Battery system including cooling plate and control method thereof

Abstract

A battery system includes: a battery pack including a pack frame, a plurality of battery modules disposed within the pack frame, and a cooling plate covering the plurality of battery modules and including an accommodation space for accommodating a refrigerant; a cooling channel connected to the cooling plate; a circulation pump connected to the cooling passage and configured to circulate the refrigerant within the cooling passage and the cooling plate; the pressure sensor is arranged in the cooling channel; a plurality of temperature sensors disposed on the plurality of battery modules; and a processor electrically connected to the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor. The processor is configured to adjust an output of the circulation pump based on at least one of a temperature detected by one or more of the plurality of temperature sensors and a pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the disclosed technology relate to a battery system and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged, and thus can be applied to various fields such as digital cameras, mobile phones, laptop computers, hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems (ESS). Examples of secondary batteries may include lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-hydrogen batteries, etc. Summary of the invention

[0003] The disclosed technology may be implemented in some embodiments to provide a battery system including a battery pack capable of delaying heat propagation between battery modules.

[0004] The disclosed technology may be implemented in some embodiments to provide a battery system including a battery pack capable of providing refrigerant to a battery module that has caught fire.

[0005] The battery system including the cooling plate and the control method thereof according to the exemplary embodiment can be widely used in the field of green technology, such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and solar power generation and wind power generation using other batteries. In addition, the battery system including the cooling plate and the control method thereof according to the exemplary embodiment can be used in environmentally friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc. to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0006] In some embodiments of the disclosed technology, a battery system includes: a battery pack, the battery pack including a pack frame, a plurality of battery modules disposed in the pack frame, and a cooling plate, the cooling plate covering the plurality of battery modules and including a receiving space for receiving a refrigerant; a cooling channel connected to the cooling plate; a circulating pump connected to the cooling channel and configured to circulate the refrigerant in the cooling channel and the cooling plate; a pressure sensor disposed in the cooling channel and configured to detect the pressure in the cooling channel; a plurality of temperature sensors disposed on the plurality of battery modules and configured to detect the temperature of the plurality of battery modules; and a processor electrically connected to the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor. The processor is configured to adjust the output of the circulating pump based on at least one of the temperature detected by one or more of the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

[0007] The pack frame may include a compartment accommodating at least one battery module of the plurality of battery modules.

[0008] At least a portion of the cooling plate may be configured to melt upon ignition in at least some of the battery modules of the plurality of battery modules. At least a portion of the refrigerant may be configured to flow through the melted portion of the cooling plate into a space of a compartment where a battery module of the plurality of battery modules that has ignited is located.

[0009] The processor is configured to stop the operation of the circulation pump when the temperature detected by the plurality of temperature sensors exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0010] The processor is configured to stop the operation of the circulation pump when a difference between temperature values ​​detected by the plurality of temperature sensors is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0011] The processor is configured to reduce the output of the circulation pump when the temperature detected by the plurality of temperature sensors exceeds a predetermined temperature. The processor is configured to increase the output of the circulation pump when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure.

[0012] The processor is configured to reduce the output of the circulation pump when the difference between the temperature values ​​detected by the plurality of temperature sensors is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The processor is configured to increase the output of the circulation pump when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure. The battery system also includes a reserve tank connected to the cooling channel and configured to accommodate at least a portion of the refrigerant.

[0013] The volumes of the accommodating space of the cooling plate, the cooling channel and the reserve tank are greater than or equal to the volume inside the compartment of the assembly frame.

[0014] The battery system also includes a cooling device connected to the cooling channel and configured to cool the refrigerant.

[0015] The processor is configured to start or drive the circulation pump when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure.

[0016] The processor may drive the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval after stopping the operation of the circulation pump for a predetermined time based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

[0017] The processor is configured to start or drive the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval based on the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors after stopping the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

[0018] The processor is configured to start or drive the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor after stopping the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

[0019] The cooling plate may comprise aluminum.

[0020] In some embodiments of the presently disclosed technology, a method for controlling a battery system includes: a temperature detection operation of detecting the temperature of a battery module using a temperature sensor; a temperature comparison operation of comparing the temperature detected by the temperature sensor with a predetermined temperature; a circulation pump drive stop operation of stopping driving a circulation pump when the detected temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature; a pressure comparison operation of comparing a pressure detected by a pressure sensor with a predetermined pressure; and a circulation pump drive operation of driving the circulation pump when the detected pressure is less than the predetermined pressure.

[0021] The method for controlling the battery system may further include a circulation pump temporary driving operation of temporarily driving the circulation pump after stopping the driving of the circulation pump based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The circulation pump temporary driving operation may be configured to operate the circulation pump for a predetermined period of time after a predetermined time from the circulation pump driving stop operation.

[0022] The circulation pump driving operation may be configured to be performed after the circulation pump temporary driving operation when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined value.

[0023] In some embodiments of the disclosed technology, a battery system includes: a battery pack, the battery pack including a group frame, a plurality of battery modules arranged in the group frame, and a cooling plate, the cooling plate covering the plurality of battery modules and including a receiving space for receiving a refrigerant; a cooling channel connected to the cooling plate; a circulation pump connected to the cooling channel and configured to circulate the refrigerant in the cooling channel and the cooling plate; a pressure sensor arranged in the cooling channel; a plurality of temperature sensors arranged on the plurality of battery modules; and a processor electrically connected to the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor. The processor is configured to stop driving the circulation pump based on a temperature detected by at least some of the plurality of temperature sensors. The processor is configured to drive the circulation pump based on a pressure detected by the pressure sensor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Certain aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosed technology are illustrated by the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an example embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an example embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0031] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a battery system according to an example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Features of the disclosed technology disclosed in this patent document are described through example embodiments with reference to the drawings.

[0033] The disclosed technology may be implemented in some embodiments to provide a battery system including a cooling plate and a control method thereof.

[0034] Hereinafter, the present disclosure technology will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is merely illustrative, and the present disclosure technology is not limited to the specific embodiments described by way of example.

[0035] The secondary battery may be manufactured to include a flexible pouch-type battery cell or a rigid prismatic or cylindrical can-type battery cell. A plurality of battery cells may be formed into a stacked cell assembly.

[0036] The cell assembly may be disposed inside the housing to form a battery module, and a plurality of battery modules may be disposed inside the pack frame to form a battery pack. The battery pack may be used in various systems such as a vehicle or an energy storage system.

[0037] An electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle, or energy storage system powered by an electrical energy source may include multiple battery cells. Therefore, if a fire occurs in one battery module, it may spread to adjacent battery modules or other components. Refrigerants may be used to suppress fires in battery modules. However, the amount of refrigerant that can be accommodated in a vehicle may be limited.

[0038] The disclosed technology may be implemented in some embodiments to solve these problems by providing a battery system including a battery pack capable of delaying heat propagation between battery modules. In addition, the disclosed technology may be implemented in some embodiments to solve these problems by providing a battery system including a battery pack capable of providing a refrigerant to a battery module that has caught fire.

[0039] Figure 1is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an example embodiment.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 , the battery cell 100 may include a bag 110, an electrode assembly 120, and an electrode tab 130. The battery cell 100 may be a secondary battery. For example, the battery cell 100 may be a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery cell 100 may be a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a nickel-hydrogen battery that may be charged and discharged.

[0041] The pouch 110 may form at least a portion of the exterior of the battery cell 100. The pouch 110 may include an electrode receiving portion 111 receiving the electrode assembly 120 and a sealing portion 115 for sealing at least a portion of the circumference of the electrode receiving portion 111. The electrode receiving portion 111 may provide a space for receiving the electrode assembly 120 and an electrolyte solution.

[0042] The sealing portion 115 may be formed by connecting at least part of the circumference of the bag 110. The sealing portion 115 is formed in the form of a flange extending outward from the electrode receiving portion 111 forming a container shape, and may be arranged along at least a portion of the outside of the electrode receiving portion 111. In an example embodiment, the sealing portion 115 may include a first sealing portion 115a where the electrode terminal tab 130 is located and a second sealing portion 115b where the electrode terminal tab 130 is not located. A portion of the electrode terminal tab 130 may be led out or exposed to the outside of the bag 110. In order to increase the sealing degree of the first sealing portion 115a and at the same time ensure electrical insulation, the electrode terminal tab 130 may be covered by an insulating film 140 at the position where the electrode terminal tab 130 is led out. The insulating film 140 is formed of a thinner film material than the material of the electrode terminal tab 130, and may be attached to both sides of the electrode terminal tab 130.

[0043] In example embodiments, the electrode tabs 130 may be disposed on both sides of the battery cell 100 along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) to face opposite directions. For example, the electrode tabs 130 may include a first electrode tab 130a (e.g., a positive electrode tab) of a first polarity (e.g., a positive electrode) facing one side of the battery cell 100 along the longitudinal direction, and a second electrode tab 130b (e.g., a negative electrode tab) of a second polarity (e.g., a negative electrode) facing the other side of the battery cell 100 along the longitudinal direction. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the sealing portion 115 may include two first sealing portions 115a on which the electrode tab 130 is disposed and one second sealing portion 115b on which the electrode tab 130 is not disposed. In example embodiments, the electrode tab 130 may be referred to as an electrode lead.

[0044] The direction in which the electrode tab 130 is located can be selectively designed. Figure 1 ), the electrode tab 130 may include a first electrode tab 130a facing in the first direction and a second electrode tab 130b located in an opposite direction (eg, a second direction) of the first electrode tab 130a relative to the electrode assembly 120. Figure 1 , the electrode tabs 130 are shown to face opposite directions on both sides of the longitudinal direction (e.g., a first direction such as the Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 100, but the structure of the electrode tabs is not limited thereto. For example, two electrode tabs 130 may be arranged substantially in parallel along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 100.

[0045] In an example embodiment of the presently disclosed technology, at least some of the sealing portions 115 may be formed to be folded at least once. By folding at least a portion of the sealing portion 115, the bonding reliability of the sealing portion 115 may be improved, and the area of ​​the sealing portion 115 may be significantly reduced. In the sealing portion 115 based on the example embodiment, the second sealing portion 115b on which the electrode terminal tab 130 is not disposed may be folded twice and then fixed by an adhesive member (not shown). The angle at which the second sealing portion 115b is bent or the number of times the second sealing portion 115b is bent may be changed. For example, in an example embodiment, the second sealing portion 115b may be folded 90° relative to the first sealing portion 115a (not shown). On the other hand, the bag 110 is not limited to the following. Figure 1 The structure shown is formed by folding a piece of outer material to form the seal portion 115 on three sides.

[0046] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 120 can be manufactured using a variety of methods. In some example embodiments, the electrode assembly can be formed by repeatedly arranging a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly can be a winding type, a stacking type, a zigzag folding type, or a stacked folding type electrode assembly.

[0047] In some embodiments discussed in this patent document, battery cell 100 is shown as an example as a pouch-type battery cell including pouch 110. In other embodiments, battery cell 100 may have a shape different from a pouch-type battery cell. For example, battery cell 100 may be a cylindrical battery cell or a prismatic battery cell.

[0048] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an example embodiment.

[0049] refer to Figure 2 The battery module 200 may include a plurality of battery cells (eg, Figure 1 The module housing 210 and the bus bar assembly 220 of the battery cell 100 are provided.

[0050] The battery module 200 may include a cell assembly (not shown) having a plurality of battery cells 100. In example embodiments, the cell assembly may be referred to as a cell stack.

[0051] The module housing 210 forms at least a portion of the exterior of the battery module 200 and may have an accommodation space for accommodating the plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the module housing 210 may include a cover portion 211 covering the plurality of battery cells 100 and an accommodation portion 212 surrounding lower and side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100. In example embodiments, the cover portion 211 may be referred to as an upper cover portion.

[0052] The module housing 210 may include an end plate 215 covering some side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100. In an example embodiment, the end plate 215 may be connected to one end of the receiving portion 212 in a longitudinal direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction). The end plate 215 may cover a portion of a side surface of the cell assembly and at least a portion of the bus bar assembly 220.

[0053] In an example embodiment, the module housing 210 may be formed of a material having a high thermal conductivity such as metal. For example, the module housing 210 may be formed of aluminum. However, the material of the module housing 210 is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the module housing 210 may be formed of a polymer. The module housing 210 may be referred to as a housing, a module housing, or a module housing.

[0054] The bus bar assembly 220 may include an electrode tab (eg, Figure 1 The bus bar assembly 220 includes a conductive internal bus bar of the electrode tab 130 in the end plate 215, and a bus bar frame supporting the internal bus bar. The bus bar assembly 220 may include at least one terminal bus bar for external electrical connection. The electrode tab 130 of the battery cell 100 may be electrically connected to the outside of the battery module 200 through the internal bus bar and the terminal bus bar. For example, the terminal bus bar of the bus bar assembly 220 may be exposed to the outside of the module housing 210 through a hole in the end plate 215. For ease of description, some components are omitted or exaggerated herein.

[0055] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a battery system according to an example embodiment. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0056] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The battery system 400 may include a battery pack 300 , a cooling channel 410 , a circulation pump 420 , and a cooling device 430 .

[0057] The battery pack 300 may include at least one battery module (eg, Figure 2For example, the battery pack 300 may include a pack frame 310 accommodating a plurality of battery modules 200.

[0058] The pack frame 310 may include a compartment 311 accommodating at least one battery module of the plurality of battery modules 200. The pack frame 310 may include a partition wall 314 intersecting at least some of the plurality of battery modules 200. The compartment 311 may be a space inside the battery pack 300 divided by the partition wall 314. In example embodiments, at least some of the plurality of partition walls 314 may include exhaust holes for guiding a path of gas and / or flame generated in the battery module 200.

[0059] The pack frame 310 may form at least a portion of the exterior of the battery pack 300. The pack frame 310 may include a bottom member 313 supporting the battery module 200 and a pack sidewall 312 surrounding at least a portion of the battery module 200. The bottom member 313 may support external materials (e.g., Figure 2 The module housing 210 of FIG. 1 . The group side wall 312 may be located between the bottom member 313 and the cooling plate 320.

[0060] The battery pack 300 may include a cooling plate 320. The cooling plate 320 may cover the plurality of battery modules 200. For example, the cooling plate 320 may surround the battery module 200 together with the pack sidewall 312 and the bottom member 313.

[0061] The cooling plate 320 may provide a path for the refrigerant to flow. For example, the cooling plate 320 may include a receiving space 321 for receiving the refrigerant. The receiving space 321 may be connected to the cooling channel 410. For example, the cooling plate 320 may receive the refrigerant through the cooling channel 410. In an example embodiment, the cooling plate 320 may be referred to as a radiator. The cooling plate 320 may contact or be close to a portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the battery module 200. The battery module 200 may dissipate heat or cool through the refrigerant flowing in the receiving space 321 of the cooling plate 320.

[0062] The refrigerant may be selectively applied as long as it is configured to extinguish a fire in the battery module 200. For example, the refrigerant may include at least one of water, an insulating coolant, a foam extinguishing agent, a powder extinguishing agent, or a fire extinguishing gas.

[0063] In the event of thermal runaway of the battery module 200, the cooling plate 320 may provide refrigerant to the battery module 200. For example, when the cooling plate 320 melts, the refrigerant contained in the cooling plate 320 may be transferred to the battery module 200. The cooling plate 320 may be formed of a material that may melt in the event of thermal runaway of the battery module 200. For example, the cooling plate 320 may include aluminum having a melting point temperature lower than the ignition temperature of the battery module 200. In an example embodiment, a portion of the cooling plate 320 located on top of the battery module 200 in which thermal runaway occurs is melted, and the refrigerant may be transported through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320 to the compartment 311 in which the battery module 200 in which thermal runaway or fire occurs is located. By transporting the refrigerant to the compartment 311 in which the battery module 200 in which thermal runaway occurs is located, the cooling efficiency of the battery pack 300 and / or the battery system 400 may be improved.

[0064] The battery system 400 may include a battery pack 300 and a component for cooling the battery pack 300. For example, the battery system 400 may be a vehicle including the battery pack 300 or an energy storage system including the battery pack 300. In an example embodiment, the battery system 400 may include a vehicle body. The vehicle body may accommodate the battery pack 300, the cooling channel 410, the circulation pump 420, the cooling device 430, the pressure sensor 440, the temperature sensor 450, and / or the processor 460.

[0065] The battery system 400 may include a cooling channel 410. The cooling channel 410 may provide a path for the refrigerant. For example, the cooling channel 410 may provide a path for the refrigerant introduced into the cooling plate 320 of the battery pack 300 and / or the refrigerant discharged from the cooling plate 320. In an example embodiment, the cooling channel 410 may include a first flow path 411 connected to the circulation pump 420 and the battery pack 300, a second flow path 412 connected to the battery pack 300 and the cooling device 430, and a third flow path 413 connected to the cooling device 430 and the circulation pump 420.

[0066] The structure in which the cooling channel 410 is connected to the cooling plate 320 is an example. In an example embodiment, the cooling channel 410 may be directly connected to the accommodation space 321 of the cooling plate 320. In another embodiment, the group frame 310 includes a blank space for the refrigerant to flow, and the cooling channel 410 may be connected to the accommodation space 321 of the cooling plate 320 through the group frame 310.

[0067] The battery system 400 may include a circulation pump 420. The circulation pump 420 may increase pressure so that the refrigerant circulates in the cooling channel 410 and / or the cooling plate 320. The circulation pump 420 may be connected to the cooling channel 410.

[0068] The battery system 400 may include a cooling device 430. The cooling device 430 is connected to the cooling channel 410 and may reduce the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the cooling channel 410. For example, the cooling device 430 may be a radiator or a heat dissipation device.

[0069] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0070] refer to Figure 5 The battery system 400 may include a battery pack 300 having a plurality of battery modules 200 , a cooling channel 410 , a circulation pump 420 , a cooling device 430 , a pressure sensor 440 , a temperature sensor 450 , and / or a processor 460 .

[0071] Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 The description of the battery module 200, the battery pack 300, the cooling channel 410, the circulating pump 420 and the cooling device 430 can be applied to Figure 5 The battery module 200, the battery pack 300, the cooling channel 410, the circulation pump 420 and the cooling device 430 are provided.

[0072] The battery system 400 may detect the temperature of the battery module 200 using the temperature sensor 450. For example, the battery system 400 may include the temperature sensor 450 provided in the plurality of battery modules 200. In example embodiments, the plurality of temperature sensors 450 may be provided in the plurality of battery modules 200, respectively.

[0073] The battery system 400 may detect the pressure of the cooling channel 410 using the pressure sensor 440. For example, the battery system 400 may include the pressure sensor 440 disposed in the cooling channel 410. The disposition position of the pressure sensor 440 may be selectively changed.

[0074] The processor 460 may control components of the battery system 400. For example, the processor 460 may be electrically connected to the temperature sensor 450 using the first signal line 451. The processor 460 may be electrically connected to the pressure sensor 440 using the second signal line 441. The processor 460 may be electrically connected to the circulation pump 420 using the third signal line 421.

[0075] The processor 460 may control the operation of the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature of the battery module 200. For example, when the temperature of the battery module 200 detected by the temperature sensor 450 is a predetermined temperature (e.g., 200 degrees) or higher, the processor 460 of the battery system 400 may stop the operation of the circulation pump 420. As another example, when the difference between the temperature values ​​respectively detected by the plurality of temperature sensors 450 provided in the plurality of battery modules 200 is greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature, the processor 460 may stop the operation of the circulation pump 420. When the circulation pump 420 stops, a portion of the cooling plate 320 may melt. For example, a portion of the cooling plate 320 adjacent to the battery module 200 (e.g., the trigger module) that has caught fire may melt.

[0076] In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may control the output of the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature of the battery module 200. For example, when the temperature of the battery module 200 detected by the temperature sensor 450 is a predetermined temperature (e.g., 200 degrees) or higher, the processor 460 may reduce the output of the circulation pump 420 to less than a predetermined value. As another example, when the difference between the temperature values ​​respectively detected by the plurality of temperature sensors 450 disposed in the plurality of battery modules 200 is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature, the processor 460 may reduce the output of the circulation pump 420 to less than a predetermined value. In the case where the circulation pump 420 is driven with an output less than a predetermined value, a portion of the cooling plate 320 may melt. For example, a portion of the cooling plate 320 adjacent to the battery module 200 (e.g., a trigger module) that has caught fire may melt.

[0077] The refrigerant may be delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320. The melted portion of the cooling plate 320 may be a portion of the cooling plate 320 that is adjacent to or faces the battery module 200 that has caught fire, and may refer to a portion that has melted due to flames and / or gases generated in the battery module 200. The refrigerant may flow into the compartment where the battery module 200 that has caught fire is located through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320.

[0078] When the refrigerant is delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire, heat propagation from the battery module 200 that has caught fire to the adjacent battery module 200 may be delayed. When the refrigerant is delivered to the battery module 200 through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320, cooling efficiency may be improved.

[0079] The processor 460 may control the operation of the circulation pump 420 based on the pressure of the cooling channel 410. When the refrigerant is ejected from the cooling plate 320, the pressure of the cooling channel 410 may decrease. When the pressure of the cooling channel 410 decreases, the amount of refrigerant injected into the battery module 200 may decrease. In an example embodiment, when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined pressure, the processor 460 of the battery system 400 may operate the circulation pump 420. In an example embodiment, if no pressure drop is detected or the detected pressure drop value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (e.g., 20%) compared to the pressure drop value in a normal state, the processor 460 may determine that the refrigerant is ejected due to the melting of the cooling plate 320. By operating the circulation pump 420, the refrigerant may be supplied to the battery module 200 through the cooling plate 320.

[0080] Based on the example embodiment, the processor 460 may change the output of the circulation pump 420 based on the pressure of the cooling channel 410. For example, when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined value, the processor 460 may increase the output of the circulation pump to a predetermined value greater than or equal to the circulation pump 420. As the output of the circulation pump 420 increases, the refrigerant may be supplied to the battery module 200 through the cooling plate 320.

[0081] The structure in which the processor 460 is provided is an example. In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may be provided inside the group frame (for example, in Figure 3 In another embodiment, the processor 460 may be located outside the battery pack 300. For example, the processor 460 may be installed on a vehicle including the battery pack 300 or an energy storage system including the battery pack 300.

[0082] In an example embodiment, the battery system 400 may include at least one or more tanks 470 and 480 containing at least a portion of the refrigerant. For example, the battery system 400 may include a reserve tank 470 connected to the cooling channel 410. The refrigerant supplied from the circulation pump 420 may pass through the reserve tank 470 and be delivered to the battery pack 300.

[0083] In an example embodiment, the total volume size of the cooling channel 410, the reserve tank 470, and the accommodation space 321 of the cooling plate 320 may be the volume inside the group frame 310 of the battery pack 300 or larger. The internal volume of the group frame 310 may refer to the internal volume of the compartment 311 of the group frame 310 or the volume of the space within the compartment 311, excluding the volume of the battery module 200. By forming the size of the space through which the refrigerant flows (e.g., the cooling channel 410, the reserve tank 470, and / or the accommodation space 321 of the cooling plate 320) to be larger than the internal volume of the group frame 310, the fire extinguishing performance of the battery system 400 may be improved.

[0084] The battery system 400 may further include an auxiliary tank 480 spaced apart from the reserve tank 470. The auxiliary tank 480 may be connected to the cooling channel 410. The reserve tank 470 and the auxiliary tank 480 may increase the amount of refrigerant contained in the battery system 400, and may improve cooling performance.

[0085] In an example embodiment, the battery system 400 may include a valve 481 between the auxiliary tank 480 and the cooling channel 410. The refrigerant contained in the auxiliary tank 480 may be delivered to the cooling channel 410 by opening the valve 481. For example, when the pressure of the cooling channel 410 is less than a predetermined value, the processor 460 may open the valve 481.

[0086] In an example embodiment, after the circulation pump 420 stops, the processor 460 may temporarily drive the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450. Due to the temporary operation of the circulation pump 420, the flow rate of the refrigerant in the cooling channel 410 and the cooling plate 320 may be increased. As the flow rate of the refrigerant increases, at least a portion of the refrigerant may be ejected to the outside of the cooling plate 320 through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320.

[0087] Temporary operation of the circulation pump 420 may be performed based on time, pressure and / or temperature. In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may operate the circulation pump 420 for a predetermined period of time after a predetermined time when the circulation pump 420 is stopped based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450.

[0088] In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 after stopping the operation of the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450. For example, the processor 460 may operate the circulation pump 420 when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is higher than or equal to a predetermined temperature.

[0089] In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420 based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 after stopping the operation of the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450. For example, the processor 460 may operate the circulation pump 420 when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is lower than or equal to a predetermined pressure.

[0090] After the circulation pump 420 is temporarily operated, the processor 460 may detect the pressure of the cooling channel 410 using the pressure sensor 440. When the pressure of the cooling channel 410 is less than a predetermined value, the processor 460 may operate the circulation pump 420. When the pressure of the cooling channel 410 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the processor 460 may keep the circulation pump 420 in a stopped state.

[0091] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0092] refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 5 The method 500 of controlling the battery system may include a temperature detection operation 510 , a temperature comparison operation 520 , a circulation pump driving stop operation 530 , a pressure comparison operation 540 , and a circulation pump driving operation 550 .

[0093] Figure 6 The method 500 of controlling a battery system may be to control Figures 3 to 5 A method of a battery system 400 is provided.

[0094] The temperature detection operation 510 may be an operation of detecting the temperature of the battery module 200 using the temperature sensor 450. For example, the battery system 400 may include a plurality of temperature sensors 450 to detect the temperatures of a plurality of corresponding battery modules 200.

[0095] The temperature comparison operation 520 may be an operation in which the processor 460 compares the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 with a predetermined temperature. For example, the battery system 400 may include a memory (not shown). The processor 460 may compare the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 with a predetermined temperature stored in the memory (not shown). In an example embodiment, the temperature comparison operation 520 may be replaced by an operation in which the processor 460 compares whether the temperature difference detected by the plurality of temperature sensors 450 is greater than a predetermined value. For example, when the temperature difference detected by the plurality of temperature sensors 450 is greater than a predetermined value, the processor 460 may determine that at least one of the plurality of battery modules 200 has caught fire, and may generate a signal to stop the circulation pump 420.

[0096] The circulation pump driving stop operation 530 may be an operation of stopping the operation of the circulation pump 420 when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is greater than a predetermined temperature. For example, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is greater than a predetermined temperature, the processor 460 may determine that a fire has occurred in at least one of the plurality of battery modules 200, and may generate a signal to stop the circulation pump 420. When the circulation pump 420 stops, the temperature of the cooling plate 320 may increase, and a portion of the cooling plate 320 facing the battery module 200 that has caught fire may melt. The refrigerant flowing in the cooling plate 320 may be delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320.

[0097] The pressure comparison operation 540 may be an operation in which the processor 460 compares the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 with a predetermined pressure. For example, the processor 460 may compare the pressure sensed by the pressure sensor 440 with a predetermined pressure stored in a memory (not shown). The pressure comparison operation 540 may be performed after a pressure detection operation of detecting the pressure of the cooling channel 410 using the pressure sensor 440, or may be performed substantially simultaneously with the operation. The pressure comparison operation 540 may be performed after the circulation pump drive stop operation 530.

[0098] The circulation pump driving operation 550 may be an operation of operating the circulation pump 420 when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined pressure. For example, when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined pressure, the processor 460 determines that the refrigerant has leaked through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320, and may generate a signal to operate the circulation pump 420 to circulate the refrigerant. By operating the circulation pump 420, the refrigerant may be delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320. The compartment (e.g., Figure 4 At least a portion of the compartment 311 in the battery module 200 is filled with refrigerant, and the battery module 200 that has caught fire can be extinguished and / or cooled.

[0099] In an example embodiment, the method 500 for controlling the battery system may further include a circulating pump temporary driving operation 560. The circulating pump temporary driving operation 560 may be an operation of temporarily driving the circulating pump 420 after the circulating pump driving stop operation 530. For example, the circulating pump temporary driving operation 560 may be an operation in which the circulating pump 420 runs at least once for a predetermined time interval to allow the refrigerant to flow. By allowing the refrigerant to flow for a predetermined time by the circulating pump temporary driving operation 560, the misjudgment of the pressure drop due to refrigerant leakage can be reduced. In an example embodiment, the temporary operation of the circulating pump 420 may be an operation in which the circulating pump 420 runs at least once for a predetermined time interval, or may be a state in which the power used is less than the power of the circulating pump 420 when the circulating pump 420 is operating normally (for example, in the state of the circulating pump driving operation 550 or in the state before the circulating pump driving stop operation 530).

[0100] The circulation pump temporary driving operation 560 may be performed based on time, pressure and / or temperature. In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420 for a predetermined period of time after a predetermined time of the circulation pump driving stop operation 530 .

[0101] In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 after the circulation pump driving stop operation 530. For example, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is higher than or equal to a predetermined temperature, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420. As another example, when the temperature difference detected by the plurality of temperature sensors 450 is greater than a predetermined amount, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420.

[0102] In an example embodiment, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420 based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 after the circulation pump driving stop operation 530. For example, when the pressure of the cooling channel 410 is less than a predetermined value, the processor 460 may generate a signal for temporarily operating the circulation pump 420.

[0103] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a battery system according to an example embodiment.

[0104] Reference together Figure 7 and Figure 5 The method 600 for controlling a battery system may include a temperature detection operation 610 , a temperature comparison operation 620 , a circulation pump output reduction operation 630 , a pressure comparison operation 640 , and a circulation pump output increase operation 650 .

[0105] Figure 7 The method 600 of controlling a battery system may be to control Figures 3 to 5 A method of a battery system 400 is provided. Figure 6 The temperature detection operation 510, the temperature comparison operation 520 and the pressure comparison operation 540 may be applied to Figure 7 The temperature detection operation 610, the temperature comparison operation 620 and the pressure comparison operation 640 are performed.

[0106] The circulation pump output reduction operation 630 may be an operation of reducing the output of the circulation pump 420 when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is greater than a predetermined temperature. For example, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 450 is greater than a predetermined temperature, the processor 460 may determine that at least one of the plurality of battery modules 200 has caught fire, and may generate a signal for reducing the output of the circulation pump 420. As the output of the circulation pump 420 is reduced, the temperature of the cooling plate 320 may increase, and a portion of the cooling plate 320 facing the battery module 200 that has caught fire may melt. The refrigerant flowing in the cooling plate 320 may be delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320.

[0107] The circulation pump output increasing operation 650 may be an operation of increasing the output of the circulation pump 420 when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined pressure. For example, when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 440 is less than a predetermined pressure, the processor 460 may determine that the refrigerant has leaked through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320, and may generate a signal to increase the output of the circulation pump 420 for refrigerant circulation. By operating the circulation pump 420, the refrigerant may be delivered to the battery module 200 that has caught fire through the melted portion of the cooling plate 320. The compartment (e.g., Figure 4 At least a portion of the compartment 311 in the battery module 200 is filled with refrigerant, and the battery module 200 in which a fire occurs can be extinguished and / or cooled.

[0108] As described above, in example embodiments, heat propagation between battery modules may be delayed or prevented.

[0109] In example embodiments, the refrigerant may flow into the compartment where the battery module on fire is located, and the fire in the battery module may be extinguished.

[0110] The disclosed technology can be implemented in rechargeable secondary batteries, which are widely used in battery-powered devices or systems, including, for example, digital cameras, mobile phones, laptops, hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies, battery storage power stations, and other devices including battery energy storage for solar panels, wind turbines, and other green technology generators. Specifically, the disclosed technology can be implemented in some embodiments to provide improved electrochemical devices, such as batteries used in various power sources and power supply devices, thereby mitigating climate change associated with the use of power sources and power supply devices. Lithium secondary batteries based on the disclosed technology can be used to address various adverse effects, such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, by powering electric vehicles (EVs) to replace vehicles using fossil fuel-based engines, and by providing battery-based energy storage systems (ESS).

[0111] Only a few examples and implementations are described. Other implementations, variations, improvements, and enhancements may be made based on the descriptions and illustrations in this patent document.

Claims

1. A battery system, comprising: Battery pack frame; a plurality of battery modules, the plurality of battery modules being disposed within the battery pack frame; a cooling plate coupled to the battery pack frame and configured to cover the plurality of battery modules and including an accommodation space configured to accommodate a refrigerant for dissipating heat from the plurality of battery modules; a cooling channel connected to the cooling plate to guide the refrigerant; a circulation pump connected to the cooling channel and configured to circulate the refrigerant through the cooling channel and the cooling plate; a pressure sensor disposed in the cooling channel and configured to detect a pressure in the cooling channel; a plurality of temperature sensors disposed on the plurality of battery modules and configured to detect temperatures of the plurality of battery modules; as well as a processor electrically connected to the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor to receive information from the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor, The processor is configured to adjust the output of the circulation pump based on at least one of a temperature detected by one or more temperature sensors among the plurality of temperature sensors and a pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

2. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The battery pack frame includes a compartment configured to accommodate at least one battery module of the plurality of battery modules.

3. The battery system according to claim 2, wherein: At least a portion of the cooling plate is configured to melt when one or more of the plurality of battery modules catch fire, and At least a portion of the refrigerant is configured to flow into a space of the compartment corresponding to the one or more battery modules in which the fire occurs among the plurality of battery modules through the melted portion of the cooling plate.

4. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to stop the operation of the circulation pump when it is determined that the temperature detected by the plurality of temperature sensors exceeds a predetermined temperature.

5. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to stop the operation of the circulation pump upon determining that a difference between the temperature values ​​detected by the plurality of temperature sensors is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

6. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to reduce the output of the circulation pump when it is determined that the temperature detected by the plurality of temperature sensors exceeds a predetermined temperature, and The processor is configured to increase the output of the circulation pump upon determining that the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure.

7. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to reduce the output of the circulation pump when it is determined that the difference between the temperature values ​​detected by the plurality of temperature sensors is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and The processor is configured to increase the output of the circulation pump upon determining that the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure. 8 . The battery system according to claim 1 , further comprising a reserve tank connected to the cooling channel and configured to contain at least a portion of the refrigerant.

9. The battery system according to claim 8, wherein: The total volume of the accommodating space of the cooling plate, the cooling channel and the reserve tank is greater than or equal to the volume inside the compartment of the group frame. 10 . The battery system according to claim 8 , further comprising an auxiliary tank connected to the cooling channel and spaced apart from the reserve tank. 11 . The battery system according to claim 1 , further comprising a cooling device connected to the cooling channel and configured to cool the refrigerant.

12. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to start the circulation pump when it is determined that the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined pressure.

13. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to activate the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval after stopping the operation of the circulation pump for a predetermined time based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

14. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to activate the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval based on the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors after stopping the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

15. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to activate the circulation pump for a predetermined time interval based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor after stopping the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of temperature sensors.

16. The battery system according to claim 1, wherein: The cooling plate comprises aluminum.

17. A method for controlling a battery system, the method comprising: Use a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the battery module; comparing the temperature detected by the temperature sensor with a predetermined temperature; When it is determined that the detected temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature, stopping the operation of the circulation pump; comparing a pressure detected using a pressure sensor with a predetermined pressure; as well as The circulation pump is started when it is determined that the detected pressure is less than the predetermined pressure.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising temporarily starting the circulation pump after stopping the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor, in, After a predetermined time has passed since the circulation pump stopped operating, the circulation pump is operated for a predetermined time interval.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: After temporarily starting the circulation pump, when it is determined that the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a predetermined value, the circulation pump is started.

20. A battery system, comprising: a battery pack including a pack frame, a plurality of battery modules disposed within the pack frame, and a cooling plate configured to cover the plurality of battery modules and including an accommodation space configured to accommodate a refrigerant; a cooling channel connected to the cooling plate; a circulation pump connected to the cooling channel and configured to circulate the refrigerant within the cooling channel and the cooling plate; a pressure sensor disposed in the cooling channel and configured to detect a pressure in the cooling channel; a plurality of temperature sensors disposed on the plurality of battery modules and configured to detect temperatures of the plurality of battery modules; as well as a processor electrically connected to the plurality of temperature sensors and the pressure sensor, wherein the processor is configured to stop the operation of the circulation pump based on the temperature detected by at least some of the plurality of temperature sensors, and The processor is configured to activate the circulation pump based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

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