Battery module

Abstract

The battery module of the present disclosure may include a plurality of cells; the bus bar assembly is arranged on one side of the plurality of battery cells and is connected with the plurality of battery cells; and a protective member provided on at least a portion of a surface of the bus bar assembly facing the plurality of cells.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module, and more particularly, to a battery module for delaying heat propagation (TP) during thermal runaway of a battery cell. Background Art

[0002] Battery cells generate a large amount of heat during charging and discharging. If this internal heat is not suppressed promptly, flames or heat could spread to adjacent cells, causing significant damage. Therefore, one of the key challenges is to promptly suppress the heat generated within the battery module and prevent the spread of flames or heat. Summary of the Invention

[0003] (1) Technical issues to be resolved

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module may be provided that is capable of delaying (mitigating) the propagation of high-temperature gas (eg, off gas) or heat inside the battery module due to thermal runaway of a battery cell.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module having a prolonged service life by improving heat resistance or fire resistance may be provided.

[0006] On the other hand, the battery module disclosed herein can be widely used in electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other green technology fields such as solar power generation and wind power generation that utilize batteries. Furthermore, the battery module disclosed herein can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, which aim to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0007] (2) Technical solution

[0008] In order to solve the above technical problems, the battery module disclosed herein may include: a plurality of battery cells; a bus bar assembly, arranged on one side of the plurality of battery cells and connected to the plurality of battery cells; and a protective component, arranged on at least a portion of a side of the bus bar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells.

[0009] In one embodiment, the battery module may further include: a fire-resistant member disposed in an accommodation space formed by electrode leads protruding from the plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells, and the bus bar assembly.

[0010] In one embodiment, the refractory component may have a cylindrical shape.

[0011] In one embodiment, the refractory component may include a plurality of granular materials.

[0012] In one embodiment, the busbar assembly may include: a busbar electrically connected to the multiple battery cells; and a busbar frame arranged between the busbar and the multiple battery cells and supporting the busbar, and the thickness of the protective component may be less than the thickness of the busbar frame or the thickness of the busbar.

[0013] In one embodiment, the melting point of the protection member may be higher than the melting point of the busbar frame.

[0014] In one embodiment, the busbar frame may include partitions that protrude from a side of the busbar assembly facing the multiple battery cells toward the multiple battery cells, and the protective component may be arranged on a side of the busbar assembly facing the multiple battery cells and located between the partitions.

[0015] In one embodiment, the protection component may include a plurality of protection units, the plurality of protection units covering a side of the bus bar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells and being separated from each other by the separator.

[0016] In one embodiment, the protective member may cover at least a portion of the partition.

[0017] In one embodiment, the protection component may include a bent portion bent along the partition.

[0018] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes: a blocking member disposed at least partially between the plurality of battery cells, and the blocking member may be inserted between the separators.

[0019] In one embodiment, the protection component may be attached to one side of the bus bar assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, the protective component may comprise a refractory material.

[0021] In one embodiment, the protection component may be injection molded on one surface of the busbar assembly.

[0022] In one embodiment, the bus bar assembly may include: a bus bar electrically connected to the multiple battery cells; and a bus bar frame arranged between the bus bar and the multiple battery cells and supporting the bus bar, the multiple battery cells can be stacked in a first direction, the bus bar and the bus bar frame can be combined in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, the length of the protective component can be greater than the length of the bus bar.

[0023] In one embodiment, the battery module may further include: a module body accommodating the plurality of battery cells, the bus bar assembly, and the protective member and including an opening on one side; and a module cover coupled to the module body to close the opening.

[0024] (3) Beneficial effects

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the spread of high-temperature gas (eg, escaped gas) or heat inside a battery module may be delayed (mitigated).

[0026] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, since heat resistance or fire resistance is improved, the service life of the battery module may be extended. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 is an exploded view illustrating a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a bus bar frame and a protection member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a bus bar frame and a protection member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a bus bar frame and a protection member according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 8is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Description of reference numerals:

[0037] 10: Battery module 100: Battery cell

[0038] 300: Busbar assembly 310: Busbar frame

[0039] 320: Busbar 315: Partition

[0040] 350: Protection component 350U: Multiple protection units

[0041] 350B: Bend portion 350S: Side wall portion

[0042] 410: First refractory component 420: Second refractory component DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated. In addition, in the present disclosure, a battery cell refers to a battery or secondary battery that can be charged and discharged.

[0044] Figure 1 is an exploded view illustrating a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Reference Figure 1 The battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery cells 100 , a module body 210 , a module cover 220 , an end plate 230 , a bus bar assembly 300 , and a first fire-resistant component 410 .

[0046] Reference Figure 1 The battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery cells 100 , a module body 210 , a module cover 220 , an end plate 230 , and a bus bar assembly 300 .

[0047] Each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may include an electrode assembly and an outer casing. The outer casing of the plurality of battery cells 100 may contain the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. For example, the outer casing may be implemented in various shapes such as a bag, a prismatic shape, or a cylindrical shape.

[0048] The plurality of battery cells 100 may be various types of secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, vanadium-ion batteries, all-solid-state batteries, metal-air batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and aluminum-ion batteries.

[0049] The plurality of battery cells 100 may be stacked in the first direction X. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be disposed at predetermined intervals in the first direction X. The plurality of battery cells 100 may output or store electric energy.

[0050] The blocking member 150 may be disposed at least partially between the plurality of battery cells 100 . The blocking member 150 may be disposed between the plurality of battery cells 100 in the first direction X. At least a portion of one side of the blocking member 150 may be covered by the plurality of battery cells 100 .

[0051] The blocking member 150 may protrude further outward than the plurality of battery cells 100 in the third direction Z. For example, the blocking member 150 may protrude further toward the module cover 220 than the plurality of battery cells 100 in the third direction Z. The blocking member 150 may minimize the path for heat or flame to propagate to other adjacent battery cells 100 when any battery cell 100 experiences thermal runaway.

[0052] The blocking member 150 may protrude further outward than the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. For example, the blocking member 150 may protrude further toward the end plate 230 than the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. In the first direction X, the ends of the blocking member 150 may be disposed between the electrode leads 120. In the first direction X, the ends of the blocking member 150 may be disposed alternately with the electrode leads 120.

[0053] The module body 210, module cover 220, and end plates 230 may be combined to form an internal space. The module body 210, module cover 220, and end plates 230 protect the multiple battery cells 100 housed in the internal space from external impacts, foreign matter, and the like. The module body 210, module cover 220, and end plates 230 may each be made of a metal or a polymer.

[0054] The module body 210, module cover 220, and end plates 230 can accommodate multiple battery cells 100 internally. The module body 210 and module cover 220 can be connected to form a hexahedron with open front and rear surfaces. The module body 210, module cover 220, and end plates 230 can prevent the multiple battery cells 100 from being damaged by external impact, heat, vibration, or pressure.

[0055] The module body 210 may include an opening 211 that opens toward the upper surface. In an embodiment, the module body 210 may include an opening 211 that opens in the third direction Z. Multiple battery cells 100 may be disposed on the module body 210 through the opening 211. The module body 210 may include side bodies formed by extending the edges of the module body 210 toward the upper surface to cover the multiple battery cells 100. In an embodiment, the module body 210 may have a U-shape.

[0056] The module body 210 may overlap at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the module body 210 may overlap a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100 in the third direction Z. The module body 210 may be disposed below the plurality of battery cells 100. The module body 210 may overlap the lower surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100 in the third direction Z. The module body 210 may support the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0057] The module body 210 may have high thermal conductivity. For example, the module body 210 may include a heat transfer component between the module body 210 and the plurality of battery cells 100. The heat transfer component may have adhesive properties and a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to a reference value. For example, the heat transfer component may be made of a thermally conductive polymer, such as an epoxy or polyurethane-based material.

[0058] The blocking member 150 and the heat transfer member may be separate members, but the blocking member 150 may also function as a heat transfer member. To this end, the blocking member 150 may be formed as a composite layer.

[0059] The module cover 220 may be coupled to the module body 210. The module cover 220 may be coupled to the module body 210 to form an inner side of a space for accommodating the plurality of battery cells 100. The module cover 220 may be coupled to the module body 210 to close the opening 211. The module cover 220 may overlap at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100 in the third direction Z. For example, the module cover 220 may overlap the upper surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100. The module cover 220 may cover at least a portion of the upper surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0060] The module cover 220 may overlap the bus bar assembly 300 in the third direction Z. For example, the module cover 220 may cover an upper surface of the bus bar assembly 300 .

[0061] The end plate 230 may be connected to the module body 210 and the module cover 220 to form a side of the internal space for accommodating the plurality of battery cells 100. The end plate 230 may be disposed on one side of the plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the end plate 230 may overlap with the side of the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. The end plate 230 may cover the side of the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. The end plate 230 may be disposed across the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. For example, one end plate 230 may be disposed in front of the plurality of battery cells 100, and the other end plate 230 may be disposed behind the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0062] The end plate 230 may overlap at least a portion of the bus bar assembly 300. For example, the end plate 230 may overlap one side of the bus bar assembly 300 in the second direction Y. The end plate 230 may cover one side of the bus bar assembly 300 in the second direction Y.

[0063] The bus bar assembly 300 may electrically connect at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100 . The bus bar assembly 300 may be connected to the plurality of battery cells 100 .

[0064] The bus bar assembly 300 may overlap the plurality of battery cells 100 in the protruding direction of the electrode leads 120. The bus bar assembly 300 may be disposed on one side of the plurality of battery cells 100. The bus bar assembly 300 may be disposed outside the plurality of battery cells 100 in the second direction Y. The bus bar assembly 300 may extend along the first direction X in which the plurality of battery cells 100 are stacked.

[0065] The busbar assembly 300 may include a busbar frame 310 and busbars 320. The busbars 320 may be connected to the busbar frame 310. The busbar frame 310 may be disposed between the busbars 320 and the plurality of battery cells 100. The busbar frame 310 may comprise a rigid, non-conductive material. For example, the busbar frame 310 may comprise plastic. More specifically, the busbar frame 310 may be formed of an engineering plastic. The melting point of the busbar frame 310 may be lower than that of the protective component 350.

[0066] In addition, each electrode lead 120 included in the plurality of battery cells 100 may pass through the busbar frame 310. The busbar frame 310 may include a hole through which the electrode lead 120 passes. For example, the busbar frame 310 may include a slit. The electrode lead 120 may pass through the busbar frame 310 and be inserted into the busbar 320.

[0067] The busbar 320 may be formed in a plurality. The busbar 320 may be connected to the busbar frame 310 on a side of the busbar frame 310 that does not face the plurality of battery cells 100. The electrode leads 120 are inserted into the busbar 320, thereby electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells 100 and the busbar 320. The busbar 320 may include a hole for inserting the electrode leads 120. For example, the busbar 320 may include a slit.

[0068] The protective component 350 may be provided on one side of the busbar frame 310. Specifically, the protective component 350 may cover at least a portion of a side of the busbar frame 310 facing the plurality of battery cells 100. The protective component 350 may overlap with the side of the busbar frame 310 facing the plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the protective component 350 may be attached to the side of the busbar frame 310 facing the plurality of battery cells 100 using an adhesive. As another example, the protective component 350 may be injection molded together with the busbar frame 310 to be provided on the side of the busbar frame 310 facing the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0069] The protective member 350 may comprise a fire-resistant material. For example, the protective member 350 may comprise mica. The melting point of the protective member 350 may be higher than that of the busbar frame 310. Therefore, even if the temperature rises due to flames or heat generated in the battery cells 100, the shape of the busbar frame 310 covered by the protective member 350 is not easily damaged.

[0070] Regarding the protective member 350, reference will be made below. Figure 2 Provide specific instructions.

[0071] The first fire-resistant component 410 may be disposed between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the bus bar assembly 300. The first fire-resistant component 410 may be located in a space formed by the electrode leads 120 and the bus bar assembly 300 of two adjacent battery cells 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100. The first fire-resistant component 410 may occupy most of the volume of the space formed by the electrode leads 120 and the bus bar assembly 300 of two adjacent battery cells 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100. The first fire-resistant component 410 may have a columnar shape.

[0072] The first refractory component 410 may include refractory particles. For example, the first refractory component 410 may be formed into a columnar shape by bonding the refractory particles with an adhesive. The refractory particles may be solid fillers in the form of particles, powders, granules, pellets, or beads. The adhesive may be made of a polymer such as resin. Alternatively, the adhesive may be a heat-resistant or flame-retardant material. The adhesive may fill the plurality of pores formed between the refractory particles when they come into contact, and may also coat the outer surface of the first refractory component 410.

[0073] The size of the refractory particles may be micrometers. Such micrometer-sized refractory particles may be called microbeads or microgranules. The melting point of the refractory particles may preferably be higher than the preset allowable temperature of the battery cell 100 .

[0074] The refractory particles may comprise a porous material. A porous material refers to a material having pores within its structure. The pores may be irregular, amorphous in shape. Specifically, if the refractory particles comprise silica gel in granular or powdered form, the porosity of the refractory particles may be greater than 20% and less than 30%.

[0075] For example, the first refractory component 410 may include a refractory (heat-resistant or flame-retardant) material. The refractory material may be an inorganic compound. The inorganic compound can be selected from alum (Alum, K2SO4·Al2(SO4)3·24H2O), borax (Borax, Na2B4O7·10H2O), lime water (lime water, Ca(OH)2 aqueous solution), quicklime (CaO), milk of lime (milk of lime, a white emulsion made by mixing calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) with water), slaked lime (Ca(OH)2), washing soda (Na2CO310H2O), apatite (Ca5(PO4) 3OH), baking powder (a mixture of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and tartrate), baking soda (NaHCO3), sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate (Hypo) Na2S2O3·5H2O), silicon dioxide (Silica or SiO2), aluminum oxide (Alumina, Al2O3), calcium oxide (CaO), calcium sulfate (CaSO4), calcium chloride (CaCl2), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), potassium chloride (KCl), magnesium oxide (MgO), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), chromium oxide (Cr2O3), aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), antimony trioxide (Sb2O3), antimony pentoxide (Sb2O5), magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2), and any one of zinc borate compounds, phosphorus-based compounds, nitrogen-based guanidine compounds or molybdenum compounds, or a mixture thereof.

[0076] For example, the refractory particles can be made of silicon dioxide. Given the melting point of silicon dioxide (1713°C), these particles can minimize the spread of heat or escaping gases generated during thermal runaway. Furthermore, in the event of thermal runaway, the refractory particles maintain their shape.

[0077] As another example, the refractory particles can be formed from silica gel. Silica gel is a porous material in powder form produced by acid-treating an aqueous solution of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). Specifically, the silica gel is obtained by mixing sodium silicate with an aqueous inorganic acid solution (such as sulfuric acid) to form a silica hydrosol, which is then solidified into a hydrogel. Considering the conventional preparation method for silica gel, the primary component (accounting for greater than or equal to 50%) of the silica gel is silicon dioxide, and other components may include aluminum oxide, iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3, iron (III) oxide or ferric oxide), or sodium. Therefore, the melting point of the silica gel can also be above approximately 1600°C (degrees Celsius).

[0078] Preferably, the silica gel may contain more than 90% silicon dioxide. In addition, since the silica gel is a porous material, the porosity of the refractory particles may be greater than 20% and less than 30%. In other words, the refractory particles may contain silicon dioxide.

[0079] In the 94V test (Vertical Burning Test) of the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL), which is a flame retardant standard for polymer materials, the polymer material of the fire-resistant particles can achieve a V-0 rating.

[0080] The refractory particles may include a flame-retardant polymer. The flame-retardant material may be a phosphorus-based flame retardant, a halogen-based flame retardant, or an inorganic flame retardant. Preferably, the phosphorus-based flame retardant material may include phosphate compounds, phosphonate compounds, phosphinate compounds, phosphine oxide compounds, phosphazene compounds, and their metal salts. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0081] In another specific embodiment, the phosphorus-based flame retardant may be diphenyl phosphate, diaryl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate, tricresyl phosphate, tri(xylene) phosphate, tris(2,6-dimethylphenyl) phosphate, tris(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl) phosphate, tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphate, bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate), resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate), resorcinol bis[bis(2,6-dimethylphenyl) phosphate], resorcinol bis[bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphate], hydroquinone bis[bis(2,6-dimethylphenyl) phosphate], hydroquinone bis[bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphate], oligomeric phosphate compounds, etc., but are not limited thereto. These may be used alone or in the form of a mixture of two or more.

[0082] The melting point of the first fire-resistant component 410 may be higher than the ignition point of the plurality of battery cells 100. The ignition point of the plurality of battery cells 100 may be the temperature at which outgassing occurs in the battery cells 100. Alternatively, the ignition point may be the temperature of the electrolyte contained within the battery cells 100 when the outer casing (or container) of the battery cells 100 ruptures or opens in the event of thermal runaway.

[0083] For example, when any of the battery cells 100 begins to thermally run away, the binder of the first refractory component 410 begins to melt, but the refractory particles can remain in a solid state. Even if thermal runaway of the battery cell 100 occurs, the refractory particles will not burn or melt, and their shape can remain substantially unchanged.

[0084] The refractory particles may include porous materials. Porous materials refer to materials with pores inside their structure, and the shape of the pores may be irregular amorphous.

[0085] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a bus bar frame and a protection member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] Reference Figure 2 , the busbar frame 310 may include a support portion 311 , a first through hole 313 , and a spacer 315 .

[0087] The support portion 311 may be provided between the partitions 315. The support portion 311 may support the bus bar ( Figure 1 320). Busbar ( Figure 1 320) can be provided on one side of the support portion 311. Specifically, the bus bar ( Figure 1 320) can be provided on the support portion 311 without being connected to the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 The support portion 311 may support the bus bar ( Figure 1of 320).

[0088] The support portion 311 may overlap with the protective component 350. Figure 1 The side facing the support portion 311 may be covered by the protective member 350. That is, the bus bars ( Figure 1 320 ) and a protective component 350 .

[0089] The first through hole 313 may be provided on the support portion 311. Figure 1 100) protruding electrode leads ( Figure 1 120 ) can be inserted into the first through hole 313 .

[0090] The partition 315 may be provided between adjacent support portions 311. The partition 315 may separate adjacent support portions 311. For example, the partition 315 may separate the support portion 311 from the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 The spacer 315 can extend from the support portion 311 to the plurality of cells ( Figure 1 100) prominent.

[0091] The protection component 350 may be disposed between the support portion 311 and the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 The protective component 350 can cover the support portion 311 and the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 100) facing side.

[0092] The protective member 350 may include a plurality of protective units 350U. The plurality of protective units 350U may be disposed on a surface of the busbar frame 310 that faces the plurality of battery cells 100 and located between the separators 315. The plurality of protective units 350U may correspond to the support portions 311 of the busbar frame 310. For example, the plurality of protective units 350U may cover each support portion 311 between the separators 315.

[0093] The plurality of protection units 350U may be disposed between the partitions 315. The plurality of protection units 350U may be separated from each other by the partitions 315. The plurality of protection units 350U may each be separated as an independent structure. The protection member 350 may include a second through hole 353 corresponding to the first through hole 313 of the busbar frame 310.

[0094] Figure 2 The protective member 350 is shown as a quadrilateral, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The protective member 350 may be deformed into various shapes according to the embodiment.

[0095] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] Reference Figure 3 , the first fire-resistant member 410 may be disposed between the busbar frame 310 and the plurality of battery cells 100. In addition, the first fire-resistant member 410 may be disposed between the electrode leads 120 of any one of the plurality of battery cells 100 and another adjacent battery cell 100. That is, the first fire-resistant member 410 may be inserted into the space formed between the electrode leads 120 of two adjacent battery cells 100.

[0097] When flame or heat occurs in any battery cell 100, the flame or heat may spread rapidly to the adjacent battery cells 100. The flame or heat may spread through the battery module ( Figure 1 10) The empty space inside spreads. To prevent this, it is necessary to fill the battery module with flame retardant material ( Figure 1 10) The first fire-resistant component 410 can fill the empty space inside the battery module ( Figure 1 10) The internal empty space prevents the spread of flame or heat, etc.

[0098] The protection member 350 may be spaced apart from the busbar 320 via the busbar frame 310. Specifically, the protection member 350 may be disposed on one surface of the busbar frame 310 facing the battery cells 100, while the busbar 320 may be disposed on the other surface of the busbar frame 310 opposite the battery cells 100.

[0099] The protective member 350 may be provided on a surface of the busbar frame 310 that faces the first fire-resistant member 410. The protective member 350 may not cover the entire surface of the busbar frame 310. For example, the plurality of protective units 350U may extend along the support portion 311 but may not extend along the partition 315. The protective member 350 may not be provided on the partition 315 of the busbar frame 310. That is, the protective member 350 may cover a surface of the support portion 311 that faces the plurality of battery cells 100 but may not cover the partition 315. The protective member 350 may not be provided in the recessed space 315SP between the partition 315 and the support portion 311.

[0100] The thickness TH350 of the protective member may be smaller than the thickness TH310 of the busbar frame. Specifically, the thickness TH350 of the protective member may refer to the thickness of the protective member 350 in the second direction Y. The thickness TH310 of the busbar frame may refer to the thickness of the busbar frame 310 in the second direction Y.

[0101] In addition, the thickness TH350 of the protection member may be smaller than the thickness TH320 of the bus bar. Likewise, the thickness TH320 of the bus bar may refer to the thickness of the bus bar 320 in the second direction Y.

[0102] Figure 3 3. The thickness TH350 of the protective member is shown to be less than the thickness TH310 of the busbar frame or the thickness TH320 of the busbar, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the thickness TH350 of the protective member may be greater than or equal to the thickness TH310 of the busbar frame or the thickness TH320 of the busbar.

[0103] The blocking member 150 can be inserted between the partitions 315. Specifically, the partitions 315 can protrude from the support portion 311. The busbar frame 310 may include a recessed space 315SP between the partitions 315 and the support portion 311. An end of the blocking member 150 can be inserted into the recessed space 315SP. The blocking member 150 and the partition 315 can separate the space provided on one side from the space provided on the other side, with the blocking member 150 as a reference.

[0104] The first fire-resistant member 410 may not be provided in the recessed space 315SP where the blocking member 150 is inserted. The first fire-resistant member 410 may not be inserted between the bus bar frame 310 and the plurality of battery cells 100 where the blocking member 150 is provided.

[0105] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Reference Figure 4 , the protection member 350 may be provided between the first fire-resistant member 410 and the bus bar frame 310. The protection member 350 may cover a surface of the bus bar frame 310 facing the first fire-resistant member 410.

[0107] In the third direction Z, the length of the protection member 350 may be greater than the length of the bus bar 320 . However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, in the third direction Z, the length of the protection member 350 may be less than or equal to the length of the bus bar 320 .

[0108] Figure 4 3 and 4. The protective member 350 and the first refractory member 410 are shown to be separated from each other, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the protective member 350 and the first refractory member 410 may be in contact with each other.

[0109] The first fire-resistant member 410 is provided to prevent flames or heat from spreading to adjacent battery cells 100 when flames or heat are generated in a particular battery cell 100. On the other hand, if the bus bar frame 310, which has a relatively low melting point, melts, the first fire-resistant member 410, which is positioned between the bus bar frame 310 and the battery cells 100, may move outside the bus bar frame 310 because it is not fixed. Consequently, the first fire-resistant member 410 may not be able to suppress the spread of flames or heat.

[0110] The melting point of the protective member 350 can be higher than that of the busbar frame 310. Therefore, even if a fire or heat occurs in the battery cell 100, structural damage to the busbar frame 310 on the surface covered by the protective member 350 is suppressed. Thus, by suppressing damage to the busbar frame 310 through the protective member 350, the position of the first fire-resistant member 410 can be stably fixed. Thus, even if a fire or heat occurs in the battery cell 100, the first fire-resistant member 410 can prevent the flames or heat from spreading to other adjacent battery cells 100.

[0111] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining a busbar frame and a protection component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The parts where the contents are different are explained.

[0112] Reference Figure 5 The protective component 350 may include a bending portion 350B. The bending portion 350B may be disposed between the plurality of protective units 350U. The bending portion 350B may connect the plurality of protective units 350U. The plurality of protective units 350U are connected to the bending portion 350B, so that the protective component 350 may be integrally formed.

[0113] The bending portion 350B can be directed from the plurality of protection units 350U toward the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 The bent portion 350B may correspond to the partition 315 of the busbar frame 310 . The bent portion 350B may cover the partition 315 of the busbar frame 310 .

[0114] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The parts where the description is different are explained.

[0115] Reference Figure 6 The bent portion 350B may extend along the separator 315. For example, the protective member 350 may cover the entire side of the busbar frame 310 that faces the plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of protective units 350U may extend along the support portion 311, and the bent portion 350B may extend along the separator 315. The bent portion 350B may be bent along the separator 315. The protective member 350 may cover at least a portion of the separator 315.

[0116] The recessed space between the partition 315 and the support portion 311 ( Figure 3 The protective member 350 may be provided in the recessed space ( 315SP ). Figure 3 For example, the blocking member 150 may be disposed in the recessed space ( Figure 3 315SP) is in contact with the protective component 350.

[0117] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining a busbar frame and a protection component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 The parts where the contents are different are explained.

[0118] Reference Figure 7 The protection component 350 may include a side wall portion 350S. The side wall portion 350S may extend from the plurality of protection units 350U toward the plurality of battery cells ( Figure 1 100) bend. For example, the side wall portion 350S may intersect the plurality of protection units 350U perpendicularly. Two adjacent side wall portions 350S may not be connected to each other. The side wall portion 350S may cover the side surface of the partition 315.

[0119] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 The parts where the contents are different are explained.

[0120] Reference Figure 8 , the side wall portion 350S may cover the side of the partition 315. The protective component 350 may cover at least a portion of the partition 315. The side wall portion 350S may not extend along the entire partition 315, but may cover the side of the partition 315 that does not face the blocking component 150. For example, the side wall portion 350S may cover the side of the partition 315 that faces the electrode lead 120. The side wall portion 350S may not be provided between the blocking component 150 and the partition 315. The side wall portion 350S may not be provided in the recessed space ( Figure 3 The recessed space between the partitions 315 ( Figure 3 315SP), the side wall portions 350S may not be connected to each other.

[0121] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The parts where the contents are different are explained.

[0122] Reference Figure 9 The battery module 10 may include a second fire-resistant component 420. The second fire-resistant component 420 may include a plurality of granular materials.

[0123] The second refractory component 420 may include a solid filler. For example, the solid filler may be in the form of solid particles, powder, granules, pellets, or beads. The solid filler may include a refractory (heat-resistant or flame-retardant) material. The refractory material may be an inorganic compound. That is, the solid filler may include a refractory material formed of an inorganic compound. The second refractory component 420 and the first refractory component ( Figure 1 410) differ only in shape and may contain the same materials.

[0124] Figure 9 4. The second refractory components 420 are shown to be spherical particles of the same size, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the particles of the second refractory components 420 may not be spherical and may have different sizes.

[0125] The above description is merely an example of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be included without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery module comprising: Multiple battery cells; a bus bar assembly, disposed on one side of the plurality of battery cells and connected to the plurality of battery cells; as well as A protective component is provided on at least a portion of a surface of the bus bar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising: A fire-resistant member is provided in a receiving space formed by the electrode leads protruding from the plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells, and the bus bar assembly.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The refractory member has a column shape.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The refractory component includes a plurality of granular bodies.

5. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The busbar assembly comprises: a bus bar electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; and a busbar frame, disposed between the busbar and the plurality of battery cells, and supporting the busbar, The thickness of the protection member is smaller than the thickness of the bus bar frame or the thickness of the bus bar.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein: The protective member has a melting point higher than a melting point of the busbar frame.

7. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein: The busbar frame includes a partition protruding from a surface of the busbar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells toward the plurality of battery cells. The protection component is provided on a surface of the busbar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells and is located between the separators.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein: The protection component includes a plurality of protection units, which cover a surface of the bus bar assembly facing the plurality of battery cells and are separated from each other by the partition plate.

9. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein: The protective member covers at least a portion of the partition.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein: The protection component includes a bent portion bent along the partition.

11. The battery module according to claim 7, further comprising: A blocking component is provided between at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells. The blocking member is inserted between the partitions.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The protection component is attached to one side of the bus bar assembly.

13. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The protective member comprises a refractory material.

14. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The busbar assembly comprises: a bus bar electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; and a busbar frame, disposed between the busbar and the plurality of battery cells, and supporting the busbar, The plurality of battery cells are stacked in a first direction, The bus bar and the bus bar frame are combined in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, In a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, the length of the protection member is greater than the length of the bus bar.

15. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a module body, accommodating the plurality of battery cells, the bus bar assembly, and the protective component, and having an opening on one side; as well as A module cover is coupled to the module body to close the opening.

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