Battery assembly and control method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure includes: a plurality of battery cells; an insertion member located between the plurality of battery cells; an inflow port formed on one side of the insertion member; and a cover member that covers the plurality of battery cells and the insertion member, the insertion member being capable of expanding when a fluid is injected into the insertion member through the inflow port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery assembly and a control method thereof. Specifically, it relates to a battery assembly and a control method thereof that delay or greatly reduce heat propagation. Background Art

[0002] A secondary battery stores electrical energy by converting it into chemical energy and can be reused through multiple charging and discharging cycles. To obtain the required power and performance, multiple secondary batteries can be combined to form a battery assembly for use.

[0003] However, due to the high energy density of secondary batteries, when thermal runaway occurs, the temperature rises rapidly and a fire can break out. When thermal runaway or a fire occurs in one secondary battery among multiple secondary batteries, the heat is also transferred to adjacent secondary batteries, leading to the problem of rapid spread of thermal runaway or fire. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to effectively contain thermal runaway or fire occurring during the operation of a battery cell in the initial stage.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is that an insertion member located between battery cells expands and can store a fluid, thereby maximizing the absorption of heat generated in the battery cells.

[0006] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to form a heat insulation layer on one side of the insertion member located between battery cells, thereby greatly reducing heat transfer between battery cells.

[0007] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is that the fluid supplied to the insertion member can be supplied based on the measurement results of a temperature sensor and a gas sensor, thereby preventing unnecessary expansion of the insertion member.

[0008] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is that the insertion member does not exert an impact on adjacent battery cells due to expansion.

[0009] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is that the insertion member melts under specific conditions, so that the fluid contacts adjacent battery cells and quickly provides containment.

[0010] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to improve the safety of a battery assembly including battery cells.

[0011] The battery assembly and its control method according to the present disclosure can be widely applied in green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, solar power generation using batteries, and wind power generation. In addition, the battery assembly and its control method according to the present disclosure can be applied in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc. for suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions to prevent climate change.

[0012] The battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a plurality of battery cells; an insertion member located between the plurality of battery cells; an inlet formed on one side of the insertion member; and a covering member covering the plurality of battery cells and the insertion member, wherein the insertion member expands when a fluid is injected into the interior of the insertion member through the inlet.

[0013] It may be that the insertion member includes: a receiving space which is a space for receiving the fluid inside; a first surface which forms one surface of the receiving space and contacts any one of the plurality of battery cells; and a second surface which forms the other surface of the receiving space opposite to the first surface and is spaced apart from another cell adjacent to the any one battery cell, and can contact the adjacent another battery cell when the insertion member expands.

[0014] It may be that the insertion member further includes: a heat insulation layer opposite to and in contact with the second surface.

[0015] It may be that when the fluid is injected through the inlet, the second surface moves toward the adjacent another battery cell, thereby causing the insertion member to expand.

[0016] It may be that it further includes: a pump for supplying the fluid to the insertion member; and a temperature sensor located inside the covering member for sensing the temperature of the plurality of battery cells.

[0017] It may be that based on whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is above a preset allowable temperature, the pump moves the fluid toward the insertion member.

[0018] It may be that it further includes: a valve located on a pipeline connecting the insertion member and the pump for opening and closing the pipeline; and a gas sensor located inside the covering member for sensing the gas inside the covering member.

[0019] It may be that, based on whether the gas sensor detects the gas inside the covering member, the valve is opened, so that the fluid is injected into the plurality of battery cells through the pipeline.

[0020] It may be that the fluid includes a coolant.

[0021] It may be that there are a plurality of the insertion members, and the number of the plurality of insertion members is less than or equal to the number of the plurality of battery cells.

[0022] It may be that the gas includes any one of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide or a combination thereof.

[0023] It may be that the accommodation space starts to melt above the allowable temperature, so that the fluid comes into contact with at least a part of the plurality of battery cells.

[0024] It may be that a temperature sensor is arranged in each of the plurality of battery cells, and there are a plurality of the temperature sensors. When the temperature measured by at least one of the plurality of temperature sensors is above the preset allowable temperature, the pump moves the fluid toward the insertion member.

[0025] It may be that a plurality of the valves are arranged between the pump and the plurality of insertion members, so as to selectively supply the fluid to the plurality of insertion members.

[0026] It may be that the inside of the covering member is divided into a plurality of spaces, and temperature sensors are arranged corresponding to the plurality of spaces. When the temperature measured by the temperature sensor arranged in one of the plurality of spaces is above the preset allowable temperature, the pump moves the fluid toward the insertion member.

[0027] It may be that the valves are arranged corresponding to the plurality of spaces, so as to independently supply the fluid to the plurality of spaces by opening and closing the valves.

[0028] It may be that the heat insulation layer is laminated on the second surface.

[0029] It may be a control method for a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is a control method for a battery assembly including battery cells, an insertion member disposed adjacent to the battery cells, an inlet formed on one side of the insertion member, and a covering member covering the plurality of battery cells and the insertion member, wherein the method includes: a step of sensing the temperature of the battery cells through a temperature sensor located inside the covering member; a step of causing the fluid to move toward the insertion member through a pump that supplies the fluid to the insertion member when the temperature sensed through the temperature sensor is above the allowable temperature; a step of sensing a gas through a gas sensor located inside the covering member; and a step of opening a valve located on a pipe connecting the insertion member and the pump to inject the fluid toward the battery cells when the gas sensor senses the gas.

[0030] It may further include: a step of re-measuring the temperature of the battery cells through the temperature sensor after a specified time when the temperature measured through the temperature sensor is lower than a preset allowable temperature.

[0031] It may further include: a step of re-measuring the temperature of the battery cells through the temperature sensor when the gas sensor does not sense the gas.

[0032] It may be that, after the step of opening the valve, it further includes: a step in which the fluid passes through the insertion member partially melted by the battery cells and contacts battery cells other than the battery cells.

[0033] It may be that, in the step of sensing a gas through a gas sensor located inside the covering member, the gas includes any one of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide or a combination thereof.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to initially and effectively contain thermal runaway or fire occurring during the operation of battery cells.

[0035] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion member located between the battery cells expands and can store fluid, thereby being able to absorb the heat generated in the battery cells to the maximum extent.

[0036] According to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, a heat insulation layer is formed on one side of the insertion member located between the battery cells, thereby being able to greatly reduce the heat transfer between the battery cells.

[0037] According to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid supplied to the insertion member can be supplied based on the measurement results of the temperature sensor and the gas sensor, thereby being able to prevent unnecessary expansion of the insertion member.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion member can avoid applying an impact to adjacent battery cells due to expansion.

[0039] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion member melts under specific conditions, enabling a fluid to contact adjacent battery cells and quickly providing containment.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the safety of a battery assembly including battery cells can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 FIG. is a view showing a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 2 FIG. is an exploded view showing a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 3 FIG. is a view showing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 4 FIG. is a view showing a battery cell and an insertion member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing heat flow in a battery cell and an insertion member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 6 FIG. is a view showing an insertion member adjacent to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 7 FIG. is a view showing expansion of an insertion member adjacent to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 8 FIG. is a cross-sectional view showing an insertion member adjacent to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 9 FIG. is a cross-sectional view showing expansion of an insertion member adjacent to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 10 FIG. is a view showing expansion of an insertion member between battery cells according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 11 FIG. is a view showing a battery assembly and a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 12 FIG. is a view showing a battery assembly and a fluid supply system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 13 It is a flowchart showing a control method of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Reference numerals: 10: Battery assembly, 100: Battery cell, 200: Covering member, 300: Inserting member, 310: Heat insulation layer, 320: Inlet, 400: Fluid tank, 410: Pump, 420: Valve, 510: Temperature sensor, 520: Gas sensor. Detailed Description of the Embodiment

[0055] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it is only an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described by the example.

[0056] The specific terms used in this specification are only for convenience of description and are not used to limit the embodiments of the example.

[0057] For example, expressions such as "same" and "identical" not only represent the strictly same state, but also represent a state in which there is a tolerance or a difference in the degree of obtaining the same function.

[0058] For example, expressions representing relative or absolute configurations such as "a certain direction", "along a certain direction", "parallel", "perpendicular", "centered on", "concentric", or "coaxial" not only represent such configurations in a strict sense, but also represent a state of relative displacement in a manner of having a tolerance or an angle or distance of obtaining the same function degree.

[0059] To illustrate the present disclosure, it is described based on a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system formed by the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis perpendicular to each other. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) represents both side directions in which each axis extends.

[0060] The X direction, Y direction, and Z direction mentioned below are for clearly understanding the present disclosure, and it should be clear that each direction can also be defined differently depending on what is used as a reference.

[0061] The expressions such as "first", "second", "third", etc. used before the components mentioned below are only for avoiding the mixing of the components to be referred to, and have nothing to do with the order, importance, or master-slave relationship between the components. For example, an invention including only the second component without the first component can also be realized.

[0062] When not clearly stated in the context, the singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions.

[0063] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 , the battery assembly 10 of the present disclosure includes a plurality of battery cells 100. The battery cells 100 described in this specification may include secondary batteries that can charge and discharge electrical energy and can be reused. As an example, it may refer to a lithium secondary battery or a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] The battery cell 100 may be divided into a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery according to its shape. Reference Figure 2 , in this specification, for convenience of description, a prismatic secondary battery is shown as an example, but is not limited thereto.

[0066] On the one hand, the battery assembly 10 described in this specification may include a battery module or a battery pack combined with one or more quantities to protect the battery cell 100 from external impacts, heat, vibrations, etc. and have high output and high capacity characteristics.

[0067] The battery cell 100 may include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode active material capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium ions. The negative electrode may include a negative electrode active material capable of intercalating or deintercalating lithium ions. The battery cell 100 may further include a separator to prevent electrical short circuit between the positive electrode and the negative electrode and generate ion flow. As another example, it may include an all-solid-state battery.

[0068] Ultimately, the battery cell 100 of the present disclosure includes an electrode assembly laminated in various ways, so as to be able to store and supply electrical energy.

[0069] Reference Figure 1 , the battery assembly 10 of the present disclosure includes a covering member 200 that houses a plurality of battery cells 100, so that the covering member 200 can house the battery cells 100 inside.

[0070] The covering member 200 is formed to abut at least one surface of the battery cell 100, so as to be able to isolate the battery cell 100 from the outside. The covering member 200 can prevent the battery cell 100 from being damaged by external impacts, heat, vibrations, or pressures.

[0071] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Reference Figure 2, the covering member 200 may include: a side covering member 210 that supports the sides of a plurality of battery cells 100; a top covering member 220 that covers the tops of the plurality of battery cells 100; and an end covering member 230 that is combined with the side covering member 210 to cover the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0073] The side covering member 210 may be combined with the top covering member 220 on the top, and with the end covering member 230 on the front and rear sides, thereby forming an internal area in which a plurality of battery cells 100 may be arranged.

[0074] The internal area is a space surrounded by the side covering member 210, the top covering member 220, and the end covering member 230. Since the covering member 200 does not cover all surfaces, it can include a form with one side open.

[0075] Reference Figure 2 , a plurality of battery cells 100 may be surrounded by the side covering member 210, the top covering member 220, and the end covering member 230 on the sides, top, front, and rear, but the bottom is not covered by the covering member 200.

[0076] The covering member 200 blocks or absorbs external impacts, heat, vibrations, or pressures that can be applied to the battery cells 100, thereby preventing damage to the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0077] Therefore, as long as a part of the plurality of battery cells 100 can resist external impacts, etc., the covering member 200 can be omitted, and thus a part of the plurality of battery cells 100 can be exposed.

[0078] In Figure 2 , the covering member 200 is omitted from below the plurality of battery cells 100, so that the bottom is exposed. However, in other embodiments, other parts of the covering member 200 may be omitted except for the bottom.

[0079] The covering member 200 may have differences in material, thickness, etc. according to the position configured relative to the plurality of battery cells 100, so that the physical and chemical properties are different.

[0080] The covering member 200 may omit a part or change the material, thickness, etc. according to the form and material of the plurality of battery cells 100 accommodated therein to make the physical and chemical properties different.

[0081] The covering member 200 may have different forms according to the types such as pouch type, square type, cylindrical type, etc. of the battery cells 100 accommodated therein. Additionally, even for the same type of battery cells 100, the covering member 200 may have different forms according to the physical and chemical properties of the battery cells 100.

[0082] Figure 2 As shown, a plurality of battery cells 100 are square-shaped, and the covering member 200 is omitted below the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0083] However, even if the plurality of battery cells 100 are formed in a square shape, all surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100 can be surrounded by the covering member 200 as long as the physical and chemical properties below are insufficient.

[0084] Not limited to what is shown in the figure, the covering member 200 can vary according to the characteristics of the plurality of battery cells 100 housed therein.

[0085] The top covering member 220 can include at least one connection port 221 that is open to allow insertion of a pipe. The connection port 221 penetrates the top covering member 220, thereby serving as a passage connecting the inside and outside of the covering member 200.

[0086] The connection port 221 serves as a passage connecting the inlet 320 formed on one side of the battery cell 100 and the pump 410, and the pipe connecting the inlet 320 and the pump 410 can penetrate the connection port 221.

[0087] The connection port 221 can have more than one according to the position of the branch point where the pipe traveling from the pump 410 to the inlet 320 direction is divided into multiple branches.

[0088] When one connection port 221 is formed in the top covering member 220, a branch point of the pipe is arranged inside the covering member 200, so that the multiple branched pipes can guide the fluid supplied from the pump 410 to the inlet 320.

[0089] The battery assembly 10 of the present disclosure can include a bus bar assembly (not shown). The bus bar assembly can electrically connect at least a part of the plurality of battery cells 100 and can be located outside the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0090] The bus bar assembly can be arranged adjacent to the electrodes of the battery cells 100, so that Figure 2 it is arranged above the plurality of battery cells 100. However, as long as the bus bar assembly can be connected to the electrodes of the battery cells 100, its position relative to the plurality of battery cells 100 is not limited.

[0091] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing a battery cell 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Refer to Figure 3 , and in addition, a plurality of battery cells 100 arranged inside the battery assembly 10 are shown, and the plurality of battery cells 100 can be stacked along a preset stacking direction.

[0093] A plurality of battery cells 100 are arranged or stacked at a prescribed interval so that the battery cells 100 can be disposed spaced apart from each other. An insertion member 300 is located between the battery cells 100 or between the battery cells 100 and the covering member 200 so that it can be configured to contact the battery cells 100 on one side thereof.

[0094] The insertion member 300 may form an inlet 320 on one side so that a fluid can be externally accommodated, and may include a receiving space for accommodating a fluid therein, a first surface 301 of one surface forming the receiving space and the outer surface of the insertion member 300, and a second surface 302 of the other surface forming the receiving space and the outer surface of the insertion member 300. Figure 4 Or Figure 8 The first surface 301 and the second surface 302 are specifically marked out.

[0095] A receiving space (not shown) is formed inside the insertion member 300 so that a fluid flowing in through the inlet 320 formed on one side of the insertion member 300 can be accommodated. The receiving space is a space located between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302, and the volume or shape may be different according to the distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302.

[0096] The receiving space is a space formed inside the insertion member 300 and is connected to the inlet 320 so that a fluid supplied through the inlet 320 can be stored, and may be an internal area formed on the outer surface of the insertion member 300.

[0097] Therefore, when a fluid is supplied from the outside of the battery assembly 10 to the insertion member 300 through a pipe and a pump 410 and the fluid flows into the receiving space through the inlet 320 of the insertion member 300, the volume of the receiving space may be different, and the following may be described as expansion occurring.

[0098] The receiving space may also have a prescribed volume before the fluid flows in and may be set to a vacuum state or a state containing air. When a fluid flows into the receiving space, the receiving space may expand due to the volume of the fluid, and the heat capacity of the insertion member 300 including the receiving space may be different according to the type of the fluid flowing into the receiving space and the volume or mass of the flowing-in fluid.

[0099] The first surface 301 is a surface that contacts any one of the plurality of battery cells 100 on one surface of the receiving space, and the second surface 302 may be a surface that is opposite to the first surface 301 on the other surface of the receiving space and can contact a battery cell 100 adjacent to any one of the battery cells 100.

[0100] In the insertion member 300, the first surface is the surface that contacts the battery cell 100, and the second surface can be set to be contactable with a battery cell 100 adjacent to the battery cell 100 that contacts the first surface 301, so as to be in a state separated from the battery cell 100.

[0101] The first surface 301 and the second surface can be disposed separately with an accommodation space therebetween, so that the distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface corresponds to the width of the accommodation space.

[0102] The insertion member 300 can include a heat insulation layer 310 that faces and contacts the second surface 302, so that the first surface 301 can contact the battery cell 100 and the second surface 302 can contact the heat insulation layer 310.

[0103] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a battery cell and an insertion member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Figure 4 It is a process in which the battery cell 100 and the insertion member 300 are in contact or combined. In a state where the first surface 301 of the insertion member 300 is disposed opposite to the battery cell 100, the distance to the battery cell 100 becomes closer and they can contact.

[0105] The first surface 301 of the insertion member 300 only needs to contact the battery cell 100, and it is not limited to the position of the first surface 301 being fixed to the battery cell 100 by an adhesive or the like.

[0106] The insertion member 300 is formed with a thin thickness so as to be expandable and is formed of a metal. Thus, as an embodiment, it can include a foil. The outer surface of the insertion member 300 is formed of a metal, so that it can absorb and store heat generated in the battery cell 100 or easily discharge the heat generated in the battery cell 100, thereby being able to reduce the temperature of the battery cell 100 that contacts the first surface 301.

[0107] The insertion member 300 can absorb the heat of the battery cell 100 and contribute to the storage or discharge of the absorbed heat. Therefore, the material used in the insertion member 300 is not limited to metal and can include heat-transferring substances other than metal.

[0108] Figure 5 It is a diagram schematically showing the heat flow in a battery cell and an insertion member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Reference Figure 5 , the insertion member 300 can absorb the heat generated in the battery cell 100 in a state of contacting the battery cell 100. The battery cell 100 generates heat under normal operating conditions. When the battery cell 100 undergoes thermal runaway, the temperature rises sharply within a short time, and thus a fire can occur.

[0110] The insertion member 300 absorbs the heat generated in the battery cell 100 through the first surface 301 in contact with the battery cell 100, thereby being able to reduce the temperature of the battery cell 100. Moreover, a heat insulation layer 310 is provided on the second surface 302, thereby being able to greatly reduce the heat absorbed from being transferred to the adjacent battery cell 100.

[0111] The heat generated in the battery cell 100 moves to the insertion member 300 set at a relatively low temperature, so that the insertion member 300 absorbs the heat, and the heat absorbed by the insertion member 300 can be discharged to both end portions along the insertion member 300.

[0112] Both end portions of the insertion member 300 can be set in a cylindrical shape protruding from the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 to both sides, thereby forming a relatively wide surface area. An inflow port 320 is provided in a part of both end portions of the insertion member 300, thereby being able to function as a passage for fluid flow.

[0113] When thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 100 and excessive heat is generated, under specific conditions, the fluid can flow into the accommodation space through the inflow port 320, and the insertion member 300 can expand due to the inflowing fluid.

[0114] The first surface 301 of the insertion member 300 functions as a heat absorption surface for absorbing heat in the battery cell 100, and a heat insulation layer 310 is provided on the second surface 302 with an area corresponding to the second surface 302, thereby functioning as a heat prevention layer for preventing heat transfer to the adjacent battery cell 100, and being able to simultaneously function as heat absorption and heat prevention.

[0115] The fluid includes a cooling material, thereby being able to increase the heat capacity of the insertion member 300, being able to help the battery cell 100 maintain an appropriate temperature, and being able to be supplied to the insertion member 300 when specific conditions are met, which will be described later.

[0116] Figure 6 It is a view showing an insertion member adjacent to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 As a state before the fluid flows into the insertion member 300, it is a state before storing the fluid in the accommodation space which is a space formed between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302.

[0117] The heat insulation layer 310 is disposed adjacent to the second surface 302, thereby being able to distinguish the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 from the appearance. The transfer of the heat absorbed on the first surface 301 in the direction of the second surface 302 provided with the heat insulation layer 310 is greatly reduced, so that it can be transferred to one side provided with the inflow port 320 or the other side which is the opposite direction thereof.

[0118] The heat transferred by the insertion member 300 to one side can be cooled or the temperature can be reduced by the fluid flowing into the inlet 320.

[0119] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the expansion of the insertion member adjacent to the battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Figure 7 As a state where fluid flows into the insertion member 300, it is a state where the insertion member 300 expands by storing fluid in the accommodation space which is the space formed between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302.

[0121] In Figure 7 the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 of the insertion member 300 are arranged apart from each other, so that the insertion member 300 can also have a predetermined volume before the fluid flows in. However, in other embodiments, the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 are configured to abut or contact each other, so that the volume of the insertion member 300 can be greatly reduced.

[0122] The outside of the insertion member 300 is provided with a thin thickness, so that the volume of the insertion member 300 can expand by the fluid flowing into the inside. As Figure 9 shown, the distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 in the insertion member 300 gradually increases, so that the fluid can be accommodated.

[0123] The first surface 301 of the insertion member 300 contacts the battery cell 100, and the second surface 302 is arranged opposite to the first surface 301, so that the first surface 301 can be fixed in position relative to the battery cell 100, and the second surface 302 can be movable relative to the battery cell 100 contacted by the first surface 301.

[0124] The fluid injected into the insertion member 300 through the inlet 320 causes the second surface 302 to move away from the battery cell 100 in contact with the first surface 301, so that the second surface 302 moves toward the battery cell 100 adjacent to the battery cell 100 in contact with the first surface 301, thereby enabling the insertion member 300 to expand.

[0125] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the insertion member adjacent to the battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Figure 8 As a state before the fluid flows into the insertion member 300, it is a state before storing fluid in the accommodation space which is the space formed between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302.

[0127] In Figure 8The first surface 301 and the second surface 302 are shown to be flat and thus arranged opposite to each other. However, in other embodiments, the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 may be formed into curved surfaces or uneven such as embossed patterns.

[0128] The heat insulation layer 310 may be laminated on the second surface 302. The area of the heat insulation layer 310 may correspond to the area of the second surface 302, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view showing the expansion of the insertion member adjacent to the battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] Figure 9 As a state where fluid flows into the insertion member 300, it is a state where the insertion member 300 expands by storing fluid in the accommodation space which is the space formed between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302.

[0131] The fluid can flow into the interior of the insertion member 300 through the inlet 320 and can be stored in the accommodation space. When fluid is injected into the accommodation space through the inlet 320, the distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302 becomes farther. At this time, since the first surface 301 is arranged adjacent to the battery cell 100 and its movement is restricted, the second surface 302 can move away from the first surface 301.

[0132] The battery cells 100 can be laminated in a preset lamination direction. At this time, it can be that the first surface 301 is in contact with one battery cell 100, and the second surface 302 is opposite to another battery cell 100 adjacent to one battery cell 100.

[0133] When fluid is injected through the inlet 320, the fluid causes the second surface 302 to move toward another battery cell 100 adjacent to one battery cell 100, thereby enabling the insertion member 300 to expand.

[0134] Figure 10 It is a view showing the expansion of the insertion member between the battery cells according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] Figure 10 As an embodiment of arranging the insertion member 300 with respect to a plurality of battery cells 100 laminated in a preset lamination direction, the insertion member 300 is arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0136] Each battery cell 100 is in contact with each insertion member 300 respectively. Thus, when specific conditions are met in each battery cell 100, the insertion member 300 is supplied with fluid and can expand between the battery cells 100.

[0137] This is an embodiment. In other embodiments, the insertion member 300 can also be set to a number that does not correspond to the number of the plurality of battery cells 100. Even if there are a plurality of insertion members corresponding to the number of the plurality of battery cells 100, they can be configured not to correspond one-to-one with the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0138] In the insertion member 300, the first surface 301 contacts the battery cell 100, and the second surface 302 is provided with a heat insulation layer 310, so as to prevent the heat generated in one battery cell 100 from being transferred to the adjacent battery cell 100 and play a role of a heat prevention structure. When a fluid is injected into the insertion member 300, the heat capacity of the insertion member 300 increases, so as to further play a role in regulating the temperature of the battery cell 100.

[0139] As yet another other embodiment, when the insertion member 300 receives a lot of heat from the battery cell 100, a part of it starts to melt, so that the accommodation space can be exposed.

[0140] This can be a state in which the battery cell 100 satisfies the allowable temperature and gas sensing as specific conditions, so that the fluid is supplied to the accommodation space of the insertion member 300. As the accommodation space melts, the fluid is discharged or moves inside the insertion member 300 to the adjacent battery cell 100, so that at least a part of the plurality of battery cells 100 and the fluid can come into contact.

[0141] Figure 11 FIG. is a diagram showing a battery assembly 10 and a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] Figure 11 FIG. is a diagram for explaining the process and system of supplying a fluid to the insertion member 300 among the plurality of battery cells 100 and the insertion member 300 provided inside the covering member 200.

[0143] It can be that a fluid tank 400 for storing the fluid, a pump 410, and a pipeline are provided outside the covering member 200, and a temperature sensor 510 and a gas sensor 520 adjacent to the battery cell 100 are provided inside the covering member 200.

[0144] The fluid tank 400 can be set at a position separated from the battery assembly 10 and used as a storage tank for storing a specified amount of fluid. A supply pump (not shown) for supplying fluid to the pump 410 on the pipeline can be provided inside the fluid tank 40, and the pipeline extending from the fluid tank 400 can be connected to the insertion member 300.

[0145] A pipe connects the fluid inlet 320 of the pipe connection insertion member 300 and the fluid tank 400, so that the fluid stored in the fluid tank 400 can be supplied to the insertion member 300, serving as a passage. The pipe can be connected to the fluid tank 400 at one end and to the fluid inlet 320 of each insertion member 300 at the other end. The other end branches at a branch point serving as a fulcrum and is connected to the fluid inlet 320 of each insertion member 300.

[0146] The battery assembly 10 according to the present disclosure may include: a pump 410 that supplies fluid to the insertion member 300; and a valve 420 that is located on the pipe connecting the insertion member 300 and the pump 410 to open and close the pipe.

[0147] The battery assembly 10 not only includes a battery module or a battery pack, but may further include a device connected to the battery assembly.

[0148] A pump 410 or a corresponding motor as a structure for supplying fluid to the insertion member 300 may be separately provided, so that it can be included in the battery assembly 10.

[0149] The pump 410 or the motor may be arranged outside the covering member 200 that covers a plurality of battery cells 100 and the insertion member 300, and may be included in the battery assembly 10 together with the covering member 200.

[0150] Alternatively, the pump 410 or the motor may also be provided in a vehicle on which the battery assembly 10 is installed or a fluid supply system connected to the battery assembly 10.

[0151] The vehicle on which the battery assembly 10 is installed or the fluid supply system connected to the battery assembly 10 may also have a pump 410 or a motor, etc.

[0152] Therefore, the structure of the pump 410 or the motor, etc. may be a structure attached to the battery assembly, or a structure provided in the vehicle or the fluid supply system.

[0153] The pump 410 serves to supply fluid to the insertion member 300 and may be provided between the fuel tank and the insertion member 300 on a pipe extending from the fuel tank. A plurality of pumps 410 are arranged according to the configuration relationship between the pump 410 and the branch point, so that the position of the insertion member 300 to which the fluid is supplied can be different according to the operation of the pump 410.

[0154] The valve 420 can be located on the pipe connecting the insertion member 300 and the pump 410 to open and close the pipe. The valve 420 is provided inside or outside the covering member 200 without being limited to a position. A plurality of valves 420 can be arranged according to the configuration relationship between the pipe and the branch point, so that a single valve 420 corresponds to one insertion member 300 or a single valve 420 corresponds to a plurality of insertion members 300.

[0155] The temperature sensor 510 may be located inside the covering member 200 to measure the temperatures of a plurality of battery cells 100, and can supply the measured temperatures of the battery cells 100 to the pump 410 or transmit them to a control unit (not shown).

[0156] Measuring the temperature of the battery cell 100 by the temperature sensor 510 includes the temperature sensor 510 sensing the ambient temperature.

[0157] The gas sensor 520 is located inside the covering member 200, can sense the gas inside the covering member 200, and can supply whether gas is detected to the valve 420 or transmit it to the control unit.

[0158] In the present disclosure, when a control unit is included, the measured temperature of the battery cell 100 and whether gas is detected can be integrated to control the pump 410 and the valve 420.

[0159] However, the pump 410 can be operated based on whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above a preset allowable temperature, and the valve 420 can be opened or closed based on whether gas inside the covering member 200 is detected by the gas sensor 520. Therefore, the control unit can be omitted in the present disclosure.

[0160] When specific conditions are met, fluid can be supplied to the insertion member 300. The specific conditions can reflect the measured values of the temperature sensor 510 and the gas sensor 520, as described below.

[0161] The temperature sensor 510 can measure the temperatures of a plurality of battery cells 100 at regular time intervals regardless of whether the battery is operating.

[0162] Based on whether the temperature of the battery cell 100 measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above a preset allowable temperature, when the measured temperature of the battery cell 100 is above the allowable temperature, the pump 410 starts to operate, and when the measured temperature of the battery cell 100 is below the allowable temperature, the pump 410 does not operate. The temperature of the battery cell 100 can be repeatedly measured.

[0163] When the temperature of the battery cell 100 measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above the allowable temperature, the fluid can be moved toward the insertion member 300 by the pump 410.

[0164] The temperature of the battery cell 100 being above the allowable temperature means that the battery cell 100 is in a state where a lot of heat is generated. The pump 410 can start to operate to be able to supply fluid immediately when necessary, but the valve 420 is closed and the fluid cannot be supplied to the insertion member 300 in time.

[0165] When the temperature of the battery cell 100 measured by the temperature sensor 510 is equal to or higher than the allowable temperature, the gas sensor 520 can start sensing the gas inside the covering member 200 or determine whether the gas is sensed.

[0166] Based on whether the gas sensor 520 detects the gas inside the covering member 200, the valve 420 can be opened or closed. When the gas is detected, the valve 420 is opened, so that the fluid can be injected into the plurality of battery cells 100 through the pipeline.

[0167] When the gas sensor 520 senses the gas inside the covering member 200, the valve 420 is opened. When the gas inside the covering member 200 is not sensed, the valve 420 remains closed and the fluid is not supplied to the insertion member 300.

[0168] Only when the temperature of the battery cell 100 measured by the temperature sensor 510 is equal to or higher than the allowable temperature and the gas sensor 520 senses the gas inside the covering member 200, the fluid can be supplied through the inlet 320 of the insertion member 300.

[0169] When the gas sensor 520 does not sense the gas inside the covering member 200, the valve 420 can remain closed, and the temperature of the battery cell 100 is repeatedly measured by the temperature sensor 510.

[0170] The allowable temperature for sensing the thermal runaway of the battery cell 100 can be approximately 120 °C (degrees Celsius). The gas sensed by the gas sensor 520 can include any one or a combination of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide, but is not limited thereto.

[0171] Reference Figure 11 , the temperature sensors 510 can be respectively disposed on the plurality of battery cells 100 to separately measure the temperature of each battery cell 100.

[0172] Figure 12 FIG. is a diagram showing a battery assembly and a fluid supply system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] Reference Figure 12 , the temperature sensors 510 are respectively disposed on the plurality of battery cells 100. However, the present disclosure does not limit the number of temperature sensors 510 disposed inside the covering member 200.

[0174] As Figure 12 shown, when the temperature sensors 510 are respectively disposed on the plurality of battery cells 100, when at least one of the temperatures measured by the plurality of temperature sensors 510 is equal to or higher than the preset allowable temperature, the pump 410 can operate to supply the fluid.

[0175] As shown Figure 11 in FIG. 405, the valve 420 provided on the pipeline is provided between the insertion member 300 and the branch point, so as to selectively supply fluid to the battery cell 100 whose temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above the preset allowable temperature.

[0176] As shown Figure 12 in FIG. 408, the valve 420 provided on the pipeline is provided between the branch point and the pump 410, so that when the temperature measured by at least one temperature sensor 510 is above the preset allowable temperature, fluid can be supplied to all the insertion members 300 arranged inside the covering member 200.

[0177] As other embodiments of the present disclosure, the interior of the covering member 200 is divided into a plurality of spaces by virtual planes, and the temperature sensors 510 and the gas sensors 520 are arranged corresponding to the plurality of spaces, so that it is possible to make the supply of fluid to each space different.

[0178] The number of battery cells 100 included in each space may be different from each other, and it also includes the case where a single battery cell 100 and an insertion member 300 are provided in one space.

[0179] In addition, the valve 420 is arranged corresponding to the plurality of spaces, so that fluid can be supplied in units of the plurality of spaces by opening and closing the valve 420. Thus, when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 on one of the spaces arranged in the plurality of spaces is above the preset allowable temperature, the pump 410 operates, so that fluid can be supplied to the insertion member 300.

[0180] Figure 13 FIG. 417 is a flowchart showing a control method of the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0181] Figure 13 A control method of a battery module 10 is involved, wherein the battery module 10 includes a plurality of battery cells 100 stacked along a preset stacking direction, an insertion member 300 located between the plurality of battery cells 100, an inlet 320 formed on one side of the insertion member 300, and a covering member 200 covering the plurality of battery cells 100 and the insertion member 300.

[0182] The control method of the battery module 10 is started in the start step, and the start step can be performed regardless of whether the battery module 10 is operating.

[0183] After the start step, step S100 of sensing the temperature of the plurality of battery cells 100 by the temperature sensor 510 located inside the covering member 200 is performed, and step S310 of determining whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above the preset allowable temperature can be performed.

[0184] When the measured temperature is above the allowable temperature, step S350 is performed in which fluid is moved toward the insertion member 300 by the pump 410 that supplies fluid to the insertion member 300. Thus, the pump 410 operates to supply fluid, but fluid cannot be supplied to the insertion member 300 with the valve 420 between the pump 410 and the insertion member 300 closed.

[0185] Then, step S510 is performed in which gas is sensed by the gas sensor 520 located inside the covering member 200, so that it is possible to sense whether gas leaks from the battery cell 100 inside the covering member 200.

[0186] When the gas sensor 520 senses gas, step S550 is performed in which the valve 420 located on the pipe connecting the insertion member 300 and the pump 410 is opened and fluid is sprayed toward the battery cell 100, so that fluid can be supplied to the insertion member 300 through the pipe and the valve 420, thereby ending the last step.

[0187] By measuring the temperature with the temperature sensor 510 and sensing gas with the gas sensor 520, the state in which thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 100 is determined, and the insertion member 300 is supplied with fluid to absorb the temperature of the battery cell 100 in thermal runaway, so that thermal runaway can be delayed or a fire can be prevented.

[0188] When the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 is lower than the allowable temperature, after a specified time has elapsed, the step of re-measuring the temperatures of the plurality of battery cells 100 with the temperature sensor 510 is repeated. When the gas sensor 520 does not sense gas, the step of re-measuring the temperatures of the plurality of battery cells 100 with the temperature sensor 510 can be repeated.

[0189] Only when the battery cell 100 exceeds 120 °C (degrees Celsius) as the allowable temperature and gas of any one or a combination of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide is sensed inside the covering member 200, can the insertion member 300 be supplied with fluid through the operation of the pump 410 and the opening of the valve 420, thereby expanding.

[0190] Furthermore, after step S550 of opening the valve 420, it may include: a step in which fluid passes through the insertion member 300 partially melted by the battery cell 100 and contacts at least a part of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0191] A part of the insertion member 300 is melted by the heat of the battery cell 100, so that the fluid temporarily stored inside is discharged or moved toward the battery cell 100, and thus the temperature of the battery cell 100 can be reduced by direct contact.

[0192] The control method of the battery assembly 10 can be roughly divided into a start step, an S100 step of measuring the temperature of the battery cell 100, an S300 step based on the measured temperature of the battery cell 100, and an S500 step based on whether a gas is sensed.

[0193] The S300 step based on the measured temperature of the battery cell 100 may include: an S310 step of determining whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 510 is above a preset allowable temperature; and an S350 step of moving the fluid toward the insertion member 300 by the pump 410 that supplies the fluid to the insertion member 300 when the measured temperature is above the allowable temperature.

[0194] The S500 step based on whether a gas is sensed may include: an S510 step of later sensing the gas by the gas sensor 520 located inside the covering member 200; and an S550 step of opening the valve 420 located on the pipe connecting the insertion member 300 and the pump 410 and spraying the fluid toward the battery cell 100 when the gas sensor 520 senses the gas.

[0195] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. As another embodiment, it may include combinations of the embodiments or combinations of at least one of the embodiments and known techniques.

[0196] The above has detailed the present disclosure through specific embodiments. However, it is for specifically illustrating the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it should be clear that those of ordinary skill in the art can make deformations or improvements within the technical concept of the present disclosure.

[0197] Simple deformations or changes of the present disclosure all fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific protection scope of the present disclosure can be clarified by the scope of the appended patent claims.

Claims

1. A battery assembly comprising: Multiple battery cells; an insertion member located between the plurality of battery cells; an inlet port formed on one side of the insert member; as well as a covering member that covers the plurality of battery cells and the insertion member, The insertion member expands when a fluid is injected into the interior of the insertion member through the inlet.

2. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The insert component comprises: a containing space, which is a space for containing the fluid inside; a first surface forming one side of the accommodation space and contacting any one of the plurality of battery cells; and The second surface forms another surface of the accommodation space opposite to the first surface and is spaced apart from another battery cell adjacent to any one of the battery cells, and can contact the other adjacent battery cell when the insertion member expands.

3. The battery assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The insert component also includes: The heat insulating layer is opposite to the second surface and in contact with the second surface.

4. The battery assembly according to claim 3, wherein: When the fluid is injected through the inlet, the second surface moves toward the other adjacent battery cell, thereby causing the insertion member to expand.

5. The battery assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The battery assembly also includes: a pump that supplies the fluid to the insert; and a temperature sensor, located inside the cover member, for sensing the temperature of the plurality of battery cells; The pump moves the fluid toward the insertion member based on whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a preset allowable temperature.

6. The battery assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The battery assembly also includes: a valve located on a pipe connecting the insert and the pump, opening and closing the pipe; and a gas sensor located inside the cover member and sensing the gas inside the cover member, Based on whether the gas inside the cover member is detected by the gas sensor, the valve is opened to spray the fluid toward the plurality of battery cells through the pipe.

7. The battery assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The fluid includes a coolant.

8. The battery assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The insert component has a plurality of The number of the plurality of insertion members is less than or equal to the number of the plurality of battery cells.

9. The battery assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The gas includes any one of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide or a combination thereof.

10. The battery assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The accommodation space starts to melt above the allowable temperature, so that the fluid contacts at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells.

11. The battery assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The temperature sensor is disposed on each of the plurality of battery cells, and a plurality of the temperature sensors are provided. The pump moves the fluid toward the insertion member when the temperature measured by at least one of the plurality of temperature sensors is equal to or higher than the preset allowable temperature.

12. The battery assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The valves are provided in plurality between the pump and the plurality of insert components so as to selectively supply the fluid to the plurality of insert components.

13. The battery assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The interior of the cover member is divided into a plurality of spaces, and temperature sensors are arranged to correspond to the plurality of spaces. Thus, when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor disposed in one of the plurality of spaces is equal to or higher than the preset allowable temperature, the fluid is moved toward the insertion member by the pump.

14. The battery assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The valve is configured to correspond to the plurality of spaces, Thus, by opening and closing the valve, the fluid is independently supplied to the plurality of spaces.

15. The battery assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The heat insulating layer is laminated on the second surface.

16. A method for controlling a battery assembly, comprising a battery cell, an insertion member disposed adjacent to the battery cell, an inlet formed on one side of the insertion member, and a covering member covering the battery cell and the insertion member, wherein: The method comprises: a step of sensing the temperature of the battery cell by a temperature sensor located inside the cover member; When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than the allowable temperature, a step of moving the fluid toward the insertion member by a pump that supplies the fluid to the insertion member; A step of sensing gas by a gas sensor located inside the cover member; and When the gas sensor senses the gas, a valve located on a pipe connecting the insert component and the pump is opened to spray the fluid toward the battery cell.

17. The control method of the battery assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The method further comprises: When the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is lower than a preset allowable temperature, after a specified time, the temperature of the battery cell is re-measured by the temperature sensor.

18. The control method of the battery assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The method further comprises: When the gas sensor does not sense the gas, the temperature of the battery cell is re-measured by the temperature sensor.

19. The control method of the battery assembly according to claim 16, wherein: After the step of opening the valve, the method further includes: allowing the fluid to pass through the insertion member partially melted by the battery cell and come into contact with a battery cell other than the battery cell.

20. The control method of the battery assembly according to claim 16, wherein: In the step of sensing the gas by the gas sensor located inside the cover member, the gas includes any one of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide, or a combination thereof.

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