accordingly, the space formed by the vent stop block (600) is further sealed, so that venting gas or flames, etc., can be prevented from moving beyond the vent stop block (600) to the space where another battery cell (110) is located.

[0207] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, a plurality of vent stop blocks (600) may be arranged on one side and the other side of the battery cell (110). Here, the one side of the battery cell (110) may refer to the front side of the battery cell (110), and the other side may refer to the rear side of the battery cell (110). At this time, the vent stop blocks (600) may be provided in a greater number on the one side of the battery cell (110) than on the other side of the battery cell (110). That is, the vent stop blocks (600) may be provided at a higher density in the front vent stop blocks (600b) than in the rear vent stop blocks (600a).

[0208] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the front vent stop block (600b) may be provided between each sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110). That is, the front vent stop block (600b) may be interposed in the space between the front side sealing portions (111b) of adjacent battery cells (110) and between the barrier member (120) and the front side sealing portion (111b).

[0209] Additionally, the front vent stop block (600b) can provide a force to compress the sealing portion (111b). The front vent stop block (600b) can compress the sealing portion (111b) in the left and right directions. The front side sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110) can be positioned and fixed between the front vent stop blocks (600b). Furthermore, the front vent stop block (600b) can be positioned to press the storage portion (111a) backward.

[0210] On the other hand, referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, the rear vent stop block (600a) may be interposed only on both sides of the barrier member (120). Accordingly, a space may be provided between adjacent rear vent stop blocks (600a) through which venting gas or flames generated from the battery cell (110) can be vented.

[0211] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the venting direction of venting gas or flames, etc., can be induced to the rear. Specifically, when a thermal event occurs, the internal pressure of the sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110) may increase. At this time, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the vent block (600) compresses the front side sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110), thereby dispersing or reducing the pressure applied to the front side sealing portion (111b). As a result, the discharge of venting gas through the front side sealing portion (111b) or the electrode lead (112) side can be suppressed or blocked. Furthermore, the pressure of the venting gas can be concentrated on the rear side sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110). As a result, the venting gas can be discharged through the rear side sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110).

[0212] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the vent stop block (600) can prevent the front side sealing portion (111b) from being exposed to flame or high-temperature gas. As a result, damage to the front side sealing portion (111b) from external flame or high-temperature gas can be prevented, and the discharge of venting gas through the front side sealing portion (111b) can be suppressed.

[0213] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the vent stop block (600) can prevent the front side sealing part (111b) from being damaged by external pressure by compressing and fixing the front side sealing part (111b).

[0214] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 4, a battery cell (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fixing member (113). The fixing member (113) may be configured to fix the upper surface of the battery cell (110).

[0215] More specifically, the cell case (111) may include a folding portion (111c) provided to be folded on one side of the sealing portion (111b) where the electrode lead (112) is not protruding. That is, the cell case (111) may have the folding portion (111c) provided on the side sealing portion of the sealing portion (111b) where the electrode lead (112) is not provided. This folding portion (111c) may be provided on the upper part of the battery cell (110).

[0216] A fixing member (113) may be provided to be attached to the folding portion (111c) to fix the folded folding portion (111c). The fixing member (113) may be attached to the cell case (111) to wrap around the folding portion (111c) along the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (110).

[0217] In particular, the fixing member (113) can be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). The length of the fixing member (113) can be configured to extend as long as the length of the battery cell (110). Thus, the fixing member (113) can be configured to completely cover the folding portion (111c) of the battery cell (110) in the longitudinal direction.

[0218] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), the opening of the folding portion (111c) located at the top can be suppressed. As a result, the venting gas being discharged toward the top of the battery cell (110) can be suppressed or blocked. In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), the sealing portion (111b) on the rear side can be opened to induce the venting gas to be discharged through the rear sealing portion (111b) of the battery cell (110).

[0219] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack (3) including a battery unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack (3) of FIG. 25.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 25, the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may include at least one battery unit (10) according to 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 units (10), a current sensor, a fuse, etc., as described above. As illustrated, the battery pack (3) may be constructed using a battery unit (10) which is an intermediate form of assembly, or it may directly accommodate a cell assembly (100) without a battery unit (10). For example, the battery pack (3) of the present invention may be manufactured by a cell-to-pack process. For example, the battery pack (3) of the present invention may be manufactured by a cell-to-chassis process. Here, the battery unit (10) may refer to a battery module, a cell stack, etc.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 25, a plurality of battery units (10) can be arranged such that one side having a module terminal (800) faces the inside of the pack case (2). Thus, the other side of the battery unit (10) having a first hole (H1) and a second hole (H2) can be arranged such that it faces the outside of the pack case (2).

[0222] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110) inside a battery unit (10), venting gas or flames, etc., can be directionally vented toward the rear side of the battery unit (10). Accordingly, venting gas or flames, etc., discharged toward the rear side can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1).

[0223] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the direction of venting gas or flames toward the module terminal (800) is minimized, thereby suppressing or preventing heat propagation to adjacent battery units (10). Accordingly, events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway phenomena of a battery pack (1) containing multiple battery units (10) can be prevented or delayed.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 26, the automobile (V) according to the present invention may include at least one battery pack (3) according to the present invention.

[0225] The battery cell (110) according to the present invention may be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include a battery cell according to the present invention, a battery unit (10) according to the present invention, or a battery pack (3) according to the present invention. The vehicle (V) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (V) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (V) operates by receiving power from a battery pack (1), a battery unit (10), and a cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0226] 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.

Claims

1. A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; A case accommodating the above cell assembly; A busbar frame assembly comprising a first busbar frame covering one side of the cell assembly, a second busbar frame covering the other side of the cell assembly, and a top frame connecting the first busbar frame and the second busbar frame at the upper side of the cell assembly; A cover member covering the top of the cell assembly; and A battery unit comprising: a block member positioned between the case and the cell assembly and partitioning the space between the cell assembly and the case.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above case has a first hole formed on one side configured to allow gas generated from the battery cell to be discharged to the outside, and A battery unit characterized by having a second hole formed in the first busbar frame that faces the first hole of the case and is configured to allow the gas to pass through.

3. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above-mentioned cover member and the above-mentioned block member are integrally formed.

4. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above block members are spaced apart and arranged along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

5. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the block member is configured to extend long in the height direction of the first busbar frame.

6. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above-described cover member is provided to fill the space between the top of the cell assembly and the inner surface of the top plate of the case.

7. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above-mentioned cover member is located between the top frame and the cell assembly.

8. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above-mentioned block member is provided on the outer side of the first busbar frame.

9. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized in that the above block member is configured to penetrate the above busbar frame assembly.

10. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized by further comprising at least one fastening member configured to combine the top frame and the first busbar frame in the above busbar frame assembly.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above fastening members are provided in multiple numbers, and A battery unit characterized by being configured such that the block member penetrates between a plurality of fastening members spaced apart at a predetermined interval.

12. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized by further including a vent block interposed between the cell assembly and the first busbar frame.

13. In Paragraph 12, The cell assembly further includes a barrier member provided between the battery cells, and A battery unit characterized in that the above-mentioned vent block is provided between the barrier member and the cell terrace from which the electrode lead is drawn from the battery cell.

14. In Paragraph 12, The above vent block is disposed in multiple numbers on one side and the other side of the battery cell, respectively, and A battery unit characterized in that the above-mentioned vent block is provided in a greater number on one side of the battery cell than on the other side of the battery cell.

15. In Paragraph 1, A battery unit characterized by including a fixing member configured to fix the upper surface of the battery cell.

16. A battery pack characterized by including at least one battery unit described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. An automobile characterized by comprising at least one battery cell described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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