Battery module and battery pack including same

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a battery module, the battery module comprising: a battery cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell comprising an electrode terminal and a vent hole; a bus bar assembly including a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; and a sensing line connected to the battery cell to sense the state of the battery cell and mounted on the support plate, the support plate including: a plate main body disposed opposite the vent hole and formed with a plurality of inflow ports through which gas discharged from the vent hole passes; a first channel in which the sensing line is mounted; and a partition wall that partitions the plurality of inflow ports and the first channel so as to block the gas passing through the plurality of inflow ports from moving to the first channel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module including a plurality of battery cells and a battery pack including the battery module. Background Art

[0002] Different from primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged, and thus can be applied to various fields such as digital cameras, mobile phones, laptop computers, hybrid electric vehicles, and electric vehicles. For example, secondary batteries may include lithium secondary batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, etc.

[0003] Such secondary batteries can be manufactured in the form of flexible pouch-type battery cells or rigid can-type battery cells. Can-type battery cells can be classified into prismatic battery cells, cylindrical battery cells, coin-shaped battery cells, etc. according to their shapes. A plurality of battery cells are used by being electrically connected. At this time, a plurality of battery cells form a stacked battery cell assembly and are disposed inside a housing, and at least one battery cell assembly constitutes a battery device such as a battery module or a battery pack.

[0004] When various events such as when the battery cell life is about to end, the battery cell experiences a swelling phenomenon, the battery cell is overcharged, the battery cell is heated, a sharp object such as a nail penetrates the housing (outer packaging material) of the battery cell, or the battery cell is subjected to an external impact occur, the battery cell may catch fire. The flame or high-temperature gas ejected from the battery cell may cause a chain fire to other adjacent battery cells accommodated inside the battery device.

[0005] Sensing wires for measuring the voltage or temperature of the battery cell, etc. may be installed inside the battery module or the battery pack. When high-temperature gas is discharged from the battery cell, the high-temperature gas may damage the sensing wires and cause an electrical short circuit, so that the battery module and / or the battery pack may catch fire. Summary of the Invention

[0006] (I) Technical Problems to be Solved

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module can be provided, which can protect the sensing wires from the influence of high-temperature gas.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the influence of high-temperature gas on the sensing wires can be reduced during the process of discharging the high-temperature gas generated in the battery cell to the outside of the battery module and / or the battery pack.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module can be provided, which can reduce the influence of the gas discharged from a part of the battery cells on other battery cells.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the heat propagation phenomenon in a battery module and / or a battery pack can be delayed or reduced.

[0011] The battery module and the battery pack including the battery module according to the present disclosure can be widely applied to green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other battery-utilizing photovoltaic power generation and wind power generation. In addition, the battery module and the battery pack including the battery module according to the present disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc. that prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0012] (II) Technical solution

[0013] The battery module according to the present disclosure may include: a cell assembly including a plurality of cells, the cells including electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly including a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; and a sensing wire connected to the cells to sense the state of the cells and mounted on the support plate, the support plate including: a plate body disposed opposite to the exhaust holes and formed with a plurality of inlets through which the gas discharged from the exhaust holes passes; a first channel in which the sensing wire is mounted; and a partition wall separating the plurality of inlets and the first channel to block the movement of the gas passing through the plurality of inlets to the first channel.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the support plate may further include a second channel through which the gas passing through the plurality of inlets flows, and the partition wall may separate the first channel and the second channel.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the first channel, the second channel, and the partition wall may extend in a first direction in which the plurality of cells are arranged, and the plurality of inlets may be disposed opposite to the exhaust holes of each cell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first channels may be respectively disposed on both sides in a third direction of the second channel, and the second channel may be defined by partition walls on both sides in the third direction, and the third direction may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the plurality of cells are arranged.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the plurality of bus bars may be respectively disposed on both sides in the third direction of the support plate, and the sensing wire may be disposed in each first channel to be connected to the bus bars disposed on both sides of the support plate.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the second channel may extend in a first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged, and the support plate may further include a flow guide for guiding gas flowing in through the inlet to flow in the first direction.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the flow guide may include an inclined portion inclined upward from the plate body and an extending portion extending in the first direction from the inclined portion.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the support plate may further include a heat insulating member provided on an inner side surface of the flow guide, and the inner side surface may include a surface opposite to the exhaust hole.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the support plate may be configured such that upper sides of the first channel and the second channel are each open.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first channel may be defined by the partition wall and an outer side wall opposite to the partition wall.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the outer side wall may include an opening through which the sensing wire passes, and the sensing wire may pass through the opening from the first channel and be connected to at least one of the plurality of bus bars.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the support plate may further include a fastening portion for coupling the bus bar hook, and the fastening portion may include a support portion for supporting one end of the bus bar and a hook passing through a fastening hole formed in the bus bar.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the sensing wire may include a cable provided in the first channel and a sensing component connected to the cable and coupled to at least one of the plurality of bus bars.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the bus bar assembly and the sensing wire may be integrally coupled to form a composite assembly, and the bus bar assembly may be connected to the battery cell assembly in a state of forming the composite assembly.

[0027] According to one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of bus bars may include a plurality of terminal coupling portions electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a bent portion provided between the plurality of terminal coupling portions and having a bent shape.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the support plate may further include an electrically insulating partition member provided between adjacent ones of the plurality of bus bars.

[0029] A battery module according to an embodiment may further include: end plates covering the sides of the battery cell assembly on both sides in a first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; and a fastening member surrounding the end plates in a state where the battery cell assembly and the end plates are combined, and the sides and the bottom surface of the battery cell assembly may be exposed to the outside.

[0030] A battery module according to another aspect of the present disclosure may include: a battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, the battery cells including electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly including a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; and a sensing wire connected to the battery cells to sense the state of the battery cells and mounted on the support plate, and the support plate may include a first channel in which the sensing wire is mounted, a second channel through which gas discharged from the exhaust holes flows, and a partition wall separating the first channel and the second channel.

[0031] A battery pack according to the present disclosure may include: a plurality of battery modules; and a battery pack housing for accommodating the plurality of battery modules, and the plurality of battery modules include: a battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, the battery cells including electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly including a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; and a sensing wire connected to the battery cells to sense the state of the battery cells and mounted on the support plate, and the support plate includes: a plate body disposed opposite to the exhaust holes and formed with a plurality of inlets through which gas discharged from the exhaust holes passes; a first channel in which the sensing wire is mounted; a second channel through which gas passing through the plurality of inlets flows; and a partition wall separating the first channel and the second channel to block the movement of gas passing through the plurality of inlets to the first channel.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the battery pack housing may include: a housing body on which the plurality of battery modules are disposed; a housing cover covering the housing body; and an exhaust member disposed in at least one of the housing body and the housing cover and discharging gas flowing through the second channel, and a flow space for the gas discharged from the exhaust holes to flow is formed between the second channel and the housing cover.

[0033] (III) Beneficial effects

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensing wire can be protected from the influence of high-temperature gas generated in the battery cells during an event.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the influence of high-temperature gas on the sensing wire can be reduced during the process of discharging the high-temperature gas generated in the battery cells to the outside of the battery module and / or the battery pack.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the influence of gas discharged from a part of the battery cells on other battery cells can be reduced.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat propagation phenomenon in the battery module and / or the battery pack can be delayed or reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 is Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of the battery module shown.

[0040] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a bus bar assembly according to an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a composite component according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 is Figure 5 an enlarged view of part "A" of

[0044] Figure 7 is Figure 4 an enlarged view of part "B" of

[0045] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 6

[0046] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of Figure 6

[0047] Figure 10 is a schematic view showing the gas discharge state of the battery cell, showing a cross-sectional part taken along line II-II' of Figure 6

[0048] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of a support plate taken along line II-II' of Figure 6

[0049] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 13 is Figure 12 an exploded perspective view of the battery pack shown, showing the state where the housing cover is omitted. ​​​​

[0051] Description of Reference Numerals:

[0052] 100: Battery Module 110: Cell Assembly

[0053] 120: Cell 121: Housing

[0054] 123: Electrode Terminal 125: Vent Hole

[0055] 130: Bus Bar Assembly 130S: Composite Assembly

[0056] 131: Bus Bar 132: Terminal Junction

[0057] 140: Support Plate 141: Plate Body

[0058] 142: Inlet 143: Flow Guide

[0059] 143a: Tilted Portion 143b: Extension Portion

[0060] 143c: Inner Side 145: Partition

[0061] 146: Outer Wall 146a: Opening

[0062] 147: Fastening Portion 148: Partition Member

[0063] 149: Heat Insulation Member 150: Sensing Wire

[0064] 151: Sensing Member 152: Cable

[0065] 160: End Plate 170: Fastening Member

[0066] 200: Battery Pack 210: Battery Pack Housing

[0067] 215: Exhaust Member P1: First Channel

[0068] P2: Second Channel X1: First Direction

[0069] X2: Second Direction X3: Third Direction Detailed Description of the Invention

[0070] In the accompanying drawings of this specification, the same reference numerals or symbols denote components or assemblies that perform substantially the same functions. For ease of explanation and understanding, the same reference numerals or symbols will also be used in different embodiments for description. That is, even if components with the same reference numerals are shown in multiple drawings, the multiple drawings do not represent the same embodiment.

[0071] In the following description, unless otherwise clearly specified in the context, singular expressions include plural expressions. Terms such as "including" or "comprising" should be understood as being used to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this specification, rather than precluding the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0072] In addition, in the following description, expressions such as upper side, upper part, lower side, lower part, side surface, front part, rear part, etc. are expressed based on the directions shown in the drawings. It should be noted that if the direction of the corresponding object changes, it can be expressed in a different way.

[0073] In addition, in this specification and the claims, in order to distinguish components, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used. These ordinal numbers are used to distinguish the same or similar components, and the meaning of the terms cannot be construed restrictively due to the use of these ordinal numbers. For example, the order of use or the setting order of the components combined with these ordinal numbers, etc. should not be construed restrictively by these ordinal numbers. If necessary, these ordinal numbers can be used interchangeably.

[0074] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this is only exemplary, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described exemplarily.

[0075] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module 100 according to an embodiment, Figure 2 is Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of the battery module 100 shown.

[0076] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the battery module 100 according to an embodiment may include a cell assembly 110 and a bus bar assembly 130.

[0077] The cell assembly 110 may include a plurality of cells 120, and the cells 120 include electrode terminals 123 and vents 125. As an example, the cells 120 may include prismatic cells, but are not limited thereto.

[0078] In the cell assembly 110, the plurality of cells 120 may be arranged along a first direction X1. The cell assembly 110 may be formed by stacking the plurality of cells 120 along the first direction X1. The plurality of cells 120 may be fixed to each other by double-sided tape, but the fixing method of the cells 120 can be variously changed.

[0079] In the battery cell assembly 110, the battery cell 120 may have an upright form facing the second direction X2 perpendicular to the first direction X1. The electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 may be arranged to face the second direction X2 perpendicular to the first direction X1. For example, the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 may be arranged on the top surface of the battery cell 120. The vent hole 125 of the battery cell 120 may be arranged to face the second direction X2. For example, the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 may be arranged on the top surface of the battery cell 120. The electrode terminal 123 may be arranged on both sides of the vent hole 125 in the third direction X3. The third direction X3 may be perpendicular to the first direction X1, i.e., the stacking direction of the battery cell 120, and the second direction X2, i.e., the direction in which the vent hole 125 of the battery cell 120 faces. However, the arrangement direction of the battery cell 120 and the arrangement positions of the electrode terminal 123 and the vent hole 125 may be variously changed.

[0080] The bus bar assembly 130 may include a plurality of bus bars 131 electrically connected to the electrode terminal 123 and a support plate 140 supporting the plurality of bus bars 131. The bus bar 131 may contain a conductive material, and the support plate 140 may contain an electrically insulating material.

[0081] The plurality of bus bars 131 may be respectively arranged on both sides of the support plate 140 to electrically connect the electrode terminals 123 located on one side and the other side of the battery cell 120. The plurality of bus bars 131 may be arranged on both sides of the support plate 140 in the third direction X3. For example, the plurality of bus bars 131 may be arranged on one side of the support plate 140, and the plurality of bus bars 131 may be arranged on the other side of the support plate 140.

[0082] The battery module 100 may include an end plate 160 arranged outside the battery cell assembly 110 to protect the battery cell assembly 110. The end plate 160 may cover the side surfaces of the battery cell assembly 110 on both sides of the first direction X1 in which the plurality of battery cells 120 are arranged. An output terminal 165 connected to the bus bar 131 may be arranged on the end plate 160. The output terminal 165 may be used for electrical connection with the output terminal 165 of an adjacent battery module 100.

[0083] A compressible pad 162 may be arranged between the end plate 160 and the battery cell assembly 110. When a specific battery cell 120 expands, the compressible pad 162 may be compressed and elastically deformed, thereby suppressing the overall volume expansion of the battery cell assembly 110. The compressible pad 162 may be made of a foam of a polyurethane material, but its material or structure is not limited thereto. The size of the compressible pad 162 may correspond to the wide surface of the battery cell 120, but the size of the compressible pad 162 may be variously changed. The compressible pad 162 may include an adhesive pad or double-sided tape to fix the end plate 160 and the battery cell assembly 110.

[0084] The battery cell assembly 110 and the end plate 160 can be coupled by a tightening member 180. The tightening member 180 can surround the end plate 160 in a state where the battery cell assembly 110 and the end plate 160 are coupled. The tightening member 180 can include a steel band or a strap, but the material or shape of the tightening member 180 can be variously changed. When the battery cell assembly 110 and the end plate 160 are coupled by the tightening member 180, the side surface and the bottom surface of the battery cell assembly 110 can be exposed to the outside. In this case, since the side surface of the battery cell assembly 110 is not covered by a side plate and is exposed to the outside, the energy density of the battery module 100 can be increased. However, embodiments of the present disclosure do not exclude side plates covering the side surfaces of the battery cell assembly 110 being provided on both sides in the third direction X3.

[0085] In a state where the battery cell assembly 110 and the end plate 160 are coupled, the end plate 160 can be mounted to the battery pack ( Figure 12 of 200). The end plate 160 can include a fastening member 170 to be coupled to the battery pack 200. The fastening member 170 can include bolts penetrating the end plate 160 in the second direction X2. Referring together to Figure 12 , after the fastening member 170 passes through a through hole 161 formed in the end plate 160, it can be fastened to the housing main body 211 of the battery pack 200. Nuts can be mounted on the housing main body 211 to be coupled to the fastening member 170.

[0086] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell 120 according to an embodiment.

[0087] The battery cell 120 according to an embodiment can be constituted by a secondary battery. Although the battery cell 120 is described as including a prismatic battery cell in this specification, the shape of the battery cell 120 is not limited to a hexahedral structure. For example, the battery cell 120 can include a pouch-type battery cell, a cylindrical battery cell, or a coin-shaped battery cell.

[0088] The battery cell 120 can include a housing 121, a cover plate 122, electrode terminals 123, and an exhaust hole 125.

[0089] A space for accommodating an electrode assembly can be formed inside the housing 121. The housing 121 can have an open shape on one side, and the electrode assembly can be accommodated in the inner space of the housing 121 through the open portion of the housing 121.

[0090] The electrode assembly may include a plurality of electrode plates and a plurality of separators. The electrode plates may include a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate. The separator may be composed of an insulator interposed between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate. The electrode assembly may include a stacked type in which the negative electrode plate, the positive electrode plate, and the separator are alternately stacked, or a jelly roll type in which the stacked negative electrode plate, positive electrode plate, and separator are wound together, etc. The negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate may have a structure in which a negative electrode active material or a positive electrode active material is respectively coated on a foil. For example, the negative electrode plate may be formed by coating graphite or the like on a foil of copper or nickel material, and the positive electrode plate may be formed by coating a transition metal oxide active material on a foil of aluminum material.

[0091] The cover plate 122 may cover the open portion of the housing 121. The cover plate 122 may be welded to the housing 121.

[0092] The housing 121 and the cover plate 122 may be combined with each other to form the appearance of the battery cell 120. The housing 121 and the cover plate 122 may be made of aluminum or a material containing aluminum, but the materials of the housing 121 and the cover plate 122 are not limited thereto.

[0093] The electrode terminals 123 may be provided on the cover plate 122. The electrode terminals 123 may include a positive terminal 123a connected to the positive electrode plate and a negative terminal 123b connected to the negative electrode plate. The positive terminal 123a may be connected to the positive electrode plate through a positive electrode joint extending from the positive electrode plate, and the negative terminal 123b may be connected to the negative electrode plate through a negative electrode joint extending from the negative electrode plate.

[0094] The electrode terminals 123 may be provided on one side of the housing 121 and face the same direction. For example, one cover plate 122 may be provided on one side of the housing 121, and both the positive terminal 123a and the negative terminal 123b may be provided on one cover plate 122. However, the arrangement structure of the electrode terminals 123 is not limited thereto. For example, the electrode terminals 123 may be respectively provided on one side and the other side of the housing 121. That is, the cover plates 122 may be respectively provided on one side and the other side of the housing 121, and the positive terminal 123a or the negative terminal 123b may be provided on each cover plate 122. In contrast, the electrode terminals 123 may include a plurality of positive terminals 123a and a plurality of negative terminals 123b. In this case, the positive terminals 123a and the negative terminals 123b may be respectively provided on one side and the other side of the housing 121.

[0095] The vent hole 125 can be installed in at least one of the cover plate 122 and the housing 121. As an example, the vent hole 125 can be installed in the cover plate 122. The vent hole 125 can be fixed to the housing 121 by welding such as laser welding. The vent hole 125 can be configured to allow the gas generated inside the housing 121 to be discharged to the outside of the housing 121. For example, the vent hole 125 can be configured to rupture at a predetermined pressure when the internal pressure of the housing 121 increases due to the gas generated inside the housing 121 or the like. The installation position and number of the vent holes 125 can be variously changed. For example, the vent hole 125 can be installed in the housing 121, or a plurality of vent holes 125 can be installed in at least one of the cover plate 122 and the housing 121.

[0096] The interior of the housing 121 can accommodate the electrolyte. A plug 126 can be installed in the cover plate 122, and the plug 126 is used to close the electrolyte injection port after the electrolyte is injected into the internal space of the housing 121.

[0097] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a bus bar assembly 130 according to an embodiment, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a composite assembly 130S according to an embodiment.

[0098] will be referred to together Figure 4 and Figure 5 and also Figure 2 , to describe the bus bar assembly 130 and the composite assembly 130S.

[0099] The bus bar assembly 130 can include a plurality of bus bars 131 and a support plate 140. The plurality of bus bars 131 can include a first bus bar 131a that electrically connects the electrode terminals 123 of the plurality of battery cells 120 and a second bus bar 131b that electrically connects the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 and the output terminal 165.

[0100] At least one bus bar 131 of the plurality of bus bars 131 can include a plurality of terminal coupling portions 132 that are electrically connected to the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120. The plurality of terminal coupling portions 132 can electrically connect the plurality of battery cells 120. The bus bar 131 can be fixed to the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 by welding or the like. The terminal coupling portion 132 can include a plane having a hole that contacts the electrode terminal 123. However, as long as the electrical connection between the terminal coupling portion 132 and the electrode terminal 123 can be achieved, the shape or structure of the terminal coupling portion 132 can be variously changed.

[0101] At least one of the plurality of busbars 131 may include a bent portion 133, which is disposed between the plurality of terminal bonding portions 132 and has a bent shape. The bent portion 133 may have a shape protruding from the terminal bonding portion 132 in the vertical direction. The bent portion 133 may have a shape bent from the terminal bonding portion 132. For example, the bent portion 133 may include a U-shaped or V-shaped cross section. The bent portion 133 may buffer the deformation of the battery cell 120 or the impact received by the battery cell 120 to protect the electrical connection state between the busbar 131 and the electrode terminal 123. The bent portion 133 may prevent the bonding between the electrode terminal 123 of the battery cell 120 and the busbar 131 from being released due to the expansion or impact of the battery cell 120.

[0102] The support plate 140 may include a plate body 141 and a partition wall 145. The plate body 141 may be disposed opposite to the vent hole 125 of the battery cell 120. The partition wall 145 may protect the sensing line 150 from the gas discharged from the vent hole 125.

[0103] The support plate 140 may include a flow guide 143 for guiding the gas flowing in through the inlet ( Figure 6 142) to flow in the first direction X1. The gas discharged from the vent hole 125 of the battery cell 120 may be guided by the flow guide 143 to flow in the first direction X1.

[0104] The support plate 140 may further include a fastening portion 147 to which the busbar 131 is fastened. The busbar 131 may include a fastening hole 134 that engages with the fastening portion 147 of the support plate 140. As an example, the busbar 131 may be engaged with the fastening portion 147 of the support plate 140 by a hook.

[0105] The support plate 140 may further include an electrical insulation compartment member 148 disposed between adjacent busbars 131 among the plurality of busbars 131. The compartment member 148 may block electrical contact between the plurality of busbars 131 spaced apart in the first direction X1.

[0106] The sensing line 150 may be connected to the battery cell 120 to sense the state of the battery cell 120. The sensing line 150 may be mounted on the support plate 140.

[0107] The sensing line 150 may be configured to measure the operating state of the battery cell 120. The sensing line 150 may be connected to a battery cell monitoring device and / or a Battery Management System (BMS), etc., to prevent overcharging of the battery cell 120 and / or perform voltage balancing.

[0108] The sensing line 150 may include a cable 152 disposed on the support plate 140 and a sensing component 151 connected to the cable 152 and coupled to at least one of the plurality of bus bars 131.

[0109] The sensing component 151 may include at least one of a voltage sensing terminal for receiving a voltage signal of the battery cell 120 and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the battery cell 120. The sensing component 151 coupled to the bus bar 131 may be provided as a voltage sensing terminal. As an example, the sensing component 151 may be welded or adhered to the bus bar 131. The sensing component 151 may be disposed on at least some of the plurality of bus bars 131. If the bus bars 131 are disposed on both sides in the third direction X3 of the support plate 140, the sensing component 151 may be disposed on at least some of the bus bars 131 mounted on one side of the support plate 140 and at least some of the bus bars 131 mounted on the other side of the support plate 140. The temperature sensor may be disposed in contact with the battery cell 120 or at a position adjacent to the battery cell 120 to measure the temperature of the battery cell 120. The mounting position and number of the sensing component 151 may be variously changed.

[0110] The cable 152 may connect the sensing component 151 and the battery cell monitoring device or the battery management system. Accordingly, the state information of the battery cell 120 sensed by the sensing component 151 may be transmitted to the battery cell monitoring device or the battery management system. The cable 152 may be composed of an electric wire such as a wire. However, the cable 152 may also be provided as a printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit board.

[0111] The bus bar assembly 130 and the sensing line 150 may be integrally coupled to form a composite assembly 130S. The sensing component 151 of the sensing line 150 may be welded to the bus bar 131 to be coupled to the bus bar assembly 130. The bus bar assembly 130 may be connected to the battery cell assembly 110 in a state of being coupled to the sensing line 150 to form the composite assembly 130S. Accordingly, the coupling of the battery cell assembly 110, the bus bar assembly 130, and the sensing line 150 may be facilitated, thereby improving the assemblability.

[0112] Figure 6 is Figure 5 an enlarged view of part “A” of Figure 6 showing the support plate 140.

[0113] will be referred to together Figure 6 as well as Figure 2 and Figure 5, the support plate 140 may include a plate body 141 disposed opposite to the exhaust hole 125, a first channel P1 for installing the sensing line 150, and a partition wall 145 that separates a plurality of inflow ports 142 and the first channel P1. The support plate 140 may further include a second channel P2 through which the gas flowing through the plurality of inflow ports 142 passes.

[0114] The plate body 141 may be arranged to face the exhaust hole 125 of the battery cell 120 in the second direction X2. The plate body 141 may be formed with a plurality of inflow ports 142, and the gas discharged from the exhaust hole 125 of the battery cell 120 may pass through the inflow ports 142. The plurality of inflow ports 142 may be arranged opposite to the exhaust hole 125 of each battery cell 120 in the second direction X2. The plurality of inflow ports 142 may be arranged at positions corresponding to the exhaust hole 125 of each battery cell 120, and the number of the inflow ports 142 may correspond to the number of the exhaust holes 125.

[0115] The first channel P1 may be located on the upper side of the plate body 141 and may form a space for installing the sensing line 150. That is, the plate body 141 may be arranged between the first channel P1 and the battery cell 120 in the first direction X1. The first channel P1 may extend along the first direction X1 in which the battery cells 120 are arranged.

[0116] The partition wall 145 may block the gas passing through the plurality of inflow ports 142 from moving to the first channel P1 where the sensing line 150 is installed. The partition wall 145 may protect the sensing line 150 from the influence of the high-temperature gas discharged from the battery cell 120. The partition wall 145 may be formed by a wall protruding from the plate body 141 in the opposite direction to the exhaust hole 125 to separate the plurality of inflow ports 142 and the first channel P1. The partition wall 145 may extend along the first direction X1 in which the battery cells 120 are arranged.

[0117] The second channel P2 may provide a space for the gas flowing through the plurality of inflow ports 142 to flow. The second channel P2 may be separated from the first channel P1 by the partition wall 145. That is, the partition wall 145 may separate the first channel P1 and the second channel P2. Therefore, the high-temperature gas discharged from the battery cell 120 flows along the second channel P2 in the first direction X1, and the sensing line 150 arranged in the first channel P1 may be protected by the partition wall 145 from the influence of the high-temperature gas or flame.

[0118] The first channel P1, the second channel P2, and the partition wall 145 may extend along the first direction X1 in which the plurality of battery cells 120 are arranged.

[0119] The support plate 140 may further include a plurality of flow guides 143 configured to guide the gas flowing in through the inlet 142 to flow in the first direction X1. The flow guides 143 may be disposed in the second channel P2. Each flow guide 143 may have a shape covering the inlet 142. The flow guide 143 may include an inclined portion 143a that slopes upward from the plate body 141 and an extension portion 143b that extends in the first direction X1 from the inclined portion 143a. The flow guide 143 may include a discharge port 144 formed between the extension portion 143b and the plate body 141. The high-temperature gas discharged from the battery cell 120 in the second direction X2 may pass through the inlet 142 and may change its flow direction after hitting the inclined portion 143a. The extension portion 143b may guide the gas hitting the inclined portion 143a to flow in the first direction X1. Figure 8 The high-temperature gas discharged from the battery cell 120 in the second direction X2 may pass through the inlet 142 and may change its flow direction after hitting the inclined portion 143a. The extension portion 143b may guide the gas hitting the inclined portion 143a to flow in the first direction X1.

[0120] The first channels P1 may be disposed on both sides of the second channel P2 in the third direction X3. Sensing lines 150 may be disposed in each of the first channels P1. When the plurality of bus bars 131 are disposed on both sides of the support plate 140 in the third direction X3, the sensing lines 150 may be disposed in each of the first channels P1 to be connected to the bus bars 131 disposed on both sides of the support plate 140.

[0121] The first channels P1 may be defined by partition walls 145 and outer sidewalls 146 opposite to the partition walls 145. That is, the first channels P1 may be located between the partition walls 145 on the central side of the support plate 140 and the outer sidewalls 146 on the outer side of the support plate 140. In addition, the lower side of the first channels P1 may be defined by the plate body 141. On the other hand, the upper side of the first channels P1 may have an open shape. As described above, when the upper side of the first channels P1 is open, not only the process of installing the sensing lines 150 in the first channels P1 becomes easy, but also the first channels P1 can be easily formed on the support plate 140. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the upper side of the first channels P1 having an open shape, and a separate cover plate covering the first channels P1 may also be provided on the upper side of the first channels P1.

[0122] The second channels P2 may be defined by the partition walls 145 on both sides of the support plate 140 in the third direction X3. That is, the partition walls 145 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the second channels P2 in the third direction X3. The lower side of the second channels P2 may be defined by the plate body 141. On the other hand, the upper side of the second channels P2 may have an open shape. As described above, when the upper side of the second channels P2 is open, the second channels P2 and the flow guides 143 can be easily formed on the support plate 140. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the upper side of the second channels P2 having an open shape, and a separate cover plate may also be provided on the upper side of the second channels P2.

[0123] The outer wall 146 may include an opening 146a through which the sensing line 150 passes. The sensing line 150 may pass through the opening 146a from the first channel P1 and be connected to at least one of the plurality of bus bars 131.

[0124] The support plate 140 may include a fastening portion 147 for coupling the bus bar 131. The fastening portion 147 may include a support portion 147b that supports one end of the bus bar 131 and a hook 147a that passes through a fastening hole 134 formed in the bus bar 131.

[0125] The support plate 140 may further include an electrically insulating separation member 148 disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of bus bars 131. The separation member 148 may block electrical contact when an event occurs to the plurality of bus bars 131 due to impact.

[0126] Figure 7 Yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of the "B" part of. Figure 7 A composite assembly 130S showing the bus bar assembly 130 and the sensing line 150 coupled.

[0127] Will be referred to together Figure 7 And Figure 2 、 Figure 4 And Figure 5 The composite assembly 130S may include a bus bar assembly 130 and a sensing line 150. The bus bar assembly 130 may include a bus bar 131 and a support plate 140, and the sensing line 150 may include a sensing member 151 and a cable 152.

[0128] The bus bar 131 may be fastened to the support plate 140 by the fastening portion 147. The fastening portion 147 may hook-couple the bus bar 131. When the bus bar 131 and the support plate 140 are hook-coupled, the bus bar 131 can be easily installed on the support plate 140. The fastening portion 147 may include a support portion 147b that supports one end of the bus bar 131 and a hook 147a that passes through a fastening hole 134 formed in the bus bar 131. With one end of the bus bar 131 supported by the support portion 147b, the bus bar 131 is hook-coupled with the hook 147a, so that the bus bar 131 can be stably installed on the support plate 140.

[0129] At least one of the plurality of bus bars 131 may include a plurality of terminal coupling portions 132 and a bending portion 133. The bending portion 133 may have a shape that protrudes vertically from the terminal coupling portion 132 and bends. The bending portion 133 may buffer deformation of the battery cell 120 or impact applied to the battery cell 120 to protect the electrical connection state between the bus bar 131 and the electrode terminal 123.

[0130] The sensing line 150 may include a cable 152 disposed in the first channel P1 and a sensing component 151 electrically connected to the bus bar 131. When the sensing component 151 is coupled to the bus bar 131, the cable 152 may pass through the outer sidewall 146. The outer sidewall 146 may include an opening 146a through which the sensing line 150 passes. The cable 152 of the sensing line 150 passes through the opening 146a from the first channel P1, and the sensing component 151 of the sensing line 150 may be connected to at least one of the plurality of bus bars 131.

[0131] The sensing component 151 may be coupled to a sensor coupling portion 135 provided on the bus bar 131. For example, the sensor coupling portion 135 may be formed of a protrusion, and after the sensor coupling portion 135 is inserted into the hole of the sensing component 151, it may be fixed by welding or the like. However, the coupling shape or coupling method between the sensing component 151 and the bus bar 131 may be variously changed.

[0132] The flow guide 143 of the support plate 140 may include an inclined portion 143a having a shape covering the flow inlet 142 and an extension portion 143b, and may include a discharge port 144 formed between the extension portion 143b and the plate body 141.

[0133] Figure 8 is a sectional view taken along the Figure 6 line I-I' in Figure 9 is a sectional view taken along the Figure 6 line II-II' of Figure 8 shows the composite component 130S, Figure 9 shows the support plate 140.

[0134] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the support plate 140 may include a plate body 141 disposed opposite to the exhaust hole 125, a first channel P1 for mounting the sensing line 150, a second channel P2 through which the gas flowing through the plurality of inlets 142 flows, and a partition wall 145 separating the first channel P1 and the second channel P2. The support plate 140 may include an outer sidewall 146 opposite to the partition wall 145 across the first channel P1.

[0135] The side surface of the first channel P1 may be defined by the partition wall 145 and the outer sidewall 146, and the bottom surface of the first channel P1 may be defined by the second portion 141b of the plate body 141. The cable 152 of the sensing line 150 may be installed in the first channel P1.

[0136] The side surface of the second channel P2 may be defined by partition walls 145 facing each other, and the bottom surface of the second channel P2 may be defined by a first portion 141a of the plate body 141. The second channel P2 may form a space for the gas flow that passes through the inlet 142 and the flow guide 143 and is discharged through the outlet 144. The flow guide 143 may include an inclined portion 143a that slopes upward from the plate body 141, an extension portion 143b that extends in the first direction X1 from the inclined portion 143a, and an outlet 144 formed between the extension portion 143b and the plate body 141.

[0137] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the gas discharge state of the battery cell 120, showing the cross-sectional portion taken along the Figure 6 II-II' line.

[0138] Referring to Figure 10 , an exhaust hole 125 may be provided in the cover plate 122 of the battery cell 120. The inlet 142 of the support plate 140 may be provided at a position opposite to the exhaust hole 125 in the second direction X2.

[0139] When the exhaust hole 125 breaks due to the increase in the internal pressure of the battery cell 120, the gas inside the battery cell 120 may be discharged through the exhaust hole 125. The gas discharged from the exhaust hole 125 of the battery cell 120 may pass through the inlet 142 and flow along the first direction X1 through the flow guide 143. Specifically, the high-temperature gas discharged from the battery cell 120 in the second direction X2 may pass through the inlet 142 and change the flow direction after hitting the inclined portion 143a of the flow guide 143. The extension portion 143b of the flow guide 143 may guide the gas hitting the inclined portion 143a to flow along the first direction X1. The gas discharged through the outlet 144 of the flow guide 143 may flow along the first direction X1 in the second channel P2. In Figure 10 , the arrow indicates the flow direction F of the gas.

[0140] When the upper side of the second channel P2 is open, the gas may flow along the flow space S between the battery pack housing 210 of the battery pack ( Figure 12 200) and the second channel P2 in the first direction X1, and then be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 210 through the exhaust member 215. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the upper side of the second channel P2 having an open shape, and a separate cover plate covering the second channel P2 may also be provided on the upper side of the second channel P2.

[0141] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the support plate 140 taken along the Figure 6 II-II' line.

[0142] With Figure 9Compared with the shown support plate 140, Figure 11 the shown support plate 140 is different in that it further includes a heat insulation member 149 provided on the inner side surface 143c of the flow guide member 143.

[0143] The inner side surface 143c of the flow guide member 143 may include a surface opposite to the exhaust hole 125. For example, the inner side surface 143c may be formed across the inclined portion 143a and the extending portion 143b.

[0144] The heat insulation member 149 may include a material having at least one of the properties of flame retardancy, heat resistance, and heat insulation to withstand the high-temperature gas discharged from the exhaust hole 125. Here, the heat resistance may represent the property of not melting and not changing shape at a temperature of 300 degrees Celsius or higher. The heat insulation may represent the property of having a thermal conductivity of 1.0 W / mK or less. To ensure higher heat insulation, the thermal conductivity may have a value of 0.5 W / mK or less or 0.3 W / mK or less. The flame retardancy may represent the property of preventing or suppressing spontaneous combustion when the fire source is removed. For example, the flame retardancy may represent a rating of V-0 or higher in the UL94V test.

[0145] For example, the heat insulation member 149 may include at least a part of the materials such as mica, silica, silicate, graphite, alumina, ceramic wool, and aerogel that can function to prevent the spread of heat and / or flame. However, the material of the heat insulation member 149 is not limited thereto, and various materials known in the art may be used as long as they can maintain the shape of the support plate 140 when the battery cell 120 is thermally out of control. In addition, the heat insulation member 149 may be coated or attached to the support plate 140.

[0146] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a battery pack 200 according to an embodiment, Figure 13 is Figure 12 an exploded perspective view of the shown battery pack 200, showing the state where the housing cover 212 is omitted.

[0147] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack 200 may include a plurality of battery modules 100 and a battery pack housing 210 that houses the plurality of battery modules 100. The battery module 100 provided in the battery pack 200 may include the battery module 100 described with reference to Figures 1 to 11 the above.

[0148] The battery pack housing 210 may include a housing body 211 that houses a plurality of battery modules 100 and a housing cover 212 that covers the housing body 211. A space for accommodating the battery modules 100 may be formed in a state where the housing body 211 and the housing cover 212 are combined. The battery pack housing 210 may include a partition wall 213 for partitioning the space for accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0149] The battery module 100 may be fastened to the housing body 211 of the battery pack housing 210 by a fastening member 170. The fastening member 170 may include a bolt that penetrates the end plate 160 in the second direction X2.

[0150] The battery pack housing 210 may include an exhaust member 215 for discharging the gas flowing through the second passage P2. The exhaust member 215 may be provided in at least one of the housing body 211 and the housing cover 212. As an example, the exhaust member 215 may be provided in the housing cover 212. The exhaust member 215 may be provided at a position corresponding to the second passage P2 of each battery module 100. As an example, when four battery modules 100 are provided in the battery pack housing 210, four exhaust members 215 may be provided. However, the position and number of the exhaust members 215 may be variously changed. For example, when four battery modules 100 are provided in the battery pack housing 210, one or two exhaust members 215 may also be provided.

[0151] will be referred to together Figure 10 , a flow space S for the gas discharged from the exhaust hole 125 of the battery cell 120 may be formed between the second passage P2 of the battery module 100 and the housing cover 212.

[0152] The exhaust member 215 may be constituted by a hole formed in the battery pack housing 210. In this case, the exhaust member 215 may be configured as a normally open type. In contrast, the exhaust member 215 may also be configured to be normally closed and open when the pressure inside the battery pack 200 increases. The normally closed exhaust member may adopt various forms such as a flap and a valve structure.

[0153] The above-described content is only an example of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the present disclosure may be implemented by deleting some components in the above-described embodiments, or may be implemented by combining the embodiments.

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: A battery cell assembly, comprising a plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery cells include electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly, comprising a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; as well as a sensing line connected to the battery cell to sense the state of the battery cell and mounted on the support plate, The support plate comprises: a plate body, arranged opposite to the exhaust hole and formed with a plurality of inflow ports, through which the gas exhausted from the exhaust hole passes; a first channel in which the sensing line is mounted; and The partition wall separates the plurality of inlets and the first channel to block the gas passing through the plurality of inlets from moving to the first channel.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The support plate further includes a second channel through which the gas flows through the plurality of inlet ports, The partition wall separates the first channel and the second channel.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The first channel, the second channel and the partition wall extend along a first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged. The plurality of inlets are arranged opposite to the exhaust hole of each battery cell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The first channels are respectively arranged on both sides of the second channel in the third direction. The second channel is defined by partitions on both sides of the third direction, The third direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of bus bars are respectively arranged on both sides of the support plate in the third direction. The sensing line is disposed in each first channel to be connected to bus bars disposed on both sides of the support plate.

6. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The second channel extends along a first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged. The support plate further includes a flow guide for guiding the gas flowing in through the inlet to flow along the first direction.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein: The flow guide includes an inclined portion inclined upward from the plate body and an extending portion extending from the inclined portion in the first direction.

8. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein: The support plate further includes a heat insulating component disposed on the inner side of the flow guide, The inner side surface includes a surface opposite to the exhaust hole.

9. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The support plate is configured so that an upper side of the first channel and an upper side of the second channel respectively have an open shape.

10. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The first passage is defined by the partition wall and an outer side wall opposite to the partition wall.

11. The battery module according to claim 10, wherein: The outer side wall includes an opening through which the sensing line passes, The sensing line passes through the opening from the first channel and is connected to at least one bus bar among the plurality of bus bars.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The support plate further includes a fastening portion, the fastening portion hooking the bus bar, The fastening portion includes a support portion supporting one end of the bus bar and a hook passing through a fastening hole formed in the bus bar.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The sensing line includes a cable disposed in the first channel and a sensing member connected to the cable and coupled to at least one bus bar among the plurality of bus bars.

14. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein: The bus bar assembly and the sensing line are integrally combined to form a composite assembly, The bus bar assembly is connected to the cell assembly in a state of constituting the composite assembly.

15. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: At least one bus bar among the plurality of bus bars includes a plurality of terminal coupling portions electrically connected to the electrode terminal and a bent portion disposed between the plurality of terminal coupling portions and having a bent shape.

16. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The support plate further includes an electrically insulating partition member disposed between adjacent bus bars among the plurality of bus bars.

17. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising: End plates, respectively covering the side surfaces of the battery cell assembly on both sides of the first direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; as well as The tightening component surrounds the end plate when the battery cell assembly and the end plate are combined. The side surfaces and bottom surface of the battery cell assembly are exposed to the outside.

18. A battery module, comprising: A battery cell assembly, comprising a plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery cells include electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly, comprising a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; as well as a sensing line connected to the battery cell to sense the state of the battery cell and mounted on the support plate, The support plate includes a first channel in which the sensing line is installed, a second channel through which the gas exhausted from the exhaust hole flows, and a partition wall that separates the first channel from the second channel.

19. A battery pack comprising: Multiple battery modules; as well as a battery pack housing for accommodating the plurality of battery modules, The plurality of battery modules include: A battery cell assembly, comprising a plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery cells include electrode terminals and exhaust holes; a bus bar assembly including a plurality of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminals and a support plate supporting the plurality of bus bars; and a sensing line connected to the battery cell to sense the state of the battery cell and mounted on the support plate, The support plate comprises: a plate body, arranged opposite to the exhaust hole and formed with a plurality of inflow ports, through which the gas exhausted from the exhaust hole passes; a first channel, wherein the sensing line is installed in the first channel; a second channel through which the gas passing through the plurality of inlet ports flows; and The partition wall separates the first channel and the second channel to block the gas passing through the plurality of inflow ports from moving to the first channel.

20. The battery pack according to claim 19, wherein: The battery pack housing comprises: A shell body, wherein the plurality of battery modules are arranged on the shell body; a housing cover covering the housing body; and an exhaust component, which is disposed in at least one of the housing body and the housing cover and exhausts the gas flowing through the second passage, A flow space through which the gas exhausted from the exhaust hole flows is formed between the second passage and the housing cover.

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