Battery pack

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery modules (100), each battery module comprising one or more battery cells and a module housing (120) having one or more battery cells disposed therein, the module housing (120) being at least partially open in an upward direction; a pack case (200) having a plurality of battery modules (100) disposed therein and provided with an exhaust port (T); and a first cover (300) that covers the upper portions of the plurality of battery modules (100) and is provided with a plurality of vent holes (310) corresponding to the respective plurality of battery modules (100), the plurality of vent holes (310) being formed so as to penetrate in the vertical direction and communicate with the vent hole (T). Each vent hole (310) communicates with an inner space of a module case (120) of the battery module (100) in a vertical direction with respect to its corresponding battery module (100), and a height position of an upper end of an inner circumferential surface of the vent hole (310) is higher than a height position of an upper end of a battery cell disposed in the module case (120) of the battery module (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0156757, filed on Nov. 21, 2022, the entire contents disclosed in the document of which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this specification.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a battery pack in which heat transfer delay and thermal runaway suppression are facilitated at low cost using a simple configuration. Background Art

[0003] Unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be charged and discharged. These secondary batteries are used as power sources in small high-tech electronic devices such as mobile phones, PDAs, and laptop computers, as well as in energy storage systems (ESSs), electric vehicles (EVs), or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

[0004] A battery module is a device in which a plurality of secondary batteries (hereinafter referred to as battery cells) are connected in series or in parallel. In addition, a battery pack is a device in which a plurality of battery modules are connected in series or in parallel. When a problem such as a short circuit occurs in some of the battery cells inside a battery module and the temperature of the battery cell exceeds a critical temperature, a thermal runaway phenomenon may occur.

[0005] Heat, flames, etc. generated by the thermal runaway phenomenon of some battery cells inside a battery pack or a battery module increase the temperature of other battery modules or other battery cells, which may cause the thermal runaway phenomenon to spread to other battery modules or other battery cells. When the thermal runaway phenomenon spreads rapidly to other battery modules or other battery cells, the possibility of the battery pack or the battery module catching fire or exploding increases. Therefore, it is necessary to delay heat transfer between battery cells or between battery modules 100.

[0006] In this regard, Korean Patent No. 10-2332128 provides a battery pack capable of delaying / preventing the spread of a thermal runaway phenomenon by installing a silicon sponge pad between battery cells.

[0007] However, when a special pad is installed between battery cells to delay heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells, the manufacturing cost and size of the battery pack or the battery module also increase.

[0008] Summary of the Invention Technical Problem

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack capable of delaying heat propagation (TP) and suppressing the deterioration of thermal runaway (TR) at low cost using a simple configuration.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack having a simple structure to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0011] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above object, and other objects and advantages of the present invention not described can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through examples of the present invention. In addition, it is obvious that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be embodied by the means and combinations pointed out in the claims. Technical solution

[0012] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a battery pack, which includes a plurality of battery modules 100, a battery pack housing 200, and a first cover 300.

[0013] Each of the plurality of battery modules 100 may include one or more battery cells and a module housing 120.

[0014] One or more battery cells may be accommodated in the module housing 120.

[0015] The module housing 120 may be at least partially open upward.

[0016] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated in the battery pack housing 200.

[0017] The battery pack housing 200 may be provided with an exhaust port T.

[0018] The first cover 300 may cover the upper part of the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0019] The first cover 300 may be provided with a plurality of exhaust holes 310.

[0020] The plurality of exhaust holes 310 may respectively correspond to the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0021] The plurality of exhaust holes 310 may vertically penetrate the first cover 300.

[0022] The plurality of exhaust holes 310 may communicate with the exhaust port T.

[0023] Each of the plurality of exhaust holes 310 is vertically communicated with the internal space of the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100.

[0024] Each of the plurality of exhaust holes 310 may have an inner circumferential surface with an upper end higher than the upper end of one or more battery cells accommodated in the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100.

[0025] In each of the battery modules 100, at least one of the module housing 120 of the battery module 100 and the battery pack housing 200 and the first cover 300 may define a predetermined space S.

[0026] The predetermined space S may correspond to the battery module 100.

[0027] The predetermined space S may accommodate one or more battery cells of the battery module 100.

[0028] The predetermined space S may be blocked on all sides but open upward through the exhaust holes 310 of the corresponding battery module 100.

[0029] The different predetermined spaces S corresponding to the different battery modules 100 may be separated from each other.

[0030] In one embodiment, the battery pack may further include a second cover 400 and one or more barriers 500.

[0031] The second cover 400 may be installed above the first cover 300.

[0032] The second cover 400 may be spaced apart from the first cover 300 by a predetermined distance.

[0033] One or more barriers 500 may be disposed between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400.

[0034] One or more barriers 500 may contact or be coupled to the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 in the vertical direction.

[0035] One or more barriers 500 may interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S.

[0036] When projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of different exhaust holes 310 adjacent to each other.

[0037] In one embodiment, one or more barriers 500 may be coupled to the lower surface of the second cover 400.

[0038] In one embodiment, a plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction.

[0039] A plurality of battery modules 100 may be arranged side by side in the battery pack housing 200 in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction.

[0040] A plurality of exhaust holes 310 may be separated from each other in the second direction.

[0041] One or more barriers 500 may extend in the first direction.

[0042] One or more barriers 500 may be arranged side by side between a plurality of exhaust holes 310 in the second direction.

[0043] The first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer than one end or the other end of one or more barriers 500 in the first direction.

[0044] As a result, the gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in each predetermined space S may flow between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, and may flow along a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction on one side or the other side of each of the one or more barriers 500 in the first direction.

[0045] In one embodiment, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 in the first direction may be in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction, or may be located on one side of one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction.

[0046] In the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 in the first direction may be in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction, or may be located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction.

[0047] In one embodiment, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0048] In one embodiment, each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110.

[0049] Each of the plurality of blocks 110 may include one or more battery cells.

[0050] For each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100, the exhaust hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100 may include a plurality of block exhaust holes 312.

[0051] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may respectively correspond to the plurality of blocks 110.

[0052] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may be formed to penetrate in the vertical direction.

[0053] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the exhaust port T.

[0054] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may be separated from each other.

[0055] Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 in which the corresponding block 110 and one or more battery cells are accommodated in the up and down direction.

[0056] Each of the plurality of block vent holes 312 may have an inner circumferential surface with an upper end higher than the upper ends of one or more battery cells accommodated in the module housing 120.

[0057] The predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 includes a plurality of block spaces BS corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110 respectively.

[0058] Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may accommodate one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks 110 corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces BS.

[0059] Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may open upward through a block vent hole 310 corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks 110.

[0060] The plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other.

[0061] In one embodiment, the battery pack may further include a second cover 400 and one or more barriers 500.

[0062] The second cover 400 may be installed above the first cover 300 and spaced apart from the first cover 300 by a predetermined distance.

[0063] One or more barriers 500 may be disposed between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400.

[0064] One or more barriers 500 may contact or be coupled to the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 in the vertical direction.

[0065] One or more barriers 500 may interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S or the block space BS.

[0066] When projected onto a horizontal plane, each of one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of different vent holes 310 adjacent to each other or a pair of different block vent holes 312 adjacent to each other.

[0067] In one embodiment, the plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction.

[0068] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be arranged side by side in the battery pack housing 200 in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction.

[0069] The plurality of vent holes 310 and the plurality of block vent holes 312 may be separated from each other in the second direction.

[0070] One or more barriers 500 may extend in the first direction.

[0071] One or more barriers 500 may be arranged side by side in a second direction between the plurality of exhaust holes 310 and the plurality of block exhaust holes 312.

[0072] The first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer than one end or the other end of one or more barriers 500 in a first direction.

[0073] As a result, gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S and the block space BS may flow between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 along a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction, on one side or the other side of each of the one or more barriers 500 in the first direction.

[0074] In one embodiment, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 in the first direction may be in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction or one end of the block exhaust hole 312 in the first direction, or may be located on one side of one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction or on one side of one end of the block exhaust hole 312 in the first direction.

[0075] In the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 in the first direction may be in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction or the other end of the block exhaust hole 312 in the first direction, or may be located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 in the first direction or on the other side of the other end of the block exhaust hole 312 in the first direction.

[0076] In one embodiment, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0077] In one embodiment, a through hole 214 that connects the inside and the outside of the predetermined space S and can be opened and closed may be provided at the module housing 120 or the battery pack housing 200 that defines each predetermined space S.

[0078] When the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than the threshold value, the through hole 214 may remain closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through hole 214 may be opened.

[0079] In one embodiment, a plurality of through holes 214 may be provided.

[0080] Each of the plurality of through holes 214 may correspond to the predetermined space S of each of the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0081] The battery pack housing 200 may further include a plurality of baffles 230 respectively mounted adjacent to the plurality of through-holes 214 and respectively blocking the plurality of through-holes 214.

[0082] When the pressure in a predetermined space S corresponding to the through-hole 214 blocked by the baffle 230 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the baffle 230 is damaged to open the through-hole 214.

[0083] Therefore, when the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 remains closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 opens.

[0084] In one embodiment, the battery pack housing 200 may include an accommodation space C and a first flow space U1.

[0085] A plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated in the accommodation space C.

[0086] The first flow space U1 may be provided on one side of the accommodation space C in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction. Gas or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 may flow in the first flow space U1.

[0087] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated side by side in the accommodation space C in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction.

[0088] Therefore, a plurality of predetermined spaces S may be arranged side by side in the second direction.

[0089] For each predetermined space S, the through-hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S may be provided on one side of the predetermined space S in the first direction.

[0090] For each predetermined space S, the through-hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S may connect the predetermined space S to the first flow space U1.

[0091] In one embodiment, each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110.

[0092] Each of the plurality of blocks 110 may include one or more battery cells.

[0093] Each of the plurality of blocks 110 may include one or more battery cells.

[0094] For each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100, the exhaust hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100 may include a plurality of block exhaust holes 312.

[0095] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may respectively correspond to the plurality of blocks 110.

[0096] A plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may be formed to penetrate in the vertical direction.

[0097] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the exhaust port T.

[0098] The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may be separated from each other.

[0099] Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 in which one or more battery cells accommodating the corresponding block 110 in the up - down direction.

[0100] Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may have an inner circumferential surface with an upper end higher than the upper ends of the one or more battery cells accommodated in the module housing 120.

[0101] The predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of block spaces BS corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110 respectively.

[0102] Each block space BS may accommodate one or more battery cells included in each block 110 corresponding to each block space BS.

[0103] Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may open upward through the block exhaust hole 310 corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks 110.

[0104] The plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other.

[0105] The through - hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S accommodating one or more battery cells of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may connect the plurality of block spaces BS to the first flow space U1.

[0106] In one embodiment, the plurality of block spaces BS may extend in a first direction and be arranged side - by - side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0107] When the pressure in any one of the plurality of block spaces BS increases, the through - hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may open and connect all the plurality of block spaces BS to the first flow space U1.

[0108] Technical effects

[0109] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack may include: a plurality of battery modules 100, wherein each of the plurality of battery modules 100 includes one or more battery cells and a module housing 120 that houses the one or more battery cells, and the module housing 120 is at least partially open upward; a battery pack housing 200 that houses the plurality of battery modules 100 and is provided with an exhaust port T; and a first cover 300 that covers the upper portion of the plurality of battery modules 100, the first cover 300 being provided with a plurality of exhaust holes 310 corresponding to the plurality of battery modules 100 respectively, the plurality of exhaust holes 310 vertically penetrating the first cover 300 and communicating with the exhaust port T. Each of the plurality of exhaust holes 310 may vertically communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100 and have an inner circumferential surface with an upper end higher than the upper end of the one or more battery cells housed in the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100.

[0110] At least one of the module housing 120 of each of the plurality of battery modules 100, the battery pack housing 200, and the first cover 300 may define a predetermined space S corresponding to each of the plurality of battery modules 100, the predetermined space S being blocked on all sides but open upward through the exhaust hole 310 of the corresponding battery module 100 and housing the one or more battery cells of the corresponding battery module 100. The different predetermined spaces S housing the one or more battery cells of different battery modules 100 are separated from each other.

[0111] Therefore, the predetermined spaces S housing the battery cells of each battery module 100 are separated from each other, so that high-temperature gas and / or heat can be discharged above the upper portion of the predetermined space S through the exhaust holes 310 of the first cover 300. Therefore, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the battery modules 100 and gas and / or heat are generated, the gas and / or heat will not quickly spread / transfer to other battery modules 100, thereby delaying thermal propagation. Here, thermal propagation may refer to the phenomenon in which the battery module 100 / battery cell in which thermal runaway occurs causes cascading thermal runaway in other battery modules 100 / battery cells. In addition, since high-temperature gas and / or heat are easily discharged upward, the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells can be prevented or delayed.

[0112] In addition, even when thermal runaway occurs in one of the battery modules 100 and high-temperature gas and / or heat are generated, the high-temperature gas and / or heat flow at a position higher than the upper end of the battery cells above the first cover 300. Therefore, even when the upper ends of the predetermined spaces S housing the battery cells of other battery modules 100 are open, the high-temperature gas and / or heat will not quickly spread to other battery modules 100, thereby delaying thermal propagation.

[0113] In addition, with a simple configuration, heat propagation can be easily delayed at low cost, and the deterioration of thermal runaway can be suppressed.

[0114] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may further include: a second cover 400 that is mounted above the first cover 300 and spaced apart from the first cover 300; and one or more barriers 500 that are disposed between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 and are in contact with or coupled to the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, and the one or more barriers 500 interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in a predetermined space S. When projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of mutually different exhaust holes 310 that are adjacent to each other.

[0115] Therefore, even when high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of battery modules 100 flows into the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 that communicates with the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100, the barrier 500 prevents the high-temperature gas and / or heat from flowing into the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, one or more barriers 500 may be coupled to the lower surface of the second cover 400.

[0117] Therefore, since the barrier 500 is coupled to the lower surface of the second cover 400, there may be no gap between the barrier 500 and the second cover 400 even when the pressure in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 increases. Therefore, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent high-temperature gas and / or heat in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 from flowing into the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0118] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and may be arranged side by side in a battery pack housing 200 in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction. The plurality of exhaust holes 310 may be separated from each other in the second direction. One or more barriers 500 extend in the first direction and may be arranged side by side between the plurality of exhaust holes 310 in the second direction. The first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer in the first direction than one end or the other end of the one or more barriers 500, such that gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S flows between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction on one side or the other side of each of the one or more barriers 500 in the first direction.

[0119] Therefore, since the gas and / or heat flowing in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 passes through the space on one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction and then flows through the exhaust port T of the battery pack housing 200, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. In addition, since the height of the second cover 400 or the first cover 300 can be maximized within an allowable range, the high-temperature gas and / or heat can be sufficiently away from the battery cells in the upward direction, thereby reducing the heat propagation delay effect and suppressing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0120] In addition, since the gas and / or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 flows through the same space on one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction, the structure of the battery pack can be simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack.

[0121] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on one side of one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500. In the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500.

[0122] Therefore, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent the high-temperature gas and / or heat from flowing into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through the adjacent exhaust hole 310. As a result, the heat propagation can be effectively delayed.

[0123] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0124] Therefore, after entering the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 through the exhaust hole 310, the high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by the thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of battery modules 100 is difficult to flow into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through another exhaust hole 310 located behind the barrier 500. This is because the gas and / or heat discharged from the battery module 100 where the thermal runaway occurs and flowing in the first direction through the barrier 500 must turn 180 degrees to enter the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through another exhaust hole 310 located behind the barrier 500. As a result, even when the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 is in communication with all the plurality of accommodation spaces of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100, the heat propagation can be delayed.

[0125] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110, each of the plurality of blocks 110 including one or more battery cells. For each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100, an exhaust hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100 may include a plurality of block exhaust holes 312 corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110, respectively, the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 vertically penetrating the first cover 300, communicating with the exhaust port T, and being separated from each other. Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 that houses one or more battery cells of the corresponding block 110 in the vertical direction, and have an inner circumferential surface with an upper end higher than the upper end of one or more battery cells housed in the module housing 120. A predetermined space S of each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of block spaces BS corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110, respectively. Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may house one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks 110 corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces BS, and open upward through a block exhaust hole 310 corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks 110. The plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other.

[0126] Accordingly, the block spaces BS that house the battery cells of each block 110 (e.g., dikes) belonging to the battery module 100 are separated from each other, and the high-temperature gas and / or heat may be discharged through the block exhaust holes 312 above the block spaces BS. Accordingly, even when gas and / or heat is generated due to thermal runaway occurring in any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100, the gas and / or heat may be prevented from diffusing / transferring to another block 110 and another battery module 100, thereby delaying heat propagation. In addition, since the high-temperature gas and / or heat is discharged upward, the deterioration of the thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells may be prevented or delayed.

[0127] In addition, even when gas and / or heat is generated due to thermal runaway occurring in any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100, the high-temperature gas and / or heat also flows above the first cover 300, above the battery cells of the other blocks 110 and the other battery modules 100. Accordingly, although the block spaces BS and the predetermined space S open upward, the high-temperature gas and / or heat does not rapidly diffuse / transfer to the other battery modules 100, thereby delaying heat propagation.

[0128] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may further include: a second cover 400, which is installed above the first cover 300 and spaced apart from the first cover 300; and one or more barriers 500, which are disposed between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 and in contact with or coupled to the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, and the one or more barriers 500 interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in a predetermined space S or a block space BS. When projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of different exhaust holes 310 adjacent to each other, or between a pair of different block exhaust holes 312 adjacent to each other.

[0129] Therefore, even when the high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100 enters the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, the barrier 500 prevents the high-temperature gas and / or heat from diffusing through the exhaust hole 310 into the block space BS accommodating the battery cells of another block 110 and the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100 that is in communication with the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction, and may be arranged side by side in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction in the battery pack housing 200. The plurality of exhaust holes 310 and the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may be separated from each other in the second direction. The one or more barriers 500 may extend in the first direction and may be arranged side by side in the second direction between the plurality of exhaust holes 310 and the plurality of block exhaust holes 312. The first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer in the first direction than one end or the other end of the one or more barriers 500, such that the gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S and the block space BS flows on one side or the other side in the first direction of each of the one or more barriers 500 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400.

[0131] Therefore, since the gas and / or heat flowing in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 passes through the space at one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction and then flows through the exhaust port T of the battery pack housing 200, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. In addition, since the height of the second cover 400 or the first cover 300 can be maximized within an allowable range, the high-temperature gas and / or heat can be sufficiently away from the battery cells in the upward direction, thereby reducing the heat propagation delay effect and suppressing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0132] In addition, since the gases and / or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 and the plurality of blocks 110 (e.g., block 110) in each of the plurality of battery modules 100 flow in the same space on one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction, the structure of the battery pack can be simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack.

[0133] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 or the block exhaust hole 312 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on one side adjacent to one end of the exhaust hole 310 or the block exhaust hole 312 of each barrier 500. In the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 or the block exhaust hole 312 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on the other side adjacent to the other end of the exhaust hole 310 or the block exhaust hole 312 of each barrier 500.

[0134] Therefore, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent high-temperature gases and / or heat from flowing into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 or the block space BS of the battery cell accommodating another block 110 through the adjacent exhaust hole 310 or block exhaust hole 312. As a result, heat propagation can be effectively delayed.

[0135] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0136] Therefore, after the high-temperature gases and / or heat generated by the thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of the battery module 100 enter the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 through the block exhaust hole 312, it is difficult for the high-temperature gases and / or heat to flow into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 or the block space S of the battery cell accommodating another block 110 through another exhaust hole 310 or another block exhaust hole 312 located behind the barrier 500. This is because the gases and / or heat discharged from the block 110 of the battery module 100 where the thermal runaway occurs and flowing in the first direction through the barrier 500 must turn 180 degrees to enter the predetermined space S or the block space BS of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 or another block 110 through another exhaust hole 310 or block exhaust hole 312 located behind the barrier 500. As a result, even when the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 communicates with all the plurality of accommodation spaces of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100 and all the plurality of block spaces BS of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of blocks 110, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0137] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a through-hole 214 that connects the inside and the outside of a predetermined space S and can be opened and closed may be provided at a module housing 120 or a battery pack housing 200 that defines each predetermined space S. When the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than a threshold value, the through-hole 214 may remain closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 may be opened.

[0138] Therefore, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the battery modules 100 to generate the generated gas and / or heat, the gas and / or heat are only discharged above the predetermined space S through the exhaust hole 310 of the first lid 300 and do not discharge from the predetermined space S through the through-hole 214 until the pressure in the predetermined space S exceeds the threshold value, so that the gas and / or heat remain in the predetermined space S. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0139] In addition, even when the gas and / or heat are discharged from the predetermined space S through the opened through-hole 214 due to the pressure in the predetermined space S of the battery module 100 in which thermal runaway occurs being higher than the threshold value, since the pressure in the predetermined space S of the other battery modules 100 is lower than the threshold value, the other through-holes 214 corresponding to the other battery modules 100 remain closed, thereby preventing the gas and / or heat discharged from the battery module 100 in which thermal runaway occurs from rapidly diffusing / transferring to the other battery modules 100. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0140] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of through-holes 214 may be provided. Each of the plurality of through-holes 214 may correspond to the predetermined space S of each of the plurality of battery modules 100. The battery pack housing 200 may further include a plurality of baffles 230 that are respectively installed adjacent to the plurality of through-holes 214 and respectively block the plurality of through-holes 214. When the pressure in the predetermined space S corresponding to the through-hole 214 blocked by the baffle 230 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the baffle 230 blocking the through-hole 214 is damaged to open the through-hole 214. Therefore, when the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than the threshold value, the baffle 230 remains closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the baffle 230 is opened.

[0141] Therefore, the through-hole 214 that connects the inside and the outside of the predetermined space S and can be opened and closed according to the pressure in the predetermined space S can be provided at low cost and with a simple structure.

[0142] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack housing 200 may be provided with: an accommodation space C that accommodates a plurality of battery modules 100; and a first flow space U1 through which gas or heat generated in the plurality of battery modules flows. The first flow space U1 is provided on one side of the accommodation space C in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction. The plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated side by side in the accommodation space C in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction, such that a plurality of predetermined spaces S corresponding to the plurality of battery modules 100 may be provided side by side in the second direction. A through hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S is provided on one side of the predetermined space S in the first direction to connect the predetermined space S and the first flow space U1.

[0143] Since, unlike the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, the first flow space U1 is provided at one end of the accommodation space C in the first direction instead of above the accommodation space C, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. Further, since the height of the upper ends of the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 can be maximized within an allowable range, high-temperature gas and / or heat can be kept sufficiently away from the battery cells upward, thereby improving the heat propagation delay effect and preventing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0144] In addition, since all the gas generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 flows through the first flow space U1 after passing through the through hole 214, the structure of the battery pack is simplified, and the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack can be reduced.

[0145] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each of at least one battery module among a plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110, and each of the plurality of blocks 110 includes one or more battery cells. For each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100, an exhaust hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100 may include a plurality of block exhaust holes 312 corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110 respectively. The plurality of block exhaust holes 312 penetrate the first cover 300 vertically, communicate with the exhaust port T, and are separated from each other. Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 may communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 that houses one or more battery cells of the corresponding block 110 in the vertical direction, and has an inner circumferential surface whose upper end is higher than the upper end of one or more battery cells housed in the module housing 120. A predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of block spaces BS corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110 respectively. Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may house one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks 110 corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces BS, and is open upward through the block exhaust hole 310 corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks 110. The plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other. A through hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S that houses one or more battery cells of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 connects the plurality of block spaces BS to the first flow space U1.

[0146] Therefore, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the blocks 110 and gas and / or heat are generated, the gas and / or heat are discharged to the upper part of the block space BS through the exhaust hole 310 or the block exhaust hole 312 of the first cover 300 instead of being discharged from the block space BS through the through hole 214 and staying in the block space BS until the pressure of the block space BS corresponding to the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs or the pressure of the predetermined space S including the block space BS becomes high enough. As a result, thermal propagation can be delayed.

[0147] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of block spaces BS may extend in a first direction and be arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. When the pressure in any one of the plurality of block spaces BS increases, the through hole 214 corresponding to the predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may open and connect all the plurality of block spaces BS to the first flow space U1.

[0148] Therefore, even when the block spaces BS of other blocks 110 and the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs are connected to the first flow space U1, due to the block spaces BS extending in the first direction and arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the gas and / or heat discharged from the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs through the through-hole 214 will not flow back into the block spaces BS of other blocks 110 through the through-hole 214. This is because the gas and / or heat discharged from the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs in the first direction must turn 180 degrees in order to flow into the block spaces BS of other blocks 110. As a result, even when all the block spaces BS are connected to the first flow space U1 due to an increase in pressure in any one of the multiple block spaces, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0149] In addition to the above effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be described below while explaining the specific details of implementing the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0150] Figure 1 and Figure 2 are a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the Figure 1 and Figure 2 battery pack with the second cover removed.

[0152] Figure 4 and Figure 5 are a perspective view and a plan view of the battery pack showing the Figure 3 with the first cover removed.

[0153] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the Figure 4 and Figure 5 battery pack with the battery module removed.

[0154] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the Figure 6 battery pack with the baffle removed.

[0155] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the Figures 1 to 3 first cover and second cover.

[0156] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9' of the Figure 1

[0157] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10' of the Figure 1

[0158] Figure 11 ​​It is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Figure 12 It is a table comparing the experimental results of heat propagation between the prior art and the present invention. [Description of reference numerals] 10: Battery pack

[0160] 100: Battery module 110: Block

[0161] 120: Module housing 122: Partition wall

[0162] S: Predetermined space BS: Block space

[0163] 200: Battery pack housing

[0164] 212: First partition wall 214: Through hole

[0165] 216: Through hole 218: Second partition wall

[0166] 230: Baffle

[0167] C: Accommodating space

[0168] U1: First flow space U2: Second flow space

[0169] F: Filter (F) T: Exhaust port

[0170] 300: First cover 302: Upper frame

[0171] 304: Rib 306: Through hole

[0172] 310: Exhaust hole 312: Exhaust hole

[0173] 400: Second cover 500: Barrier Detailed description of the preferred embodiment

[0174] The above objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art will be able to implement the technical concept of the present invention. When describing the present invention, when the detailed description of the prior art related to the present invention unnecessarily obscures the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components.

[0175] Although "first", "second", etc. are used to describe various elements, these elements are of course not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another, and unless otherwise specifically stated, the first element may also be the second element.

[0176] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0177] Hereinafter, "arranging an element above (or below) an element" or "arranging an element on top of (or at the bottom of) an element" not only means "arranging an element in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface)", but also means "arranging an element on the upper surface (or lower surface) with an element interposed therebetween".

[0178] In addition, when an element is described as "connected to" another element, "coupled" with another element, or "in contact with" another element, it should be understood that the element may be "directly connected to" another element, "directly coupled" with another element, or "directly in contact with" another element, or the element may be "connected to" another element, "coupled" with another element, or "in contact with" another element via yet another element or with yet another element interposed therebetween.

[0179] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms of expressions used herein include the plural forms. Terms such as "consisting of..." or "including..." used herein should not be construed as necessarily including all the elements or steps described in the specification, but should be construed as not including some elements or steps, or including additional elements or steps.

[0180] Figure 1 and Figure 2 are a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 shows the Figure 1 and Figure 2 perspective view of the second battery pack with the battery pack cover removed. Figure 4 and Figure 5 show the Figure 3 perspective view and plan view of the battery pack with the first cover removed. Figure 6 shows the Figure 4 and Figure 5 perspective view of the battery pack with the battery module removed. Figure 7 shows the Figure 6 perspective view of the battery pack with the baffle removed. Figure 8 shows Figures 1 to 3 the perspective view of the first cover and the second cover. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9' of Figure 1 the Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10' of Figure 1 the Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a table comparing the experimental results of heat propagation between the prior art and the present invention.

[0181]

Battery Pack

[0182] Referring to Figures 1 to 7 , the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules 100, a battery pack housing 200, and a first cover 300. The battery pack 10 may further include a second cover 400 and one or more barriers 500. The battery pack may further include a baffle 230.

[0183] Each component will be described in detail below.

[0184]

Battery Module

[0185] A plurality of battery modules 100 may be provided.

[0186] The plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and may be arranged side by side in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction in the battery pack housing 200.

[0187] Each battery module 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110. Each block 110 may include one or more battery cells. The block 110 may include a single battery cell or a collection of multiple battery cells.

[0188] Each battery module 100 may include one or more battery cells and a module housing 120.

[0189] The plurality of blocks 110 or one or more battery cells may be accommodated in the module housing 120. The plurality of blocks 110 or one or more battery cells may be arranged side by side in the module housing 120 in the second direction (e.g., left - right direction). The module housing 120 may be at least partially open upward.

[0190] The module housing 120 may include one or more partition walls 122 to be described later.

[0191]

Battery Pack Housing

[0192] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated in the battery pack housing 200.

[0193] For example, the battery pack housing 200 may include an accommodation space C and a first flow space U1. The battery pack housing 200 may further include a second flow space U2. The battery pack housing 200 may include an exhaust port T.

[0194] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated in the accommodation space C.

[0195] In the accommodation space C, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be accommodated side by side in the second direction (e.g., left - right direction). Accordingly, a plurality of predetermined spaces S respectively corresponding to the plurality of battery modules may be formed side by side in the second direction.

[0196] The first flow space U1 can be disposed on one side (e.g., the rear side) of the accommodation space C in a first direction (e.g., the front-rear direction). Here, the first direction can be a direction intersecting the upward and downward directions. The first flow space U1 can communicate with the accommodation space C and a predetermined space S to be described later. For example, the first flow space U1 can communicate with the predetermined space S through a through hole 214 provided on a first partition wall 212 to be described later. The gas and / or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 can flow in the first flow space U1.

[0197] The second flow space U2 can be disposed on one side (e.g., the right side) of the accommodation space C in a second direction (e.g., the left-right direction). Here, the second direction can intersect the vertical direction and the first direction. The second flow space U2 can communicate with the exhaust hole 310 of the first cover 300. In addition, the second flow space U2 can communicate with the first flow space U1 (e.g., through a through hole 216). The gas and / or heat generated from the battery modules 100 accommodated in the accommodation space C can flow in the second flow space U2.

[0198] The exhaust port T can communicate with the exhaust hole 310 of the first cover 300. The exhaust port T can also communicate with the second flow space U2. The gas and / or heat generated from the battery modules 100 accommodated in the accommodation space C can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 200 through the exhaust port T.

[0199] Meanwhile, the battery pack housing 200 can include at least one of a first partition wall 212, a second partition wall 218, and a filter F.

[0200] The first partition wall 212 can separate the accommodation space C from the first flow space U1. The first partition wall 212 can define a predetermined space S to be described later. A through hole 214 to be described later can be provided in the first partition wall 212.

[0201] The second partition wall 218 can separate the accommodation space C from the second flow space U2. The second partition wall 218 can define a predetermined space S to be described later.

[0202] The filter F can be disposed between the second flow space U2 and the exhaust port T. The filter F can prevent flammable particles separated from the battery cells due to thermal runaway or the like from being discharged to the outside.

[0203] In summary, the gas and / or heat generated by the battery module 100 accommodated in the accommodation space C sequentially flow through the exhaust holes 310, the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, the second flow space U2, the filter F, and the exhaust port T to be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 200, or flow through the through hole 214, the first flow space U1, the second flow space U2, the filter F, and the exhaust port T to be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 200( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

[0204]

First Cover

[0205] With further reference Figures 8 to 10 , the first cover 300 can cover the upper parts of the plurality of battery modules 100. The first cover 300 can be coupled to the module housing 120 of the battery module 100 or coupled to the battery pack housing 200.

[0206] The first cover 300 can include / be provided with a plurality of exhaust holes 310.

[0207] The plurality of exhaust holes 310 can respectively correspond to the plurality of battery modules 100. The plurality of exhaust holes 310 can vertically penetrate the first cover 300. The plurality of exhaust holes 310 can communicate with the exhaust port T. For example, the plurality of exhaust holes 310 can communicate with the exhaust port T through a through hole 306 adjacent to the exhaust port T and vertically penetrating the first cover 300.

[0208] Each of the plurality of exhaust holes 310 can communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100 in the vertical direction. Each of the plurality of exhaust holes 310 can have an inner circumferential surface whose upper end is higher than the upper ends of one or more battery cells accommodated in the module housing 120 of the corresponding battery module 100.

[0209] When the plurality of battery modules 100 extend in the first direction and are accommodated side by side in the battery pack housing 200 in the second direction, the plurality of exhaust holes 310 can be separated from each other in the second direction.

[0210] Specifically, for example, the first cover 300 can include an upper frame 302 and one or more ribs 304 (figure).

[0211] The upper frame 302 can have a plate shape. The plurality of exhaust holes 310 can be provided at the upper frame 302.

[0212] The one or more ribs 304 will be described later.

[0213]

Predetermined Space

[0214] A plurality of predetermined spaces S may be defined. The plurality of predetermined spaces S may respectively correspond to a plurality of battery modules 100. Specifically, in each battery module 100, at least one of the module housing 120 of the battery module 100 and the battery pack housing 200 and the first cover 300 may define a predetermined space S corresponding to the battery module 100.

[0215] Each predetermined space S may accommodate one or more battery cells of the corresponding battery module 100. Each predetermined space S may be blocked on all sides but open upward through the vent hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100.

[0216] The different predetermined spaces S corresponding to different battery modules 100 may be separated from each other. For example, the plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other by the module housing 120.

[0217] Therefore, the predetermined spaces S accommodating the battery cells of each battery module 100 are separated from each other, so that high-temperature gas and / or heat can be discharged above the upper part of the predetermined space S through the vent hole 310 of the first cover 300. Therefore, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the battery modules 100 and gas and / or heat are generated, the gas and / or heat will not quickly spread / transfer to other battery modules 100, thereby delaying thermal propagation. Here, thermal propagation may refer to the phenomenon in which the battery module 100 / battery cell in which thermal runaway occurs causes cascading thermal runaway in other battery modules 100 / battery cells. In addition, since high-temperature gas and / or heat are easily discharged upward, the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells can be prevented or delayed.

[0218] In addition, even when thermal runaway occurs in one of the battery modules 100 and high-temperature gas and / or heat are generated, the high-temperature gas and / or heat flow at a position higher than the upper end of the battery cell above the first cover 300. Therefore, even when the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of other battery modules 100 is open at its upper end, the high-temperature gas and / or heat will not quickly spread to other battery modules 100, thereby delaying thermal propagation.

[0219] In addition, with a simple structure, thermal propagation can be easily delayed at low cost, and the deterioration of thermal runaway can be suppressed.

[0220]

Second Cover and Barrier

[0221] The second cover 400 may be installed above the first cover 300 and spaced apart from the first cover 300 by a predetermined distance.

[0222] One or more barriers 500 may be provided between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400. One or more barriers 500 may be in contact with or coupled to the first cover 300 and the second cover 400. One or more barriers 500 may interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells housed in a predetermined space S.

[0223] When projected onto a horizontal plane, each of one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of different exhaust holes 310 adjacent to each other.

[0224] Therefore, even when high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of battery modules 100 flows into the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 and communicates with the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100, the barrier 500 prevents the high-temperature gas and / or heat from flowing into the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100. As a result, thermal propagation can be delayed.

[0225] One or more barriers 500 may be coupled to the lower surface of the second cover 400.

[0226] Therefore, since the barrier 500 is coupled to the lower surface of the second cover 400, there is no gap between the barrier 500 and the second cover 400 even when the pressure in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 increases. Therefore, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent high-temperature gas and / or heat in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 from flowing into the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100. As a result, thermal propagation can be delayed.

[0227] When the plurality of exhaust holes 310 are separated from each other in the second direction, one or more barriers 500 may extend in the first direction and be arranged side by side between the plurality of exhaust holes 310 in the second direction.

[0228] Here, the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer in the first direction than one end (e.g., the rear end) or the other end (e.g., the front end) of one or more barriers 500, such that gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells housed in the predetermined space S flows between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 in a direction (e.g., the second direction) intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction on one side or the other side of each of one or more barriers 500 in the first direction ( Figure 10 ).

[0229] Therefore, since the gas and / or heat flowing in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 passes through the space on one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction and then flows through the exhaust port T of the battery pack housing 200, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. In addition, since the height of the second cover 400 or the first cover 300 can be maximized within an allowable range, the high-temperature gas and / or heat can be sufficiently away from the battery cells in the upward direction, thereby reducing the heat propagation delay effect and suppressing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0230] In addition, since the gas and / or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 flows through the same space on one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction, the structure of the battery pack can be simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack.

[0231] Here, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on one side of one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 ( Figure 10 ). In addition, in the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 may be in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500, or may be located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 ( Figure 10 ).

[0232] Therefore, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent the high-temperature gas and / or heat from flowing into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through the adjacent exhaust holes 310. As a result, the heat propagation can be effectively delayed.

[0233] Here, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0234] Therefore, after the high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by the thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of battery modules 100 enters the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 through the exhaust hole 310, it is difficult for the high-temperature gas and / or heat to flow into the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through another exhaust hole 310 located behind the barrier 500. This is because the gas and / or heat discharged from the battery module 100 where the thermal runaway occurs and flowing in the first direction through the barrier 500 must turn 180 degrees to enter the predetermined space S of the battery cell accommodating another battery module 100 through another exhaust hole 310 located behind the barrier 500. As a result, even when the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 is communicated with all the plurality of accommodation spaces of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100, the heat propagation can be delayed.

[0235]

Blocks, Block Vent Holes, and Block Spaces

[0236] Each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of blocks 110. Each of the plurality of blocks 110 may include one or more battery cells. Here, the block 110 may be a dike.

[0237] For each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100, the vent hole 310 corresponding to the battery module 100 may include a plurality of block vent holes 312.

[0238] The plurality of block vent holes 312 may respectively correspond to the plurality of blocks 110. The plurality of block vent holes 312 may vertically penetrate the first cover 300. The plurality of block vent holes 312 may communicate with the vent port T. The plurality of block vent holes 312 may be separated from each other.

[0239] Each of the plurality of block vent holes 312 may communicate with the internal space of the module housing 120 that houses one or more battery cells of the corresponding block 110 in the vertical direction. Each of the plurality of block vent holes 312 may have an inner circumferential surface whose upper end is higher than the upper end of one or more battery cells housed in the module housing 120.

[0240] The predetermined space S of each of at least one battery module among the plurality of battery modules 100 may include a plurality of block spaces BS respectively corresponding to the plurality of blocks 110.

[0241] Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may accommodate one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks 110 corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces BS. Each of the plurality of block spaces BS may open upward through the block vent hole 312 corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks 110.

[0242] The plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other. For example, the plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other by one or more partition walls 122 of the module housing 120.

[0243] Therefore, the block spaces BS that accommodate the battery cells of each block 110 (e.g., dike) belonging to the battery module 100 are separated from each other, and high-temperature gas and / or heat may be discharged through the block vent holes 312 above the block spaces BS. Therefore, even when gas and / or heat are generated due to thermal runaway occurring in any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100, the gas and / or heat can be prevented from diffusing / transferring to another block 110 and another battery module 100, thereby delaying thermal propagation. In addition, since the high-temperature gas and / or heat are discharged upward, the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells can be prevented or delayed.

[0244] In addition, even when gas and / or heat are generated due to thermal runaway occurring in any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100, the high-temperature gas and / or heat flow above the first cover 300 and flow above the tops of the battery cells of other blocks 110 and other battery modules 100. Therefore, although the block space BS and the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of other blocks 110 and other battery modules 100 are open upward, the high-temperature gas and / or heat do not rapidly diffuse / transfer to other battery modules 100, thereby delaying heat propagation.

[0245] Meanwhile, one or more barriers 500 may interfere with the flow of gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S or the block space BS. In addition, when projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers 500 may be disposed between a pair of different exhaust holes 310 adjacent to each other, or between a pair of different block exhaust holes 312 adjacent to each other.

[0246] Here, a pair of exhaust holes 310 adjacent to each other may respectively correspond to a pair of adjacent battery modules 100. In addition, a pair of block exhaust holes 312 may be a pair of adjacent block exhaust holes 312 included in the exhaust holes 310 of the same battery module 100.

[0247] Therefore, even when the high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by thermal runaway of any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of any battery module 100 enters the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, the barrier 500 prevents the high-temperature gas and / or heat from diffusing through the exhaust holes 310 into the block space BS accommodating the battery cells of another block 110 and the predetermined space S accommodating the battery cells of another battery module 100 that communicate with the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, thereby delaying heat propagation.

[0248] In addition, the plurality of battery modules 100 may extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction, and may be arranged side by side in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction in the battery pack housing 200. When the plurality of exhaust holes 310 and the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 are separated from each other in the second direction, one or more barriers 500 may extend in the first direction and may be arranged side by side in the second direction between the plurality of exhaust holes 310 and the plurality of block exhaust holes 312 ( Figure 4 ).

[0249] Here, as described above, the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 may extend longer in the first direction than one end or the other end of one or more barriers 500, such that gas or heat generated from one or more battery cells accommodated in the predetermined space S and the block space BS flows between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 in a direction (e.g., the second direction) intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction on one side or the other side in the first direction of each of the one or more barriers 500( Figure 3 ).

[0250] Accordingly, since the gas and / or heat flowing in the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 passes through the space at one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction and then flows through the exhaust port T of the battery pack housing 200, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. Further, since the height of the second cover 400 or the first cover 300 can be maximized within an allowable range, the high-temperature gas and / or heat can be sufficiently away from the battery cells in the upward direction, thereby reducing the heat propagation delay effect and suppressing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0251] In addition, since the gas and / or heat generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 and each of the plurality of blocks 110 (e.g., the block 110) in each of the plurality of battery modules 100 flows in the same space at one side or the other side of the barrier 500 in the first direction, the structure of the battery pack can be simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack.

[0252] Here, in the first direction, one end of each barrier 500 is in the same position as one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 or one end of the block exhaust hole 312, or is located on one side of one end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 or one end of the block exhaust hole 312( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). Further, in the first direction, the other end of each barrier 500 is in the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 or the other end of the block exhaust hole 312, or is located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole 310 adjacent to each barrier 500 or the other end of the block exhaust hole 312( Figure 10 ).

[0253] Accordingly, the barrier 500 can effectively prevent high-temperature gas and / or heat from flowing into the accommodation space of the battery cells accommodating another battery module 100 or the block space BS of the battery cells accommodating another block 110 through the adjacent exhaust holes 310 or block exhaust holes 312. As a result, heat propagation can be effectively delayed.

[0254] Here, as described above, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0255] Therefore, after the high-temperature gas and / or heat generated by thermal runaway in any one of the plurality of blocks 110 of the battery module 100 enters the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 through the block exhaust hole 312, it is difficult for the high-temperature gas and / or heat to flow into the predetermined space S of the battery cells accommodating another battery module 100 or the block space S of the battery cells accommodating another block 110 through another exhaust hole 310 or another block exhaust hole 312 located behind the barrier 500. This is because the gas and / or heat discharged from the block 110 of the battery module 100 where thermal runaway occurs and flowing in the first direction through the barrier 500 must turn 180 degrees to enter the predetermined space S or the block space BS of the battery cells accommodating another battery module 100 or another block 110 through another exhaust hole 310 or block exhaust hole 312 located behind the barrier 500. As a result, even when the space between the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 is in communication with all the plurality of accommodation spaces of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100 and all the plurality of block spaces BS of the battery cells accommodating the plurality of blocks 110, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0256]

Partition Wall and Rib

[0257] The module housing 120 of at least one battery module 100 in the battery module 100 may include a partition wall 122.

[0258] The partition walls 122 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction. For example, the partition walls 122 may be spaced apart from each other and arranged side by side in the second direction (e.g., the left-right direction). The partition walls 122 may partition the space (block space) in which the battery cells belonging to different blocks 110 are accommodated.

[0259] With further reference to Figure 11 , the first cover 300 may include an upper frame 302 and one or more ribs 304.

[0260] One or more ribs 304 may protrude downward from the lower surface of the upper frame 302. One or more ribs 304 may respectively correspond to the side walls of the module housing 120 and / or one or more partition walls 122. When projected onto a horizontal plane, one or more ribs 304 may extend along the side walls of the module housing 120 and / or one or more partition walls 122 to be adjacent to or in contact with the side walls of the module housing 120 and / or one or more partition walls 122 respectively.

[0261] The plurality of block spaces BS may be partitioned in the predetermined space S by one or more partition walls 122 and one or more ribs 320, and thus, the plurality of block spaces BS may be separated from each other.

[0262] When projected onto a horizontal plane, the partition wall 122 and the ribs 304 can be disposed between a pair of adjacent exhaust holes 310.

[0263]

Through-holes and baffles

[0264] A plurality of through-holes 214 can be provided. The through-holes 214 can be provided in the module housing 120 or the battery pack housing 200 that defines each predetermined space S. For example, at the first partition wall 212 of the battery pack housing 200 that defines two predetermined spaces S together with two module housings 120 and two module covers 300, two through-holes 214 that connect the inside and the outside of the two predetermined spaces S and can be opened and closed can be provided ( Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 ).

[0265] A plurality of through-holes 214 can be provided. Each of the plurality of through-holes 214 can correspond to the predetermined space S of each of the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0266] When the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 can remain closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 can be opened.

[0267] Therefore, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the battery modules 100 to generate the generated gas and / or heat, before the pressure in the predetermined space S corresponding to the battery module 100 in which thermal runaway occurs exceeds the threshold value, the gas and / or heat are only discharged above the predetermined space S through the exhaust hole 310 of the first cover 300 and do not discharge from the predetermined space S through the through-hole 214, so that the gas and / or heat are retained in the predetermined space S. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0268] In addition, even when the gas and / or heat are discharged from the predetermined space S through the opened through-hole 214 due to the pressure in the predetermined space S of the battery module 100 in which thermal runaway occurs being higher than the threshold value, since the pressure in the predetermined space S of the other battery modules 100 is lower than the threshold value, the other through-holes 214 corresponding to the other battery modules 100 remain closed, thereby preventing the gas and / or heat discharged from the battery module 100 in which thermal runaway occurs from quickly diffusing / transferring to the other battery modules 100. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0269] A plurality of through-holes 214 can be provided. Each of the plurality of through-holes 214 can correspond to the predetermined space S of each of the plurality of battery modules 100 ( Figure 4 and Figure 7 ).

[0270] Meanwhile, as described above, the first flow space U1 of the battery pack housing 200 is provided on one side (e.g., the rear side) of the accommodation space C in the first direction, and a plurality of battery modules 100 are accommodated side by side in the accommodation space C in the second direction. Accordingly, a plurality of predetermined spaces S corresponding to the plurality of battery modules 100 are provided side by side in the second direction. Here, through holes 214 corresponding to the predetermined spaces S are provided on one side (e.g., the rear side) of the predetermined spaces S in the first direction to communicate the predetermined spaces S and the first flow space U1( Figure 1 and Figure 9 ).

[0271] Since, unlike the first cover 300 and the second cover 400, the first flow space U1 is provided on one side of the accommodation space C in the first direction rather than above the accommodation space C, the height of the battery pack can be reduced. As a result, a smaller battery pack can be manufactured. In addition, since the height of the upper ends of the first cover 300 and the second cover 400 can be maximized within an allowable range, high-temperature gas and / or heat can be kept sufficiently away from the battery cells upward, thereby improving the heat propagation delay effect and preventing the deterioration of thermal runaway occurring in the battery cells.

[0272] In addition, since all the gas generated from the plurality of battery modules 100 flows through the first flow space U1 after passing through the through holes 214, the structure of the battery pack is simplified, and the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery pack can be reduced.

[0273] Here, in each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100 including the plurality of blocks 110, the through holes 214 corresponding to the predetermined spaces S accommodating one or more battery cells can connect the plurality of block spaces BS to the first flow space U1.

[0274] Accordingly, before the pressure of the block space BS corresponding to the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs or the pressure of the predetermined space S including the block space BS becomes high enough, even when thermal runaway occurs in any one of the blocks 110 and gas and / or heat are generated, the gas and / or heat are discharged to the upper part of the block space BS through the exhaust holes 310 or the block exhaust holes 312 of the first cover 300 rather than discharged from the block space BS through the through holes 214 and stay in the block space BS. As a result, heat propagation can be delayed.

[0275] Here, the plurality of block spaces BS can extend in the first direction and be provided side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and when the pressure of any one of the plurality of block spaces BS increases, the through holes 214 corresponding to the predetermined spaces S of each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules 100 can be opened so that the plurality of block spaces BS are connected to the first flow space U1.

[0276] Therefore, even when the block spaces BS of other blocks 110 and the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs are connected to the first flow space U1, since the multiple block spaces BS extend in the first direction and are arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the gas and / or heat discharged through the through-hole 214 from the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs will not flow back into the block spaces BS of other blocks 110 through the through-hole 214. This is because the gas and / or heat discharged from the block space BS of the block 110 in which thermal runaway occurs in the first direction must turn 180 degrees in order to flow into the block spaces BS of other blocks 110. As a result, even when all the block spaces BS are connected to the first flow space U1 due to an increase in pressure in any one of the multiple block spaces, thermal propagation can be delayed.

[0277] A plurality of baffles 230 can be provided. The plurality of baffles 230 can be respectively installed adjacent to the plurality of through-holes 214. The plurality of baffles 230 can respectively block the plurality of through-holes 214 ( Figure 9 and Figure 10 ).

[0278] When the pressure in a predetermined space S corresponding to the through-hole 214 blocked by the baffle 230 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the baffle 230 blocking the through-hole 214 is damaged to open the through-hole 214. Therefore, when the pressure in the predetermined space S is less than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 remains closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space S is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through-hole 214 opens.

[0279] Therefore, a through-hole 214 that can be opened and closed according to the pressure in the predetermined space S and that connects the inside and outside of the predetermined space S can be provided at low cost and with a simple structure.

[0280]

Experimental Results

[0281] Further referring to Figure 12 , according to the present invention, after thermal runaway occurs in one of the multiple battery modules 100 of the battery pack, the time required for thermal propagation to reach the adjacent battery module 100 is about 17 minutes (1022 seconds), while in a conventional battery pack, this time is 8 seconds. That is to say, in the battery pack of the present invention, thermal propagation is significantly delayed.

[0282] Meanwhile, in Figure 12 , "V0" represents the time required for the voltage of the battery module 100 until thermal runaway occurs to reach 0V, and "pressure" represents the value obtained by subtracting 1 (unit: bar) from the measured value.

[0283] It should be understood that the described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention will be indicated by the appended claims rather than the detailed description. In addition, the meaning and scope of the following claims and all changes and variations derived from equivalent concepts should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

[0284] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the exemplary drawings, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope and concept of the present invention. In addition, although the operational effects of the configurations according to the present invention are not explicitly described when describing the embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that predictable effects can also be identified through these configurations.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery modules (100), wherein each of the plurality of battery modules (100) includes one or more battery cells and a module housing (120) that houses the one or more battery cells and is at least partially open upward; a battery pack housing (200) that houses the plurality of battery modules (100) and is provided with an exhaust port (T); and a first cover (300) that covers an upper portion of the plurality of battery modules (100), the first cover (300) being provided with a plurality of exhaust holes (310) corresponding to the plurality of battery modules (100) respectively, the plurality of exhaust holes (310) vertically penetrating the first cover (300) and communicating with the exhaust port (T), wherein each of the plurality of exhaust holes (310) communicates with an internal space of the module housing (120) of the corresponding battery module (100) in a vertical direction, and a height position of an upper end of an inner circumferential surface of the plurality of exhaust holes (310) is higher than a height position of an upper end of the battery cells housed in the module housing (120) of the battery module (100), in each of the plurality of battery modules (100), at least one of the module housing (120) of the battery module (100) and the battery pack housing (200) and the first cover (300) define a predetermined space (S) corresponding to the battery module (100), the predetermined space (S) houses the one or more battery cells of the battery module (100), is blocked on all sides but is open upward through the exhaust hole (310) corresponding to the battery module (100), and the predetermined spaces (S) corresponding to the different battery modules (100) are separated from each other.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, the battery pack further comprising: a second cover (400) that is installed above the first cover (300) and is spaced apart from the first cover (300) by a predetermined distance; and one or more barriers (500) that are provided between the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) and contact or are coupled to the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) in the vertical direction, the one or more barriers (500) interfering with a flow of gas or heat generated by the battery cells housed in the predetermined space (S), wherein when projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers (500) is provided between a pair of adjacent exhaust holes (310) that are different from each other.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The barrier (500) is coupled to a lower surface of the second cover (400).

4. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of battery modules (100) extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and are arranged side by side in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction in the battery pack housing (200). The plurality of exhaust holes (310) are separated from each other in the second direction. The one or more barriers (500) extend in the first direction and are arranged side by side in the second direction between the plurality of exhaust holes (310), and The first cover (300) and the second cover (400) extend longer in the first direction than one end or the other end of the one or more barriers (500), so that gas or heat generated from the one or more battery cells accommodated in each predetermined space (S) flows between the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) and can flow along a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction on one side or the other side in the first direction of each of the one or more barriers (500).

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein, In the first direction, one end of each barrier (500) in the first direction is located at the same position as one end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to the barrier (500) in the first direction, or on one side of one end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to the barrier (500) in the first direction, and In the first direction, the other end of each barrier (500) in the first direction is located at the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to the barrier (500) in the first direction, or on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to the barrier (500) in the first direction.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein, The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, Each of at least one battery module (100) among the plurality of battery modules (100) includes a plurality of blocks (110), and each of the plurality of blocks (110) includes the one or more battery cells. For each of at least one battery module (100) among the plurality of battery modules (100), the exhaust hole (310) corresponding to the battery module (100) includes a plurality of block exhaust holes (312) corresponding to the plurality of blocks (110) respectively. The plurality of block exhaust holes (312) are formed to penetrate in the vertical direction, communicate with the exhaust port (T), and are separated from each other. Each of the plurality of block exhaust holes (312) communicates vertically with the internal space of the module housing (120) that houses the one or more battery cells of the corresponding block (110), and the height position of the upper end of the inner circumferential surface is higher than the height position of the upper end of the one or more battery cells housed in the module housing (120). Each of the predetermined spaces (S) of at least one battery module (100) among the plurality of battery modules (100) includes a plurality of block spaces (BS) corresponding to the plurality of blocks (110) respectively. Each of the plurality of block spaces (BS) houses one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks (110) corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces (BS), and opens upward through the block vent holes (310) corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks (110), and the plurality of block spaces (BS) are separated from each other.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, further comprising: a second cover (400) mounted above the first cover (300) and spaced apart from the first cover (300) by a predetermined distance; and one or more barriers (500) disposed between the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) and contacting or coupled to the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) in a vertical direction, the one or more barriers (500) interfering with the flow of gas or heat generated from the one or more battery cells housed in the predetermined space (S) or block space (BS), wherein, when projected onto a horizontal plane, each of the one or more barriers (500) is disposed between a pair of different vent holes (310) adjacent to each other or between a pair of different block vent holes (312) adjacent to each other.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein, The plurality of battery modules (100) extend in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and are arranged side by side in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction in the battery pack housing (200), the plurality of vent holes (310) and the plurality of block vent holes (312) are separated from each other in the second direction, the one or more barriers (500) extend in the first direction and are arranged side by side in the second direction between the plurality of vent holes (310) and the plurality of block vent holes (312), and the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) extend longer than one end or the other end of the one or more barriers (500) in the first direction, such that gas or heat generated from the one or more battery cells housed in the predetermined space (S) and block space (BS) flows on one side or the other side in the first direction of each of the one or more barriers (500) in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction between the first cover (300) and the second cover (400).

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein, In the first direction, one end of each barrier (500) in the first direction is located at the same position as one end of the vent hole (310) adjacent to each barrier (500) or one end of the block vent hole (312) in the first direction, or on one side of one end of the vent hole (310) adjacent to each barrier (500) or one end of the block vent hole (312) in the first direction, and In the first direction, the other end of each barrier (500) in the first direction is located at the same position as the other end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to each barrier (500) in the first direction or the other end of the block exhaust hole (312) in the first direction, or is located on the other side of the other end of the exhaust hole (310) adjacent to each barrier (500) in the first direction or the other end of the block exhaust hole (312) in the first direction.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein, The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

12. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, At the module housing (120) or the battery pack housing (200) that defines each predetermined space (S), there is provided a through hole (214) that connects the inside and outside of the predetermined space (S) and can be opened and closed. When the pressure in the predetermined space (S) is less than the threshold value, the through hole (214) remains closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space (S) is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through hole (214) opens.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, A plurality of through holes (214) are provided, and each of the plurality of through holes (214) corresponds to the predetermined space (S) of the plurality of battery modules (100). The battery pack housing (200) further includes a plurality of baffles (230) that are respectively mounted adjacent to the plurality of through holes (214) and block the plurality of through holes (214), and when the pressure in the predetermined space (S) corresponding to the through hole (214) blocked by the baffle (230) is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the baffle (230) is damaged to open the through hole (214), and therefore, when the pressure in the predetermined space (S) is less than the threshold value, the through hole (214) remains closed, and when the pressure in the predetermined space (S) is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the through hole (214) opens.

14. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The battery pack housing (200) is provided with: a receiving space (C) that receives the plurality of battery modules (100); and a first flow space (U1) in which gas or heat generated in the plurality of battery modules flows. The first flow space (U1) is provided on one side of the receiving space (C) in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction. The plurality of battery modules (100) are received side by side in the receiving space (C) in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction, such that a plurality of predetermined spaces (S) respectively corresponding to the plurality of battery modules (100) are arranged side by side in the second direction, and in each of the predetermined spaces (S), the through hole (214) corresponding to the predetermined space (S) is provided on one side of the predetermined space (S) in the first direction to connect the predetermined space (S) and the first flow space (U1).

15. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, Each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules (100) includes a plurality of blocks (110), and each of the plurality of blocks (110) includes the one or more battery cells. For each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules (100), the vent hole (310) corresponding to the battery module (100) includes a plurality of block vent holes (312) respectively corresponding to the plurality of blocks (110), and the plurality of block vent holes (312) are formed to penetrate in the vertical direction, communicate with the vent port (T), and are separated from each other. Each of the plurality of block vent holes (312) vertically communicates with the internal space of the module housing (120) that houses the one or more battery cells included in the corresponding block (110), and the height position of the upper end of the inner circumferential surface is higher than the height position of the upper end of the one or more battery cells housed in the module housing (120). The predetermined space (S) of each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules (100) includes a plurality of block spaces (BS) respectively corresponding to the plurality of blocks (110). Each of the plurality of block spaces (BS) houses the one or more battery cells included in each of the plurality of blocks (110) corresponding to each of the plurality of block spaces (BS), and opens upward through the block vent hole (310) corresponding to each of the plurality of blocks (110). The plurality of block spaces (BS) are separated from each other, and the through hole (214) corresponding to the predetermined space (S) that houses the one or more battery cells of each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules (100) connects the plurality of block spaces (BS) to the first flow space (U1).

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, wherein, The plurality of block spaces (BS) extend in the first direction and are arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and when the pressure in any one of the plurality of block spaces (BS) increases, the through hole (214) corresponding to the predetermined space (S) of each of at least one of the plurality of battery modules (100) opens and connects all the plurality of block spaces (BS) to the first flow space (U1).

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