Battery module
By incorporating vents and expansion induction units into the battery module, the heat propagation problem during thermal runaway of secondary batteries is solved, thereby improving battery safety and stability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202510001737.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-05-20
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-02
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-21
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, heat propagation in secondary batteries cannot be effectively controlled under thermal runaway conditions, leading to increased safety risks.
A battery module structure is designed, which includes setting vents on the surface of the battery cells and absorbing and guiding battery expansion through expansion induction parts on the end plates and side plate structures to prevent heat transmission.
It effectively prevents or reduces the spread of heat within the battery module, improving battery safety and stability and reducing the risk of thermal runaway.
Smart Images
Figure CN120999216A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0064953, filed on May 20, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a battery module. BACKGROUND
[0003] Unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be charged and discharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used for small portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptop computers, digital cameras, and camcorders, and high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as motor driving power sources in hybrid electric vehicles, electric vehicles, and the like, storage batteries, and the like. These secondary batteries include an electrode assembly composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode terminal connected to the electrode assembly.
[0004] Secondary batteries can be used as a battery pack formed of a plurality of battery cells connected in series and / or in parallel to provide a high energy density. The battery pack can be formed by interconnecting electrode terminals of a plurality of battery cells to match a required amount of electric power to achieve a high-output secondary battery for an electric vehicle, for example.
[0005] The above information disclosed in the background of the related art is provided to improve the understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and can include information that does not constitute the prior art. SUMMARY
[0006] According to an aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery module capable of preventing or substantially preventing heat propagation in the case where thermal runaway occurs in one or more battery cells.
[0007] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will be described in or will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0008] According to one or more embodiments, the battery module includes a plurality of battery cells each including an exhaust port in a first surface and arranged along a first direction, and an end plate arranged to face a second surface of one of the plurality of battery cells along the first direction and including an expansion induction portion spaced apart from the second surface and configured to induce expansion of the battery cell.
[0009] The expansion induction portion can be positioned in a first portion of the end plate, and a second portion of the end plate can be in contact with the second surface.
[0010] The expansion-inducing portion can be recessed in the first portion.
[0011] The end plate can include an opening that communicates with the expansion-inducing portion and is open toward a second direction that intersects the first direction.
[0012] The height of the expansion-inducing portion can be 25% to 50% of the height of the end plate.
[0013] The height of the expansion-inducing portion can be 50% or less of the height of the battery cell.
[0014] The depth of the expansion-inducing portion can be 3% to 6% of the thickness of the end plate.
[0015] The length of the expansion-inducing portion can be 50% to 65% of the length of the end plate.
[0016] The expansion-inducing portion can include a first expansion-inducing portion and a second expansion-inducing portion that is recessed inside the first expansion-inducing portion and in the first portion.
[0017] The depth of the second expansion-inducing portion can be greater than the depth of the first expansion-inducing portion.
[0018] The height of the second expansion-inducing portion can be less than or equal to the height of the first expansion-inducing portion.
[0019] The depth of the second expansion-inducing portion can be 6% to 12% of the thickness of the end plate.
[0020] The length of the second expansion-inducing portion can be 45% to 55% of the length of the first expansion-inducing portion.
[0021] The length of the second expansion-inducing portion can be greater than or equal to the length of the exhaust port.
[0022] The battery module can further include a side plate disposed to face a third surface of the plurality of battery cells along a third direction that intersects at least one of the first direction and the second direction.
[0023] The battery module can further include an insulating sheet disposed along the first direction and between the battery cells of the plurality of battery cells. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the detailed description further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 1exploded perspective view of the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating Figure 3 the battery cell of FIG. 1; Figure 5 is a front view schematically illustrating Figure 1 the end plate of FIG. 1; Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 1 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 7 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an end plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 8 is a front view schematically illustrating Figure 7 the end plate of FIG. 1; Figure 9 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 7 the end plate of FIG. 1; Figure 10 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 12 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 13 is an enlarged bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an end plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 15 is a front view schematically illustrating Figure 14 the end plate of FIG. 1; Figure 16 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 14 the end plate of FIG. 1; Figure 17 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 17 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 19 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 17 the battery module of FIG. 1; Figure 20is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 21 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 20 an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Figure 22 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 20 a bottom view of the battery module of DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the disclosure will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in the present specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to commonly used meanings or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of the present disclosure based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the terms in consideration of the knowledge in the field at the time of filing of the application.
[0026] The embodiments described in the present specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are provided as some example embodiments of the present disclosure, and do not necessarily represent all technical ideas, aspects and features of the present disclosure. It will be understood, therefore, that there can be various equivalents and modifications which can replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing of the present application.
[0027] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on the other element or layer, directly connected to or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers can also be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. For example, when a first element is described as being "coupled" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly coupled or directly connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly coupled or indirectly connected to the second element via one or more intervening elements.
[0028] In the drawings, the size of various elements, layers, etc., can be exaggerated for clarity. Like reference numbers signify like elements in the drawings. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In addition, use of “may” in describing embodiments of the present disclosure relates to “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.” Expressions such as “at least one of (a), (b), and (c)” and “at least one of (a), (b), or (c)” when preceding a list of items, modify the list of items as a whole rather than each item individually. Also, the phrase, such as “at least one of (a), (b), and (c)” or “at least one of (a), (b), or (c)” used in various places in the specification is to be taken as setting out the complete set of possible combinations for the indicated items as well as individual combinations of each item in the set. As used herein, the term “use” and variations thereof can be considered synonymous with the term “utilize” and variations thereof. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in a measurement or calculation that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0029] It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, a first component, a first region, a first layer or a first section discussed below could be termed a second element, a second component, a second region, a second layer or a second section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.
[0030] For ease of description, spatially relative terms, such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, can be used herein for describing an element’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device is turned over, elements described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.
[0032] Furthermore, any numerical ranges herein are intended to include all sub-ranges encompassed therein. For example, a range from 1.0 to 10.0 should be construed as including any number falling between 1.0 and 10.0, not just including the number 5.0. Any maximum numerical limitation should be construed as if it also consisted of the same numerical limitation minus a unit, and any minimum numerical limitation should be construed as if it also consisted of the same numerical limitation plus a unit. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative manner and representations made herein are intended to be non-limiting. The sole
[0033] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as "the same" can mean that they are identical or substantially identical. Thus, the phrase "the same" or "substantially the same" can include cases with deviations that are considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is referred to as uniform in a given region, it can mean that it is uniform in terms of average value.
[0034] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise indicated, each element can be singular or plural.
[0035] When an arbitrary element is referred to as being disposed (or positioned or located) "above (or below)" or "on (or under)" a component, it can mean that the arbitrary element is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, and it can also mean that another component can be interposed between the component and the arbitrary element disposed (or positioned or located) on (or under) the component.
[0036] Additionally, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "coupled" or "linked" to another element, it can be directly coupled or linked to the other element or one or more intervening elements can exist between them such that the element and the other element are indirectly coupled or linked to each other. Additionally, when a component is referred to as being "electrically coupled" to another component, the component can be directly electrically connected to the other component, or one or more intervening components can exist between them such that the component and the other component are indirectly electrically connected to each other.
[0037] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, when stating "A and / or B", it refers to A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any combination or all combinations of the plurality of listed items. When stating "C to D", unless otherwise stated, it refers to C or greater and D or less.
[0038] The terms used in the present specification are used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure.
[0039] Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 1 a battery module; Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating Figure 3 a battery cell; Figure 5 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 1 a battery module; and Figure 6 is an enlarged bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 1 a battery module.
[0040] Referring to Figures 1 to 6 , a battery module 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a battery cell 100, an end plate 200, a side plate 300, and an insulation sheet 400.
[0041] The battery cell 100 can serve as a unit structure to store and supply electric power in the battery module 1. The battery cell 100 can be provided with an exhaust port 34 in a first surface 100a. The first surface 100a can be a lower surface of the battery cell 100 facing a bottom of the battery cell 100. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, the first surface 100a can be an upper surface of the battery cell 100 facing a top of the battery cell 100.
[0042] Since the exhaust port 34 is provided in the first surface 100a facing the bottom of the battery cell 100, a flame, gas, or the like generated inside the battery cell 100 can be discharged toward the bottom of the battery cell 100 through the exhaust port 34.
[0043] The battery cell 100 can include at least one electrode assembly 10 wound after a separator 13, which is an insulator, is interposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, a case 20 in which the electrode assembly 10 is accommodated, and a cap assembly 30 coupled to an opening of the case 20.
[0044] Here, the battery cell 100 will be described as an example of a lithium ion secondary battery having a prismatic shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 100 can be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.
[0045] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can include a coated portion that is an area to which an active material is coated to a current collector formed of a thin metal foil, and an uncoated portion 11a, 12a that is an area to which the active material is not coated.
[0046] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be wound after a separator 13, which is an insulator, is interposed therebetween. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 10 can have a structure in which the positive electrode and the negative electrode, which are composed of a plurality of pieces, are alternately stacked with the separator interposed therebetween.
[0047] The case 20 forms the entire exterior of the battery cell 100, and can be formed of a conductive metal material such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the case 20 can provide a space in which the electrode assembly 10 is accommodated.
[0048] The cap assembly 30 can include a cover plate 31 that covers an opening formed in a surface opposite the first surface 100a of the battery cell 100 of the case 20, and the case 20 and the cover plate 31 can be composed of a conductive material. Here, a terminal 21 electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12 can be installed to protrude outward through the cover plate 31.
[0049] In an embodiment, the terminal 21 protruding outward from the cover plate 31 can be formed in a pair. The pair of terminals 21 can be connected to the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, respectively, and can serve as a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal of the battery cell 100.
[0050] In an embodiment, the terminal 21 can be electrically connected to a current collector, including a first current collector 40 and a second current collector 50 (here, referred to as a positive electrode current collector and a negative electrode current collector), which is bonded to the positive electrode uncoated portion 11a or the negative electrode uncoated portion 12a, for example, by welding.
[0051] For example, a pair of terminals 21 can be coupled to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, respectively, by welding. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the terminals 21 as well as the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 can be formed, for example, by being integrally coupled.
[0052] In an embodiment, the outer circumferential surface of the upper post of the terminal 21 can be threaded, and can be fixed to the cover plate 31 with a nut. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the terminal 21 can have a riveting structure and can be riveted, or can be coupled to the cover plate 31, for example, by welding.
[0053] In an embodiment, the cover plate 31 can be formed of a thin plate and coupled to the opening of the case 20, and the electrolyte inlet 32 can be formed in the cover plate 31, and the sealing stopper 33 can be installed in the electrolyte inlet 32.
[0054] The exhaust port 34 can be provided in the case 20. The exhaust port 34 can be provided in the lower surface of the case 20, which is the first surface 100a of the battery cell 100. The exhaust port 34 can open and close in response to a change in the internal pressure of the case 20. That is, the exhaust port 34 can remain closed and seal the case 20 during normal operation of the electrode assembly 10.
[0055] The exhaust port 34 can open when the internal pressure of the case 20 rises above a certain amount (for example, a set amount) due to overcharging, ignition, or the like, and can discharge a discharge (such as a flame, gas, or the like) from the inside of the case 20 to the outside of the case 20.
[0056] In an embodiment, an insulating member can be installed between the electrode assembly 10 and the cover plate 31. The insulating member can include a first lower insulating member 60 and a second lower insulating member 70, and each of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70 can be installed between the electrode assembly 10 and the cover plate 31.
[0057] Further, according to an embodiment, one end of a separation member that can be installed to face the side surface of the electrode assembly 10 can be installed between the insulating member and the terminal 21. In an embodiment, the separation member can include a first separation member 80 and a second separation member 90.
[0058] Accordingly, the first ends of the first separation member 80 and the second separation member 90 that can be installed to face the side surface of the electrode assembly 10 can be installed between the first lower insulating member 60 and the positive electrode terminal 21 and between the second lower insulating member 70 and the negative electrode terminal 21, respectively.
[0059] In an embodiment, the terminal 21 bonded to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 by welding can be bonded to the first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70 and the first and second separation members 80 and 90 at the first ends thereof.
[0060] The battery cell 100 can be provided as a plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of battery cells 100 can be disposed along a first direction. The first direction can refer to a width direction of the battery cell 100. The plurality of battery cells 100 can be disposed side by side.
[0061] The end plate 200 can be disposed along the first direction in which the battery cell 100 is disposed. The end plate 200 can be formed in a substantially plate shape. The end plate 200 can be provided as a pair of end plates 200.
[0062] The pair of end plates 200 can be disposed to face the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100. The second surface 100b can refer to two or opposite lateral side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100 disposed along the first direction.
[0063] In an embodiment, the length and the height of the end plate 200 can be the same as the length and the height of the battery cell 100, respectively. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and, in an embodiment, the length and / or the height of the end plate 200 can be greater than the length and / or the height of the battery cell 100.
[0064] The end plate 200 can be provided with an expansion inducing portion 210. The expansion inducing portion 210 can be spaced apart from the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100 and induce expansion of the battery cell 100. The expansion inducing portion 210 can absorb an amount of expansion due to expansion of the battery cell 100 and induce flames, gas, etc. generated inside the battery cell 100 to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0065] The expansion inducing portion 210 can be provided in a surface of the end plate 200 facing the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100. The expansion inducing portion 210 can be formed to be recessed in the end plate 200.
[0066] Figure 7 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an end plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 8 is a front view schematically illustrating Figure 7 the end plate; and Figure 9 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 7 the end plate.
[0067] Referring to Figures 1 to 9The end plate 200 can include a first portion 200a and a second portion 200b. The first portion 200a and the second portion 200b can refer to a surface of the end plate 200 facing the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0068] The first portion 200a can be designated as a lower portion of the end plate 200 corresponding to a lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned, from a central portion of the end plate 200.
[0069] The expansion-inducing portion 210 can be provided in the first portion 200a of the end plate 200. The expansion-inducing portion 210 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. The first portion 200a of the end plate 200 in which the expansion-inducing portion 210 is formed does not come into contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100, and the first portion 200a and the second surface 100b can be spaced apart from each other.
[0070] The second portion 200b of the end plate 200 is a remaining portion other than the first portion 200a, and the second portion 200b can come into contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0071] The end plate 200 can be provided with an opening 220. The opening 220 can communicate with the expansion-inducing portion 210, and can be open toward a second direction intersecting the first direction. The second direction can refer to a height direction of the battery cell 100 and the end plate 200. The opening 220 can be formed in a lower end portion of the end plate 200.
[0072] In an embodiment, the end plate 200 can be provided with a through-hole portion 230. The through-hole portion 230 can be formed to penetrate the end plate 200 in the second direction. The through-hole portion 230 can be formed at two or opposite longitudinal side surfaces of the end plate 200. A fastening member such as a bolt or the like can be inserted into the through-hole portion 230 and coupled to the battery pack case. Accordingly, the end plate 200 can be fixed to the battery pack case.
[0073] In an embodiment, a height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 can be 25% to 50% of a height H of the end plate 200. In an embodiment, the height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 can be 25% to 50% of the height H of the end plate 200 from a lower end portion of the end plate 200.
[0074] When the battery cell 100 expands, expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned is induced, so that flames, gas, or the like can be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0075] If the height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 is less than 25% of the height H of the end plate 200, the expansion of the center portion of the battery cell 100 is suppressed if the battery cell 100 expands, and the expansion of the center portion of the battery cell 100 is not induced.
[0076] If the height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 exceeds 50% of the height H of the end plate 200, the expansion of the upper portion of the battery cell 100 is not suppressed, and the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned.
[0077] In the embodiment, the height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 can be 50% or less of the height of the battery cell 100. The height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 can be 50% or less of the height of the battery cell 100 from the lower end portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 of the battery cell 100 is positioned.
[0078] When the battery cell 100 expands, the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned are allowed to expand, and the flame, gas, or the like can be induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0079] If the height h of the expansion-inducing portion 210 exceeds 50% of the height of the battery cell 100, the expansion of the upper portion of the battery cell 100 is not suppressed, and the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned.
[0080] In the embodiment, the depth D of the expansion-inducing portion 210 can be 3% to 6% of the thickness T of the end plate 200. If the depth D of the expansion-inducing portion 210 is less than 3% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, the amount of expansion of the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned is not sufficiently absorbed when the battery cell 100 expands, and the flame, gas, or the like is not induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0081] If the depth D of the expansion-inducing portion 210 exceeds 6% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned are allowed to excessively expand, and thus, the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100, and the flame, gas, or the like is not induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0082] In an embodiment, the length L of the expansion inducing portion 210 can be 50% to 65% of the length l of the end plate 200. If the length L of the expansion inducing portion 210 is less than 50% of the length l of the end plate 200, expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be suppressed when the battery cell 100 expands, and expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 can not be induced.
[0083] If the length L of the expansion inducing portion 210 exceeds 65% of the length l of the end plate 200, the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can excessively expand, and thus, the amount of expansion can not be concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100, and flames, gas, or the like can not be induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0084] The side plate 300 can be disposed along a third direction that intersects at least one of the first direction and the second direction. The third direction can refer to a length direction of the battery cell 100. The side plate 300 can be formed in a substantially plate shape.
[0085] In an embodiment, the side plate 300 can be disposed as a pair of side plates 300. The pair of side plates 300 can be disposed to face third surfaces 100c of the plurality of battery cells 100. The third surfaces 100c can refer to two or opposite longitudinal side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells 100.
[0086] The side plate 300 can be disposed to intersect the end plate 200. Two or opposite end portions of the side plate 300 can be coupled to the end plate 200. In an embodiment, two or opposite end portions of one side plate 300 of the pair of side plates 300 can be respectively coupled to first end portions of the pair of end plates 200, and two or opposite end portions of the other side plate 300 can be respectively coupled to second end portions of the pair of end plates 200.
[0087] The insulation sheet 400 can be disposed along the first direction. The insulation sheet 400 can be disposed as a plurality of insulation sheets 400. The plurality of insulation sheets 400 can be disposed between the plurality of battery cells 100.
[0088] Figure 10 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of Figure 12 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of Figure 13 is an enlarged bottom perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 10 the battery module of
[0089] Referring to Figures 10 to 13The battery module 2 according to another embodiment of the disclosure can include the battery cell 100, the end plate 200, the side plate 300, and the insulating sheet 400.
[0090] In the description of the battery module 2 according to the embodiment of the disclosure, another embodiment of the end plate 200 in the battery module 1 according to the previously described embodiment of the disclosure will be described.
[0091] The description of the battery module 1 according to the previously described embodiment of the disclosure can be applied as it is to the remaining configuration of the battery module 2 according to the present embodiment of the disclosure.
[0092] The end plate 200 can be disposed along the first direction. The end plate 200 can be formed in a substantially plate shape. The end plate 200 can be disposed in a pair. The pair of end plates 200 can be disposed to face the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0093] The end plate 200 can be provided with an expansion induction portion 210. The expansion induction portion 210 can be spaced apart from the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100 and induce expansion of the battery cell 100. The expansion induction portion 210 can absorb an amount of expansion due to the expansion of the battery cell 100 and induce flames, gas, etc. generated inside the battery cell 100 to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0094] The expansion induction portion 210 can be disposed in a surface of the end plate 200 facing the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100. The expansion induction portion 210 can be formed to be recessed in the end plate 200.
[0095] Figure 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an end plate according to the present embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 15 is a front view schematically illustrating an end plate according to the present embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 16 is a bottom view schematically illustrating an end plate according to the present embodiment of the disclosure.
[0096] Referring to Figures 14 to 16 The expansion induction portion 210 can include a first expansion induction portion 211 and a second expansion induction portion 212.
[0097] The first expansion induction portion 211 can be disposed in the first portion 200a of the end plate 200. The first expansion induction portion 211 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. The first portion 200a of the end plate 200 in which the first expansion induction portion 211 is formed does not come into contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100, and the first portion 200a and the second surface 100b can be spaced apart from each other.
[0098] The second portion 200b of the end plate 200 is a remaining portion other than the first portion 200a, and the second portion 200b can be in contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0099] The end plate 200 can be provided with an opening 220. The opening 220 can communicate with the swelling-inducing portion 210, and can be open toward a second direction intersecting the first direction. The opening 220 can be formed in a lower end portion of the end plate 200.
[0100] In an embodiment, the end plate 200 can be provided with a through-hole portion 230. The through-hole portion 230 can be formed to penetrate the end plate 200 in the second direction. The through-hole portion 230 can be formed at two or opposite longitudinal side faces of the end plate 200. In an embodiment, a fastening member such as a bolt or the like can be inserted into the through-hole portion 230 and coupled to the battery pack case. Accordingly, the end plate 200 can be fixed to the battery pack case.
[0101] In an embodiment, the height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 can be 25% to 50% of the height H of the end plate 200. In an embodiment, the height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 from the lower end portion of the end plate 200 can be 25% to 50% of the height H of the end plate 200.
[0102] If the battery cell 100 swells, swelling of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned is induced, so that flames, gas, or the like can be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0103] If the height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 is less than 25% of the height H of the end plate 200, swelling of the central portion of the battery cell 100 is suppressed if the battery cell 100 swells, and swelling of the central portion of the battery cell 100 is not induced.
[0104] If the height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 exceeds 50% of the height H of the end plate 200, swelling of the upper portion of the battery cell 100 is not suppressed, and the amount of swelling is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned.
[0105] In an embodiment, the height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 can be 50% or less of the height of the battery cell 100. The height H1 of the first swelling-inducing portion 211 from the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 of the battery cell 100 is positioned can be 50% or less of the height of the battery cell 100.
[0106] When the battery cell 100 swells, the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned are allowed to swell, and it is possible to induce discharge of flames, gas, or the like through the exhaust port 34.
[0107] If the height H1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 exceeds 50% of the height of the battery cell 100, the expansion of the upper portion of the battery cell 100 is not suppressed, and the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned.
[0108] In an embodiment, the depth D1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 can be 3% to 6% of the thickness T of the end plate 200. If the depth D1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 is less than 3% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, if the battery cell 100 expands, the amount of expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned is not sufficiently absorbed, and a flame, gas, or the like is not induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0109] If the depth D1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 exceeds 6% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be allowed to excessively expand, and thus, the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100, and a flame, gas, or the like is not induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0110] In an embodiment, the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 can be 50% to 65% of the length l of the end plate 200. If the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 is less than 50% of the length l of the end plate 200, when the battery cell 100 expands, the expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned is suppressed, and the expansion of the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 is not induced.
[0111] If the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 exceeds 65% of the length l of the end plate 200, the central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be allowed to excessively expand, and thus, the amount of expansion is not concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100, and a flame, gas, or the like is not induced to be discharged through the exhaust port 34.
[0112] The second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be provided inside the first expansion-inducing portion 211. The second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. In an embodiment, the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be positioned at the center of the first expansion-inducing portion 211.
[0113] The depth D2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be deeper than the depth D1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211. The central portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 where the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be induced to further expand by the second expansion-inducing portion 212.
[0114] The height H2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be less than or equal to the height H1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211. If the height H1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211 and the height H2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 are the same, the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be induced to strongly expand.
[0115] In an embodiment, the depth D2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be 6% to 12% of the thickness T of the end plate 200. If the depth D2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 is less than 6% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, the additional expansion of the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can not be sufficiently absorbed.
[0116] If the depth D2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 exceeds 12% of the thickness T of the end plate 200, the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be allowed to excessively expand, and the amount of expansion can not be concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100.
[0117] In an embodiment, the length L2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be 45% to 55% of the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211. If the length L2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 is less than 45% of the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211, the additional expansion of the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be limited.
[0118] If the length L2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 exceeds 55% of the length L1 of the first expansion-inducing portion 211, the center portion of the battery cell 100 and the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be allowed to excessively additionally expand, and the amount of expansion can not be concentrated in the lower portion of the battery cell 100.
[0119] In an embodiment, the length L2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be longer than or equal to the length of the exhaust port 34. When the length L2 of the second expansion-inducing portion 212 is shorter than the length of the exhaust port 34, the additional expansion of the lower portion of the battery cell 100 in which the exhaust port 34 is positioned can be limited.
[0120] Figure 17 FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 18 FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 17 the battery module of FIG. 2; and Figure 19 FIG. 4 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 17 the battery module of FIG. 2.
[0121] Referring toFigure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figures 17 to 19 The battery module 3 according to the present embodiment of the present disclosure can include the battery cell 100, the end plate 200, the side plate 300, and the insulating sheet 400.
[0122] In the description of the battery module 3 according to the present embodiment of the present disclosure, other embodiments of the battery cell 100 and the end plate 200 in the battery module 1 according to the previously described embodiments of the present disclosure or the battery module 2 according to the previously described embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.
[0123] The description of the battery module 1 or the battery module 2 can be applied as it is to the remaining configuration of the battery module 3 according to the present embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0124] The battery cell 100 can be provided with the exhaust port 34 in the first surface 100a. In an embodiment, a pair of the terminal 21 and the electrolyte inlet 32 in which the sealing stopper 33 can be installed can be formed in the first surface 100a of the battery cell 100. In an embodiment, the first surface 100a can designate an upper surface of the cover plate 31 positioned on a bottom surface of the case 20.
[0125] The battery cell 100 can be provided as a plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of battery cells 100 can be disposed along the first direction.
[0126] The end plate 200 can be disposed along the first direction in which the battery cell 100 is disposed. The end plate 200 can be provided as a pair of end plates 200.
[0127] The pair of end plates 200 can be disposed to face the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0128] The end plate 200 can be provided with the swelling induction portion 210. The swelling induction portion 210 can be spaced apart from the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100 and induce swelling of the battery cell 100.
[0129] The swelling induction portion 210 can be disposed in a surface of the end plate 200 facing the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100. The swelling induction portion 210 can be formed to be recessed in the end plate 200.
[0130] The end plate 200 can include a first portion 200a and a second portion 200b. The swelling induction portion 210 can be disposed in the first portion 200a of the end plate 200. The swelling induction portion 210 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. The first portion 200a of the end plate 200 in which the swelling induction portion 210 is formed does not come into contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100, and the first portion 200a and the second surface 100b can be spaced apart from each other.
[0131] The second portion 200b of the end plate 200 can be in contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100.
[0132] The end plate 200 can be provided with an opening 220. The opening 220 can communicate with the swelling-inducing portion 210, and can be open toward a second direction intersecting the first direction. The opening 220 can be formed in a lower end portion of the end plate 200.
[0133] In an embodiment, the end plate 200 can be provided with a through-hole portion 230. The through-hole portion 230 can be formed to penetrate the end plate 200 in the second direction. In an embodiment, a fastening member such as a bolt or the like can be inserted into the through-hole portion 230 and coupled to the battery pack case. Accordingly, the end plate 200 can be fixed to the battery pack case.
[0134] Figure 20 FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 21 FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating Figure 20 the battery module of FIG. 2; and Figure 22 FIG. 4 is a bottom view schematically illustrating Figure 20 the battery module of FIG. 2.
[0135] Referring to Figures 20 to 22 , the battery module 4 according to the present embodiment of the disclosure can include a battery cell 100, an end plate 200, a side plate 300, and an insulating sheet 400.
[0136] In the description of the battery module 4 according to the present embodiment of the disclosure, another embodiment of the end plate 200 in the battery module 3 according to the previously described embodiment of the disclosure will be described.
[0137] The description of the battery module 3 can be applied as it is to the remaining configuration of the battery module 4 according to the present embodiment of the disclosure.
[0138] The swelling-inducing portion 210 can include a first swelling-inducing portion 211 and a second swelling-inducing portion 212.
[0139] The first swelling-inducing portion 211 can be provided in the first portion 200a of the end plate 200. The first swelling-inducing portion 211 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. The first portion 200a of the end plate 200 in which the first swelling-inducing portion 211 is formed is not in contact with the second surface 100b of the battery cell 100, and the first portion 200a and the second surface 100b can be spaced apart from each other.
[0140] The second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be provided inside the first expansion-inducing portion 211. The second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be formed to be recessed in the first portion 200a. The second expansion-inducing portion 212 can be positioned at the center of the first expansion-inducing portion 211.
[0141] According to one or more embodiments of the disclosure, since the expansion-inducing portion spaced apart from the center portion of the battery cell and the lower portion in which the exhaust port is positioned is formed in the end plate provided to face the battery cell, such that the center portion and the lower portion of the battery cell expand when the battery cell expands, it is thus possible to induce the flame, gas, etc. generated inside the battery cell to be discharged to the lower portion of the battery cell through the exhaust port.
[0142] However, aspects and effects obtainable by the disclosure are not limited to the above aspects and effects, and other technical aspects and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description of the disclosure.
[0143] While the disclosure has been described with reference to some example embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these embodiments are merely illustrative and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and other embodiments equivalent in spirit to the embodiments can be derived from the embodiments based on the disclosure.
[0144] Accordingly, the technical scope of the disclosure should be defined by the claims.
Claims
1. A battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells each including a gas vent in a first surface and arranged along a first direction; and an end plate arranged to face a second surface of one of the plurality of battery cells along the first direction and including an expansion-inducing portion spaced apart from the second surface and configured to induce expansion of the battery cell. the expansion-inducing portion is positioned in a first portion of the end plate, and 2. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, a second portion of the end plate is in contact with the second surface. the expansion-inducing portion is recessed in the first portion.
3. The battery module of claim 2, wherein, the end plate includes an opening in communication with the expansion-inducing portion and open toward a second direction intersecting the first direction.
4. The battery module of claim 3, wherein, a height of the expansion-inducing portion is 25% to 50% of a height of the end plate.
5. The battery module of claim 4, wherein, a height of the expansion-inducing portion is 50% or less of a height of the battery cell.
6. The battery module of claim 4, wherein, a depth of the expansion-inducing portion is 3% to 6% of a thickness of the end plate.
7. The battery module of claim 4, wherein, a length of the expansion-inducing portion is 50% to 65% of a length of the end plate.
8. The battery module of claim 4, wherein, the expansion-inducing portion includes:
9. The battery module of claim 4, wherein, a first expansion-inducing portion; and a second expansion-inducing portion recessed inside the first expansion-inducing portion and in the first portion. a depth of the second expansion-inducing portion is greater than a depth of the first expansion-inducing portion.
10. The battery module of claim 9, wherein, a height of the second expansion-inducing portion is less than or equal to a height of the first expansion-inducing portion.
11. The battery module of claim 9, wherein, a depth of the second expansion-inducing portion is 6% to 12% of a thickness of the end plate.
12. The battery module of claim 9, wherein, a length of the second expansion-inducing portion is 45% to 55% of a length of the first expansion-inducing portion.
13. The battery module of claim 9, wherein, a length of the second expansion-inducing portion is greater than or equal to a length of the gas vent.
14. The battery module of claim 9, wherein, 15.The battery module of claim 4, further comprising a side plate arranged to face a third surface of the plurality of battery cells along a third direction intersecting at least one of the first direction and the second direction. 16.The battery module of claim 1, further comprising an insulating sheet arranged along the first direction and positioned between battery cells of the plurality of battery cells.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Fluoro-acrylic adhesives of emulsion type with improved alcohol resistance
KR1020240064953A