Battery system and battery module evaluation method capable of detecting damaged battery cells

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery system for detecting damaged battery cells and a method for evaluating battery modules. The battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance can accurately predict the location of battery cells where gas has been generated by incorporating multiple gas sensor units into a battery module housing multiple battery cells and comparing gas detection times measured in the gas sensor units when gas is generated in the battery cells. Therefore, the battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance can be usefully used in the development of battery modules and / or the management of developed battery modules.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery system for detecting a damaged battery cell, and a method for evaluating a battery module. This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0109975, filed on August 31, 2020, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0068005, filed on May 27, 2021, and the contents of these Korean Patent Applications are incorporated herein as part of this specification. Background Art

[0002] The secondary battery is formed in a structure such that an electrode assembly including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator arranged between the positive and negative electrodes is built into a battery case, and a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab are welded to two electrode leads and sealed so as to be exposed to the outside of the battery case. The electrode tab is electrically connected to an external device by contacting the external device, and the secondary battery supplies power to or receives power from the external device through the electrode tab.

[0003] If the battery is operated in an abnormal state due to overcharge, overdischarge, overheating, external impact, etc., gas may be generated inside the secondary battery. For example, an overheated battery generates gas inside, and the gas generated thereby is pressurized from the inside of the shell, thereby further promoting the decomposition reaction of each battery element inserted into the shell, causing continued overheating and gas generation. Therefore, a bulging phenomenon may occur. This phenomenon also occurs in the slow deterioration process of the secondary battery due to long-term use. Therefore, in order to develop a battery cell with uniform charge / discharge characteristics, information on pressure changes according to volume changes of the battery cell based on long-term use or charge / discharge of the battery cell is necessary, and when using the developed battery cell, in terms of improving life and efficiency, a technology for monitoring volume changes or pressure changes, etc. in real time is needed.

[0004] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a system for sensing characteristics of a battery module on which battery cells are mounted according to conventional technology. Figure 1 System 10 stores a battery module 12 containing n battery cells in chamber 11, and then repeatedly charges and discharges the battery cells contained in battery module 12 using charge / discharge unit 18, thereby inducing swelling. Furthermore, sensor units 14 separately installed in chamber 11 and battery module 12 are used to determine whether swelling has occurred in the battery cells, or battery modules 12 are collected and disassembled to directly check whether swelling has occurred.

[0005] However, the system 10 cannot remotely detect whether swelling has occurred in the battery cells accommodated in the battery module, and the inspection method of collecting and disassembling the battery module is inconvenient and requires a long time.

[0006] [Prior art literature]

[0007] [Patent Document]

[0008] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-110129 Summary of the Invention

[0009]

Technical Issues

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for obtaining information on pressure change according to volume change of battery cells based on long-term use or charge / discharge of battery cells mounted on a battery module.

[0011]

Technical solution

[0012] In order to solve the above problems,

[0013] In an embodiment of the present invention,

[0014] A battery system is provided, the battery system including a battery module and a battery management system (BMS) configured to control operation and status of the battery module,

[0015] The battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, a module housing for accommodating the battery cells, and a plurality of gas sensor units, the plurality of gas sensor units being separately positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, sensing gas generated from the battery cells during charge and discharge, and measuring gas detection time, and

[0016] Herein, the battery management system (BMS) is electrically connected to the gas sensor units to receive information measured from each of the gas sensor units, and compares the received information to thereby calculate a position of a cell in which gas has been generated.

[0017] Herein, each of the gas sensor units may further measure at least one selected from the group consisting of a gas type and a gas concentration value.

[0018] In addition, the battery management system (BMS) can receive measurement values ​​from separately located gas sensor units and compare the received values ​​to thereby calculate the location of the cell in which gas has been generated, and if the value measured in the gas sensor unit reaches a predetermined value, the battery management system (BMS) can inform the user of damage to the battery cell.

[0019] Furthermore, the module housing may include a plurality of gas exhaust units, and the gas sensor unit may be individually arranged at a position adjacent to each gas exhaust unit.

[0020] Specifically, the gas exhaust unit may include a first gas exhaust unit positioned at a first side surface of the module case, and a second gas exhaust unit positioned at a second side surface facing the first side surface.

[0021] In addition, the battery system may further include an insulation resistance sensor unit positioned at an inner surface of the module case, measuring insulation resistance of the battery module, and transmitting the measured value to a battery management system (BMS).

[0022] Additionally, the battery system may be a battery pack for a vehicle or an energy storage system (ESS).

[0023] Furthermore, in an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device for evaluating performance of a battery module, the device comprising:

[0024] chamber;

[0025] A temperature controller is positioned inside the chamber and controls an average temperature of the interior of the chamber within a range of 60 to 100°C.

[0026] a battery module comprising a module housing mounted inside a chamber and accommodating a plurality of battery cells, and a plurality of gas sensor units separately positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, sensing gas generated inside the module housing and measuring a gas detection time; and

[0027] A data processing unit electrically connected to the plurality of gas sensor units receives a gas detection time measured by each of the gas sensor units and compares the received gas detection times to thereby predict a damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

[0028] Herein, the battery module may include first and second gas exhaust units on side surfaces of the module case, and the first and second gas sensor units may be disposed on the first and second gas exhaust units, respectively.

[0029] Specifically, the first gas exhaust unit may be formed on a first side surface of the battery module, and the second gas exhaust unit may be formed on a second side surface facing the first side surface.

[0030] Furthermore, the apparatus may further include an insulation resistance sensor unit positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, measuring insulation resistance of the battery module, and transmitting the measured insulation resistance value to an electrically connected data processing unit.

[0031] Furthermore, in an embodiment of the present invention,

[0032] A method for evaluating the performance of a battery module by using the above-mentioned performance evaluation device according to the present invention is provided, the method comprising:

[0033] installing a battery module having a plurality of battery cells in a module housing in the chamber;

[0034] generating gas inside the battery module by adjusting the internal temperature of a chamber in which the battery module is mounted to be within a range of 60 to 100° C.;

[0035] measuring a gas detection time by sensing a gas generated inside the battery module by a plurality of gas sensor units included in the battery module; and

[0036] A damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells is predicted by comparing result values ​​obtained through measurements of the corresponding gas sensor units.

[0037] At this time, the gas generation is performed at a temperature of 70 to 90° C. for 6 to 12 days.

[0038] Furthermore, the plurality of gas sensor units may measure at least one selected from the group consisting of a gas type and a gas concentration value when measuring the gas detection time.

[0039] Furthermore, predicting a damaged battery cell further includes determining whether the electrolyte solution has leaked by measuring insulation resistance inside the battery module, and after predicting the damaged battery cell, a step of verifying the prediction result may be performed.

[0040] Herein, the verifying step may be performed by determining a damaged battery cell among a plurality of battery cells by disassembling the battery module, and comparing the actually damaged battery cell with the predicted damaged battery cell in the step of predicting the damaged battery cell.

[0041] Beneficial effects

[0042] The apparatus and method for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention can similarly assess the degradation of battery cells by charging and discharging the battery module under high-temperature, harsh conditions during module development, thereby obtaining reliable pressure change measurements based on the volume changes of the battery cells.

[0043] Furthermore, the battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance according to the present invention can accurately predict the location of a battery cell where gas has been generated by introducing multiple gas sensor units into a battery module housing multiple battery cells and comparing the gas detection times measured by the gas sensor units when gas is generated in the battery cells. Therefore, the battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance can be usefully used in the development of battery modules and / or the management of developed battery modules. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional system for sensing characteristics of a battery module.

[0045] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a performance evaluation apparatus for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 is a graph illustrating evaluation results of an apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an evaluation result of an apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention and illustrates the orientation of a damaged battery cell in a battery module.

[0048] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a performance evaluation apparatus for a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 is a graph showing insulation performance of a battery module obtained through measurement during evaluation of the battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail.

[0051] Battery system

[0052] The present invention provides a battery system capable of calculating the position of a battery cell in which gas is generated by sensing gas generated from the battery cell included in a battery module in real time.

[0053] The battery system according to the present invention includes a battery module and a battery management system (BMS) configured to control the operation and status of the battery module. In this article, the battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, a module housing for accommodating the battery cells, and a plurality of gas sensor units, which are separately positioned on the inner surface of the module housing, sense the gas generated from the battery cells during charging and discharging, and measure the gas detection time. In this article, the battery management system (BMS) is electrically connected to the gas sensor unit to receive information measured from each gas sensor unit, and compares the received information to thereby calculate the orientation of the cell in which the gas has been generated.

[0054] That is, the battery system is capable of sensing the gas generated in the currently used battery cells in real time by introducing multiple gas sensor units separately positioned in the battery module; and the multiple gas sensor units can measure the gas sensing time points and send the measured values ​​to the battery management system (BMS), and the battery management system (BMS) is capable of accurately predicting the orientation of the battery cells in which gas has been generated by comparing the received gas detection time points.

[0055] Hereinafter, each configuration of the battery system according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0056] First, a battery module included in a battery system includes a plurality of battery cells, a module case for accommodating the battery cells, a gas sensor unit separately positioned on an inner surface of the module case, and a gas exhaust unit for exhausting gas.

[0057] At this time, if the battery cell is a secondary battery capable of charging and discharging, it is not particularly limited. Specifically, the battery cell may be a pouch-type unit cell, and the pouch-type unit cell may have the following structure: the electrode assembly of the positive electrode / separator / negative electrode structure is built into the laminated sheet outer material in a manner connected to the electrode lead formed outside the outer material. The electrode lead may be pulled outside the sheet and may extend in the same or opposite directions to each other.

[0058] For convenience of explanation, the figures of the present invention only show a pouch-type battery cell in the form of a pair of electrode leads pulled out in opposite directions, but the battery cell applied to the battery module according to the present invention is not particularly limited thereto, and a pair of electrode leads can be pulled out in the same direction.

[0059] Furthermore, n or more battery cells (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) can be housed in the module housing in an electrically connected state. Specifically, the battery cells can be electrically connected by adjusting the number of battery cells (n) to 2 to 100, 2 to 50, 2 to 40, 10 to 35, 20 to 30, or 5 to 20, depending on the application. The electrical connection can be made in series or in parallel, or a combination of series and parallel connections can be made.

[0060] Furthermore, the module housing in which the battery cells are housed protects the battery cells so that they can operate safely in high temperature and / or humid environments or under external impact. To this end, the module housing may have a structure that prevents moisture from penetrating into the module while allowing internal heat to dissipate. It may be made of a high-strength synthetic resin or metal material to encase the battery cells, or may additionally contain a heat dissipation material for dissipating heat generated in the battery cells housed in the module housing.

[0061] In addition, the module housing may include a device for discharging gas generated from the battery cells. Specifically, the module housing may include a plurality of gas discharge units to discharge gas generated from the battery cells, and the plurality of gas discharge units may be separately arranged.

[0062] As an example, if the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the gas exhaust unit may include a first gas exhaust unit located on any first side surface among the four side surfaces, and a second gas exhaust unit located on a second side surface facing the first side surface.

[0063] As another example, in a case where the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular shape, the first gas exhaust unit to the third gas exhaust unit can be respectively arranged on any first side surface among the four side surfaces, the second side surface facing the first side surface, and the third side surface located between the first side surface and the second side surface.

[0064] As another example, in the case where the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the first to fourth gas exhaust units may be sequentially provided on four side surfaces, respectively.

[0065] In addition, the gas exhaust unit may include an opening formed on a side surface of the module housing and an air blower for rapidly exhausting gas generated in the module by being fluidly connected to the opening. The air blower can reduce the temperature around the battery cells by rotating in a forward direction to circulate air around the battery cells when the temperature inside the battery module is 40°C or less, and can rapidly exhaust the air around the battery cells by rotating in a reverse direction when the temperature inside the battery module exceeds 40°C.

[0066] Furthermore, a gas sensor unit can be separately arranged at a location adjacent to the gas exhaust unit. The gas sensor unit senses gas generated in the module housing, measures the time when the gas is sensed, and calculates the location of the battery cell where the gas was generated. In this case, since each gas sensor unit is arranged at each location adjacent to each gas exhaust unit, gas generated from the battery cell can be quickly sensed.

[0067] In addition, in addition to the gas detection time, the plurality of gas sensor units may also measure at least one selected from the group consisting of a gas type and a gas concentration value. The gas type and / or gas concentration value may be measured by an analysis device such as a gas chromatography (GC), a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), a precision gas mass spectrometer (PGMS), and the like. To this end, the gas sensor unit may include an analysis device located at the outside of the module housing so that they are fluidically connected to an opening formed on the module housing. In general, the weight of a gas may differ depending on the gas type, and the diffusion rate may differ depending on the concentration, thereby affecting the movement speed of the gas. Therefore, in the present invention, the position of the battery cell in which the gas has been generated may be more accurately calculated by additionally measuring the gas type and / or gas concentration value together with the gas detection time point measured in the gas sensor unit.

[0068] In addition, any gas sensor unit can be used without particular limitation as long as it includes a sensor for gas detection used in the relevant field. Specifically, the gas sensor unit may include a sensor capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as methane, ethane, propane or butane, carbon dioxide gas, carbon monoxide gas, oxygen, etc., which are contained in the form of gas, such as a metal oxide sensor, a chemical-resistant sensor, a semiconductor sensor, a light ion sensor, or an infrared sensor. As an example, the gas sensor unit may include a semiconductor sensor that detects a specific gas component contained in the gas and changes an electrical signal according to its concentration.

[0069] In addition, the gas sensor unit can be electrically connected to a battery management system (BMS) and transmit measurement values ​​such as gas detection time, gas type, and / or gas concentration to the battery management system (BMS). The battery management system (BMS) can calculate the location of the battery cell where the gas is generated based on the information received from the gas sensor unit.

[0070] For example, the gas detection time point in the gas sensor unit closest to the battery cell in which gas has been generated will be earlier than the gas detection time points in other gas sensor units. Therefore, in a case where the first gas sensor unit is adjacent to the first gas exhaust unit located on the first side surface of the module housing, and the second gas sensor unit is adjacent to the second gas exhaust unit located on the second side surface facing the first side surface of the module housing, the time points when gas generated in the module is sensed in the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit can be measured, and the position of the battery cell in which gas has been generated can be calculated by using the difference between the time points.

[0071] In addition, the battery management system (BMS) is a device that manages battery cells for safe use while displaying maximum performance through battery cell capacity management / protection, usage history, life prediction, overcharge / overdischarge protection, communication, etc., and can inform its user of battery cell damage when the value measured in the gas sensor unit reaches a predetermined value. For example, if the gas concentration measured in the gas sensor unit exceeds 10% of the total volume of the module housing, or a specific gas is detected, the battery management system (BMS) notifies the user of a warning signal, allowing the user to temporarily stop the operation of the battery module or replace or repair the battery cell in which the gas is generated.

[0072] In addition, the battery system according to the present invention may further include an insulation resistance sensor unit, which is positioned at the inner surface of the module housing, measures the insulation resistance of the battery module, and sends the measured value to the battery management system (BMS). When the battery cell is used for a long time, it causes swelling of the battery cell and the battery cell is damaged, which may cause leakage of the electrolyte solution. In this case, since the leaked electrolyte solution reduces the insulation resistance in the battery module, it is possible to determine whether there is leakage of electrolyte solution due to swelling of the battery cell by measuring the insulation resistance of the following items: the inner surface of the battery housing, more specifically, a portion of the electrode lead of the battery cell housed in the module housing (for example, a frame of a bus bar, etc.); and a substrate for preventing a lower short circuit (for example, insulating rubber, insulating film, etc.) provided at the lower end of the module housing and the inner bottom surface of the lower end of the battery cell in contact. Therefore, the time point (ventilation time point) at which damage to the battery cell is caused can be predicted more accurately.

[0073] Meanwhile, the battery system according to the present invention may be a battery pack or an energy storage system (ESS) for a vehicle or the like.

[0074] Specifically, the battery system can be used for electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles or vehicle battery packs such as power storage devices, and the battery system used as the power source of the vehicle can be combined in various ways according to the desired output and capacity.

[0075] In addition, the battery system can be used as an energy storage system (ESS) that stores electricity generated by utilizing renewable energy such as sunlight, wind energy, and tidal energy.

[0076] By having the above configuration, the battery system according to the present invention can sense the gas generated in the battery module in real time and quickly and accurately determine the battery cell in which the gas is generated, significantly reducing the risk of failure and accidents of the battery system, and improving the operating efficiency of the battery system.

[0077] Equipment for evaluating the performance of battery modules

[0078] In addition, in an embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides an apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module that has been used for a long time by exposing the battery module to severe conditions.

[0079] The device for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention is capable of causing swelling by fixing a battery module under development or before use in a chamber and storing the battery module under harsh conditions by maintaining the temperature in the chamber at a high temperature so that the battery cells contained in the battery module deteriorate in a short period of time. As a result, the battery cells are damaged, and gas is generated in the battery module due to the damage of the battery cells. The generated gas is sensed by a plurality of gas sensor units included in the battery module, and the gas detection signal is sent to a data processing unit. The data processing unit derives the time point when the gas has been sensed in the corresponding gas sensor unit by comparing the gas detection signals sent from the plurality of gas sensor units, and is capable of predicting the position of the damaged battery cell by comparing the derived time points. In some cases, the time point when the battery cell has been damaged can be additionally predicted.

[0080] To this end, an apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module includes: a chamber; a temperature controller positioned inside the chamber and controlling an average temperature inside the chamber within a range of 60 to 100°C; a battery module comprising a module housing mounted inside the chamber and accommodating a plurality of battery cells and a plurality of gas sensor units, the plurality of gas sensor units being separately positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, sensing gases generated inside the module housing, and measuring gas detection time; and a data processing unit electrically connected to the plurality of gas sensor units, receiving the gas detection time measured by each gas sensor unit, and comparing the received gas detection times to thereby predict a damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

[0081] At this time, the chamber provides a space for storing the battery module during the performance evaluation of the battery module. The chamber can be composed of a dual structure, specifically, a first shell and a second shell surrounding the first shell. In addition, the battery module can be stored in the first shell. In particular, the first shell is a space that provides a place for realizing the high temperature characteristics of the battery module, and the inner surface of the first shell can be processed to include some heat conductive material, or the surface can be coated. For example, the interior of the first shell may contain a metal material such as SUS, copper, or aluminum. In addition, it is preferred that the second shell located on the outside of the first shell is made of an insulating material such as polytetrafluoroethylene. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the first shell is referred to as a "chamber".

[0082] In addition, an explosion-proof door or the like may be installed at the first housing for storing the battery module. In a specific example, the first housing may include an explosion-proof door for the purpose of blocking storm pressure and heat generated from various weapons and simultaneously blocking damage due to fragments.

[0083] In addition, a temperature controller is located in the chamber to perform the function of controlling the internal temperature of the chamber at 60°C to 100°C. For this purpose, the temperature controller may include a heating member, and the heating member may be an electric heating assembly consisting of a heater supplied with power from the battery module or a plurality of heating wires supplied with power and heated. The electric heating assembly may have a structure in which the heating wires are arranged in a grid structure. The grid structure allows high-flow rate air from the blower to move easily through the grid without creating large resistance to the fluid flowing through the electric heating assembly. In addition, in the grid structure, the plurality of heating wires are arranged separately. Therefore, the interior of the battery pack housing can be heated more quickly in the grid structure than in a structure in which the heating wires are concentrated.

[0084] In addition, the temperature controller is capable of controlling the average temperature in the chamber within a range of 60 to 100°C, specifically within a range of 60 to 90°C, 60 to 80°C, 70 to 90°C, or 80 to 90°C. In the present invention, by adjusting the temperature range inside the chamber controlled by the temperature controller, degradation of a battery module under development or before use under harsh conditions can be induced in a short period of time, and the degradation of the battery module induced in this way is induced in a manner similar to the degradation of a battery module that has been used for several years. Therefore, it is possible to obtain high-reliability information (for example, the amount of pressure change according to the volume change of the battery cell, etc.) about phenomena caused by degradation of the battery module, such as gas generation and swelling of the battery cell.

[0085] First, a battery module stored in a chamber includes a plurality of battery cells, a module case for accommodating the battery cells, a gas sensor unit separately positioned on an inner surface of the module case, and a gas exhaust unit for exhausting gas.

[0086] At this time, if the battery cell is a secondary battery capable of charging and discharging, it is not particularly limited. Specifically, the battery cell may be a pouch-type unit cell, and the pouch-type unit cell may have the following structure: the electrode assembly of the positive electrode / separator / negative electrode structure is built into the laminated sheet outer material in a manner connected to the electrode lead formed outside the outer material. The electrode lead may be pulled outside the sheet and may extend in the same or opposite directions to each other.

[0087] For convenience of explanation, the figures of the present invention only show a pouch-type battery cell in the form of a pair of electrode leads pulled out in opposite directions, but the battery cell applied to the battery module according to the present invention is not particularly limited thereto, and a pair of electrode leads can be pulled out in the same direction.

[0088] Furthermore, n or more battery cells (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) can be housed in the module housing in an electrically connected state. Specifically, the battery cells can be electrically connected by adjusting the number of battery cells (n) to 2 to 100, 2 to 50, 2 to 40, 10 to 35, 20 to 30, or 5 to 20, depending on the application. The electrical connection can be made in series or in parallel, or a combination of series and parallel connections can be made.

[0089] Furthermore, the module housing in which the battery cells are housed protects the battery cells so that they can operate safely in high temperature and / or humid environments or under external impact. To this end, the module housing may have a structure that prevents moisture from penetrating into the module while allowing internal heat to dissipate. It may be made of a high-strength synthetic resin or metal material to encase the battery cells, or may additionally contain a heat dissipation material for dissipating heat generated in the battery cells housed in the module housing.

[0090] In addition, the module housing may include a device for discharging gas generated from the battery cells. Specifically, the module housing may include a plurality of gas discharge units located on the side surface and the upper surface to discharge gas generated from the battery cells, and the plurality of gas discharge units may be separately arranged.

[0091] As an example, if the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the gas exhaust unit may include a first gas exhaust unit located on any first side surface among the four side surfaces, and a second gas exhaust unit located on a second side surface facing the first side surface.

[0092] As another example, in a case where the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular shape, the first gas exhaust unit to the third gas exhaust unit can be respectively arranged on any first side surface among the four side surfaces, the second side surface facing the first side surface, and the third side surface located between the first side surface and the second side surface.

[0093] As another example, in the case where the module housing of the gas exhaust unit has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the first to fourth gas exhaust units may be sequentially provided on four side surfaces, respectively.

[0094] In addition, the gas exhaust unit may include an opening formed on a side surface of the module housing and an air blower for rapidly exhausting gas generated in the module by being fluidly connected to the opening. The air blower can reduce the temperature around the battery cells by rotating in a forward direction to circulate air around the battery cells when the temperature inside the battery module is 40°C or less, and can rapidly exhaust the air around the battery cells by rotating in a reverse direction when the temperature inside the battery module exceeds 40°C.

[0095] Furthermore, a gas sensor unit can be separately arranged at a location adjacent to the gas exhaust unit. The gas sensor unit senses gas generated in the module housing, measures the time when the gas is sensed, and calculates the location of the battery cell where the gas was generated. In this case, since each gas sensor unit is arranged at each location adjacent to each gas exhaust unit, gas generated from the battery cell can be quickly sensed.

[0096] As an example, a battery module stored in an apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module may have a first gas exhaust unit and a second gas exhaust unit on the side surfaces of the module housing, and a first gas sensor unit and a second gas sensor unit may be arranged at the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit, respectively. In this case, the first gas exhaust unit is formed on one side surface of the battery module, while the second gas exhaust unit is formed on the other side surface of the battery module. Therefore, the first gas sensor unit is arranged on one side surface of the battery module, while the second gas sensor unit is arranged on the other side surface of the battery module.

[0097] That is, the first gas sensor unit can be arranged on the front side of the battery module, and the second gas sensor unit can be arranged on the rear side, which is an area opposite the area where the first gas sensor unit is arranged. For example, when a battery cell in the battery module is damaged, the gas generated in the battery module is discharged to the first gas discharge unit and the second gas discharge unit. In addition, the generated gas can be sensed by the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit, which are respectively arranged at the first gas discharge unit and the second gas discharge unit.

[0098] In addition, in addition to the gas detection time, the plurality of gas sensor units may also measure at least one selected from the group consisting of a gas type and a gas concentration value. The gas type and / or gas concentration value may be measured by an analysis device such as a gas chromatography (GC), a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), a precision gas mass spectrometer (PGMS), and the like. To this end, the gas sensor unit may include an analysis device at the outside of the module housing so that they are fluidly connected to an opening formed on the module housing. In general, the weight of a gas may differ depending on the gas type, and the diffusion rate may differ depending on the concentration, thereby affecting the movement speed of the gas. Therefore, in the present invention, the position of the battery cell in which the gas has been generated may be more accurately calculated by additionally measuring the gas type and / or gas concentration value together with the gas detection time point measured in the gas sensor unit.

[0099] In addition, any gas sensor unit can be used without particular limitation as long as it includes a sensor for gas detection used in the relevant field. Specifically, the gas sensor unit may include a sensor capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as methane, ethane, propane or butane, carbon dioxide gas, carbon monoxide gas, oxygen, etc., which are contained in the form of gas, such as a metal oxide sensor, a chemical-resistant sensor, a semiconductor sensor, a light ion sensor, or an infrared sensor. As an example, the gas sensor unit may include a semiconductor sensor that detects a specific gas component contained in the gas and changes an electrical signal according to its concentration.

[0100] In addition, as described above, the data processing unit predicts the location of a damaged battery cell among the multiple battery cells housed in the module housing by comparing the gas detection time points sensed by the multiple gas sensor units. Specifically, the multiple gas sensor units, or the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit, sense gas generated in the battery module and transmit gas detection signals to the data processing unit. Thereafter, the data processing unit can compare the gas detection times sensed by the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit to thereby predict the location of a damaged battery cell among the multiple battery cells.

[0101] That is, the data processing unit can compare the gas detection times at the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit, and predict the time point and / or location where the battery cell has been damaged. For example, when the gas detection time of the first gas sensor unit is similar to the gas detection time of the second gas sensor unit, it means that the difference between the time point when the generated gas moves to the first gas sensor unit and the time when the generated gas moves to the second gas sensor unit is small. Therefore, it is possible to determine that the damaged battery cell is located in the central area of ​​the battery module, which corresponds to the central area of ​​the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit. In addition, if the gas detection time in the second gas sensor unit is faster than the gas detection time in the first gas sensor unit, it can be determined that the damaged battery cell is located in an area adjacent to the second gas sensor unit.

[0102] In one embodiment, the apparatus for evaluating battery module performance according to the present invention further includes an output unit for outputting the gas concentration sensed by the gas sensor unit as a resistance value over time. Specifically, the data processing unit is capable of predicting damaged battery cells based on the gas detection time and the peak value outputted from the output unit. Alternatively, the output unit may be a conventional monitoring device or an output device.

[0103] In addition, the performance evaluation device of the battery module according to the present invention further includes a storage unit for storing the results of the data processing unit. Specifically, the storage unit receives the results from the data processing unit and stores the results.

[0104] The data processing unit and the storage unit may be operated directly by a user, but may also be operated by an automated system.

[0105] As an example, a charge / discharge unit electrically connected to a battery cell housed in the battery module may be further included. The charge / discharge unit may supply charging power to the secondary battery or receive discharge power from the secondary battery. In this article, supplying power to the secondary battery is not limited to supplying power sufficient to fully charge the secondary battery. Supplying power to the secondary battery may also mean supplying power sufficient to measure the voltage of the first electrode lead and the second electrode lead to evaluate the performance of the secondary battery. The same situation can be applied to the meaning of receiving discharge power from the secondary battery, so its repeated description is omitted here.

[0106] Furthermore, the apparatus for evaluating battery module performance according to the present invention further includes a temperature sensor unit for sensing the temperature inside the battery module and the chamber. This temperature sensor unit is used to detect the ambient temperature inside the battery module and the chamber when a battery cell inside the battery module is damaged. While the temperature sensor unit is not shown in the drawings, one or more temperature sensor units may be provided, and the temperature of various portions of the battery module may be sensed.

[0107] In addition, the device for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention may further include an insulation resistance sensor unit that measures the insulation resistance inside the battery module and sends the measured insulation resistance value to an electrically connected data processing unit. In addition, the insulation resistance sensor unit may further include an insulation monitoring device for measuring the insulation resistance inside the battery module. When battery cell damage occurs during the evaluation of the swelling characteristics of the battery cell, the insulation resistance decreases due to leakage of the electrolyte solution in the battery cell. At this time, the insulation monitoring device is able to monitor the insulation resistance of the battery module to determine whether the electrolyte solution has leaked, thereby being able to guess the damage time point of the battery cell (for example, the ventilation time point).

[0108] According to the device for evaluating the performance of a battery module of the present invention, the degradation of a battery cell can be similarly realized by charging and discharging the battery module under high temperature and harsh conditions when developing the module. Therefore, a reliable pressure change measurement result can be obtained based on the volume change of the battery cell. In addition, the device for evaluating the performance of a battery module is capable of accurately predicting the location of a battery cell in which gas has been generated by introducing a plurality of gas sensor units in a battery module in which a plurality of battery cells are accommodated, and comparing the gas detection time points measured in the gas sensor units when gas is generated in the battery cell. Therefore, the device for evaluating the performance of a battery module can be usefully used when developing the battery module.

[0109] Method for evaluating performance of battery modules

[0110] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of evaluating performance of a battery module using the above-mentioned apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module according to the present invention.

[0111] According to the method of evaluating the performance of a battery module of the present invention, it is possible to accurately and reliably evaluate the performance of a battery module in a short time by using the apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module of the present invention.

[0112] At this time, the performance evaluation method includes: installing a battery module under development or before use in a chamber; generating gas inside the battery module by adjusting the internal temperature of the chamber on which the battery module is mounted to be in the range of 60 to 100°C; measuring the gas detection time by sensing the gas generated inside the battery module by a plurality of gas sensor units included in the battery module; and predicting a damaged battery cell among a plurality of battery cells by comparing result values ​​obtained by measurements of the corresponding gas sensor units.

[0113] That is, the method of evaluating performance realizes the swelling of the battery cells by storing the battery module under high temperature and harsh conditions for a short period of time (for example, 30 days or less). As a result, the battery cells are damaged due to the swelling of the battery cells accommodated in the battery module, and the gas leaks due to the damage of the battery cells in the battery module. At this time, the plurality of gas sensor units formed in the battery module sense the gas generated in the battery module and transmit the gas detection signal to the data processing unit. The data processing unit predicts a damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells by comparing the gas detection time points sensed by the plurality of gas sensor units, and predicts the damage time point when the battery cell is damaged by comparing the gas detection time points.

[0114] Herein, in the step of generating gas in the battery module, the average temperature in the chamber may be controlled within a range of 60 to 100°C, specifically 60 to 90°C, 60 to 80°C, 70 to 90°C, or 80 to 90°C.

[0115] Furthermore, the step of generating gas in the battery module may be performed for less than 30 days, specifically for 1 to 25 days; for 1 to 20 days; for 5 to 20 days; for 5 to 15 days; or for 6 to 12 days.

[0116] In the present invention, by adjusting the temperature range within the chamber and the execution period of the gas generation step within the battery module, it is possible to induce degradation of a battery module under development or before use under harsh conditions in a short period of time. This induced degradation of the battery module is similar to the degradation of a battery module that has been used for several years. Consequently, it is possible to obtain highly reliable information (e.g., the amount of pressure change due to volume changes in the battery cells) on phenomena caused by battery module degradation, such as gas generation and swelling in the battery cells.

[0117] In addition, the step of measuring the gas detection time is a step in which multiple gas sensor units sense the gas generated from the battery cell and measure the sensed time. At this time, in addition to the gas detection time, the multiple gas sensor units can also measure at least one selected from the group consisting of gas type and gas concentration value. The gas type and / or gas concentration value can be measured by an analysis device such as gas chromatography (GC), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), precision gas mass spectrometer (PGMS), etc. To this end, the gas sensor unit may include an analysis device at the outside of the module housing so that they are fluidically connected to an opening formed on the module housing. In general, the weight of the gas may be different depending on the gas type, and the diffusion rate may be different depending on the concentration, thereby affecting the movement speed of the gas. Therefore, in the present invention, the position of the battery cell in which the gas has been generated can be more accurately calculated by additionally measuring the gas type and / or gas concentration value together with the gas detection time point measured in the gas sensor unit.

[0118] In addition, the battery module installed inside the chamber may have a structure in which a plurality of gas exhaust units are formed. As an example, the battery module has a structure in which a first gas exhaust unit and a second gas exhaust unit are formed on one side surface and the other side surface, respectively, and a first gas sensor unit and a second gas sensor unit are arranged at the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit, respectively. Therefore, it is possible to compare the gas detection times sensed from the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit in the process of predicting a damaged battery cell. The process of predicting a damaged battery cell has been described above, so its detailed description is omitted here.

[0119] Furthermore, the step of storing the battery module data may also include outputting the gas concentration sensed by the gas sensor unit as a resistance value over time. In a specific example, damaged battery cells can be predicted based on the gas detection time and the peak value outputted from the output unit. Furthermore, the battery module evaluation method according to the present invention may further include storing the results of the data processing unit.

[0120] Furthermore, the battery module performance evaluation method according to the present invention may further include a charge / discharge process for driving the charge / discharge of the battery cells stored in the battery module. Specifically, the charge / discharge process includes supplying charging power to the secondary battery or receiving discharging power from the secondary battery. In this case, the power supply to the secondary battery is not limited to supplying power sufficient to fully charge the secondary battery.

[0121] Furthermore, the step of generating gas within the battery module may also include a process of sensing the temperature inside the battery module and the chamber. This is to reduce variations in the temperature inside the chamber and the surrounding temperature of the battery module when gas generation occurs, potentially damaging the battery cells. Although not shown in the drawings, multiple temperature sensor units may be provided, and temperatures at various locations may be sensed.

[0122] Furthermore, predicting damaged battery cells may also include determining whether the electrolyte solution has leaked by measuring the insulation resistance within the battery module. When a battery cell is damaged, the insulation resistance decreases due to leakage of the electrolyte solution within the battery cell. In other words, by monitoring the insulation characteristics of the battery module, it is possible to determine whether the electrolyte solution has leaked within the battery module. Therefore, the time of damage (e.g., the time of ventilation) can also be estimated.

[0123] In a specific example, the process of monitoring the insulation resistance of the battery module can be performed simultaneously with the process of predicting damaged battery cells among the plurality of battery cells. During the step of storing the battery module, damaged battery cells can be predicted among the plurality of battery cells by monitoring gas generation. Simultaneously, the point in time when a battery cell has become damaged can be predicted by monitoring the insulation resistance.

[0124] In addition, the method for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention may further include a step of verifying the prediction result after predicting a damaged battery cell. The verification step may be performed by disassembling the battery module to determine the damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, and comparing the actually damaged battery cell with the damaged battery cell predicted in the step of predicting the damaged battery cell.

[0125] According to the apparatus for evaluating battery module performance and the method for evaluating battery modules according to the present invention, it is possible to easily predict damaged battery cells among n battery cells by comparing the time points of gas detection sensed by multiple gas sensor units and comparing the peak values. Furthermore, it should be understood that by using the insulation monitoring device to monitor the battery module in real time, it is possible to easily determine whether a battery cell is damaged and estimate the time point when the battery cell is damaged.

[0126] [Detailed description of preferred embodiments]

[0127] Hereinafter, various types of performance evaluation apparatuses and performance evaluation methods of a battery module according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] (First embodiment)

[0129] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a performance evaluation apparatus for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] refer to Figure 2 , an apparatus 100 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention includes: a chamber 110; a battery module 120 stored in the chamber 110, including a plurality of gas exhaust units (not shown) and accommodating n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) battery cells; a temperature controller that controls the average temperature of the interior of the chamber within a range of 60 to 100°C; a gas sensor unit that is positioned inside the chamber 110 and senses gas leaked from the interior of the battery module 120; and a data processing unit 150 that predicts a damaged battery cell among the n battery cells by comparing gas detection times sensed by corresponding gas sensor units 140.

[0131] Specifically, the device 100 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention realizes the swelling of the battery cell by storing the battery module 120 in a high-temperature chamber 110. As a result, the battery cells contained in the battery module 120 are damaged (ventilated) by the swelling, and gas is generated by the damage of the battery cells in the battery module 120. At this time, the gas sensor units 140 respectively arranged at the multiple gas exhaust units formed on the battery module 120 sense the gas generated inside the battery module 120 and send the gas detection signal to the data processing unit 150. In addition, the data processing unit 150 is able to predict the damaged battery cell among the n battery cells by comparing the gas detection time points sensed in the multiple gas sensor units 140 and comparing the result values ​​obtained by the measurements of the corresponding gas sensor units 140. In addition, the data processing unit 150 is able to predict the damage time point of the battery cell by comparing the gas detection time points in the multiple gas sensor units 140.

[0132] The battery module 120 of the device for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention has a structure in which two gas exhaust units are formed. Specifically, the battery module 120 has a structure in which a first gas exhaust unit and a second gas exhaust unit are formed, and a first gas sensor unit 141 and a second gas sensor unit 142 are arranged at the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit, respectively. At this time, the first gas exhaust unit is formed at one side surface of the battery module 120, and the second gas exhaust unit is formed at the other side surface of the battery module 120. Therefore, the first gas sensor unit 141 is arranged on one side surface of the battery module 120, and the second gas sensor unit 142 is arranged on the other side surface of the battery module 120.

[0133] That is, the first gas sensor unit 141 is arranged at the front side of the battery module 120, and the second gas sensor unit 142 is arranged at the rear side corresponding to the area opposite to the area in which the first gas sensor unit 141 is arranged. The gas sensor unit 140 is a device that detects a specific gas component contained in the gas by a gas sensor and changes an electrical signal according to its concentration.

[0134] For example, when a battery cell in battery module 120 is damaged, the gas generated in battery module 120 is discharged to the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit. Furthermore, the generated gas is sensed by first gas sensor unit 141 and second gas sensor unit 142, which are respectively arranged at the first and second gas exhaust units. If the gas detection time points in first gas sensor unit 141 and second gas sensor unit 142 are similar, it means that the time when the generated gas reaches first gas sensor unit 141 is similar to the time when the gas reaches second gas sensor unit 142. Therefore, it can be determined that the damaged battery cell is arranged in the central area of ​​battery module 120.

[0135] In addition, when there is damage in one battery cell in the battery module 120, if the gas detection time point at the second gas sensor unit 142 is earlier than the gas detection time point at the first gas sensor unit 141, and the result value obtained by the measurement of the second gas sensor unit 142 is greater than the result value of the first gas sensor unit 141, it can be determined that the damaged battery cell is arranged in an area adjacent to the second gas sensor unit 142.

[0136] Meanwhile, the apparatus 100 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention further includes an output unit 160 for outputting the gas concentration sensed in the gas sensor unit 140 as a resistance value over time. In particular, the data processing unit 150 is capable of predicting a damaged battery cell based on the peak value outputted from the output unit 160 and the gas detection time.

[0137] In addition, the device 100 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention may be electrically connected to the battery module 120 and further include a charging / discharging unit 180 for driving the charging / discharging of the battery cells stored in the battery module. The charging / discharging unit 180 may be electrically connected to the battery module and supply charging power to the battery cells in the battery module 120 or receive discharging power from the battery cells. In this document, supplying power to the battery cells is not limited to supplying power sufficient to fully charge the battery cells. The same situation may be applied to the meaning of receiving discharging power from the battery cells, so its repeated description is omitted here. On the other hand, in the present invention, swelling at high temperatures can be achieved by storing the battery module 120 at high temperatures and performing charging / discharging.

[0138] In addition, the apparatus 100 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention may further include a temperature sensor unit (not shown) for sensing the temperature inside the battery module 120 and the chamber 110. The temperature sensor unit is used to detect the ambient temperature inside the battery module 120 and the chamber 110 when a battery cell inside the battery module 120 is damaged. The temperature sensor unit is not shown in the drawings, but one or more temperature sensor units may be provided, and the temperature at several parts of the battery module 120 may be sensed.

[0139] In one embodiment, the evaluation of the battery module is performed using an apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module.

[0140] More specifically, a battery module containing 14 battery cells was stored in a chamber of an apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module for 10 days. At this time, charging / discharging was performed on the battery cells stored in the battery module, and the average temperature in the chamber was maintained at 80°C. During the step of storing the battery module, the gas generated in the battery module was sensed in the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit, and the results were shown in FIG. Figure 4 middle.

[0141] Figure 3 is a graph showing results of gas chromatography (GC) included in the apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module according to the present invention, and shows the concentration of generated gas over time as peak intensity.

[0142] Will refer to Figure 3 A process of determining a damaged battery cell among battery cells accommodated in a battery module in the step of storing the battery module at a high temperature is described.

[0143] First, referring to Peak 1 and Peak 2 among the six peaks, it can be seen that the gas detection time point of the first gas sensor unit is similar to the gas detection time point of the second gas sensor unit, and the peak values ​​in the first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit are also similar. This means that the distance between the damaged battery cell and the first gas sensor unit is similar to the distance between the damaged battery cell and the second gas sensor unit. In other words, the peak values ​​of Peak 1 and Peak 2 can be used to predict that the battery cell arranged in the central area of ​​the battery module is damaged.

[0144] Furthermore, referring to peaks 3 and 4, the peak of peak 3 is detected earlier than the peak of peak 4, and the peak of peak 3 is higher than the peak of peak 4. This means that the damaged battery cell in the battery module is located closer to the first gas sensor cell than the second gas sensor cell. Specifically, this means that since the damaged battery cell is located closer to the first gas sensor cell, gas can be sensed first in the first gas sensor cell.

[0145] Furthermore, referring to Peak No. 5 and Peak No. 6, the peak of Peak No. 5 is detected earlier than the peak of Peak No. 6, and the peak of Peak No. 5 is higher than the peak of Peak No. 6. This means that the damaged battery cell in the battery module is located in a position closer to the second gas sensor unit than to the first gas sensor unit.

[0146] Furthermore, as an embodiment of the present invention, in order to verify the results predicted by the apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module, the battery module stored in the chamber was disassembled and the damaged battery cells were inspected, and the results are shown in FIG. Figure 4 middle.

[0147] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an evaluation result of an apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates locations of damaged battery cells in the battery module.

[0148] refer to Figure 4 , 3 out of 14 battery cells were damaged. Figure 3 When compared, peaks 1 and 2 are due to damage to cell 7-1, and peaks 3 and 4 are due to damage to cell 4-2. Furthermore, peaks 5 and 6 are due to damage to cell 10-2.

[0149] According to the apparatus for evaluating performance of a battery module and the method for evaluating a battery module according to the present invention, a damaged battery cell among a plurality of battery cells can be easily predicted by comparing gas detection time points sensed by a plurality of gas sensor units.

[0150] (Second embodiment)

[0151] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a performance evaluation apparatus for a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] refer to Figure 5, an apparatus 200 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention includes: a chamber 210; a battery module 220 stored in the chamber 210, including a plurality of gas exhaust units (not shown) and accommodating n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) battery cells; a temperature controller that controls the average temperature of the interior of the chamber within a range of 60 to 100°C; gas sensor units that are respectively arranged at the plurality of gas exhaust units and sense gas generated from the interior of the battery module 220; and a data processing unit 250 that predicts a damaged battery cell among the n battery cells by comparing gas detection time points sensed by corresponding gas sensor units 240 and comparing peak values.

[0153] The battery module 220 of the device 200 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention has a structure in which two gas exhaust units are formed. Specifically, the battery module 220 has a structure in which a first gas exhaust unit and a second gas exhaust unit are formed, and a first gas sensor unit 241 and a second gas sensor unit 242 are arranged at the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit, respectively. At this time, the first gas exhaust unit is formed at one side surface of the battery module 220, and the second gas exhaust unit is formed at the other side surface of the battery module 220. Therefore, the first gas sensor unit 241 is arranged on one side surface of the battery module 220, and the second gas sensor unit 242 is arranged on the other side surface of the battery module 220.

[0154] Furthermore, the apparatus 200 for evaluating the performance of a battery module according to the present invention includes an insulation monitoring device 270 . Specifically, the insulation monitoring device 270 is used to monitor the insulation characteristics of the battery module 220 .

[0155] When a battery cell is damaged during the battery module evaluation process, the insulation resistance decreases due to leakage of the electrolyte solution in the battery cell. That is, the insulation monitoring device 270 can monitor the insulation resistance of the battery module 220 to determine whether the electrolyte solution has leaked, thereby predicting the time point of battery cell damage (venting).

[0156] In addition, since the data processing unit 250 , the output unit 260 , and the charge / discharge unit 280 of the apparatus 200 for evaluating performance of a battery module according to the present invention have been described above, a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[0157] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, an evaluation of a battery module is performed using an apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module. More specifically, a battery module containing 14 battery cells is stored in a chamber of the apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module for 10 days. At this time, the battery cells inside the battery module maintain the average temperature inside the chamber at 80°C while performing charge / discharge, and the insulation resistance of the battery module is monitored. The results are shown in Figure 6 middle.

[0158] Figure 6 : is a graph showing the insulation resistance of a battery module obtained by measurement in an evaluation process of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 , it can be seen that the insulation resistance of the battery module decreases after 6 days from the start of storage of the battery module. This is because the electrolyte solution leaks due to damage to the battery cells housed in the battery module.

[0159] On the other hand, the description about each process of the method of evaluating a battery module according to the present invention has been made above, and thus a detailed description about each process is omitted here.

[0160] According to the apparatus for evaluating the performance of a battery module and the method for evaluating a battery module according to the present invention, it is possible to easily predict a damaged battery cell among n battery cells by comparing the gas detection time points sensed by a plurality of gas sensor units and comparing the values ​​measured by the gas sensor units. In addition, it should be understood that by using the insulation monitoring device to monitor the battery module in real time, it is possible to easily determine whether a battery cell is damaged and estimate the time point when the battery cell is damaged.

[0161] Although the preferred examples of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

[0162] Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the claims.

[0163] [Description of Reference Signs]

[0164] 10, 100, 200: Equipment used to evaluate the performance of battery modules

[0165] 11, 110, 210: Chamber

[0166] 12, 120, 220: battery modules

[0167] 120, 130: Temperature controller

[0168] 14: Sensor unit

[0169] 140, 240: Gas sensor unit

[0170] 141, 241: First gas sensor unit

[0171] 142, 242: Second gas sensor unit

[0172] 150, 250: Data processing unit

[0173] 160, 260: output unit

[0174] 270: Insulation monitoring device

[0175] 18, 180, 280: charging / discharging units

[0176]

Industrial Applicability

[0177] Furthermore, the battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance according to the present invention can accurately predict the location of a battery cell where gas has been generated by incorporating multiple gas sensor units into a battery module housing multiple battery cells and comparing the gas detection times measured by the gas sensor units when gas is generated in the battery cells. Therefore, the battery system and apparatus for evaluating battery module performance can be usefully used in the development of battery modules and / or the management of developed battery modules.

Claims

1. A battery system comprising a battery module and a battery management system configured to control the operation and status of the battery module, in, The battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, a module housing for accommodating the battery cells, and a plurality of gas sensor units separately positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, sensing gas generated from the battery cells during charge and discharge, and measuring gas detection time, gas type, and gas concentration value, and Wherein, the battery management system is electrically connected to the gas sensor units to receive the gas detection time, gas type and gas concentration value measured from each of the gas sensor units, and compares the received gas detection time, gas type and gas concentration values ​​to thereby calculate the location of the cell in which the gas has been generated.

2. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: If the value measured in the gas sensor unit reaches a predetermined value, the battery management system informs a user of damage to a battery cell.

3. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The module housing includes a plurality of gas exhaust units, and The gas sensor unit is individually arranged at a position adjacent to each gas exhaust unit.

4. The battery system according to claim 3, wherein: The gas exhaust unit includes a first gas exhaust unit positioned at a first side surface of the module case, and a second gas exhaust unit positioned at a second side surface facing the first side surface.

5. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The battery system further includes an insulation resistance sensor unit positioned at an inner surface of the module case, measuring insulation resistance of the battery module, and transmitting the measured value to the battery management system.

6. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The battery system is a battery pack for a vehicle or an energy storage system.

7. A device for evaluating the performance of a battery module, the device comprising: chamber; a temperature controller positioned inside the chamber and controlling an average temperature of the interior of the chamber within a range of 60 to 100° C.; a battery module comprising a module housing mounted inside the chamber and accommodating a plurality of battery cells, and a plurality of gas sensor units separately positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, sensing gas generated inside the module housing and measuring gas detection time, gas type, and gas concentration value; as well as a data processing unit electrically connected to the plurality of gas sensor units, receiving a gas detection time, a gas type, and a gas concentration value measured by each of the gas sensor units, and comparing the received gas detection time, gas type, and gas concentration values ​​to thereby predict a damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein The battery module includes a first gas exhaust unit and a second gas exhaust unit on a side surface of the module case, and The first gas sensor unit and the second gas sensor unit are respectively arranged on the first gas exhaust unit and the second gas exhaust unit.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The first gas exhaust unit is formed on a first side surface of the battery module, and Wherein, the second gas exhaust unit is formed on a second side surface facing the first side surface.

10. The apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising an insulation resistance sensor unit positioned on an inner surface of the module housing, measuring insulation resistance of the battery module, and transmitting the measured insulation resistance value to the electrically connected data processing unit.

11. A method for evaluating performance of a battery module by using the apparatus according to claim 7, the method comprising: installing a battery module having a plurality of battery cells in a module housing in the chamber; generating gas inside the battery module by adjusting the internal temperature of the chamber in which the battery module is mounted to be within a range of 60 to 100° C.; measuring a gas detection time, a gas type, and a gas concentration value by sensing a gas generated inside the battery module by a plurality of gas sensor units included in the battery module; as well as A damaged battery cell among the plurality of battery cells is predicted by comparing gas detection time, gas type, and gas concentration values ​​obtained through measurements of corresponding gas sensor units.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein The gas generation is performed at a temperature of 70 to 90° C. for 6 to 12 days.

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein Predicting a damaged battery cell further includes determining whether the electrolyte solution has leaked by measuring insulation resistance inside the battery module.

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