Battery module with improved fire protection

Abstract

Disclosed is a battery module capable of effectively preventing the occurrence or spread of a fire. The battery module according to an aspect of the present invention includes a battery cell assembly including a plurality of secondary battery cells stacked together, and a module case having a lower plate, side plates, and an upper plate to form an internal space in which the battery cell assembly is accommodated, and including a trapping portion each formed in at least a portion of an outwardly recessed inner surface of each of the side plates, the trapping portion being formed to be offset to a front side or a rear side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0029057, filed in Korea on March 4, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure relates to a battery, and more particularly, to a battery module capable of effectively preventing the occurrence or spread of fire, as well as a battery pack and energy storage system including the battery module. Background Technology

[0003] In recent years, with the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, cameras and mobile phones, and the urgent commercialization of robots and electric vehicles, research on high-performance secondary batteries that allow for repeated charging and discharging has been actively underway.

[0004] Currently commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and lithium-ion batteries. In particular, compared to nickel-based rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion batteries exhibit virtually no memory effect, ensuring free charging and discharging. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries have attracted significant attention due to their extremely low discharge rate and high energy density.

[0005] Secondary batteries can be used individually, but typically, multiple secondary batteries are electrically connected in series and / or parallel in many cases. In particular, multiple secondary batteries can be electrically connected to each other and housed in a module housing to construct a battery module. Furthermore, battery modules can be used individually, or two or more battery modules can be electrically connected in series and / or parallel to construct more advanced devices, such as battery packs.

[0006] Recently, energy storage systems (ESS) for storing generated electricity have received increasing attention due to prominent issues such as power shortages and eco-friendly energy. Typically, the use of such energy storage systems facilitates the construction of systems such as smart grids, enabling easy control of power supply and demand in specific regions or cities.

[0007] Compared to small or medium-sized battery packs, battery packs used in energy storage systems may require very large capacities. Therefore, battery packs typically comprise a large number of battery modules. Furthermore, to increase energy density, multiple battery modules are often constructed to be densely packed into a very narrow space.

[0008] However, if multiple battery modules are concentrated in the confined space described above, they may be prone to fire. For example, heat propagation may occur within a battery module, causing hot gases to escape from at least one individual battery cell (secondary cell). Furthermore, when the gases are expelled, hot sparks may be emitted, and these sparks may contain active material or molten aluminum particles separated from the electrodes within the individual battery cells. Additionally, in some cases, flashes may be generated within some individual battery cells. If such sparks or flashes leak to the outside of the battery module, a fire may occur within the battery pack.

[0009] In particular, since a large amount of oxygen may be present outside the battery module, if sparks or other ignition sources are expelled to the outside of the battery module, they may encounter oxygen and ignite a fire. If a fire occurs in a specific battery module, it may spread to other adjacent battery modules or battery packs. Especially since many batteries are concentrated in the confined space of an energy storage system, it is difficult to suppress a fire if it occurs. Furthermore, considering the size and function of the energy storage system, there is a risk that a fire occurring inside the battery pack could cause very serious damage to property and human life. Therefore, even if heat propagation occurs in a specific battery cell or module, generating sparks or ignition sources, it is important to suppress these sparks or ignition sources in their early stages and prevent them from developing into a fire in the battery module or battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] This disclosure is designed to solve problems in related technologies; therefore, this disclosure aims to provide: a battery module configured to effectively suppress fires even if sparks, flames, etc. are generated therein due to heat propagation; and a battery pack and energy storage system including the battery module.

[0012] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following disclosure other problems not mentioned herein.

[0013] Technical solutions

[0014] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a battery cell assembly including a plurality of secondary batteries stacked on top of each other; and a module housing including a lower plate, a side plate, and a upper plate to form an internal space such that the battery cell assembly is accommodated in the internal space, the module housing including a trapping unit formed in at least a portion of an outwardly recessed inner surface of the side plate, the trapping unit being configured to be biased in a forward or rearward direction.

[0015] Here, the trapping unit can be formed to protrude outward at the outer surface of the side plate.

[0016] Furthermore, in the battery cell assembly, multiple pouch-type secondary batteries can be stacked vertically in a flat state, the electrode leads of the pouch-type secondary batteries can be located in the front-rear direction of the module housing, and the module housing can be configured such that at least one of the front and rear sides of the module housing is open.

[0017] Furthermore, when gas is generated from the battery cell assembly, the module housing can be configured to discharge the generated gas to at least one of the front and rear sides.

[0018] Furthermore, the trapping unit can be configured such that the centerline in the front-rear direction of the side plate is located on only one side.

[0019] Furthermore, the side plate may include a left plate and a right plate, the trapping unit may include a left trapping unit formed on the left plate and a right trapping unit formed on the right plate, and the left trapping unit and the right trapping unit may be configured such that the center line in the front-rear direction of the side plate is located on opposite sides.

[0020] Furthermore, at least a portion of the trapping unit may be configured such that the depth of the recessed portion of the trapping unit gradually increases in the forward or backward direction.

[0021] In addition, the side plate may also include a guide unit, which is configured to be inclined toward the trapping unit.

[0022] In addition, the module housing may also include protrusions formed at the front or rear end of the trapping unit to protrude in the central direction.

[0023] Furthermore, the front or rear end of the trapping unit can be formed to be recessed in the forward or backward direction.

[0024] In another aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack including the battery module described in this disclosure is also provided.

[0025] In another aspect of this disclosure, an energy storage system including a battery module according to this disclosure is also provided.

[0026] Beneficial effects

[0027] According to this disclosure, fires can be effectively prevented in battery modules.

[0028] In particular, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, even if sparks or flames are generated due to heat propagation phenomena in specific battery cells included in the battery module, the sparks or flames can be effectively prevented from being discharged to the outside.

[0029] Therefore, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, the occurrence of fires caused by external emissions of sparks, etc., can be suppressed.

[0030] Furthermore, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, gas can be easily vented to the outside of the battery module while preventing leakage such as sparks. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the battery module from exploding and fundamentally prevent fires from occurring outside the battery module.

[0031] Furthermore, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, even if a fire occurs inside the battery module, the fire can be quickly extinguished by blocking the flame exhaust and preventing it from spreading.

[0032] Furthermore, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, when multiple battery modules are arranged, the fire extinguishing effect of each battery module can be ensured while preventing an increase in the size of the battery modules. Therefore, according to the embodiments described in this disclosure, when multiple battery modules are used to construct a battery pack or energy storage system, the volume can be reduced and the energy density can be increased.

[0033] Furthermore, this disclosure may have various other effects, and these effects will be described in each embodiment, or any effects that can be readily deduced by those skilled in the art will not be described in detail. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, are intended to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the construction of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of some of the components.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a view showing the battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic view illustrating the spark trapping effect when sparks occur at some secondary batteries in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 5This is a schematic top view illustrating a configuration in which two battery modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a battery cell assembly separated from a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 An enlarged view of section E1.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 11 It shows two Figure 10 The battery modules are arranged in a top view of the structure in the left-right direction.

[0046] Figure 12 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 13 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 16 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 17 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 18 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 19 It shows Figure 18 Enlarged view of section A6. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general or dictionary meaning, but rather is interpreted based on the meaning and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the basis of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology to obtain the best interpretation.

[0054] Therefore, the descriptions presented herein are merely preferred examples for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of some of the components.

[0056] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery module according to this disclosure includes a battery cell assembly 100 and a module housing 200.

[0057] The battery cell assembly 100 may include a plurality of secondary batteries 110 (battery cells). Each secondary battery 110 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a battery casing. Specifically, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the secondary battery 110 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, other types of secondary batteries 110 (such as cylindrical or prismatic batteries) can also be used as the battery cell assembly 100.

[0058] Multiple secondary batteries 110 can be stacked on top of each other to form a battery cell assembly 100. For example, as shown, multiple secondary batteries 110 can be stacked in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the figure). Each pouch-type secondary battery 110 may include electrode leads 111, which may be located at both ends or one end of each secondary battery 110. A secondary battery 110 with electrode leads 111 protruding in two directions is called a bidirectional cell, and a secondary battery with electrode leads 111 protruding in one direction is called a unidirectional cell. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The secondary battery 110 shown is a bidirectional single cell, and the electrode leads 111 can be considered to be located at both ends in the Y-axis direction. This disclosure is not limited to any particular type or form of secondary battery 110, and various types of secondary batteries 110 known at the time of filing may be used in the battery cell assembly 100 of this disclosure.

[0059] The module housing 200 may form a hollow space therein and is configured to accommodate the battery cell assembly 100. Furthermore, as shown, the module housing 200 may include a lower plate 210, a side plate 220, and an upper plate 230. The module housing 200 can be manufactured by making at least some plates integral, or by connecting some plates to each other using fastening methods such as bolts or welding. For example, the lower plate 210 and the side plate 220 can be manufactured integrally to form the lower housing.

[0060] The lower plate 210, side plate 220, and upper plate 230 define an internal space in which the battery cell assembly 100 can be housed. For example, the lower plate 210 and side plate 220 can be formed in a U-shape or box shape to constitute a lower shell. Furthermore, the upper plate 230 can be attached to the upper open end of the lower shell to cover the upper end of the battery cell assembly 100. As shown, the upper plate 230 can be configured with curved left and right ends, but it can also be formed in various other shapes to connect with the side plate 220. Alternatively, the module shell 200 can be formed as a single frame in which the lower plate 210, side plate 220, and upper plate 230 are integrally formed.

[0061] Specifically, in this disclosure, the module housing 200 may include a trapping unit 221. The trapping unit 221 may be formed on the side plate 220, particularly on the inner surface of the side plate 220. Furthermore, the trapping unit 221 may be formed at least a portion of an outwardly recessed area on the inner surface of the side plate 220. Moreover, the trapping unit 221 may be configured to be biased in a forward or rearward direction. This will be referred to... Figure 3 Further description.

[0062] Figure 3 This is a view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above. For example, Figure 3 This can be seen as showing the state from above where the upper plate 230 has been removed. Figure 1 and Figure 2 A view of the battery module.

[0063] refer to Figure 3 The side plate 220 may include a trapping unit 221, the inner surface of which is recessed in an outward direction in at least a portion of the side plate. Here, the outward direction can refer to the direction opposite to that of the battery cell, i.e., the outward direction of the battery module. For example, in Figure 3 In its construction, the side plate 220 located in the +X axis direction based on the secondary battery may include a trapping unit 221 whose inner surface is recessed in the outward direction (+X axis direction), as indicated by the arrow. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the construction, the side plate 220 located in the -X axis direction based on the secondary battery may include a collection unit 221 whose inner surface is recessed in the outward direction (-X axis direction), as indicated by the arrow.

[0064] Furthermore, in the following text, unless otherwise stated, based on the battery cell assembly 100, the +X-axis direction also represents the leftward direction, and the -X-axis direction represents the rightward direction. Additionally, based on the battery cell assembly 100, the +Y-axis direction also represents the forward direction, and the -X-axis direction represents the backward direction. Moreover, the direction towards the center of the battery module (e.g., the direction where the battery cell assembly 100 is located) is indicated as the inward direction, and the direction towards the outside of the battery module is indicated as the outward direction.

[0065] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, by forming the trapping unit 221 at the module housing 200, it is possible to effectively prevent high-temperature sparks or flames from leaking to the outside of the module housing 200. This will be referred to Figure 4 To describe in more detail.

[0066] Figure 4 This is a schematic view illustrating the spark capture effect when sparks occur at some secondary batteries 110 in a battery module, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] refer to Figure 4 As indicated by K, when a spark is emitted from a specific secondary battery 110, the emitted spark can be captured by the capturing unit 221 of the side plate 220. That is, the spark emitted from the secondary battery 110 can be discharged into the internal space of the module housing 200, and the capturing unit 221 is present in the internal space of the module housing 200. Furthermore, the spark flows into the recessed portion of the capturing unit 221 and moves along the recessed shape, and then the movement of the spark can be blocked at the end of the recessed portion.

[0068] For example, inside the capture unit 221, the spark can be as follows: Figure 4 As indicated by the arrows, the movement of the spark can be blocked or its direction of movement can be changed at the horizontal end of the trapping unit 221 (as indicated by A1 and A1'). Therefore, the trapping unit 221 allows sparks generated inside the module housing 200 to be trapped in its recessed space. Thus, sparks and the like are not expelled to the outside of the module housing 200. According to this implementation, sparks and the like can be prevented from contacting oxygen present outside the module housing 200, thereby reducing the risk of fire. Furthermore, in this case, it is possible to prevent sparks and the like from moving to other components outside the battery module (e.g., another battery module) and causing a fire in that corresponding battery module.

[0069] Furthermore, the trapping unit 221 can be configured to be offset in the forward or rearward direction at the side plate 220.

[0070] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the trapping unit 221 of the side plate 220 located in the +X-axis direction (i.e., the left direction) relative to the battery cell assembly 100 can be configured to be offset in the rearward direction (-Y-axis direction). Furthermore, the trapping unit 221 of the side plate 220 located in the -X-axis direction (i.e., the right direction) relative to the battery cell assembly 100 can be configured to be offset in the forward direction (+Y-axis direction). That is, if the center line of the side plate 220 in the rearward direction is C-C', the trapping unit 221 may not be located at the center of the line C-C', but can be positioned offset towards the front or rear.

[0071] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, even though the trapping unit 221 is formed on the side surface of the module housing 200, the volume of the battery modules can be prevented from increasing due to the trapping unit 221 when multiple battery modules are stacked. This will be referred to Figure 5 To describe in more detail.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a schematic top view illustrating a configuration in which two battery modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0073] refer to Figure 5 As indicated by M1 and M2, the two battery modules described in this disclosure (e.g., as...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The two battery modules shown can be stacked in the lateral direction (i.e., the X-axis direction). In this case, in the battery module according to the present disclosure, the trapping unit 221 can protrude outward in the X-axis direction on the side plate 220. Here, even if the two battery modules M1 and M2 are stacked in the lateral direction (X-axis direction), the increase in volume due to the trapping unit 221 can be small.

[0074] That is, as indicated by D1, even if two battery modules M1 and M2 are stacked such that their side plates 220 face each other, the distance between the bodies of the two battery modules M1 and M2 can be approximately the depth of the trapping unit 221. In other words, even if the trapping unit 221 is formed on each of the side plates 220 of the two battery modules M1 and M2 facing each other, the distance between the bodies of the two battery modules M1 and M2 can be approximately one time, rather than twice, the depth of the trapping unit 221. Furthermore, as in the construction of this disclosure, this can be because the trapping unit 221 is formed to be offset forward or backward at the side plate 220.

[0075] Specifically, the trapping unit 221 may be formed to protrude outwards on the outer surface of the side plate 220.

[0076] For example, see Figure 4 The configuration shown allows for the collection unit 221 of the side plate 220 located in the +X-axis direction relative to the battery cell assembly 100 to have an outer surface that protrudes in the outward direction (+X-axis direction), corresponding to the inner surface's shape of being recessed in the outward direction (+X-axis direction). Furthermore, the collection unit 221 of the side plate 220 located in the -X-axis direction relative to the battery cell assembly 100 can also have an outer surface that protrudes in the outward direction (-X-axis direction), corresponding to the inner surface's shape of being recessed in the outward direction (-X-axis direction). In other words, the side plate 220 can be configured such that its outer surface is convex in the region where the collection unit 221 is located, and its outer surface is recessed in the region where the collection unit 221 is not located.

[0077] According to this configuration, when multiple battery modules are stacked, the volume increase caused by the trapping unit 221 can be reduced. That is, when the side panel 220 is viewed from the outside, it can be considered that only the portion where the trapping unit 221 is located protrudes (protruding portion), and the remaining portion forms a recess (recessed portion). Therefore, when a battery module is stacked on top of another battery module, the trapping unit 221 of the adjacent battery module can be inserted into the recessed portion.

[0078] Furthermore, according to this configuration, the connectivity between battery modules can be improved by the connection between the protruding and recessed portions formed on the outer surface of the battery module. For example, in Figure 5 In its construction, the connection between the protruding and recessed portions of the side plate 220 restricts the movement of the two battery modules M1 and M2 in the Y-axis direction. Specifically, the movement of the first battery module M1 in the -Y-axis direction can be restricted by the second battery module M2, and the movement of the second battery module M2 in the +Y-axis direction can be restricted by the first battery module M1.

[0079] The battery cell assembly 100 can be configured such that multiple pouch-type secondary batteries 110 are stacked in a flat state in the vertical direction. This will refer to Figure 6 To describe in more detail.

[0080] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a battery cell assembly 100 separated from a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] refer to Figure 6In the battery module according to this disclosure, the secondary battery 110 included in the battery cell assembly 100 is a pouch-type secondary battery 110 and can be arranged in a flat state. Specifically, the pouch-type secondary battery 110 may have approximately two wide surfaces and can be arranged in a flat shape such that the two wide surfaces face upwards and downwards. For example, Figure 6 The XY plane can be formed to be the same plane as the lower plate 210 of the module housing 200. One surface of the secondary battery 110 stacked at the bottom can be placed on the XY plane. In addition, the secondary batteries 110 in a flat arrangement can be stacked in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the figure) so that their upper and lower surfaces face each other.

[0082] According to this configuration, the sealed portions of all secondary batteries 110 can be configured as capturing units 221 facing the side plate 220. Therefore, even if sparks or the like are emitted from any secondary battery 110, the emitted sparks can be captured by the capturing units 221. For example, in... Figure 6 In this configuration, even if a spark is generated in any of the secondary batteries 110 stacked in the vertical direction and is discharged in the direction indicated by arrows A2 and A2', the discharged spark can be directed to the collection unit 221 of the side plate 220. Therefore, for all the stacked secondary batteries 110, the collection unit 221 can handle the spark when it is emitted.

[0083] Specifically, the battery cell assembly 100 can be configured such that the electrode leads 111 of the pouch-type secondary battery 110 are located in the front-rear direction of the module housing 200. For example, refer to Figure 6 Each pouch-type secondary cell 110 disposed in the battery cell assembly 100 can be configured such that the electrode leads 111 are led forward (in the +Y axis direction) or backward (in the -Y axis direction).

[0084] Furthermore, the module shell 200 can be configured such that at least one of its front and rear portions is open. For example, see reference... Figure 6 The module housing 200 may include a front panel 240 and a rear panel 250. In this case, the front panel 240 may be configured such that a portion of it is open, as indicated by O1. Similarly, the rear panel 250 may be configured such that a portion of it is open, as indicated by O2.

[0085] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, when a spark is ejected from the battery cell assembly 100 along with gas, the gas can be allowed to smoothly escape to the outside of the module housing 200, while the escape of a spark to the outside of the module housing 200 is suppressed. For example, refer to... Figure 6The configuration shown allows gas to be discharged into the front open portion O1 or the rear open portion O2 if gas and sparks are discharged in the directions A2 and A2', where the gas flow is not significantly disturbed by the trapping unit 221. Therefore, even when gas is generated from the battery cell assembly 100, the internal pressure of the module housing 200 is prevented from increasing to a certain level or above, thereby suppressing the explosion of the battery module. Meanwhile, sparks and the like may contain particles or substances in solid, liquid, gel, or sol states, and as... Figure 4 As shown, the movement of sparks, etc., in this state can be hindered by the capture unit 221. Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to achieve both the prevention of battery module explosion and the prevention of external leakage of sparks, etc.

[0086] Specifically, according to this embodiment, in the module housing 200, a spark-catching unit 221 for blocking sparks can be disposed on the side plate 220, and the open portions O1 and O2 through which the exhaust gas passes can be located on the front and / or rear side of the module housing 200. Here, the spark-catching unit 221 can be positioned facing the side surface of the sealed portion of the secondary battery 110 where the electrode leads 111 are not positioned. Furthermore, the open portions O1 and O2 can be positioned facing the side surface of the sealed portion of the secondary battery 110 where the electrode leads 111 are positioned. In the pouch-type secondary battery 110, if the internal pressure increases due to thermal runaway or the like, the gas is very likely to be explosively discharged mainly through the portion where the electrode leads 111 are not positioned. That is, in Figure 4 In the construction, when the secondary battery 110 explodes, the explosion site is most likely to be the sealed part at both ends (left and right ends) in the ±X axis direction, and the explosion may not easily occur in the sealed part at both ends (front and rear ends) in the ±Y axis direction.

[0087] More specifically, when viewed from above, the pouch-type secondary battery 110 can be formed into an approximately rectangular shape in its flat state. In this case, the pouch-type secondary battery 110 can be configured such that its four sealing portions surround the periphery of the receiving portion. Here, the left and right sealing portions (wing portions) where electrode leads 111 are not positioned are typically formed to be longer than the front and rear sealing portions (platform portions) where electrode leads 111 are positioned.

[0088] Therefore, the gases and sparks generated by the explosion are very likely to be in contact with... Figure 6 Arrows A2 and A2' are ejected in the same direction (i.e., at the left and right sealing portions (wing portions)). However, according to this embodiment, the trapping unit 221 may be present in the portion where gas and sparks are ejected or flow. In particular, sparks may inevitably pass through the trapping unit 221 before reaching the open portions O1, O2. Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown, the movement of sparks can be suppressed by the capturing unit 221. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the spark emission blocking effect of the capturing unit 221 can be further improved.

[0089] At the same time, in such Figure 6 In the foregoing embodiments, the left and right sealing portions of each pouch-type secondary battery 110 of the battery cell assembly 100 are shown folded upwards. This configuration reduces the volume of the battery cell assembly 100. However, this is merely an example, and this disclosure is not necessarily limited to this form.

[0090] Furthermore, the battery module according to this disclosure may also include, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The busbar assembly 300 shown.

[0091] The busbar assembly 300 can be located in the open portions O1 and O2 of the module housing 200. Specifically, the electrode leads 111 of the battery cell assembly 100 can be positioned in the open portions O1 and O2 of the module housing 200. Therefore, the busbar assembly 300 can be configured to connect to the electrode leads 111 of the battery cell assembly 100.

[0092] For example, refer to Figure 2 The battery cell assembly 100 can be configured such that electrode leads 111 are positioned at both ends in the Y-axis direction, and the two ends O1 and O2 of the module housing 200 in the Y-axis direction are correspondingly open. Furthermore, the busbar assembly 300 can be connected to the open portions O1 and O2. If the electrode leads 111 of the battery cell assembly 100 are positioned to protrude only on one side of the battery module (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction), the module housing 200 can be configured to be open only in the +Y-axis direction. The module housing 200 can be configured to be closed except for the open portion to which the busbar assembly 300 is connected. Therefore, when gas is generated inside the module housing 200, the generated gas can be discharged only to the side where the busbar assembly 300 is located.

[0093] As described above, the busbar assembly 300 can be configured to be positioned on at least one side of the module housing 200, for example, at the front and rear ends of the module housing 200. Figure 2 (at both ends in the Y-axis direction). Furthermore, the busbar assembly 300 may include a module busbar 310 and a busbar housing 320.

[0094] Here, the module busbar 310 can be made of a conductive material, such as a metal (e.g., copper or nickel). Furthermore, the module busbar 310 can be configured to be electrically connected to the electrode leads 111 of the battery cell assembly 100. Specifically, the module busbar 310 can be in direct contact with the electrode leads 111 by soldering or screwing. Additionally, the module busbar 310 can electrically connect the electrode leads 111 to each other or transmit voltage information sensed from the electrode leads 111 to an external control unit, such as a BMS (Battery Management System).

[0095] Furthermore, the busbar housing 320 can be configured such that the modular busbar 310 can be placed on the busbar housing 320. For example, the busbar housing 320 may have a portion with a shape corresponding to the surface of the modular busbar 310 (e.g., having a planar shape) as a placement portion, on which the modular busbar 310 is placed. Additionally, the busbar housing 320 can support the modular busbar 310, allowing the placed modular busbar 310 to be stably maintained in its position. For example, the busbar housing 320 may allow various fastening methods (such as screwing, riveting, fusion, insertion, and bonding) to connect and secure the modular busbar 310. The busbar housing 320 may be made of an electrically insulating material (such as plastic (polymer)) so that the busbar housing 320 is not electrically connected to the modular busbar 310. Furthermore, the busbar housing 320 can be connected and secured to the module housing 200, particularly to the front panel 240 or the rear panel 250. In this case, the busbar housing 320 and the module housing 200 can be connected in various ways, such as screwing, riveting, fusion, insertion, and bonding.

[0096] The busbar housing 320 may have a slit 321 through which the electrode lead 111 passes. Typically, for a stable connection, the module busbar 310 may be placed on the outer surface of the busbar housing 320, and the electrode lead 111 may pass through the slit 321 on the inner side of the busbar housing 320 and then contact the outer surface of the module busbar 310 located on the outer side.

[0097] The slit 321 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the electrode lead 111, allowing the electrode lead 111 to easily pass through it. For example, as shown, the slit 321 can be formed to extend in the left-right direction (X-axis direction in the figure). Furthermore, multiple slits 321 can be formed in the busbar housing 320. Additionally, if the pouch-type secondary batteries 110 are stacked in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the figure), multiple electrode leads 111 can exist in the vertical direction. Therefore, as... Figure 2As shown, the multiple slits 321 can also be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the vertical direction.

[0098] The slit 321 can be used to allow the electrode lead 111 to pass through and support the electrode lead 111, and can also be used to discharge exhaust gas. The slit 321 can have a gap around the electrode lead 111 while the electrode lead 111 passes through it. Furthermore, other parts of the module housing 200 can be constructed in a nearly sealed form. In this case, if exhaust gas is generated in at least one secondary battery 110 included in the battery cell assembly 100 due to heat propagation, etc., this gas may increase the pressure inside the battery module. However, since the slit 321 has a gap formed around the electrode lead 111, the gas inside the battery module can be discharged to the outside through the slit 321. However, as mentioned above, the trapping unit 221 can prevent sparks, flames, etc., other than gas from being discharged to the outside.

[0099] As described in the embodiments above, in the battery module according to this disclosure, the module housing 200 can be configured such that when gas is generated from the battery cell assembly 100, the generated gas is discharged to at least one of the front and rear sides. Specifically, in the module housing 200, the portion discharging the gas to the outside can be the slit 321 of the busbar assembly. Furthermore, in this configuration, the trapping unit 221 can be formed at the side plate 220 of the module housing 200. That is, the trapping unit 221 can be formed at the left plate 220L and right plate 220R of the module housing 200.

[0100] According to this configuration, gases, sparks, etc., emitted from the battery cell assembly 100 can pass through the trapping unit 221 before leaking out of the module housing 200. Therefore, gases in a gaseous state are smoothly discharged to the outside of the module housing 200, but sparks in a non-gase state are prevented from being discharged to the outside of the module housing 200 by the trapping unit 221.

[0101] In the battery module according to this disclosure, the trapping unit 221 may be configured to be located on only one side of the centerline in the front-rear direction based on the side plate 220. This will refer to Figure 7 To describe in more detail.

[0102] Figure 7 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] exist Figure 7In the configuration, the front-back direction of the side plate 220 can be referred to as the ±Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the center line in the front-back direction relative to the side plate 220 can be the C-C' line. In this case, the trapping unit 221 can be configured such that the C-C' line is located only in the front direction (+Y-axis direction) or the rear direction (-Y-axis direction). Specifically, the trapping unit 221 can be configured to be located only in one of the front and rear directions, without passing through the C-C' line.

[0104] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, when multiple battery modules are stacked in the left-right direction (X-axis direction), mutual interference caused by the trapping unit 221 can be reduced. That is, as Figure 7 As shown, the protruding portion N1 with the trapping unit 221 and the recessed portion N2 without the trapping unit 221 can be formed on the side plate 220 based on the outer surface. At this time, as... Figure 5 As shown, when two battery modules are stacked horizontally on top of each other, the protruding portion N1 can be inserted into the recessed portion N2 of another battery module without being interfered with by the protruding portions N1 of other battery modules. Therefore, according to this configuration, the volume can be reduced when multiple battery modules are stacked.

[0105] like Figure 7 As shown, the side panels may include two side panels located in opposite directions. Here, the two side panels may be a left panel 220L and a right panel 220R, which are configured to be located at opposite ends of the battery cell assembly in the X-axis direction.

[0106] Furthermore, the trapping unit 221 can be formed on the left plate 220L and the right plate 220R respectively. In this case, the trapping unit 221 formed on the left plate 220L can be referred to as the left trapping unit 221L, and the trapping unit 221 formed on the right plate 220R can be referred to as the right trapping unit 221R.

[0107] Here, the left trapping unit 221L and the right trapping unit 221R can be located on opposite sides of the center line in the front-rear direction relative to the side plate 220.

[0108] For example, in Figure 7 In this configuration, the left capture unit 221L can be configured such that the C-C' line, which serves as the centerline in the front-rear direction within the left plate 220L, lies in the rear direction (-Y-axis direction). Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the middle, the right capture unit 221R can be configured such that the C-C' line, which is the center line in the front-rear direction of the right plate 220R, is located in the front direction (+Y axis direction).

[0109] According to this configuration, since the trapping units are formed at the left plate 220L and the right plate 220R respectively, the trapping units are arranged separately at the front and rear sides, so that the volume can be reduced when multiple battery modules are stacked.

[0110] Furthermore, the trapping unit 221 can extend from the portion near the center of the side plate 220 to the portion where the platform portion S2 is located, in a forward (+Y axis direction) or backward (-Y axis direction) manner.

[0111] For example, refer to Figure 7 The pouch-type secondary battery 110 disposed in the battery cell assembly 100 is divided into a receiving portion R that houses the electrode assembly and a sealing portion S that fuses the upper and lower pouches. In particular, the sealing portion S may include a wing portion S1 and a platform portion S2, and is configured to surround the receiving portion R.

[0112] At this time, the trapping unit 221 can extend forward or backward from the central portion of the side plate 220 in the front-rear direction to the portion where the platform portion S2 of the pouch-type secondary battery 110 is located, or extend further.

[0113] For example, the left trapping unit 221L can be configured to extend rearward (in the -Y-axis direction) from a portion near the C-C' line and extend to the rear end where at least the receiving portion R of the pouch-type secondary battery 110 terminates, as shown by line A4-A4'. Furthermore, the right trapping unit 221R can be configured to extend forward (in the +Y-axis direction) from a portion near the C-C' line and extend to the front end where at least the receiving portion R of the pouch-type secondary battery 110 terminates, as shown by line A5-A5'.

[0114] According to this configuration, the trapping unit 221 can cover as much of the wing portion S1 of the pouch-type secondary battery 110 as possible. Specifically, the left trapping unit 221L can cover from the center of the wing portion S1 of the secondary battery to the rear end, and the right trapping unit 221R can cover from the center of the wing portion S1 of the secondary battery to the front end. Therefore, when sparks or flames are emitted from the wing portion S1 of the pouch-type secondary battery 110, the movement-blocking effect of the trapping unit 221 can be reliably ensured.

[0115] The trapping unit 221 can be configured such that at least a portion of the recessed portion deepens towards the front or rear. This will refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 To describe in more detail.

[0116] Figure 8 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A magnified view of part E1. Features that differ from those in the foregoing embodiments will be described in detail relative to this embodiment, and features that are substantially the same as or similar to those in the foregoing embodiments will not be described in detail again.

[0117] First, refer to Figure 8 The right trapping unit 221R can be configured such that the depth of the recessed portion gradually increases in the forward direction (+Y axis direction) from a portion of the center line (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction near the side plate 220. Furthermore, the left trapping unit 221L can be configured such that the depth of the recessed portion gradually increases in the rearward direction (-Y axis direction) from a portion of the center line (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction near the side plate 220.

[0118] In particular, in this configuration, an inclined surface may be formed on the inner surface of the trapping unit 221. For example, as indicated by I2 in the figure, the right trapping unit 221R may have an inclined surface whose depth increases in the forward direction (+Y-axis direction). Furthermore, as indicated by I1 in the figure, the left trapping unit 221L may have an inclined surface whose depth increases in the rearward direction (-Y-axis direction).

[0119] According to this configuration, the suppression effect of the capturing unit 221 on sparks, flames, etc., can be further improved. Specifically, sparks, etc., ejected from the wing portion of the secondary battery 110 can move along the inclined surfaces I1, I2 of the capturing unit 221 in the front-rear direction (±Y-axis direction). Then, if they reach the front and rear ends of the capturing unit 221, the sparks, etc., can stop moving within the portions indicated by E1 and E2 and change their direction of movement. In this case, the direction of movement can be bent at an angle greater than 90°.

[0120] In this regard, more specifically, refer to Figure 9 It can be assumed that the angle between the edges of the front end E1 and the rear end E2 of the left capture unit 221L is an acute angle. However, considering the direction of movement of sparks, etc., this can be considered an angle greater than 90°. That is, observing... Figure 9 In (a), inside E1 and E2, sparks, etc., can first move along arrow F1, collide with the ends of E1 and E2 to change their direction, and then move along arrow F2. Furthermore, if arrows F1 and F2 have the same center point, then that center point is as follows: Figure 9 As shown in (b). In this case, the angle (θ) formed by arrows F1 and F2 can be an obtuse angle greater than 90°.

[0121] Therefore, according to this embodiment, since the direction of movement of sparks, etc., is converted into an obtuse angle greater than 90°, the capturing unit 221 can more reliably suppress the movement of sparks, etc., in the outward direction.

[0122] At the same time, such as Figure 8 As shown, if the outer surface of the trapping unit 221 is formed to be inclined, when the side plate 220 is viewed from the outside, the central portion indicated by J can be considered to be recessed in the inward direction. In this case, when multiple battery modules are stacked in the horizontal direction, the recessed portion J on the outer side formed due to the inclination of the trapping unit 221 is the space between the battery modules and can be used as a flow path for cooling air, etc.

[0123] In addition to the trapping unit 221, the side plate 220 may also include a guide unit 223. This will refer to Figure 10 To describe in more detail.

[0124] Figure 10 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, features that differ from those in the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail.

[0125] refer to Figure 10 In the left plate 220L, the left trapping unit 221L can be formed at the rear side (-Y-axis direction) relative to the centerline (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction, and the left guide unit 223L can be formed at the front side (+Y-axis direction). Here, compared with other parts of the left plate 220L except for the left trapping unit 221L, the left guide unit 223L can be formed in a concave shape and configured to extend to the left trapping unit 221L. Furthermore, as indicated in I4, the left guide unit 223L can be configured in an inclined shape. That is, the left guide unit 223L can be configured such that the depth of the concave portion increases in the rear direction (-Y-axis direction). In this case, the depth of the left guide unit 223L can be formed to be less than or equal to the depth of the left trapping unit 221L.

[0126] Furthermore, in the right plate 220R, the right trapping unit 221R can be formed on the front side (+Y-axis direction) relative to the centerline (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction, and the right guide unit 223R can be formed on the rear side (-Y-axis direction). Compared to other parts of the right plate 220R except for the right trapping unit 221R, the right guide unit 223R can be formed in a recessed shape and configured to extend to the right trapping unit 221R. Furthermore, as indicated in I3, the right guide unit 223R can be configured in an inclined shape. That is, the right guide unit 223R can be configured such that the depth of the recessed portion increases in the front direction (+Y-axis direction). In this case, the depth of the right guide unit 223R can be formed to be less than or equal to the depth of the right trapping unit 221R.

[0127] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the capture effect of sparks, etc., can be further improved by means of the guiding units 223 (such as the left guiding unit 223L and the right guiding unit 223R). For example, in Figure 10 In this configuration, the left capture unit 221L can be located only on the rear side. In this case, if sparks or the like are generated on the left front side of the wing portion of the secondary battery, the sparks or the like can move rearward along the inclined surface I4 of the left guide unit 223L and be guided to the left capture unit 221L (arrow A3'). Furthermore, the right capture unit 221R can be located only on the front side. In this case, if sparks or the like are generated on the right rear side of the wing portion of the secondary battery, the sparks or the like can move forward along the inclined surface I3 of the right guide unit 223R and be guided to the right capture unit 221R (arrow A3). Therefore, in this configuration, sparks can be captured for both the entire left and right wing portions of the secondary battery.

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inclined surface of the guiding unit 223 can be configured to correspond to the inclined surface of the trapping unit 221. This will refer to... Figure 10 To describe in more detail.

[0129] Figure 11 It shows two Figure 10 The battery modules are arranged in a left-right direction in a top view. In this embodiment, features that differ from those in the previous embodiments will also be described in detail.

[0130] refer to Figure 11When two battery modules M3 and M4 are stacked in the left-right direction (X-axis direction), the shape of the inclined surface I3 of the right guide unit 223R of the third battery module M3 can be configured to correspond to the shape of the inclined surface I1 of the left trapping unit 221L of the fourth battery module M4. Specifically, the angle of the inclined surface I3 of the right trapping unit 223R of the third battery module M3 can be configured to be the same as or similar to the angle of the inclined surface I1 of the left trapping unit 221L of the fourth battery module M4. Furthermore, the shape of the inclined surface I4 of the left guide unit 223L of the fourth battery module M4 can be configured to correspond to the shape of the inclined surface I2 of the right trapping unit 221R of the third battery module M3. Specifically, the angle of the inclined surface I4 of the left guide unit 223L of the fourth battery module M4 can be configured to be the same as or similar to the angle of the inclined surface I2 of the right trapping unit 221R of the third battery module M3.

[0131] If, as described above, the tilted shape of the left guide unit 223L is configured to correspond to the tilted shape of the right trapping unit 221R relative to the side plate 220 of each battery module, and the tilted shape of the right guide unit 223R is configured to correspond to the tilted shape of the left trapping unit 221L, then the volume can be further minimized when multiple battery modules are stacked horizontally.

[0132] The trapping unit 221 can be configured to have irregular portions formed on its inner surface. This will refer to... Figure 12 To describe in more detail.

[0133] Figure 12 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. For Figure 12 The features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail.

[0134] refer to Figure 12 The trapping unit 221 can be configured to have an irregular portion by forming a plurality of outwardly recessed grooves indicated by G on its inner surface. In particular, the left trapping unit 221L and the right trapping unit 221R can be configured to each have a plurality of grooves G.

[0135] According to this configuration, the movement of sparks, etc., can be interfered with by irregular portions (i.e., multiple grooves G) formed on the inner surface of the trapping unit 221. Therefore, the discharge of sparks, etc., to the outside through the open portions O1, O2 of the module housing 200 can be further suppressed.

[0136] Specifically, each groove G can be formed such that the depth of the recessed portion increases from the center portion toward the front or rear side. For example, as Figure 12As indicated by D3, each of the plurality of grooves G formed at the left trapping unit 221L has an inclined surface. The inclined surface D3 can be configured to deepen in the rearward direction (-Y-axis direction) as the gas flow direction. Furthermore, each of the plurality of grooves G formed at the right trapping unit 221R can also have an inclined surface, and this inclined surface can be configured to deepen in the forward direction (+Y-axis direction) as the gas flow direction.

[0137] According to this configuration, at each groove G, the direction of movement of sparks, etc., can be converted into an angle greater than a right angle (obtuse angle). Therefore, the suppression effect of the capturing unit 221 on the movement of sparks, etc., can be further improved.

[0138] At the same time, Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, multiple irregular portions are formed on the inner surface of the trapping unit 221 in a state parallel to the front-back direction (Y-axis direction), but this disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. For example, Figure 12 The multiple grooves G shown in the figure can also be formed in Figure 8 In the embodiments, at the inclined surfaces I1, I2 of each trapping unit or Figure 10 In the embodiments, each guide unit 223 is located at its inclined surfaces I3 and I4. In this case, the spark blocking effect generated by the inclined surface of the trapping unit 221 and the spark blocking effect generated by the irregular portion are added together, thus further enhancing the effect.

[0139] Furthermore, the module housing 200 may also include a protrusion formed at the front or rear end of the trapping unit 221 to project in the central direction. This will refer to Figure 13 To describe in more detail.

[0140] Figure 13 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. For Figure 13 The features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail.

[0141] refer to Figure 13 The module housing 200 may further include a protrusion 222 at the front and / or rear end of the trapping unit 221. The protrusion 222 may be configured to project inwardly (centrally) in the trapping unit 221 onto the side plate 220 of the module housing 200. For example, referring to an enlarged view of the rear end of the left trapping unit 221L... Figure 13 The protrusion 222 can be configured to protrude in the forward direction (+Y axis direction) so as to partially cover the rear end of the left capture unit 221L. In addition, the right capture unit 221R can also be configured such that the protrusion 222 protrudes in the rearward direction (-Y axis direction) at its front end.

[0142] According to this configuration, by blocking the movement of sparks or the like at the end of the collecting unit 221 or further changing the direction of movement of sparks or the like, the external discharge of sparks or the like can be blocked more effectively. That is, as... Figure 13 As indicated by the arrow in the enlarged view, sparks and the like introduced into the collection unit 221 can change their direction at the end of the collection unit 221. Therefore, in this case, sparks and the like can remain in the collection unit 221 for a longer time, thus further improving the collection effect of the collection unit 221 on sparks and the like.

[0143] Furthermore, the front or rear end of the trapping unit 221 may be recessed forward or backward. This will refer to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 To describe in more detail.

[0144] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail for these embodiments.

[0145] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The trapping unit 221 is formed on the side plate 220 of the module housing 200, and the end of the trapping unit 221 in the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction) can be formed to be more concave in the front-rear direction.

[0146] For example, in Figure 14 As indicated by H1', ​​the front end of the right capture unit 221R can be formed to be more recessed in the forward direction (+Y axis direction) to provide a forward groove. Furthermore, in Figure 14 As indicated by H1, the rear end of the left trapping unit 221L can be formed to be more recessed in the rearward direction (-Y axis direction) to provide a rearward groove. Specifically, in Figure 14 In the construction, inclined surfaces can be formed at the front and rear ends of the trapping unit 221 to provide grooves (recessed portions) at the front and rear ends of the trapping unit 221.

[0147] As another example, in Figure 15 As indicated by H2', the front end of the right trapping unit 221R can be formed to be more recessed in the forward direction (+Y axis direction) to provide a forward groove. Furthermore, in Figure 15 As indicated by H2, the rear end of the left trap unit 221L can be further recessed in the rearward direction (-Y axis direction) to provide a rearward groove. Specifically, in Figure 15In order to provide grooves (recessed portions) at the front and rear ends of the trapping unit 221, the trapping unit 221 can be formed to be more recessed in the front-rear direction.

[0148] According to this configuration, the effect of suppressing sparks, ignition, etc., by the capturing unit 221 can be more reliably ensured. Specifically, when sparks, ignition, etc., flow into the internal space of the capturing unit 221, the recessed portions located at the front and rear ends allow the sparks or ignition to move in the front-rear direction without easily leaking out of the internal space of the capturing unit 221. Furthermore, spark particles, etc., can be inserted into the recesses provided at the front and rear ends of the capturing unit 221. Therefore, in this case, the blocking effect of the capturing unit 221 on the emission of sparks and ignition can be further improved.

[0149] Figure 16 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail for this embodiment.

[0150] refer to Figure 16 The battery module according to this disclosure may also include a mesh member 400. The mesh member 400 may be configured to have a plurality of holes formed therein. For example, the mesh member 400 may be configured to have a plurality of holes in a plate-like member. Alternatively, the mesh member 400 may be configured as a mesh in which different wires intersect each other orthogonally. In this case, the mesh member 400 can be easily manufactured, and a large number of holes can be formed while reducing the size of the holes. The mesh member 400 may be configured to be inserted into the internal space of the trapping unit 221. Furthermore, the mesh member 400 may be arranged such that the holes are arranged in the front-rear direction. Additionally, the mesh member 400 may be arranged at the front end or rear end of the trapping unit 221. For example, in the left plate 220L, the mesh member may be arranged at the rear end of the left trapping unit 221L. Moreover, in the right plate 220R, the mesh member may be arranged at the front end of the right trapping unit 221R.

[0151] According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the movement of sparks, flames, etc., can be further blocked by the mesh member 400. That is, if a spark or flame moves in the front-to-back direction along with the gas in the internal space of the collection unit 221 and reaches the mesh member 400, the gaseous gas can easily pass through the mesh member, but particles included in the spark or flame can be filtered by the mesh member 400. Therefore, in this case, the blocking effect on the emission of sparks, flames, etc., can be further improved.

[0152] Figure 17This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail for this embodiment.

[0153] refer to Figure 17 The battery module according to this disclosure may also include a porous member 500. The porous member 500 may be configured to have a plurality of pores therein. Specifically, these pores may be configured to communicate with the outside. That is, the pores included in the porous member 500 can be considered as empty spaces filled only with gas, and these pores may not be sealed but rather configured to communicate with the outside. For example, the porous member 500 may be configured such that a plurality of wires (particularly a plurality of wires made of materials such as metal or polymer) are entangled with each other. Specifically, the porous member 500 may be configured to be inserted into the internal space of the left trapping unit 221L and / or the right trapping unit 221R.

[0154] According to this configuration, the pores formed in the porous member 500 can more effectively prevent the sparks or flames introduced into the collection unit 221 from moving outward. In particular, since the active material particles included in the sparks, flames, etc. are collected in the pores of the porous member 500, the discharge of active material particles, etc., to the outside of the module shell 200 can be more reliably blocked.

[0155] Figure 18 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 19 It shows Figure 18 An enlarged view of section A6. For this embodiment, features that differ from those in the foregoing embodiments will also be described in detail.

[0156] First, refer to Figure 18 Multiple blocking protrusions P can be formed on the inner surface of the trapping unit 221. The blocking protrusions P are formed to protrude from the inner surface of the side plate 220 in the direction toward the battery cell assembly 100 (X-axis direction). Furthermore, the blocking protrusions P have a central space therein, but the central space can be configured to be open in the front-rear direction, particularly open in the front-rear direction of the side plate 220 toward the central portion. Additionally, the internal space of the blocking protrusions P can be configured to be closed toward the front or rear end of the side plate 220.

[0157] More specifically, see Figure 19In the configuration shown, the blocking protrusion P of the left trapping unit 221L can be configured to open towards the front (+Y-axis direction) in the direction of the center line (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the blocking protrusion P of the left trapping unit 221L can be configured to close in the direction towards the rear (-Y-axis direction). Simultaneously, the blocking protrusion P of the right trapping unit 221R can be configured to open towards the rear (-Y-axis direction) in the direction of the center line (C-C' line) in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the blocking protrusion P of the right trapping unit 221R can be configured to close in the direction towards the front (+Y-axis direction).

[0158] According to this configuration, by forming multiple blocking protrusions P on the inner surface of the trapping unit 221, the emission of sparks, flames, etc., to the outside can be blocked more reliably. For example, refer to... Figure 19 As indicated by the arrow, while sparks and flashes moving backward along the inner surface of the left capture unit 221L flow into the internal space of the blocking protrusion P, the movement of the sparks and flashes can be blocked and their direction of movement can be changed to forward. Therefore, in this case, the blocking effect on the movement of sparks and flashes can be further improved.

[0159] The battery pack described in this disclosure may include a plurality of battery modules described above according to this disclosure. Furthermore, the battery pack described in this disclosure may also include various other components besides battery modules, such as components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of this application, such as a BMS, busbars, battery pack housing, relays, current sensors, etc.

[0160] The energy storage system according to this disclosure may include at least one battery module according to this disclosure. In particular, the energy storage system may include multiple battery modules according to this disclosure in the form of being electrically connected to each other to have a large energy capacity. Alternatively, multiple battery modules according to this disclosure may be configured into a battery pack, and the energy storage system may be configured to include multiple battery packs. Furthermore, the energy storage system according to this disclosure may also include various other components of energy storage systems known at the time of filing of this application. Moreover, the energy storage system can be used in various locations or devices, such as smart grid systems or charging stations. In particular, the energy density of the battery pack or energy storage system can be improved by employing battery modules according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0161] Meanwhile, in this specification, terms indicating direction such as “up,” “down,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back” are used, but these terms are only for convenience of explanation, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer.

[0162] This disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples illustrate preferred embodiments of this disclosure, they are given by way of illustration only, as various modifications and variations within the scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description.

[0163] Figure label:

[0164] 100: Battery cell module

[0165] 110: Secondary battery

[0166] 111: Electrode lead

[0167] 200: Module shell

[0168] 210: Lower board

[0169] 220: Side panel

[0170] 220L: Left panel; 220R: Right panel

[0171] 221: Capture Unit

[0172] 221L: Left capture unit; 221R: Right capture unit

[0173] 222: Protrusion

[0174] 223: Guiding Unit

[0175] 223L: Left guide unit; 223R: Right guide unit

[0176] 230: On the board

[0177] 240: Front panel

[0178] 250: Back panel

[0179] 300: Busbar Component

[0180] 310: Module busbar 320: Busbar housing

[0181] 321: Slit

[0182] 400: Mesh component

[0183] 500: Porous components

[0184] P: Blocking protrusion

Claims

1.A battery module comprising: a battery cell assembly including a plurality of secondary batteries stacked with each other, wherein, in the battery cell assembly, the plurality of secondary batteries are stacked along a vertical direction; and a module case including a lower plate, a side plate, and an upper plate to form an internal space in which the battery cell assembly is accommodated, the module case including a trapping unit formed in at least a portion of an outwardly recessed inner surface of the side plate to allow a spark generated inside the module case to be trapped in a recessed space in the trapping unit, the trapping unit being formed to be biased in a forward direction or a rearward direction. 2.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the trapping unit being formed to protrude outward at an outer surface of the side plate. 3.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein in the battery cell assembly, the plurality of secondary batteries are stacked in a flat state, electrode leads of the secondary batteries are located in a forward and rearward direction of the module case, and the module case is configured such that at least one of a front side and a rear side of the module case is open. 4.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, when a gas is generated from the battery cell assembly, the module case is configured to discharge the generated gas to at least one of a front side and a rear side. 5.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the trapping unit is configured to be located on only one side based on a center line in a forward and rearward direction of the side plate. 6.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the side plate includes a left plate and a right plate, the trapping unit includes a left trapping unit formed at the left plate and a right trapping unit formed at the right plate, and the left trapping unit and the right trapping unit are configured to be located on opposite sides based on a center line in a forward and rearward direction of the side plate. 7.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the trapping unit is formed such that a depth of a recessed portion of the trapping unit gradually increases in a forward direction or a rearward direction. 8.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the side plate further includes a guide unit formed to be inclined toward the trapping unit. 9.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the module case further includes a protrusion formed at a front end or a rear end of the trapping unit to protrude in a central direction. 10.The battery module according to claim 1, wherein a front end or a rear end of the trapping unit is formed to be recessed in a forward direction or a rearward direction. 11.A battery pack including a plurality of the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10. 12.An energy storage system including the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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