Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

A battery pack and a vehicle including the same are disclosed. The battery pack includes: a plurality of cell stacks each including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, the battery cells each including a vent unit on a top surface thereof; a housing frame having an open top and accommodating the cell stack; a cover frame covering the open top of the housing frame; and at least one horizontal frame interposed between the cell stack and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, where each of the at least one horizontal frame has a recess formed to be recessed downward and elongated in the first direction, and the recess has a plurality of first through holes arranged in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a battery pack. Background Art

[0002] Unlike primary batteries that are not designed to be recharged, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are batteries that are designed to be discharged and recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smart phones, feature phones, notebook computers, digital cameras and video cameras, while large-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving motors in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles and for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale electricity storage). Secondary batteries generally include an electrode assembly consisting of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a housing that accommodates the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and an electrode terminal connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] When thermal runaway or a thermal event occurs in a specific secondary battery cell, the internal pressure of the cell may exceed a threshold range, causing substances such as flames and gases to be discharged through the exhaust unit. In this case, the high-temperature discharged substances will quickly diffuse into the surrounding environment, causing heat to diffuse to adjacent cells. Therefore, there is a problem that thermal runaway or a thermal event may also occur in adjacent cells.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this Background section is for enhancement of understanding of the background of the present disclosure and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior) art. Summary of the invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a battery pack including a horizontal frame that adds rigidity to the battery pack and forms an exhaust path.

[0006] These and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will be described in or will be obvious from the following description of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include: a plurality of cell stacks, each including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, the battery cells respectively including an exhaust unit on a top surface thereof; an outer shell frame having an open top and accommodating the cell stacks; a cover frame covering the open top of the outer shell frame; and at least one horizontal frame interposed between the cell stacks and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame has a recess formed to be concave downward and elongated in the first direction, and the recess has a plurality of first through holes arranged in the first direction.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first through hole may be located above the exhaust unit.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shape of each of the first through holes may correspond to a shape of each of the exhaust units.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first exhaust path extending in the first direction may be formed in a space formed by the elongated recessed portion of each of the at least one horizontal frame recessed downward.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess of each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the at least one horizontal frame may have a protrusion formed to protrude upward and extend in the first direction, at least a portion of a top surface of the protrusion may contact the cover frame, and the opposite lateral side of the first exhaust path may be sealed by the contact between the cover frame and the at least a portion of the top surface of the protrusion.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protrusion of each of the at least one horizontal frame may have a groove depressed downward from the top surface of the protrusion, and the groove may receive an adhesive for coupling the corresponding horizontal frame to the cover frame.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack may further include: an exhaust cover that is elongated in the first direction and between each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame, and the first exhaust path may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess of the corresponding horizontal frame and the exhaust cover.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first through holes may be closed by the exhaust units, respectively, to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the at least one horizontal frame may include one or more ribs formed to protrude upward between the first through holes.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack may further include: a bus bar support between the cell stack and the at least one horizontal frame to support a plurality of bus bars. The bus bar support may have a plurality of second through holes arranged in the first direction. The second through holes may be respectively located above the exhaust units, and the first through holes may be respectively located above the second through holes.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction may be formed in a space formed by the recessed portion recessed downward, and the first and second through holes may be respectively closed by the exhaust unit to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the monomer stack may be arranged in the first direction, the outer shell frame may include a cross beam between the monomer stack, and the cross beam may have a second exhaust path formed therein, and a side beam may be located on an opposite side of the monomer stack and have a third exhaust path formed therein.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an opening may be formed at a top surface of the beam, at least one of the first through holes may be located above the opening to communicate with the opening, and the opening may be connected to the second exhaust path.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first connecting hole may be formed on the opposite side of each of the at least one connecting hole in the first through hole connected to the opening, a second connecting groove may be formed on the opposite side of the opening, and the corresponding horizontal frame may be fastened to the cross beam by connecting the first connecting hole and the second connecting groove with a fastener.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction may be formed in a space formed by the recessed portion recessed downward, and the first exhaust path and the second exhaust path may be connected to each other through the opening of the beam.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an opening connected to the third exhaust path can be formed at a connecting portion of the side beam, the side beam is connected to the cross beam at the connecting portion, and the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path can be connected to each other through the opening in the side beam.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the side beam may include an outlet port that communicates with the third exhaust path and opens to the outside in response to detecting that a pressure exceeds a threshold pressure.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover frame may include an outlet port that communicates with the first exhaust path and opens to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure.

[0026] A vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0027] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above problems, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other problems not mentioned herein and aspects and features of the present disclosure to solve these problems through the following description of the present disclosure.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, exhaust substances released through the exhaust unit of the battery cell may be discharged to the outside through a space formed in a frame that enhances the rigidity of the battery pack without being diffused to terminals, bus bars, or adjacent battery cells.

[0029] However, aspects and features of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other aspects and features not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the detailed description described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the specific embodiments of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of a battery pack.

[0034] Figure 4A is a perspective view illustrating each horizontal frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view taken along line IVB-IVB'

[0036] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A An enlarged view of part B.

[0037] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a horizontal frame applied to a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An enlarged view of portion C of FIG.

[0039] Fig. 6A is a perspective view illustrating an exhaust cover interposed between a horizontal frame and a cover frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 6B is along Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view taken along line VIB-VIB'.

[0041] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a bus bar support interposed between a battery cell and a horizontal frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating a housing frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Fig. 9A is a perspective view illustrating a beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig. 9B is a side view illustrating a beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 9C yes Fig. 9A An enlarged view of part E of FIG.

[0046] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating a horizontal frame coupled to a beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig.11A is a perspective view illustrating a side beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig. 11B is a front view illustrating a side beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig. 11C is a side view illustrating a side beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig.11D is a partial perspective view illustrating the other side of the side member.

[0051] Fig.12 2 is a diagram illustrating coupling of a cross member and a side member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figures 13A to 13C are diagrams each illustrating a travel path of exhaust matter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figures 14A to 14Care diagrams each illustrating a travel path of exhaust matter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to the common or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical ideas of the present disclosure based on the principle that the inventor can be his / her own lexicon compiler to appropriately define the term concepts and interpret his / her invention in the best manner.

[0055] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the figures are only some embodiments of the present disclosure and do not represent all technical ideas, aspects and features of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that when submitting this application, there may be various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein.

[0056] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may also be one or more intervening elements or layers. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. For example, when a first element is described as being "coupled to" or "connected to" a second element, the first element may be directly coupled to or connected to the second element, or the first element may be indirectly coupled to or connected to the second element via one or more intervening elements.

[0057] In the figure, for the clarity of illustration, the size of various elements, layers, etc. can be enlarged. The same reference numerals indicate the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more related listed items. In addition, the use of "may" when describing the embodiments of the present disclosure relates to "one or more embodiments of the present disclosure". When expressions such as "at least one of" and "any one of" are after a column of elements, the entire column of elements is modified and the single element in the column is not modified. When phrases such as "at least one of A, B and C", "at least one of A, B or C", "at least one of the group selected from A, B and C" or "at least one of A, B and C" are used to specify a column of elements A, B and C, the phrase can refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C or A and B and C. As used herein, the term "use" can be regarded as synonymous with the term "utilize". As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation, not as terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize.

[0058] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0059] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "under", "below", "down", "above", "on", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between an element or feature and another element or feature as illustrated in the figure. It will be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element described as being "under" or "under" other elements or features will then be oriented as being "above" or "on" other elements or features. Therefore, the term "below" can include both above and below. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0060] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing the embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form "one" is also intended to include the plural form. It will be further understood that the terms "include" and / or "comprise" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups.

[0061] In addition, any numerical range disclosed and / or listed herein is intended to include all sub-ranges of the same numerical precision contained in the listed range. For example, the range of "1.0-10.0" is intended to include all sub-ranges between the listed minimum value 1.0 and the listed maximum value 10.0 (and including the listed minimum value 1.0 and the listed maximum value 10.0), that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4-7.6. Any maximum numerical limit listed herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit listed in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to modify this specification including the claims to explicitly list any sub-ranges contained in the range explicitly listed herein. All these ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification.

[0062] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc. as "the same" may mean that they are "substantially the same." Thus, the phrase "substantially the same" may include situations with deviations that are considered low in the art, for example, 5% or less. In addition, when a parameter is referred to as being consistent in a given area, this may mean that it is consistent in terms of average value.

[0063] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be in the singular or in the plural.

[0064] When any element is referred to as being disposed (or located or positioned) “on (or below)” or “on (or below)” a component, this may mean that the arbitrary element is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, and may also mean that another component may be interposed between the component and any arbitrary element disposed (or located or positioned) on (or below) the component.

[0065] Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "coupled," "linked," or "connected" to another element, the elements may be directly "coupled," "linked," or "connected" to each other, or there may be an intervening element between them through which the element may be "coupled," "linked," or "connected" to the other element. Furthermore, when a component is referred to as being "electrically coupled" to another component, the component may be directly connected to the other component, or there may be an intervening component between them such that the component and the other component are indirectly connected to each other.

[0066] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, when "A and / or B" is stated, it means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any or all combinations of the listed multiple items. Unless otherwise stated, when "C to D" is stated, it means C or more and D or less.

[0067] A battery pack according to one or more embodiments includes at least one battery module and a pack case having an accommodation space in which the at least one battery module is accommodated.

[0068] A battery module may include a plurality of battery cells and a module housing. The battery cells may be housed in a stacked form (or stacked arrangement or configuration) inside the module housing. Each battery cell may have a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal, and may be round, prismatic, or pouch-shaped depending on the shape of the battery. As used herein, a battery cell may also be referred to as a secondary battery, a battery, or a cell.

[0069] In a battery pack, a single cell stack may constitute a stacked module instead of a battery module. The single cell stack may be accommodated in an accommodation space of a pack housing, or may be accommodated in an accommodation space partitioned by a frame, a partition wall, or the like.

[0070] The battery cell may generate a large amount of heat during charging / discharging. The generated heat may accumulate in the battery cell, thereby accelerating the degradation of the battery cell. Accordingly, the battery pack may further include a cooling member to remove the generated heat, thereby suppressing the degradation of the battery cell. The cooling member may be provided at the bottom of the accommodation space in which the battery cell is provided, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cooling member may be provided at the top or side according to the battery pack.

[0071] The battery cell may be configured so that exhaust gas generated inside the battery cell under abnormal operating conditions (also known as thermal runaway or thermal events) is discharged to the outside of the battery cell. The battery pack or battery module may include an exhaust port for discharging exhaust gas to prevent or reduce damage to the battery pack or battery module caused by the exhaust gas.

[0072] The battery pack may include a battery and a battery management system (BMS) for managing the battery. The battery management system may include a detection device, a balancing device, and a control device. The battery module may include a plurality of cells connected in series and / or in parallel to each other. The battery modules may be connected in series and / or in parallel to each other.

[0073] The detection device can detect the state of the battery (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.) to output state information indicating the state of the battery. The detection device can detect the voltage of each cell of the battery or each battery module. The detection device can detect the current flowing through the battery module or each battery module of the battery pack. The detection device can also detect the temperature of the battery and / or module and / or the ambient temperature at at least one point of the battery.

[0074] The balancing device can perform balancing operations on the battery module and / or the monomers of the battery module. The control device can receive status information (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.) of the battery module from the detection device. The control device can monitor and calculate the status of the battery module (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, state of charge (SOC), life (state of health (SOH)), etc.) based on the status information received from the detection device. In addition, based on the monitored status information, the control device can perform control functions (e.g., temperature control, balancing control, charge / discharge control, etc.) and protection functions (e.g., over-discharge, over-charging, over-current protection, short circuit, fire extinguishing function, etc.). In addition, the control device can perform wired or wireless communication functions with external devices of the battery pack (e.g., higher-level controllers or vehicles, chargers, power conversion systems, etc.).

[0075] The control device can control the charging / discharging operation and the protection operation of the battery. The control device can include a charging / discharging control unit, a balancing control unit and / or a protection unit.

[0076] A battery management system is a system that monitors the battery status and performs diagnostic and control, communication, and protection functions, and can calculate the charge / discharge status, calculate the battery life or state of health (SOH), cut off battery power when necessary (e.g., relay control), control thermal management (e.g., cooling, heating, etc.), perform high-voltage interlock functions, and / or can detect and / or calculate insulation and short circuit conditions.

[0077] The relay may be a mechanical contactor that is switched on and off by the magnetic force of a coil or a semiconductor switch such as a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET).

[0078] The relay control has a function of cutting off the power supply to the battery if (or when) a problem occurs in the vehicle and the battery system, and may include one or more relays and a pre-charge relay at the positive terminal and the negative terminal, respectively.

[0079] In pre-charge control, when the battery load is connected, there is a risk of inrush current occurring in the high-voltage capacitor at the input side of the inverter. To prevent inrush current when starting the vehicle, the pre-charge relay may be operated before the main relay is connected, and a pre-charge resistor may be connected.

[0080] The high voltage interlock is a circuit that uses a small signal to detect whether all high voltage components of the entire vehicle system are connected, and may have the function of forcibly opening a relay if (or when) an opening occurs at at least one position on the entire circuit.

[0081] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a battery cell 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The battery cell 100 may include: at least one electrode assembly having a structure in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode are wound together with a separator which is an insulator interposed (located) between the positive electrode and the negative electrode; a shell 110 accommodating the electrode assembly; and a cover plate 120 connected to an opening of the shell 110 that is open at one end of the shell 110. Figure 1 The battery cell 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be a secondary battery type.

[0082] Each of the positive electrode and the negative electrode may include a current collector made of a thin metal foil having a coated portion on which an active material is coated and an uncoated portion on which the active material is not coated.

[0083] After inserting a separator as an insulator between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, the positive electrode and the negative electrode are wound. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly may have a structure in which positive electrodes and negative electrodes, each made of a plurality of sheets, are alternately stacked with a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0084] The case 110 may form the overall appearance of the battery cell 100 and may be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the case 110 may provide a space for accommodating an electrode assembly.

[0085] exist Figure 1 In the example, the case 110 is a prismatic case and the battery cell 100 is a prismatic battery cell. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 100 may be a battery cell formed in, for example, a prismatic, cylindrical, or pouch shape.

[0086] The cover plate 120 may be coupled to the opening of the housing 110 to seal and cover the opening of the housing 110. The housing 110 and the cover plate 120 may be made of a conductive material. In one embodiment, the housing 110 may have an opening on its top side (open top), and the cover plate 120 may seal and cover the opening on the top side of the housing 110.

[0087] Positive and negative electrode terminals 130_1 and 130_2 electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes, respectively, may be coupled to the cap plate 120. For example, the positive and negative electrode terminals 130_1 and 130_2 may pass through the cap plate 120 and protrude to the outside of the case 110.

[0088] In one embodiment, the exhaust unit 140 may be formed on at least one surface of the battery cell 100 (eg, the top surface of the battery cell 100, ie, Figure 1 The vent unit 140 may be configured to open in response to detecting an event that the internal pressure in the battery cell 100 is higher than a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0089] The threshold pressure may be set differently depending on the application, material, use, etc. of the battery. For example, for a battery subjected to a short charge-discharge cycle during use, a relatively high threshold pressure may be set so that the internal pressure of the housing 110 is maintained at a higher pressure on average compared to other applications. In other embodiments, a relatively high threshold pressure may be set for a battery manufactured with a material and / or design having relatively high heat resistance and / or pressure resistance. Conversely, a relatively low threshold pressure may be set for a battery manufactured with a material and / or design having relatively low heat resistance and / or pressure resistance. Additionally or alternatively, the exhaust unit 140 may be configured to open in response to an event in which the internal temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature. With this configuration, the exhaust unit 140 may prevent the explosion of the battery cell 100 and / or prevent cascading exothermic reactions of other battery cells arranged around the battery cell 100.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cap plate 120 may include an electrolyte inlet port 150. In one or more embodiments, the electrolyte inlet port 150 may be a through hole formed in the cap plate 120, through which an electrolyte solution is injected into the housing 110 after the cap plate 120 coupled to the opening of the housing 110 seals the opening of the housing 110. After the electrolyte is injected, the electrolyte inlet port 150 may be sealed with a sealing member.

[0091] The battery cell 100 may include a lithium battery cell, a sodium battery cell, and the like. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 100 includes any battery capable of repeatedly providing power through charging and discharging. In an embodiment in which the battery cell 100 is a lithium battery cell, the lithium battery cell can be used in an electric vehicle (EV) due to the relatively long life cycle and high rate performance of the lithium battery cell. In one or more embodiments, the lithium battery cell can be used in a hybrid vehicle such as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). In addition, the lithium battery cell can be used in applications requiring a large amount of power storage. In one or more embodiments, the lithium battery cell can be used in an electric bicycle, an electric tool, and the like.

[0092] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of the battery pack 10 .

[0093] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery pack 10 may include a plurality of cell stacks S, an outer shell frame 200 accommodating the cell stacks S, a cover frame 300 covering a top opening (an open top) of the outer shell frame 200, a horizontal frame 400 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S and the cover frame 300, and a bus bar support 500 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S and the horizontal frame 400 to support a plurality of bus bars.

[0094] Each of the plurality of cell stacks S may include a plurality of battery cells 100. In the cell stack S, the plurality of battery cells 100 may be arranged in one direction (e.g., along the Y-axis direction) such that their wide surfaces face each other. In one embodiment, each of the battery cells 100 may include an exhaust unit on its top surface. In one or more embodiments, Figure 1 The battery cells illustrated in FIG. 1 may be used as the battery cells 100, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and arrangement of the cell stack S and the battery cells 100 are not limited to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The configuration shown in , and can be appropriately modified as needed.

[0095] A plurality of cell stacks S may be accommodated in the housing frame 200. In one or more embodiments, the housing frame 200 may have an opening on its top side (open top) and include a receiving space for accommodating a plurality of cell stacks S. The housing frame 200 may be constructed of a rigid material to maintain the rigidity of the battery pack 10. In one or more embodiments, the housing frame 200 may be, but is not limited to, an aluminum extrusion, and the housing frame 200 may be constructed of any material suitable for maintaining the rigidity of the battery pack 10.

[0096] In one embodiment, the housing frame 200 may include a cross beam and a side beam. The cross beam is located between (located at) a direction ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The side beam is located on the opposite side of the plurality of single-unit stacks S. Figure 8 to Figure 12 Describe the details of this configuration.

[0097] The top opening of the housing frame 200 may be covered by the cover frame 300. In one embodiment, the cover frame 300 may include an outlet port that opens to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure. Figures 14A to 14C Describe the details of this configuration.

[0098] The horizontal frame 400 may be disposed (located) between the cell stack S and the cover frame 300. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 may be disposed (located) above the cell stack S and below the cover frame 300. Each horizontal frame 400 may provide additional rigidity to the battery pack 10 and have an exhaust path formed therein. In one or more embodiments, each horizontal frame 400 may include a portion formed to be concave downward and in one direction (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 3 In addition, the recess may have a concave portion that is elongated in one direction (for example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 A plurality of first through holes are arranged in the horizontal frame 400 (in the Y-axis direction as shown in the example). The first through holes formed in the horizontal frame 400 may be respectively located above the exhaust units of the battery cells 100. Accordingly, the exhaust substances discharged from the exhaust units of the battery cells 100 may pass through the first through holes of the horizontal frame 400. In addition, a first exhaust path extending in one direction is formed in a space surrounded by the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300, so that the exhaust substances that have passed through the first through holes may travel along the first exhaust path. Accordingly, the exhaust substances may be prevented from diffusing to adjacent cells. Referring to Figure 4A to Figure 5B Describe the details of this configuration.

[0099] A plurality of battery cells 100 may be electrically connected via a bus bar. A plurality of battery cells 100 may be electrically connected to each other in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel via a bus bar to obtain a desired electrical output. The bus bar may be electrically connected to a protection circuit module. In one or more embodiments, the protection circuit module may be a battery management system (BMS). The protection circuit module may include electronic components and a protection circuit.

[0100] In one embodiment, the battery pack 10 may further include a bus bar support 500 interposed (located) between the cell stack S and the horizontal frame 400 to support a plurality of bus bars. For example, the bus bar support 500 may be disposed at the top portion of the cell stack S and the bottom portion of the horizontal frame 400. In one embodiment, the bus bar support 500 may include a plurality of through holes formed to correspond to the plurality of first through holes of the horizontal frame 400. Figure 7 Describe the details of this configuration.

[0101] The battery pack 10 may be included in a vehicle. In one embodiment, the battery pack 10 may be installed in the vehicle so that the top surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100 and the top surface of the cover frame 300 are arranged to face downward. That is, the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 is arranged to face downward. In such an embodiment, at least some of the terms such as "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", etc. used in the specification may be changed to "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", etc. However, in the present specification, for ease of explanation, the direction toward the top surface of the battery cell 100 including the exhaust unit will be regarded as the "top side".

[0102] Figure 4A is a perspective view illustrating each horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view taken along line IVB-IVB', and Figure 4C yes Figure 4A An enlarged view of part B.

[0103] refer to Figure 4A to Figure 4C , the horizontal frame 400 may be in substantially one direction (eg, the arrangement direction of the battery cells, ie, Figure 4A to Figure 4C The horizontal frame 400 may have a structure that is formed to be concave downward and to be elongated in one direction (eg, the Y-axis direction in the example of FIG. 4 ). Figure 4A to Figure 4C The first exhaust path extending in one direction (eg, the Y-axis direction) may be formed in a space formed by the elongated recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 that is recessed downward.

[0104] According to one embodiment, in the battery pack 10, the top portion of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 may be covered by the cover frame. Accordingly, a first exhaust path extending in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame. Additionally or alternatively, an exhaust cover may be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame in the battery pack 10. In such an embodiment, the first exhaust path may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover. Reference will be made to Fig. 6A and Figure 6B Describe the details of this configuration.

[0105] The recess 410 may have a shape in one direction (eg, the arrangement direction of the battery cells, ie, Figure 4A to Figure 4C A plurality of first through holes 412 are arranged in the horizontal frame 400 (in the Y-axis direction in the example). Each of at least some of the first through holes 412 formed in the horizontal frame 400 may be located above at least one of the exhaust units of the battery cells. In addition, each of at least some of the first through holes 412 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of each of the exhaust units of the battery cells. In one or more embodiments, the exhaust units of the battery cells and at least some of the first through holes 412 may all have the same or similar shapes, such as an oblong shape (e.g., an elliptical shape or a rounded rectangular shape).

[0106] Under normal operating conditions, the bottom side of the first exhaust path formed in the space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame can be sealed by being closed by the exhaust unit of the battery cell. In addition, during a thermal event, exhaust substances (e.g., gas, flame, etc.) discharged when the exhaust unit of the battery cell is opened can pass through at least some of the first through holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400.

[0107] The horizontal frame 400 may have a protrusion 420 formed to protrude upward while extending in one direction (eg, the Y-axis direction). For example, the horizontal frame 400 may have a protrusion 420 protruding upward to surround the recess 410. The protrusion 420 may enhance the rigidity of the battery pack.

[0108] In the battery pack 10, a portion of the protrusion 420 of the horizontal frame 400 may contact the cover frame located above the protrusion 420 to seal the opposite lateral side of the first exhaust path. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the top surface of the protrusion 420 may contact the cover frame. Therefore, during a thermal event, the exhaust substances discharged by the exhaust unit of each battery cell can travel along the first exhaust path without spreading to the terminals of the battery cell, the bus bar, or the adjacent battery cells. In one embodiment, the protrusion 420 may have a groove 422 that is recessed downward from the top surface of the protrusion 420. The groove 422 can receive (accommodate) an adhesive for bonding the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame.

[0109] In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 may further include one or more ribs 414 formed to protrude upward between at least some of the first through holes 412. In one or more embodiments, each of the ribs 414 may be formed between two adjacent first through holes 412_1 and 412_2, and the ribs 414 may be elongated in the X-axis direction and protrude upward in the Z-axis direction. The ribs 414 supplement the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400, thereby preventing (or at least alleviating) deformation (e.g., bending) of the horizontal frame 400 caused by high temperature heat generated instantaneously (or almost instantaneously) during a thermal event. In addition, by providing the ribs 414, exhaust debris can be sequentially filtered out during a thermal event.

[0110] Because the horizontal frame 400 enhances the rigidity of the battery pack and forms a path through which the exhaust material is discharged, the horizontal frame 400 may be made of a rigid material sufficient to withstand high temperature and high pressure. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 may include a steel material or an aluminum material. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the material of the horizontal frame 400 may be appropriately modified according to design requirements. In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 may be coated with an insulating material for insulation.

[0111] At least one first through hole 416 of the first through holes 412 formed in the horizontal frame 400 may not be located above the corresponding exhaust unit of the battery cell, but instead, the at least one first through hole 416 may be located above the opening of the cross beam to communicate with the opening of the cross beam. In addition, the first coupling hole 418 may be formed on the opposite side of the first through hole 416 that communicates with the opening of the cross beam. By fitting the fastener into the first coupling hole 418, the horizontal frame 400 can be more securely fastened to the cross beam to prevent separation or bulging under high pressure. Fig.10 Describe the details of this configuration.

[0112] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration in which a horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied to a battery pack, and Figure 5Byes Figure 5A An enlarged view of portion C of FIG.

[0113] In one embodiment in which the battery pack 10 is installed in a vehicle, the top surface of the battery cell 100 (the surface having the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100) and the top surface of the cover frame 300 may be arranged facing downward. In such an embodiment, at least some of the terms such as "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", etc. used in the specification may be changed to "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", etc. Similarly, at least some of the terms such as "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", etc. used in the specification may be changed to "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", etc. However, in the following references Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the description of the present invention, for convenience of explanation, the direction toward the top surface of the battery cell 100 will be regarded as a “top side”.

[0114] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the horizontal frame 400 may be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the cover frame 300. In other words, the horizontal frame 400 may be placed at the top of the battery cell 100 and the bottom of the cover frame 300.

[0115] The battery cells 100 and the top portions of the recesses 410 of the horizontal frames 400 may be covered by the cover frame 300. Accordingly, in one direction (eg, Figure 5A and Figure 5B A first exhaust path extending in the Y-axis direction (in the Y-axis direction) of the horizontal frame 400 may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300. In addition, a portion of the protrusion 420 of the horizontal frame 400 may contact the cover frame 300 located above the protrusion 420 to seal the opposite lateral sides of the first exhaust path. As a result, during a thermal event, exhaust substances discharged through the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 may travel along the first exhaust path without diffusing to the terminals, bus bars, or adjacent cells of the battery cell 100.

[0116] In addition, the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400 can be supplemented by the upwardly protruding ribs 414 formed in the recessed portion 410 of the horizontal frame 400, thereby preventing (or at least alleviating) deformation (e.g., bending) of the horizontal frame 400 caused by high temperature heat generated instantaneously (or almost instantaneously) during a thermal event. In addition, by providing the upwardly protruding ribs 414, exhaust debris can be sequentially filtered out during a thermal event.

[0117] In addition, in embodiments where the height of the rib 414 is too high, exhaust debris may block the first exhaust path, thereby hindering the discharge of exhaust gas. Therefore, the height of the rib 414 may be appropriately designed to supplement the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400 and filter out exhaust debris without hindering the discharge of exhaust gas. In one or more embodiments, the height h of the rib 414 may be ≤ 100 mm. l The height h of the first exhaust path may be t about 10% or more but less than the height h of the first exhaust path t About 50%.

[0118] In addition, in embodiments where the cross-sectional area of ​​the first exhaust path is too narrow, the first exhaust path may be blocked by exhaust debris. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first exhaust path may be appropriately designed so that the exhaust path is not blocked by filtered exhaust debris. In one or more embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first exhaust path (e.g., the cross-sectional area obtained by cutting the first exhaust path in the XZ plane) may be about 50% or more of the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100.

[0119] The horizontal frame 400 may be made of a rigid material that can sufficiently withstand high temperature and high pressure to smoothly discharge high temperature exhaust gas and exhaust debris. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 may be made of a material having a thickness of at least about 1 mm. s or a steel material having a thickness t of at least about 2 mm (e.g., about 2 mm to about 3 mm) s However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the material of the horizontal frame 400 may be appropriately modified according to design requirements. In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 may be coated with an insulating material for insulation.

[0120] In one embodiment, the bus bar support 500 may be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. Figure 7 Describe the details of this configuration.

[0121] Fig. 6A is a perspective view illustrating an exhaust cover 600 interposed (located) between a horizontal frame 400 and a cover frame 300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 6B It is along Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view taken along line VIB-VIB'.

[0122] against Figure 4A to Figure 5B The description provided by the illustrated horizontal frame 400 may be equally and similarly applied to Fig. 6A and Figure 6B The horizontal frame 400 is shown. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B In the following description, the previous references will be omitted. Figure 4A to Figure 5B The details of the configuration described are not described, and the different configurations will be mainly described.

[0123] refer to Fig. 6A and Figure 6B , the exhaust cover 600 may be on top of the horizontal frame 400. That is, the exhaust cover 600 may be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300 in the battery pack 10. The exhaust cover 600 may have a substantially longitudinal direction (e.g., along the longitudinal direction of the horizontal frame 400, i.e., Fig. 6A and Figure 6B The exhaust cover 600 may cover the top portion of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400. Accordingly, the first exhaust path may be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600. For example, the exhaust cover 600 may contact a portion of the periphery of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400, thereby sealing the top surface and / or the opposite lateral side of the first exhaust path. In one embodiment, an insulator and a thermal insulation member 610 (e.g., MICA, etc.) may be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600.

[0124] The horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600 can be joined in various ways. In one or more embodiments, the exhaust cover 600 can be attached to a portion of the periphery of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 by adhesive, welding (e.g., laser welding, brazing, etc.), bolting, and / or other methods.

[0125] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a bus bar supporter 500 interposed (located) between a battery cell 100 and a horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] refer to Figure 7 , the bus bar support 500 may be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. The bus bar support 500 may have a plurality of second through holes 512 formed (e.g., positioned and sized) to correspond to the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 and the first through hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, the bus bar support 500 may have a plurality of second through holes 512 formed (e.g., positioned and sized) to correspond to the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 and the first through hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400. Figure 7The plurality of second through holes 512 are arranged in the Y-axis direction in the example of the battery cell 100. The second through holes 512 of the bus bar holder 500 may be respectively located above the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 (e.g., aligned with the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100), and the first through holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 may be respectively located above the second through holes 512 of the bus bar holder 500 (e.g., aligned with the second through holes 512 of the bus bar holder 500). In one embodiment, each of the second through holes 512 may have a shape similar to or the same as the shape of the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 and the shape of each of the first through holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400.

[0127] In one embodiment, the adhesive 710 may be interposed (located) between the bus bar holder 500 and the battery cell 100. In one or more embodiments, the peripheral portion of each of the second through holes 512 on the bottom surface of the bus bar holder 500 may be bonded to the top surface of the corresponding one of the battery cells 100 by the adhesive 710. In addition, the adhesive 720 may be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the bus bar holder 500. In one or more embodiments, the peripheral portion of each of the first through holes 412 on the bottom surface of the horizontal frame 400 may be bonded to the top surface of the bus bar holder 500 by the adhesive 720.

[0128] Accordingly, under normal operating conditions, the first through hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second through hole 512 of the bus bar holder 500 may be closed by the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100, thereby sealing the bottom side of the first exhaust path formed in the space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300. In addition, during a thermal event, exhaust substances (e.g., gas, flame, etc.) released when the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 is opened may pass through the first through hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second through hole 512 of the bus bar holder 500. In addition, the peripheral portion of each first through hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400 is tightly bonded to the bus bar holder 500 located below the horizontal frame 400, and the peripheral portion of each second through hole 512 of the bus bar holder 500 is tightly bonded to the top surface of the battery cell 100 located below the bus bar holder 500. Therefore, the portion of the bottom side of the first exhaust path other than the first through hole 412 and the second through hole 512 may be sealed. Accordingly, the discharged exhaust substances do not flow back, and the exhaust substances can be prevented from diffusing to adjacent cells.

[0129] In one embodiment, the bus bar holder 500 may not be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, an adhesive may be interposed (located) between the top surface of the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. Accordingly, the top surface of the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400 may be bonded (e.g., directly bonded) to seal the bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0130] In one embodiment, an insulating member 730 (eg, MICA, aerogel, etc.) may be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the bus bar holder 500 or between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400 for insulation.

[0131] Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating a housing frame 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] The case frame 200 may include a receiving space for accommodating the plurality of unit stacks S, and may have an opening at a top side (open top) thereof. The top opening of the case frame 200 may be covered by the cover frame 300 .

[0133] The housing frame 200 may be made of a rigid material to maintain the rigidity of the battery pack 10. For example, the housing frame 200 may be, but is not limited to, an aluminum extrusion. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the housing frame 200 may be made of any material suitable for maintaining the rigidity of the battery pack 10.

[0134] In one embodiment, the housing frame 200 may include a beam 210, the beam 210 being located between (or between) a plurality of beams in a direction (eg, Figure 8 The single cell stacks S are arranged in the Y-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1 and in another direction (for example, Figure 8 The crossbeam 210 may enhance the rigidity of the battery pack 10 while having a second exhaust path formed therein to communicate with the first exhaust path.

[0135] In addition, the housing frame 200 may include side beams 220 located at opposite sides of the plurality of unit stacks S (eg, the side beams 220 may be formed at opposite lateral sides of the housing frame 200) and extending substantially in one direction (eg, Figure 8 The side beam 220 may support opposite lateral sides of the plurality of unit stacks S while having a third exhaust path formed therein to communicate with the second exhaust path.

[0136] Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B are perspective views and side views respectively illustrating a beam 210 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 9C yes Fig. 9A An enlarged view of part E of FIG.

[0137] refer to Figures 9A to 9C , the beam 210 can be in one direction (e.g., Figures 9A to 9C The device may be elongated in the X-axis direction (in the example of FIG. 1 ) and may have a second exhaust path formed therein.

[0138] In one or more embodiments, Fig. 9B As shown, a cavity or opening may be formed inside the cross beam 210. In one or more embodiments, an elongated cavity extending from one end of the cross beam 210 to the other end may be formed inside the cross beam 210, and the elongated cavity may form a second exhaust path. In one embodiment, the cavity may be divided into a first cavity 212 and a second cavity 213 by the inner wall 211. In addition, one or more through holes may be formed in the inner wall 211, and the first cavity 212 and the second cavity 213 may be connected to each other through the through holes formed in the inner wall 211.

[0139] In one embodiment, the first cavity 212 and / or the second cavity 213 may form a second exhaust path.

[0140] In one embodiment, one or more openings 214 may be formed at the top surface of the cross beam 210. The openings 214 of the cross beam 210 may communicate with the second exhaust path. In one or more embodiments, the openings 214 of the cross beam 210 may communicate with the second cavity 213, and the second cavity 213 may communicate with the first cavity 212 through a through hole in the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210.

[0141] One opening 214 of the cross beam 210 may be in communication with one of the first through holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 located above the cross beam 210, thereby allowing the first exhaust path and the second exhaust path to be connected. In addition, a peripheral portion of the opening 214 at the top surface of the cross beam 210 may be coupled to the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, a groove 215 may be formed around the opening 214 at the top surface of the cross beam 210, and the groove 215 may receive an adhesive for coupling the cross beam 210 to the horizontal frame 400. Additionally or alternatively, a second coupling groove 216 may be formed on an opposite side of the opening 214 of the cross beam 210. By coupling the first coupling hole 418 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second coupling groove 216 of the cross beam 210 with a fastener, the horizontal frame 400 may be more securely fastened to the cross beam 210. Referring to Fig.10 Describe the details of this configuration.

[0142] The crossbeam 210 may be designed to be rigid so as not to be easily deformed due to high temperature and high pressure. In one or more embodiments, the crossbeam 210 may have a thickness t of about 2 mm or more. c .

[0143] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating a horizontal frame 400 coupled to a beam 210 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] In one embodiment, an adhesive is provided in a groove 215 formed to surround the opening 214 at the top surface of the crossbeam 210. Therefore, the bottom surface of the periphery of the first through hole 416 of the horizontal frame 400 and the top surface of the periphery of the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210 can be bonded by an adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, a first coupling hole 418 is formed on the opposite side of the first through hole 416 of the horizontal frame 400 that is communicated with the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210, and a second coupling groove 216 is formed on the opposite side of the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210. The first coupling hole 418 and the second coupling groove 216 are coupled with a fastener 1000. In one or more embodiments, the fastener 1000 may be a bolt (e.g., a bolt of at least M6). Accordingly, the horizontal frame 400 may be more securely fastened to the crossbeam 210 to prevent separation or bulging under high pressure.

[0145] Due to the coupling of the cross beam 210 to the horizontal frame 400, at least one of the first through holes of the horizontal frame 400 communicating with the first exhaust path may be aligned with the opening communicating with the second exhaust path at the top surface of the cross beam 210. Thus, the first exhaust path and the second exhaust path may be connected (e.g., communicate with each other), thereby allowing exhaust substances traveling through the first exhaust path to flow into the second exhaust path.

[0146] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B and Fig. 11C are perspective views, front views, and side views, respectively illustrating a side beam 220 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig.11D 2 is a partial perspective view illustrating the other side of the side member 220 .

[0147] refer to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D , the side beam 220 can be in one direction (e.g., FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D The outer surface of the housing 100 may be elongated in the Y-axis direction (in the example) and may have a third exhaust path formed therein.

[0148] In one or more embodiments, Fig. 11B As shown, a cavity or opening 222 may be formed inside the side beam 220. The cavity 222 extends from one end to the other end of the side beam 220. The cavity 222 may form a third exhaust path.

[0149] At least one surface (e.g., outer side surface) of the side beam 220 may include an outlet port 224 that communicates with the third exhaust path. The outlet port 224 may be opened to the outside in response to an event that a pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure is detected. Therefore, the exhaust material traveling through the third exhaust path may be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 224.

[0150] The third exhaust path may be in communication with the second exhaust path. In one or more embodiments, an opening 226 in communication with the third exhaust path may be formed at a coupling portion 228 of the side beam 220, and the side beam 220 is coupled to the cross beam 210 at the coupling portion 228. In one or more embodiments, an opening 226 in communication with the third exhaust path may be formed at a surface (e.g., an inner surface) of the side beam 220, and when the cross beam 210 is coupled to the side beam at the coupling portion 228 surrounding the opening 226, the second exhaust path (at least one of the cavities) and the third exhaust path may be in communication with each other through the opening 226. Fig.12 A specific embodiment of coupling the cross beam 210 and the side beam 220 will be described.

[0151] Fig.12 2 is a diagram illustrating the coupling of the cross beam 210 and the side beam 220 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, at the end portion of the cross beam 210, the inner wall 211 surrounding the first cavity 212 (the second exhaust path) may extend to protrude in the longitudinal direction of the cross beam 210. In addition, an opening 226 communicating with the third exhaust path may be formed at one surface (e.g., the inner side surface) of the side beam 220. In one or more embodiments, the protruding portion of the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210 may extend into (be accommodated in) the opening 226 in the side beam 220. When the protruding portion of the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210 is coupled to the coupling portion of the opening 226 surrounding the side beam 220 (e.g., by welding, specifically, by CMT welding or MIG / MAG welding), the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path may be communicated with each other through the opening 226. Accordingly, by making a turn of about 90° at the connection portion of the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path, the exhaust material traveling through the second exhaust path can travel to the third exhaust path.

[0152] Figures 13A to 13C are diagrams each illustrating a travel path of exhaust matter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 13A to 13C, in response to detecting that the pressure in a specific battery cell exceeds a threshold pressure, the exhaust unit can be opened and the exhaust substances inside the battery cell can be discharged through the exhaust unit. The discharged exhaust substances can travel to the first exhaust path P1 through the through-hole formed at the recess of the horizontal frame 400 located above the battery cell. Then, the exhaust substances can continue to travel along the first exhaust path P1 toward the cross beam 210. The exhaust substances that move to the cross beam 210 can continue to travel to the second exhaust path P2 inside the cross beam 210 through the opening of the cross beam 210. Then, the exhaust substances can continue to travel along the second exhaust path P2 toward the side beam 220. The exhaust substances that move to the side beam 220 can continue to travel to the third exhaust path P3 inside the side beam 220 through the opening of the side beam 220. The exhaust substances moving along the third exhaust path P3 can be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 224 of the side beam 220 that is opened to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure. Reference Fig. 13B , the outlet port 224 may include a first outlet port 224_1 and a second outlet port 224_2 .

[0153] Figures 14A to 14C are diagrams each illustrating a travel path of exhaust matter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 14A to 14C In response to detecting that the pressure in a specific battery cell exceeds a threshold pressure, the exhaust unit may be opened and exhaust substances inside the battery cell may be discharged through the exhaust unit. The discharged exhaust substances may travel to the first exhaust path Q1 through a through hole formed at a recess of the horizontal frame 400 located above the battery cell.

[0154] In one embodiment, the cover frame 300 may include an outlet port 310 that opens to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure. The outlet port 310 of the cover frame 300 may be in communication with the first exhaust path Q1. Exhaust materials traveling along the first exhaust path Q1 may be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 310 of the cover frame 300 that opens to the outside when the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure.

[0155] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments and drawings illustrating aspects of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains may make various modifications and variations within the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure and claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack comprising: a plurality of cell stacks, each of the plurality of cell stacks including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, each of the plurality of battery cells including a vent unit on a top surface thereof; a housing frame including an open top and accommodating the plurality of cell stacks; a cover frame covering the open top of the housing frame; as well as at least one horizontal frame between the plurality of unit stacks and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a recessed portion that is recessed downward and elongated in the first direction, and The recessed portion includes a plurality of first through holes arranged in the first direction. 2 . The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of first through holes are located above the exhaust unit. 3 . The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein a shape of each of the plurality of first through holes corresponds to a shape of each of the exhaust units. 4 . The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein a first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the recessed portion of each of the at least one horizontal frame. 5 . The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein a first exhaust path extending in the first direction is formed in a space surrounded by the recess of each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a protrusion protruding upward and extending in the first direction, wherein at least a portion of the top surface of the projection contacts the cover frame, and Wherein opposing lateral sides of the first exhaust path are sealed by the contact of the cover frame with the at least a portion of the top surface of the protrusion.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion of each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a groove recessed downward from the top surface of the protrusion, and The groove is for receiving an adhesive for bonding the at least one horizontal frame to the cover frame.

8. The battery pack according to claim 4, further comprising: an exhaust cover, which is elongated in the first direction and is located between each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame, wherein the first exhaust path is formed in a space surrounded by the recess of the at least one horizontal frame and the exhaust cover. 9 . The battery pack according to claim 4 , wherein the plurality of first through holes are closed by the exhaust unit to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path. 10 . The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame comprises one or more ribs protruding upward between adjacent first through holes among the plurality of first through holes.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: a bus bar support between the plurality of unit stacks and the at least one horizontal frame, the bus bar support being configured to support a plurality of bus bars, wherein the busbar support comprises a plurality of second through holes arranged in the first direction, wherein the plurality of second through holes are located above the exhaust unit, and The plurality of first through holes are located above the plurality of second through holes.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein the first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the recessed portion recessed downward, and The plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes are closed by the exhaust unit to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

13. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cell stacks are arranged in the first direction, wherein the housing frame includes a cross beam between the plurality of unit stacks and side beams located on opposite sides of the plurality of unit stacks, the cross beam including a second exhaust path, and The side beams each include a third exhaust path.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein the beam further comprises an opening at a top surface thereof, wherein at least one of the plurality of first through holes is located above the opening to communicate with the opening, and wherein the opening is connected to the second exhaust path.

15. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame further comprises a first coupling hole at an opposite side of each of the at least one of the plurality of first through holes communicating with the opening, wherein the cross beam further comprises a second coupling groove on an opposite side of the opening, and Wherein the at least one horizontal frame is fastened to the cross beam with a fastener extending through the first coupling hole and the second coupling slot.

16. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein the first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the recessed portion recessed downward, and The first exhaust path and the second exhaust path are connected to each other through the opening of the crossbeam.

17. The battery pack according to claim 16, wherein the opening communicating with the third exhaust path is at a coupling portion of each of the side beams at which the side beams are coupled to the cross beam, and wherein the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path communicate with each other through the opening in each of the side members. 18 . The battery pack of claim 13 , wherein at least one of the side beams includes an outlet port that communicates with the third exhaust path and is configured to open to the exterior in response to a pressure exceeding a threshold pressure. 19 . The battery pack according to claim 4 , wherein the cover frame comprises an outlet port communicating with the first exhaust path and configured to open to the outside in response to a pressure exceeding a threshold pressure.

20. A vehicle comprising the battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

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