Battery module, battery pack including same, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a module terminal configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a module frame accommodating the plurality of battery cells, and having a first vent hole formed in a first plate thereof and a module terminal formed in a second plate thereof; and a frame cover including a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate and a second cover configured to be connected to the first cover and cover at least the second plate.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0021936, filed on February 15, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0003] Secondary batteries, which are easily applied according to product groups and have electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are generally used in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by an electric driving source, as well as in portable devices. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency because of the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels and another advantage of not generating by-products caused by energy use.

[0004] The secondary batteries that are widely used at present include lithium ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and the like. When a higher output voltage than this is required, a battery module or a battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series. In addition, in order to increase the charge and discharge capacity, a battery module or a battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in parallel. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or the battery pack can be variously set according to the required output voltage or the charge and discharge capacity.

[0005] In addition, since the battery cells undergo a chemical reaction during charge and discharge, if the battery cells are used at a temperature higher than an appropriate temperature, their performance can deteriorate, and if heat cannot be controlled to an appropriate temperature, it is highly likely that an accidental fire or explosion will occur. The battery module has a structure in which the battery cells are densely stored in a module frame. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs inside the battery cell, high-temperature gas or flames emitted from the battery cell can spread to adjacent battery cells, causing a chain reaction of the battery cells exploding, which is very dangerous.

[0006] In particular, the module frame of the battery module is made of metal, so if a thermal event occurs inside the battery module or in an adjacent battery module, it can act as a heat source to accelerate the heat propagation between the battery modules.

[0007] Therefore, the conventional battery module is equipped with a frame cover configured to cover the outer side (particularly, the upper surface) of the module frame to minimize the movement of high-temperature gas or flames generated inside the battery module to other battery modules when a thermal runaway occurs in the battery module, thereby preventing heat propagation between the battery modules and preventing the exhaust gas or flames from flowing back into the battery module.

[0008] The frame cover is configured in the form of an FRB or a composite sheet of silicon and mica, and is attached to the module frame using an adhesive. However, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module, the frame cover is warped from the module frame due to deformation caused by high-temperature gas or flames. Therefore, there is a problem in that the high-temperature gas or flames are discharged to other battery modules and flow back to the battery module in which thermal runaway occurs.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can prevent the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module, thereby protecting the module frame. SUMMARY

[0010] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0011] The present disclosure aims to solve the problems of the related art, and thus aims to provide a battery module that can minimize the movement of high-temperature gas or flames generated from a battery cell in an abnormal situation in the battery module to an adjacent battery module, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between modules.

[0012] However, the technical problems addressed by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other problems not mentioned above from the description of the present invention described below.

[0013] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0014] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, a module terminal configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, a module frame configured to store the plurality of battery cells and having a first plate in which a first exhaust hole is formed and a second plate in which the module terminal is disposed, and a frame cover including a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate and a second cover connected to the first cover to cover at least the second plate.

[0015] The first cover can be configured to also cover at least one of third plates of the module frame disposed on left and right ends of the first plate.

[0016] The second cover can be configured to also cover a fourth plate of the module frame disposed on opposite sides of the second plate.

[0017] The second plate and the fourth plate of the module frame can be located on a side from which electrode leads of the battery cells are drawn out.

[0018] The first plate can be defined as an upper surface of the module frame, and the second plate can be defined as a front surface of the module frame.

[0019] The frame cover can be configured to be mounted on the module frame.

[0020] The frame cover can have a curved portion obtained by bending an end portion of the frame cover inwardly, and the curved portion is configured to at least partially cover a lower surface of the module frame.

[0021] The curved portion can be provided as at least one pair of curved portions provided to face each other.

[0022] The frame cover can include a guide portion configured to guide a coupling position with the module frame.

[0023] The frame cover can be configured to have a second exhaust hole formed at a position corresponding to the first exhaust hole.

[0024] The second exhaust hole can be formed in the first cover.

[0025] The frame cover can include a cover member configured to cover the second exhaust hole and capable of being opened by exhausting gas.

[0026] In another aspect of the disclosure, a battery pack including the battery module according to the disclosure is provided.

[0027] In another aspect of the disclosure, a vehicle including the battery module according to the disclosure is provided.

[0028] Advantageous effects

[0029] According to one aspect of the disclosure, since the frame cover is made of a hard and heat-resistant material, deformation thereof due to high-temperature gas or flame can be minimized. Accordingly, the module frame can be protected, and heat propagation between the battery modules can be prevented.

[0030] In addition, according to another aspect of the disclosure, movement of high-temperature gas or flame generated from the battery cells to adjacent battery modules when the battery module is in an abnormal state can be minimized, and thus heat runaway propagation between the modules can be effectively prevented or delayed. Accordingly, safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0031] In addition, according to another aspect of the disclosure, separation of the frame cover from the module frame can be minimized by securing a coupling force or a fixing force between the frame cover and the module frame.

[0032] In addition, according to another aspect of the disclosure, since the coupling structure of the frame cover and the module frame is simplified, operability or productivity in manufacturing of the battery module can be improved.

[0033] In addition, according to another aspect of the disclosure, high-temperature gas or flame generated from the battery cells in an abnormal situation of the battery module can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module. Accordingly, safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0034] In addition, according to another aspect of the disclosure, it is possible to prevent or delay an event such as a fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway of a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with a plurality of battery modules.

[0035] In addition, the disclosure can have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment, or a description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0036] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the disclosure and are used in providing further understanding of technical features of the disclosure together with the foregoing disclosure, and therefore, the disclosure is not construed as being limited to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a module frame of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] Figure 4 is a sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which can be a sectional view taken along line I-I' in Figure 1 .

[0041] Figure 5 is a sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which can be a sectional view taken along line II-II' in Figure 1 .

[0042] Figure 6 is a view showing that a frame cover according to an embodiment of the disclosure is coupled to a battery module.

[0043] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] Figure 9 is a partial enlarged view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, in which a guide portion is provided in a frame cover.

[0046] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a guide portion provided in a frame cover according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a view showing a cover member applied to a frame cover of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] Figure 12 FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which a portion of the cover member applied to the frame cover of the battery module according to the embodiment of the disclosure is opened.

[0049] Figure 13 FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including the battery module according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] Figure 14 FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including the battery pack according to the embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terms used in the specification and the appended claims should not be interpreted as being limited to general and dictionary meanings, but interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to technical aspects of the present disclosure on the basis of the principle that the inventor is allowed to define appropriate terms in order to best explain the present disclosure.

[0052] Accordingly, the description set forth herein is merely illustrative of preferred examples of the disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as there are several variations of the preferred examples that are possible, and the foregoing description is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0053] In addition, the present disclosure can include various embodiments. In each embodiment, repeated description of substantially the same or similar configurations will be omitted, and will be described based on the differences between them.

[0054] Although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, rear, etc. are used in the present specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that the terms are used only for the purpose of explanation with reference to the relevant drawings, and can vary according to the position of an object of interest or the position of an observer.

[0055] For example, in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the drawings can indicate the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can indicate the front-rear direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (X-Y plane), and the Z-axis direction can indicate the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0056] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view showing a cover member applied to a frame cover of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a view showing a cover member applied to a frame cover of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which can be a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 1 line I-I' in FIG. 1. In addition, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which can be a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 1 line II-II' in FIG. 1.

[0057] Referring to Figures 1 to 5 , a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include a battery cell 100, a module terminal 200, a module frame 300, and a frame cover 400.

[0058] Referring to Figure 2 , a plurality of battery cells 100 can be included. In this case, the plurality of battery cells 100 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0059] The plurality of battery cells 100 can be stacked in one direction. For example, as Figure 3 indicated, the plurality of battery cells 100 can be arranged side by side in a left-right direction (X-axis direction) when the plurality of battery cells 100 are erected in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0060] In addition, the plurality of battery cells 100 can be, for example, pouch-type secondary batteries. The plurality of battery cells 100 can include an electrode assembly, a cell case that stores the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead 110 connected to the electrode assembly and drawn to the outside of the cell case, thereby serving as an electrode terminal.

[0061] The electrode lead 110 can be provided in pairs, and a pair of electrode leads 110 can extend toward both ends of the battery cell 100, that is, in a length direction (±Y direction). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 110 can be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead.

[0062] The disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of the battery cell 100, and the plurality of battery cells 100 of the disclosure can be configured to be applied to various battery cells 100 known at the time of filing the disclosure. Although a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and being easily stacked as shown in the drawings will be described in the present embodiment, it is obvious that a cylindrical secondary battery or a prismatic secondary battery can be applied to the battery cell 100.

[0063] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the module frame 300 can be configured to store the battery cell 100. Specifically, an internal space can be formed in the module frame 300, and the internal space can be configured to store the battery cell 100.

[0064] The module frame 300 can be formed of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the stored battery cells 100.

[0065] A first exhaust hole H1 can be formed in the module frame 300. The first exhaust hole H1 can be configured to exhaust exhaust gas generated from the battery cells 100 to the outside of the module frame 300. The first exhaust hole H1 can be capable of directional exhaust in one direction.

[0066] The first exhaust hole H1 can be formed in the first plate 300a of the module frame 300. For example, as Figures 1 to 5 illustrated, the first plate 300a can be defined as an upper surface of the module frame 300, and can perform directional exhaust of the battery module 10 upward through the first exhaust hole H1 formed on the upper surface of the module frame 300.

[0067] A plurality of first exhaust holes H1 can be disposed to be arranged at regular intervals along the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions).

[0068] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, when gas is generated due to thermal runaway in any one of the battery cells 100, the gas can be rapidly exhausted in a specific direction.

[0069] In addition, the module frame 300 can be provided with a module terminal 200. The module terminal 200 can be configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells 100. The module terminal 200 can include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. In addition, the module terminal 200 can be configured to be electrically connected or communicatively connected with a control device such as a BMS. The module terminal 200 can be configured to at least partially extend to the outside of the module frame 300.

[0070] The module terminal 200 can be disposed on a side where the electrode lead 110 of the battery cell 100 is drawn to the outside. Specifically, the module terminal 200 can be disposed on the second plate 300b of the module frame 300. For example, as Figures 1 to 5 illustrated, the second plate 300b can be defined as a front surface of the module frame 300, and the module terminal 200 can be disposed on the front side of the module frame 300.

[0071] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the frame cover 400 can be configured to cover at least a portion of the module frame 300. The frame cover 400 can be disposed outside the module frame 300. The frame cover 400 can be configured to suppress movement of exhaust gas or flame released when a thermal event occurs inside the battery module 10 to another battery module 10.

[0072] The frame cover 400 can be formed of a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as a mica sheet or a silicone composite material. For example, the frame cover 400 can be formed of a non-flexible material obtained by thermoforming a mica sheet.

[0073] Accordingly, even when high-temperature heat is generated, the frame cover 400 can maintain form stability without being deformed, thereby stably blocking high-temperature gas or flames generated from the battery cell 100.

[0074] According to the above-implemented configuration of the present disclosure, since the frame cover 400 is formed of a hard and heat-resistant material, deformation thereof due to high-temperature gas or flames can be minimized.

[0075] More specifically, the frame cover 400 can include a first cover 410 and a second cover 420. The first cover 410 can be configured to cover at least the first plate 300a of the module frame 300. The first cover 410 can be configured to protect the first exhaust hole H1. For example, the first cover 410 can be configured to prevent exhaust gas or flames discharged from another battery module 10 from flowing into the module frame 300 through the first exhaust hole H1.

[0076] The second cover 420 can be configured to cover at least the second plate 300b of the module frame 300. As described above, the second plate 300b can be provided with the module terminal 200, and the second cover 420 can be configured to protect the module terminal 200. That is, the second cover 420 can be configured to inhibit exhaust gas or flames discharged from another battery module 10 from moving toward the module terminal 200.

[0077] The second cover 420 can be provided to be connected to the first cover 410. For example, the second cover 420 can be integrally formed with the first cover 410 by injection molding and folding, or can be manufactured separately from the first cover 410 and coupled to the first cover 410.

[0078] According to the above-implemented configuration of the present disclosure, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 are respectively configured to protect the first exhaust hole H1 and the module terminal 200, so that when an abnormal situation occurs in an adjacent battery module 10, movement of high-temperature exhaust gas or flames toward the first exhaust hole H1 or the module terminal 200 of the battery module 10 can be minimized. In particular, since the frame cover 400 covers the module frame 300 from various directions, transfer of heat to the outside of the module frame 300 or to the module frame 300 can be effectively inhibited. Accordingly, according to the above-implemented configuration of the present disclosure, heat runaway propagation between battery modules 10 can be effectively prevented or delayed, so that safety and reliability of the battery modules 10 can be ensured.

[0079] Further, referring to Figure 2The module frame 300 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can further include a third plate 300c, a fourth plate 300d, and a fifth plate 300e. The first plate 300a to the fifth plate 300e can form the exterior of the module frame 300. The module frame 300 can be configured in a cuboid shape by the first plate 300a to the fifth plate 300e.

[0080] More specifically, the third plate 300c can be disposed at the left and right ends of the first plate 300a. That is, a plurality of third plates 300c can be disposed to face each other. For example, as illustrated, the first plate 300a can form the upper surface of the module frame 300, and the third plate 300c can be configured to form the left and right sides of the module frame 300 on both sides of the first plate 300a.

[0081] In addition, the fifth plate 300e can be configured to face the first plate 300a. For example, as illustrated, the first plate 300a can be configured to form the upper surface of the module frame 300, and the fifth plate 300e can be configured to form the lower surface of the module frame 300.

[0082] Here, the first plate 300a, the third plate 300c, and the fifth plate 300e can be configured in an integrated form. In this case, the first plate 300a, the third plate 300c, and the fifth plate 300e can be combined into a square tube having a front opening and a rear opening. Alternatively, the third plate 300c and the fifth plate 300e can be configured in an integrated form.

[0083] The first cover 410 can be configured to cover at least one of the third plates 300c of the module frame 300 disposed on the left and right ends of the first plate 300a, in addition to the first plate 300a. That is, the first cover 410 can be configured to cover at least one third plate 300c in addition to the first plate 300a. For example, as illustrated, the first cover 410 can be configured to cover the first plate 300a disposed on the upper side and the third plates 300c disposed on the left and right sides. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The first cover 410 can be configured to cover the first plate 300a disposed on the upper side and the third plates 300c disposed on the left and right sides.

[0084] The first cover 410 can be configured to be curved at the boundary between the first plate 300a and the third plate 300c so as to cover both the first plate 300a and the third plate 300c. That is, the first cover 410 can be configured to be a single piece that is curved.

[0085] According to the above-mentioned configuration of the implementation of the disclosure, the first cover 410 can cover not only the first plate 300a having the first exhaust hole H1 but also both sides of the first plate 300a, thereby preventing the discharge gas or flame caused by a thermal event occurring inside the module frame 300 from being released toward the third plate 300c. At the same time, the frame cover 400 can block the discharge gas or flame from moving toward the third plate 300c from the outside.

[0086] In addition, a fourth plate 300d can be provided on the opposite side of the second plate 300b. That is, the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d can be configured to face each other. The second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d of the module frame 300 can be located on the side from which the electrode lead 110 of the battery cell 100 is drawn. That is, the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d can be positioned on the side on which the busbar frame assembly 500 is disposed.

[0087] For example, as illustrated, the second plate 300b can be configured to form a front surface of the module frame 300, and the fourth plate 300d can be configured to form a rear surface of the module frame 300. The second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d can be coupled to the front and rear openings of the integrated first plate 300a, the third plate 300c, and the fifth plate 300e.

[0088] In addition, with reference to Figure 3 , the battery module 10 of the disclosure can further include a busbar frame assembly 500. The busbar frame assembly 500 can be disposed inside the module frame 300 and configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells 100. The busbar frame assembly 500 can be located on the side from which the electrode lead 110 of the battery cell 100 is drawn. In the present embodiment, as Figure 2 illustrated, the busbar frame assembly 500 can be coupled to the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0089] The busbar frame assembly 500 can include a busbar frame 510 and a plurality of busbars 520. The busbar frame 510 can be disposed to be connected to the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 100. The busbar frame 510 can have a slit through which the electrode lead of the battery cell 100 can be drawn in the front-rear direction.

[0090] In addition, the busbar frame 510 can be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as a plastic material, and configured such that the busbar 520 can be attached to the outer surface thereof.

[0091] In addition, the plurality of busbars 520, which are devices for connecting the battery cells 100 in series and / or in parallel, can be formed of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, or nickel, and can be configured in a bar shape.

[0092] The electrode lead of the battery cell 100 can be drawn outside the busbar frame 510 by passing through the slit of the busbar frame 510, and the drawn portion can be coupled to the surface of the busbar 520 by welding or the like.

[0093] When the busbar frame assembly 500 is provided, the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d can be formed of, for example, an insulating material on the inner side and a metallic material on the outer side to secure electrical insulation. In addition, at least one of the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d can partially have a hole or a slit to expose components, such as the module terminal 200 or the connector of the battery module 10, which need to be exposed to the outside.

[0094] In this case, the second cover 420 can be configured to also cover the fourth plate 300d of the module frame 300 disposed on the opposite side of the second plate 300b. That is, the second cover 420 can be configured to cover the fourth plate 300d in addition to the second plate 300b. For example, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 5 the second cover 420 can be configured to cover the second plate 300b disposed on the front surface and the fourth plate 300d disposed on the rear surface. Two second covers 420 can be disposed to face each other.

[0095] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, the second cover 420 can cover not only the second plate 300b equipped with the module terminal 200 but also the fourth plate 300d, thereby preventing the discharge gas or flame generated due to a thermal event occurring inside the module frame 300 from being discharged toward the fourth plate 300d. At the same time, the frame cover 400 can block the discharge gas or flame from moving toward the fourth plate 300d from the outside. In particular, the frame cover 400 covers the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d disposed on the side where the electrode lead 110 of the battery cell 100 is located, thereby preventing the electrode lead 110 or the busbar 520 from being damaged by the discharge gas or flame.

[0096] Figure 6 is a view showing a frame cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure being coupled to a battery module, Figure 7 is a perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Referring to Figures 6 to 8 , the first plate 300a can be defined as the upper surface of the module frame 300, and the second plate 300b can be defined as the front surface of the module frame 300. Accordingly, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 can be configured to cover the upper surface and the front surface of the module frame 300, respectively.

[0098] Also, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 can be disposed in directions orthogonal to each other. For example, the first cover 410 can be configured to cover the upper surface of the module frame 300 as well as the left and right sides in the left-right direction, and the second cover 420 can be configured to cover the front and rear sides of the module frame 300 in the front-rear direction. In this case, the second cover 420 can be disposed to be coupled to the front and rear sides of the first cover 410. Alternatively, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 can be manufactured as one workpiece that is foldable.

[0099] The frame cover 400 can be configured to be mounted on the module frame 300. That is, the frame cover 400 can be configured to be mounted on the top of the module frame 300 and cover at least a portion of the module frame 300. As Figure 6 illustrated, in a case where the frame cover 400 is configured to cover all surfaces of the module frame 300 except for the fifth plate 300e, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 can be mounted on the module frame 300 when their respective end portions are opened outward (see arrows in Figure 6 ).

[0100] When the frame cover 400 is mounted on the module frame 300, the frame cover 400 can be configured to be in close contact with the module frame 300. More specifically, the frame cover 400 can be configured to be fixed to the module frame 300. For example, as Figures 6 to 8 illustrated, the frame cover 400 can have curved portions 411, 421. The curved portions 411 and 421 can be obtained by bending the end portions of the frame cover 400 inward. The curved portions 411, 421 can be configured to cover at least a portion of the lower surface of the module frame 300 (that is, the fifth plate 300e). That is, the curved portions 411, 421 of the frame cover 400 can be configured to be fixed by being caught on the lower surface of the module frame 300 when the frame cover 400 is mounted to the module frame 300.

[0101] The curved portions 411, 421 can also be provided in at least one pair. The pair of curved portions 411, 421 can be configured to face each other. For example, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 illustrated, the first cover 410 can have first curved portions 411 on the left and right sides, and the second cover 420 can have second curved portions 421. The first curved portions 411 and the second curved portions 421 can be provided in pairs, respectively, and can be disposed perpendicular to each other. Accordingly, the first curved portions 411 and the second curved portions 421 can fix the module frame 300 in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction.

[0102] In addition, a heat conductive adhesive such as a TIM or a thermal resin can be applied to the bottom surface of the module frame 300. Accordingly, the curved portions 411 and 421 can be fixed by the heat conductive adhesive, thereby further preventing the frame cover 400 from being separated from the module frame 300.

[0103] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, since the engagement force or the fixing force between the frame cover 400 and the module frame 300 is secured, separation of the frame cover 400 from the module frame 300 can be minimized. In addition, according to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, since the fixing structure between the frame cover 400 and the module frame 300 is simplified, the operability or the productivity in the manufacturing of the battery module 10 can be improved. In particular, since a separate adhesive is not required, the problem that the frame cover 400 is lifted from the module frame 300 due to high-temperature discharge gas or flame when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10 can be fundamentally prevented.

[0104] Figure 9 is a partial enlarged view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which a guide portion is provided in a frame cover. In addition, Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a guide portion provided in a frame cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] In addition, referring to Figure 9 and Figure 10 , the frame cover 400 can be provided with a guide portion 430. The guide portion 430 can be configured to guide a coupling position with the module frame 300. In addition, the guide portion 430 can be configured to fix the module frame 300 and the frame cover 400 to each other.

[0106] More specifically, referring to Figure 10 , the guide portion 430 can have a guide hole 431 and a guide pin 432. A plurality of guide holes 431 and a plurality of guide pins 432 can be provided. The guide hole 431 can be formed in the frame cover 400. The fixing hole 310 can be formed at a position corresponding to the guide hole 431 in the module frame 300. For example, the fixing hole 310 can be provided in the second plate 300b. The fixing hole 310 can be disposed further inward than the module terminal 200.

[0107] The guide pin 432, the guide hole 431, and the fixing hole 310 can be disposed in a vertical direction. The guide pin 432 can be provided as a pin. The guide pin 432 can be configured to pass through the guide hole 431. The guide pin 432 can be configured to be inserted into the fixing hole 310 through the guide hole 431.

[0108] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, the frame cover 400 can be more simply guided when the frame cover is coupled to the module frame 300. Accordingly, operability and productivity can be improved in the manufacturing of the battery module 10. In addition, the frame cover 400 can be more firmly fixed to the module frame 300, thereby preventing the frame cover 400 from being separated from the module frame 300. Accordingly, the frame cover 400 can be prevented from being lifted from the module frame 300, thereby more reliably protecting the module frame 300 from the discharge gas or the flame.

[0109] Figure 11 is a view illustrating a cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 12 is a view illustrating a state in which a portion of a cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is opened.

[0110] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , a second exhaust hole H2 can be formed in the frame cover 400. The second exhaust hole H2 can be configured to discharge the discharge gas released through the first exhaust hole H1 to the outside of the battery module 10.

[0111] A plurality of second exhaust holes H2 can be arranged at regular intervals along the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction). In particular, the second exhaust hole H2 can be formed at a position corresponding to the first exhaust hole H1. The second exhaust hole H2 can be formed in the first cover 410. Accordingly, according to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, the discharge gas or the flame can be rapidly discharged in a specific direction through the first exhaust hole H1 and the second exhaust hole H2.

[0112] In addition, the frame cover 400 can include a cover member 440. The cover member 440 can be configured to cover the second exhaust hole H2. The cover member 440 can be disposed on the inner side of the second exhaust hole H2. That is, the cover member 440 can be disposed between the first exhaust hole H1 and the second exhaust hole H2.

[0113] The cover member 440 can be configured in a sheet form and can be seated on the first plate 300a. In this case, the cover member 440 can be configured to cover a plurality of second exhaust holes H2 at a time. Alternatively, the cover member 440 can be configured to cover the second exhaust holes H2 respectively. The cover member 440 can be attached to the inner side of the first cover 410, or can be attached to the first plate 300a of the module frame 300.

[0114] As Figure 12As illustrated, such a cover member 440 can be configured to be opened at least partially by the discharge gas or flame. Specifically, at least a portion of the cover member 440 can be configured to be broken by the pressure or heat of the discharge gas toward the first gas discharge hole H1. For example, the cover member 440 can have a cut or a cutting line at a portion corresponding to the first gas discharge hole H1.

[0115] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell 100, the cover member 440 disposed on one side of the specific battery cell 100 can be broken, thereby opening at least one of the plurality of first gas discharge holes H1. Accordingly, the discharge gas or the like can be discharged to the outside of the module frame 300 through the opened first gas discharge hole H1.

[0116] In addition, the cover member 440 can prevent the gas or flame discharged to the outside of the module frame 300 from flowing back into the battery module 10. That is, the first gas discharge hole H1 disposed on the side of the battery cell 100 in which no thermal event occurs can remain in a closed state without being opened. To this end, the cover member 440 can be made of a material having excellent flame retardation performance. For example, the cover member 440 can include a material such as silicone or FRB.

[0117] Thereby, the discharge gas or flame discharged to the outside through the opened first gas discharge hole H1 can be fundamentally prevented from flowing back into the battery module 10. In addition, the remaining portion of the cover member 440 that is not broken can not only block heat but also high-temperature gas, flame, and discharge generated from the battery cell 100.

[0118] According to the above implemented configuration of the present disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10, not only can the discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery module 10 be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10, but also the discharged discharge gas or flame can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module 10. Accordingly, by minimizing the heat propagation to the adjacent battery cell 100 or battery module 10, it is possible to effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway.

[0119] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Referring to Figure 13 The battery pack 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include one or more battery modules 10 according to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure. The battery pack 1 according to the present disclosure can further include a BMS (Battery Management System) for integrated control of charge and discharge of one or more battery modules, a current sensor and a fuse, and a battery pack case 2 for storing the above-described components.

[0121] Figure 14is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0122] Referring to Figure 14 , a vehicle 3 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include one or more battery packs 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure or battery modules 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The vehicle 3 according to the disclosure can be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 3 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle 3 receives electric power from the battery pack 1 or the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure and operates.

[0123] As described above, although the disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art to which the disclosure belongs can make various modifications and changes without departing from the technical idea of the disclosure and the equivalent scope of the described claims.

Claims

1.A battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module terminal configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a module frame configured to store the plurality of battery cells, and in which a first exhaust hole is formed in a first plate, and the module terminal is provided in a second plate; and a frame cover including a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate, and a second cover connected to the first cover to cover at least the second plate. 2.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the first cover is configured to also cover at least one of a third plate of the module frame provided on left and right ends of the first plate. 3.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the second cover is configured to also cover a fourth plate of the module frame provided on opposite sides of the second plate. 4.The battery module of claim 3, wherein the second plate and the fourth plate of the module frame are located on a side from which electrode leads of the battery cells are drawn. 5.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the first plate is defined as an upper surface of the module frame, and wherein the second plate is defined as a front surface of the module frame. 6.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the frame cover is configured to be mounted on the module frame. 7.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the frame cover has a curved portion obtained by bending an end portion of the frame cover inward, and the curved portion is configured to at least partially cover a lower surface of the module frame. 8.The battery module of claim 7, wherein the curved portion is provided as at least one pair of curved portions provided to face each other. 9.The battery module of claim 1, wherein, the frame cover includes a guide portion configured to guide a coupling position with the module frame. 10.The battery module of claim 1, wherein, the frame cover is configured to have a second exhaust hole formed at a position corresponding to the first exhaust hole. 11.The battery module of claim 10, wherein, the second exhaust hole is formed in the first cover. 12.The battery module of claim 10, wherein the frame cover includes a cover member configured to cover the second exhaust hole and configured to be openable by discharging gas. 13.A battery pack comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12. 14.A vehicle comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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