Battery pack and vehicle comprising the same

Abstract

Disclosed in the present invention is a battery pack for preventing condensation due to a temperature difference between the inside and outside of a battery pack case. To this end, the battery pack according to the present invention includes at least one battery module, a battery pack case configured to accommodate the at least one battery module therein and having at least one exhaust port formed to allow air to circulate between the inside and outside thereof, a control unit determining whether to open or close the exhaust port according to a temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack case, and an exhaust unit configured to receive a control signal from the control unit and accordingly pack or open the exhaust port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack, and more specifically, to a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack for preventing condensation caused by temperature differences between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0068645, filed in Korea on May 27, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Recently, demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, cameras and mobile phones has increased rapidly, and with the widespread development of electric vehicles, energy storage devices, robots and satellites, there is a great deal of research being conducted on high-performance rechargeable batteries.

[0004] Currently available rechargeable battery packs include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium rechargeable batteries. Among them, lithium rechargeable batteries have almost no memory effect. Therefore, they are more popular than nickel-based rechargeable batteries because they can be charged at any convenient time, have extremely low self-discharge rates, and high energy density.

[0005] Lithium-ion batteries typically use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. Additionally, a lithium-ion battery pack includes: an electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively, with a separator placed between the positive and negative electrode plates; and a package or battery casing that hermetically houses the electrode assembly and electrolyte.

[0006] Lithium-ion batteries can be classified into can-type and pouch-type batteries according to the shape of their casings. Can-type battery packs consist of a metal can that houses the electrode assembly, while pouch-type battery packs consist of a pouch that houses the aluminum laminated electrode assembly.

[0007] Recently, the demand for high-capacity battery packs used in electric vehicles has been increasing. A high-capacity battery pack comprises multiple battery modules, each containing a secondary battery cell. Depending on the outdoor environment in which the vehicle operates, the high-capacity battery pack installed in an electric vehicle can experience a significant temperature difference between its interior and exterior. When this temperature difference equals or exceeds 15°C, moisture contained in the air inside the battery pack condenses, forming water droplets on the walls of the battery pack casing. These water droplets flow downwards and remain within the casing. The presence of water in the casing can cause electrical short circuits between multiple battery modules, leading to thermal runaway, or electrical fires when wires between electrical components in the battery pack come into contact with each other.

[0008] Therefore, a method is needed to minimize electrical short circuits or wire contact in the battery pack due to condensation inside the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] This disclosure is designed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and therefore aims to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack for preventing condensation caused by the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing.

[0011] These and other objects and advantages of this disclosure will be understood from the following description and will be apparent from embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the objects and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the means set forth in the appended claims and combinations thereof.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] To address the aforementioned technical problems, a battery pack according to this disclosure includes: at least one battery module; a battery pack housing that accommodates at least one battery module, the battery pack housing having at least one vent to allow air to flow in and out; a control unit configured to determine whether to open or close the vent based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing; and an exhaust unit configured to open or close the vent in response to a control signal from the control unit.

[0014] The exhaust unit may include: an encapsulation member having a size equal to or greater than that of the vent to close the vent; and a transmission member configured to transmit the encapsulation member toward or away from the vent in response to a control signal from a control unit.

[0015] The transmission component may include: an electric motor configured to operate in response to a control signal from a control unit; and a transmission gear configured to transmit the encapsulation component toward or away from the vent via a rotational force transmitted from the electric motor.

[0016] The first gear may be located at the rotating shaft of the electric motor. The transmission gear may include a body extending in one direction and having threads on its outer surface, and a second gear at the end of the body that meshes with the first gear. The encapsulation member may have a screw hole into which the body is inserted, the screw hole having threads on its inner surface. The exhaust unit may also include a fixing member to fix a portion of the encapsulation member to prevent the encapsulation member from rotating.

[0017] The transmission component may include: a cylinder configured to push the shaft outward or pull the shaft inward in response to a control signal from a control unit; and a sealing and fixing portion located at the end of the shaft of the cylinder to fix the sealing component.

[0018] The battery pack may further include: an internal temperature sensor to detect the internal temperature of the battery pack housing; and an external temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the air outside the battery pack housing, and the control unit may be configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit to cause the exhaust unit to open the vent when the difference between the internal temperature of the battery pack housing measured by the internal temperature sensor and the external temperature of the battery pack housing measured by the external temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined level.

[0019] The control unit can be configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit to open the exhaust unit's vent, and after a predetermined time, send a second control signal to close the exhaust unit's vent.

[0020] The battery pack may also include a fan configured to circulate air from inside the battery pack housing.

[0021] The battery pack housing may have at least two vents, and a fan may be configured to transfer air from inside the battery pack housing to force the air out through any one of the at least two vents.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including the above-mentioned battery pack is provided.

[0023] Technical effect

[0024] According to one aspect of this disclosure, since the disclosure includes a control unit that determines whether to open or close the vent based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack, and an exhaust unit that opens or closes the vent in response to a control signal from the control unit, when condensation occurs (i.e., water vapor in the air inside the battery pack condenses into water due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack), the water generated can be dried by opening the vent through the control unit and the operation of the exhaust unit to allow the battery pack housing to vent.

[0025] Therefore, this disclosure can prevent electrical contact or short circuits in the battery modules, battery cells and electrical components within the battery pack due to moisture generated in the battery pack casing. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 3This is a schematic, partially enlarged view of some of the internal components of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal components of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing some of the internal components of a battery pack according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terms or words used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to their general and dictionary meanings, but rather interpreted based on their meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical solutions of the present disclosure, in a manner that allows the inventors to appropriately define the terms for the best illustration.

[0035] Therefore, the embodiments described herein and the examples shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to fully describe the technical solutions of this disclosure. It should be understood that various other equivalents and modifications can be made thereto at the time of filing the application.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal components of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally, Figure 3 This is a schematic, partially enlarged view illustrating some of the internal components of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For reference, in Figure 1 In the diagram, the X-axis direction is to the right, the Y-axis direction is backward, and the Z-axis direction is upward.

[0037] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery pack 100 includes at least one battery module 110, a battery pack housing 120, a control unit 130, and an exhaust unit 140.

[0038] Specifically, the battery module 110 may include a plurality of battery cells (not shown) and a module housing that accommodates the plurality of battery cells (not shown).

[0039] Here, the battery cell may include, for example, a pouch-type battery cell with high energy density and easy stacking. Pouch-type battery cells can be stacked to form a battery cell pack. The battery cell may have electrode leads at the left and right ends. However, contrary to this embodiment, the battery cell of this disclosure is not limited to a pouch-type battery cell, and square battery cells or cylindrical battery cells with a rectangular prism shape can be used.

[0040] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, multiple battery cells can be electrically connected via a busbar comprising conductive metal. The busbar may be in the shape of a metal rod or a metal plate. The busbar may include any known common connection member configured to electrically connect multiple battery cells. Its description is omitted.

[0041] Furthermore, the module housing is a component for housing multiple battery cells (not shown) and can be formed into an airtight structure using a material with high mechanical strength to protect the multiple battery cells from external physical and chemical factors. For example, the module housing of battery module 110 can be connected to battery pack housing 120 by bolting and / or welding.

[0042] Additionally, the battery pack housing 120 can be configured to house at least one battery module 110. The battery pack housing 120 may be formed into an airtight structure using a material with high mechanical strength to protect the battery module 110 and control unit 130 from external physical and chemical factors. The battery pack housing 120 may have at least one vent 121 to allow air inflow and outflow. For example, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the battery pack housing 120 may have a vent 121 on its top to allow air to flow in and out. The shape of the vent 121 is not limited to a specific shape; for example, it may be circular or square.

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 130 can be configured to determine whether to open or close the vent 121 based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120. For example, when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 is equal to or greater than 15°C, the control unit 130 can be configured to send a control signal to the exhaust unit 140 to cause the exhaust unit 140 to open the vent 121. However, the temperature difference is not necessarily limited to 15°C or above, and internal and external environmental factors of the battery pack 100 (e.g., temperature, humidity) can be considered when determining whether to open or close the vent 121. The control unit 130 may include a memory chip to store the collected temperature information. The control unit 130 may include a microcontroller to determine whether to open or close the vent 121 based on the magnitude of the temperature difference. The control unit 130 may include a communication unit to send control signals to the exhaust unit 140. The communication unit can perform wireless or wired communication using a communication line L.

[0044] Alternatively, the exhaust unit 140 can be configured to directly close the vent 121 in response to a control signal from the control unit 130. The exhaust unit 140 can also be configured to directly open the vent 121 in response to a control signal from the control unit 130. The method for closing the vent 121 is not limited to a specific method and may include any method for closing the vent 121.

[0045] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes a control unit 130 that determines whether to open or close the vent 121 based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120; and an exhaust unit 140 that opens or closes the vent 121 in response to a control signal from the control unit 130 when condensation occurs (i.e., water vapor in the air inside the battery pack housing 120 condenses into water due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120), the battery pack housing 120 can be vented by opening the vent 121 to dry the generated water, under the control of the control unit 130 and the operation of the exhaust unit 140. Therefore, the present disclosure can prevent contact or short circuit between wires in the battery modules 110, battery cells, and electrical components in the battery pack 100 due to moisture (water) generated in the battery pack housing 120.

[0046] Furthermore, when the exhaust unit 140 opens the vent 121, the battery pack 100 of this disclosure can allow outdoor air to flow in through the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 and allow air inside the battery pack housing 120 to flow out through the vent 121, thereby reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 and thus preventing any further condensation from occurring in the battery pack housing 120.

[0047] Return to reference Figures 1 to 3The venting unit 140 of the battery pack 100 disclosed herein may include an encapsulation member 141 and a transmission member 142. The encapsulation member 141 may be configured to close the vent 121. The size of the encapsulation member 141 may be equal to or larger than the size of the vent 121. The material of the encapsulation member 141 may include synthetic rubber or natural rubber. For example, the encapsulation member 141 may be ethylene propylene rubber. When the vent 121 is, for example, circular, the encapsulation member 141 may have a disc shape of predetermined thickness. However, the shape of the encapsulation member 141 is not limited to a specific shape, and the shape of the encapsulation member 141 may be set according to the shape of the vent 121. That is, the encapsulation member 141 may have any shape that closes (covers) the vent 121.

[0048] Additionally, the transmission member 142 can be configured to operate in response to a control signal from the control unit 130. The transmission member 142 can receive a control signal from the control unit 130 to transmit the encapsulation member 141 toward the vent 121. The transmission member 142 can also receive a control signal from the control unit 130 to transmit the encapsulation member 141 in a direction away from the vent 121. That is, the encapsulation member 141 can be transmitted by the transmission member 142 to bring it into close contact with the vent 121 or to move it away from the vent 121. For example, the transmission member 142 may include a receiver to receive communication signals from the control unit 130.

[0049] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes an exhaust unit 140, which includes an encapsulation member 141 and a transmission member 142, the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 can be opened or closed according to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120. Therefore, when the exhaust unit 140 opens the vent 121, the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure can allow outdoor air to flow in through the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 and air inside the battery pack housing 120 to flow out through the vent 121, thereby reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 and thus preventing further condensation in the battery pack housing 120.

[0050] Return to reference Figures 1 to 3 The transmission member 142 of the exhaust unit 140 of the battery pack 100 of this disclosure may include an electric motor 142a and a transmission gear 142b. The electric motor 142a may be configured to operate in response to a control signal (electrical signal) from the control unit 130. For example, the electric motor 142a may be a servo motor that operates according to the control signal from the control unit 130. The electric motor 142a may have a rotating shaft configured to rotate when powered.

[0051] Additionally, the transfer gear 142b can be configured to transfer the encapsulation member 141 toward the vent 121 by the rotational force sent from the electric motor 142a. The transfer gear 142b can also be configured to transfer the encapsulation member 141 in a direction away from the vent 121 by the rotational force sent from the electric motor 142a. For example, when the rotational shaft of the electric motor 142a rotates counterclockwise, the transfer gear 142b can transfer the encapsulation member 141 toward the vent 121. When the rotational shaft of the electric motor 142a rotates clockwise, the transfer gear 142b can transfer the encapsulation member 141 in a direction away from the vent 121.

[0052] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes an electric motor 142a and a transmission gear 142b, it is easy to control the opening / closing of the vent 121 according to the electrical signal from the control unit 130.

[0053] Furthermore, the first gear 142a1 can be located at the rotating shaft of the electric motor 142a. The first gear 142a1 can have a disc shape. The first gear 142a1 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise by rotating the rotating shaft.

[0054] Additionally, the transmission gear 142b may include a body 142b2 extending in one direction. The body 142b2 may have threads on its outer surface. The threads may be external threads. A second gear 142b1 may be located at one end of the body 142b2. The second gear 142b1 may mesh with the first gear 142a1. For example, when the first gear 142a1 rotates clockwise, the second gear 142b1 may rotate counterclockwise. Conversely, when the first gear 142a1 rotates counterclockwise, the second gear 142b1 may rotate clockwise. The transmission gear 142b may only allow rotational movement, and the position of the transmission gear 142b may be fixed. For example, the transmission gear 142b may include a fixing member comprising a ring surrounding the outer surface of the body 142b2. This ring may be configured to allow rotational movement of the transmission gear 142b and restrict positional movement of the transmission gear 142b.

[0055] Furthermore, the encapsulation member 141 may have a threaded hole 141h into which the body 142b2 is inserted. The threaded hole 141h may have threads on its inner surface. The threads may be internal threads. For example, when the body 142b2 of the transmission gear 142b rotates counterclockwise, the encapsulation member 141 may move along the outer surface of the body 142b2 of the transmission gear 142b towards the vent 121. When the body 142b2 of the transmission gear 142b rotates clockwise, the encapsulation member 141 may move along the threads on the outer surface of the body 142b2 of the transmission gear 142b in a direction away from the vent 121. However, this disclosure is not limited to this method, and the transmission direction may be changed depending on the type of screw (e.g., right-hand screw or left-hand screw).

[0056] Additionally, the exhaust unit 140 may also include a fixing member 143 for securing a portion of the encapsulation member 141. The fixing member 143 may be configured to prevent rotational movement of the encapsulation member 141. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the fixing member 143 may include two fixing pins. Each of the two fixing pins may be fixed to the battery pack housing 120 at one end. Each of the two fixing pins may be configured to pass through the encapsulation member 141. That is, the encapsulation member 141 may be configured to move up and down along the outer surface of the fixing pin. In other words, when the encapsulation member 141 is conveyed toward the vent 121 along the thread of the body 142b2 of the transmission gear 142b, the encapsulation member 141 may move along the outer surfaces of the two fixing pins toward the vent 121. Conversely, when the encapsulation member 141 is conveyed away from the vent 121 via the transmission gear 142b, the encapsulation member 141 may move away from the vent 121 along the outer surfaces of the two fixing pins. That is, the two fixing pins may be configured to allow the encapsulation member 141 to move in both directions, but to prevent the encapsulation member 141 from rotating when it receives a rotational force from the transmission gear 142b. Although the retaining pin has been described as an embodiment of the retaining member 143, the retaining member 143 is not limited to this configuration, but may include any retaining member configured to prevent the encapsulation member 141 from rotating but to allow the encapsulation member 141 to move toward or away from the vent 121.

[0057] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes a first gear 142a1 at the rotating shaft of the electric motor 142a, the transmission gear 142b includes a body 142b2 extending in one direction and having threads on its outer surface. A second gear 142b1 meshes with the first gear 142a1 at one end of the body 142b2. The encapsulation member 141 has a threaded hole 141h into which the body 142b2 is inserted and which has threads on its inner surface. The venting unit 140 also includes a fixing member 143 to fix a portion of the encapsulation member 141 to prevent rotational movement of the encapsulation member 141. The encapsulation member 141 can be precisely transmitted using the transmission member 142. Therefore, the present disclosure can precisely control the opening / closing of the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 and reduce malfunctions. Finally, the present disclosure can effectively prevent contact or short circuits between wires in the battery modules 110, battery cells, and electronic components within the battery pack 100 due to condensation in the battery pack 100.

[0058] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal components of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Reference Figure 4 ,and Figure 2 In contrast to the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure, the battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may have two vents 121 in the battery pack housing 120. Additionally, compared to... Figure 2 In contrast to the battery pack 100, the battery pack 100 has two exhaust units 140. Figure 4 The components of the battery pack 100 can be combined with Figure 2 The components of the battery pack 100 are the same, only their positions are different.

[0060] Specifically, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, the battery pack 100 may have two vents 121 at the top and rear ends of the battery pack housing 120, respectively. Two venting units 140 may close each of the two vents 121 in response to a control signal from the control unit 130. Alternatively, the two venting units 140 may be configured to open each of the two vents 121 in response to a control signal from the control unit 130. In this case, when the two vents 121 are opened by the venting units 140, either of the two vents 121 may be configured to allow air from outside the battery pack housing 120 to flow in. Additionally, the remaining vents 121 may serve as channels for air to flow out from inside the battery pack housing 120.

[0061] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure includes two vents 121 and two exhaust units 140 that open or close each of the two vents 121, air can flow more smoothly into and out of the battery pack housing 120. Therefore, the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure can exhaust the battery pack housing 120 more quickly, thereby allowing moisture generated by condensation to be quickly discharged or preventing condensation from occurring.

[0062] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing some of the internal components of a battery pack according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 ,and Figure 2 In contrast to the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure, the battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cylinder 144 as a transmission member 142 and a sealing and fixing portion 145. That is, Figure 5 Battery pack 100 does not include Figure 2 The electric motor 142a and transmission gear 142b. The remaining components of the battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of this disclosure can be connected with... Figure 2 The components of the battery pack 100 are the same.

[0064] Specifically, cylinder 144 can be configured to push the shaft outward according to a control signal from control unit 130. Cylinder 144 can also be configured to pull the shaft inward according to a control signal from control unit 130. That is, when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, control unit 130 can be configured to send a control signal to exhaust unit 140 to cause cylinder 144 to pull the shaft inward. In this case, the encapsulation member 141 can be transported in a direction away from the vent 121. Conversely, when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 is lower than a predetermined level, control unit 130 can send a control signal to exhaust unit 140 to cause cylinder 144 to push the shaft outward. In this case, the encapsulation member 141 can be transported toward the vent 121 to close the vent 121.

[0065] Additionally, the encapsulation fixing portion 145 can be located at the end of the shaft of the cylinder 144. The encapsulation fixing portion 145 can be configured to fix the encapsulation member 141. For example, the end of the encapsulation fixing portion 145 can be fixed to one side of the encapsulation member 141. The end of the encapsulation fixing portion 145 can be attached to the encapsulation member 141 using adhesive. That is, the encapsulation member 141 attached to the encapsulation fixing portion 145 at the end of the shaft of the cylinder 144 can be moved by the movement of the shaft of the cylinder 144.

[0066] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the transmission member 142 of the battery pack 100 includes a cylinder 144 and a sealing and fixing portion 145, the opening / closing of the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 can be effectively controlled by controlling the exhaust unit 140 via the control unit 130. Therefore, the present disclosure can precisely control the opening / closing of the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 and reduce malfunctions. Ultimately, the present disclosure can effectively prevent contact or short circuits between wires in the battery modules 110, battery cells, and electronic components within the battery pack 100 due to condensation in the battery pack 100.

[0067] Return to reference Figure 2 The battery pack 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include an internal temperature sensor 131 and an external temperature sensor 132. The internal temperature sensor 131 may be a sensor for detecting the air temperature inside the battery pack housing 120. The internal temperature sensor 131 may be disposed within the battery pack housing 120. The internal temperature sensor 131 may have a resistance of a predetermined value based on the detected temperature. The control unit 130 may read the predetermined resistance value of the internal temperature sensor 131 via a wire through which current flows. The internal temperature sensor 131 may be a resistance temperature sensor.

[0068] Additionally, an external temperature sensor 132 can be configured to detect the air temperature outside the battery pack housing 120. The external temperature sensor 132 can be located on the exterior of the battery pack housing 120. The external temperature sensor 132 can have a resistance value based on a predetermined value according to the detected temperature. The control unit 130 can read the predetermined resistance value of the external temperature sensor 132 via a wire through which current flows. The external temperature sensor 132 can be a resistance temperature sensor. The wire can electrically connect the external temperature sensor 132 to the control unit 130 through a small hole in the battery pack housing 120.

[0069] Furthermore, when the difference between the air temperature inside the battery pack housing 120, as measured by the internal temperature sensor 131, and the air temperature outside the battery pack housing 120, as measured by the external temperature sensor 132, is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, the control unit 130 can be configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit 140 to open the vent 121. For example, when the temperature difference measured by each of the internal temperature sensor 131 and the external temperature sensor 132 is equal to or greater than 15°C, the control unit 130 can be configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit 140 to open the vent 121. However, the temperature difference is not necessarily limited to 15°C or higher, and internal and external environmental factors of the battery pack 100 (e.g., temperature, humidity) can be considered when determining whether to open or close the vent 121.

[0070] Additionally, after a predetermined time has elapsed since sending the first control signal to open the vent 121 of the exhaust unit 140, the control unit 130 can be configured to send a second control signal to close the vent 121 of the exhaust unit 140. For example, 10 minutes after sending the first control signal to open the vent 121 of the exhaust unit 140, the control unit 130 sends the second control signal to the exhaust unit 140 again to close the vent 121. That is, the control unit 130 can execute control to close the vent 121 to prevent outdoor air from entering the battery pack housing 120 during normal operation. However, when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, the control unit 130 can determine that condensation has occurred and send a control signal to the exhaust unit 140 to open the vent 121.

[0071] Furthermore, the duration for which the vent unit 140 keeps the vent 121 open can vary depending on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120. For example, the greater the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120, the longer the control unit 130 can maintain the vent 121 open.

[0072] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the control unit 130 of the battery pack 100 is configured to send a first control signal to cause the exhaust unit 140 to open the vent 121, and after a predetermined time, send a second control signal to cause the exhaust unit 140 to close the vent 121, the control unit 130 can appropriately control the duration for which the vent 121 of the battery pack housing 120 is open, thereby effectively releasing moisture generated by condensation from the battery pack housing 120. Furthermore, the present disclosure can appropriately reduce the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120.

[0073] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Reference Figure 7 When with Figure 2 Compared to the battery pack 100, the battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a fan 150. Figure 2 The remaining components of the battery pack 100 can be connected with Figure 2 The components of the battery pack 100 are the same.

[0075] Specifically, fan 150 can be configured to circulate air inside battery pack housing 120. For example, as Figure 7As shown, fan 150 can blow air inside battery pack housing 120 to circulate air. That is, fan 150 can minimize dead zones where air cannot circulate inside battery pack housing 120. When the temperature difference between the inside and outside of battery pack housing 120 is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, control unit 130 can be configured to cause fan 150 to blow air inside battery pack housing 120. In other words, when control unit 130 controls exhaust unit 140 to open vent 121, control unit 130 can operate fan 150 to circulate air inside battery pack housing 120. In this case, humid air inside battery pack housing 120 can exit through vent 121.

[0076] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure also includes a fan 150, moisture at the corners (edges) of the battery pack housing 120 can be effectively removed. Additionally, by increasing the airflow rate within the battery pack housing 120, moisture can be rapidly released into the atmosphere through the vents 121. Furthermore, the fan 150 can quickly convert water droplets generated by condensation within the battery pack housing 120 into water vapor (evaporation), and then force the water vapor to be discharged through the vents 121.

[0077] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of a battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Reference Figure 8 When with Figure 7 Compared to the battery pack 100, the battery pack 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may have two vents 121 in the battery pack housing 120. Figure 8 The remaining components of the battery pack 100 can be connected with Figure 7 The components of the battery pack 100 are similar, only differing in location and size.

[0079] Specifically, the battery pack housing 120 may have at least two vents 121. The fan 150 may be configured to direct air from inside the battery pack housing 120 to force air out through any one of the at least two vents 121. For example, as... Figure 8 As shown, the battery pack 100 of this disclosure may have vents 121 at the top and rear ends of the battery pack housing 120, respectively. The fan 150 may blow air inside the battery pack housing 120 to force the air out through the vent 121 at the rear end of the two vents 121.

[0080] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes a fan 150 configured to transport air inside the battery pack housing 120 to force control to exhaust through any one of at least two vents 121, one vent 121 can be configured to allow air to flow from the outside of the battery pack housing 120 to the inside, and the other vent 121 can be configured to allow air to flow from the inside of the battery pack housing 120 to the outside, thereby quickly removing moisture from the battery pack housing 120 and rapidly reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120. Therefore, the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure can remove moisture generated by condensation from the battery pack 100, thereby preventing internal short circuits or contact between wires in the battery module 110 due to moisture. In addition, the battery pack 100 of the present disclosure can prevent the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 120 from increasing above a predetermined level, thereby preventing condensation.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Together Figure 1 Refer to together Figure 9 The vehicle 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery pack 100. The vehicle may include, for example, a vehicle body in which the battery pack 100, including at least one battery module (not shown), is mounted. For example, the vehicle may be an electric vehicle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, or an electric bicycle.

[0083] Together Figure 1 Refer to together Figure 9 The vehicle 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery pack 100. The vehicle may include, for example, a vehicle body in which the battery pack 100, including at least one battery module (not shown), is mounted. For example, the vehicle may be an electric vehicle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, or an electric bicycle.

[0084] Furthermore, directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used herein merely for ease of description, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such terms may vary depending on the position of the element or observer mentioned.

[0085] While this disclosure has been described above with respect to a limited number of embodiments and accompanying drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to it within the scope of the technical aspects of this disclosure and the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: At least one battery module; A battery pack housing that houses the at least one battery module, the battery pack housing having at least one vent to allow air to flow in and out; A control unit configured to determine whether to open or close the vent based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing; as well as An exhaust unit configured to open or close the vent in response to a control signal from the control unit. The exhaust unit includes: Encapsulation member having a size equal to or larger than the vent to close the vent; and A transmission member configured to, in response to a control signal from the control unit, transmit the encapsulation member toward or away from the vent. The transmission component includes: An electric motor configured to operate in response to a control signal from the control unit; and A transfer gear is configured to transfer the encapsulation component toward or away from the vent by a rotational force transmitted from the electric motor. The first gear is located at the rotating shaft of the electric motor. The transmission gear includes a body extending in one direction and having threads on its outer surface, and a second gear at an end of the body, the second gear meshing with the first gear. The encapsulation component has a screw hole into which the main body is inserted, the screw hole having threads on its inner surface, and The exhaust unit further includes a fixing member, which is used to fix a portion of the encapsulation member to prevent the encapsulation member from rotating.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The fixing member includes two fixing pins, each of which is fixed to the battery pack housing at one end, and each of the two fixing pins is configured to pass through the encapsulation member.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: An internal temperature sensor is used to detect the internal temperature of the battery pack housing. as well as An external temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the air outside the battery pack housing. The control unit is configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit when the difference between the internal temperature of the battery pack housing measured by the internal temperature sensor and the external temperature of the battery pack housing measured by the external temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, so as to cause the exhaust unit to open the vent.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein, The control unit is configured to send a first control signal to the exhaust unit to cause the exhaust unit to open the vent, and after a predetermined time, send a second control signal to cause the exhaust unit to close the vent.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein, The duration for which the exhaust unit keeps the vent open varies depending on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: A fan configured to circulate air from inside the battery pack housing.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The battery pack casing has at least two air vents, and The fan is configured to transmit air from inside the battery pack housing to force the air out through any one of the at least two vents.

8. A battery pack comprising: At least one battery module; A battery pack housing that houses the at least one battery module, the battery pack housing having at least one vent to allow air to flow in and out; A control unit configured to determine whether to open or close the vent based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the battery pack housing; as well as An exhaust unit configured to open or close the vent in response to a control signal from the control unit. The exhaust unit includes: Encapsulation member having a size equal to or larger than the vent to close the vent; and A transmission member configured to, in response to a control signal from the control unit, transmit the encapsulation member toward or away from the vent. The transmission component includes: A cylinder configured to push the shaft outward or pull the shaft inward in response to a control signal from the control unit; and A sealing and fixing part is located at the end of the shaft of the cylinder to fix the sealing component.

9. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images