Battery module, battery pack including battery module, and vehicle

Abstract

The present invention may comprise: a plurality of battery cells each having a storage portion and a sealing portion and stacked on each other; a module housing having an internal space in which a plurality of battery cells are stored; and a pressing member, at least one surface of which is arranged to face at least one surface of a platform portion on which an electrode lead is positioned among sealing portions of the battery cell, and at least another surface of which is arranged to face at least one surface of the module case, and the pressing member presses the platform portion when the internal pressure of the battery cell increases.

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. 10-2023-0151094, filed on November 3, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0003] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0104120, filed on August 5, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0004] 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 electrical driving source, as well as in portable devices.

[0005] These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency due to the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels and the other advantage of not generating by-products resulting from energy use.

[0006] 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 is required, a battery module or a battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series. In addition, a battery module or a battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in parallel in order to increase the charge / discharge capacity. 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 / discharge capacity.

[0007] Meanwhile, since the battery cells undergo a chemical reaction during charging and discharging, their performance can be degraded if they are used at a temperature higher than an appropriate temperature, and an unexpected ignition or explosion can occur if the temperature is not controlled to the appropriate temperature. In addition, the battery module has a structure in which the battery cells are densely stored within a module frame. Accordingly, if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells, high-temperature gas and flames released therefrom can spread to adjacent battery cells, causing a chain reaction in which explosions occur in the battery cells, which is very dangerous.

[0008] In particular, if the battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, high-temperature gas, flame, or sparks generated during thermal runaway in a specific battery cell can very likely erupt to the front and rear of the battery cell where the electrode lead of the battery module is located. Accordingly, components located at both ends of the battery module, such as parts of the end plate or busbar frame, can be thermally damaged, which can cause structural collapse.

[0009] In addition, the flame released to the outside through the end plate can cause heat to spread to an adjacent battery module. In particular, if the flame or the like generated from a specific battery module spreads to the end plate of another battery module, there is a high risk of heat spreading or chain ignition between the modules. This can cause thermal runaway to spread to the entire battery pack including a plurality of battery modules.

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need to develop a structure capable of preventing or appropriately controlling the direction of discharge of high-temperature gas or flame released from a battery cell where a thermal event occurs, thereby delaying thermal runaway between battery cells or battery modules. SUMMARY

[0011] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0012] The present disclosure is designed to solve the problems of the related art, and thus the present disclosure aims to provide a battery module having improved safety and reliability by appropriately controlling the exhaust direction of high-temperature gas or flame generated by a battery cell in an abnormal situation of the battery module or effectively preventing heat spreading between battery cells or battery modules.

[0013] The present disclosure also provides a battery pack including a battery module having an improved structure and a vehicle including the same.

[0014] The technical problems sought to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and one of ordinary skill in the art can clearly understand other problems not mentioned above from the following description of the present disclosure.

[0015] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0016] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module includes a plurality of battery cells each having a storage portion and a sealed portion and configured to be stacked with each other, a module case configured to house the plurality of battery cells in an internal space, and a pressing member disposed such that at least one surface faces at least one surface of a platform portion where an electrode lead among the sealed portions of the battery cells is located and such that at least another surface faces at least one surface of the module case, and configured to pressurize the platform portion when an internal pressure of the battery cells increases.

[0017] The module case can include a top plate disposed to cover a top of the battery cell, and the pressing member can be configured to be in contact with the top plate.

[0018] The pressing member can be configured to surround at least a portion of a circumference of the platform portion.

[0019] At least a portion of the pressing member can be disposed on an upper side of the sealing portion.

[0020] The pressing member can have a groove formed to be configured such that at least a portion of a folded area of the sealing portion is inserted therein.

[0021] The pressing member can be configured such that, when exhaust gas is discharged upward from the battery cell, exhaust is performed in a central portion of the battery cell.

[0022] The pressing member can be formed such that an upper end extends toward a central portion of the battery cell.

[0023] The pressing member can be configured to surround all four surfaces of the platform portion.

[0024] The battery module can further include a busbar assembly positioned on a side of the platform portion, among the sealing portions of the battery cells, at which the electrode leads are located, and electrically connected to the electrode leads, and the pressing member can be positioned on an inner side of the busbar assembly.

[0025] The battery module can further include a barrier interposed between adjacent battery cells, and the pressing member can be configured to face at least one surface of the barrier.

[0026] The pressing member can include an insulating material or a heat-resistant material.

[0027] The pressing member can include two or more different materials.

[0028] The pressing member can include two or more materials having different strengths.

[0029] According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a battery pack including a battery according to the disclosure.

[0030] According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a vehicle including a battery pack according to the disclosure.

[0031] Advantageous effects

[0032] According to one aspect of the disclosure, when an abnormal situation such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, the discharge of a gas or flame toward the platform portion can be prevented or suppressed. In particular, a space near the platform portion of the battery cell can be relatively wide in the internal space of the battery module. However, according to the above aspect, since the discharge of a gas or flame is not discharged from the battery cell in which a thermal event has occurred toward the platform portion, the propagation of thermal runaway due to the discharged gas or flame through the space near the platform portion to other battery cells can be suppressed or prevented.

[0033] In particular, according to the embodiments of the disclosure, even if the internal pressure of the battery cell increases, the fusion (sealing) portion of the sealing portion can be prevented from being opened by the pressing member, thereby preventing the seal of the sealing portion from being broken. Thus, the discharge of a high-temperature gas or flame to components positioned adjacent to the platform portion, particularly electrical components (such as busbar assemblies or module terminals) provided on the outer side thereof, can be prevented. Thus, damage to various components located in the corresponding direction can be prevented, and unintended interruption of electrical connections between battery cells or battery modules can be prevented.

[0034] According to another aspect of the disclosure, directional venting for discharging a discharged gas or the like in an intended direction can be more easily achieved. For example, according to the embodiments of the disclosure, a gas or flame can be discharged to the top of the battery cell or battery module. In this case, the safety and reliability of a battery module including a plurality of battery cells can be further improved.

[0035] Further, according to another aspect of the disclosure, since the pressing member is configured to be coupled to the busbar assembly, the assembly of the pressing member can be facilitated and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0036] Further, according to another aspect of the disclosure, other battery modules can be prevented from being thermally damaged by a high-temperature gas or flame generated from a particular battery module. In particular, according to this aspect of the disclosure, the propagation of thermal runaway between modules can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0037] Thus, an event such as a fire or explosion due to thermal runaway in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with the same can be prevented or delayed.

[0038] In particular, in the case of an electric vehicle, the suppression or delay of the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells or battery modules can ensure sufficient time for the occupants to escape or evacuate.

[0039] Further, the disclosure can have various other effects, and these effects will be described in various embodiments, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0040] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the detailed description given below, provide further understanding of the technical concept of the present disclosure, and therefore, the present disclosure is not construed as being limited to the drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 2 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a battery module in Figure 1

[0043] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a battery cell included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 4 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portion of a battery module including a pressing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5 is a front view schematically illustrating a pressing member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 6 is a top cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which a pressing member is coupled to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a portion of a battery module including a pressing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 8a is a front view schematically illustrating a pressing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 8b is a magnified view of an upper portion of a pressing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 9 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 10 is a front view illustrating a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 11 is a front view illustrating a pressing member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 12 ​is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pressing member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 14 is a front view illustrating a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 16 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 17 is a front view illustrating a pressing member included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Figure 18 is a view illustrating a process in which a lower surface of a top plate and a pressing member are coupled according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 19 is a view illustrating a process in which a lower surface of a top plate and a pressing member are coupled according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Figure 21 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a configuration of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the term used in the specification and the appended claims should not be interpreted as 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 application.

[0065] Accordingly, the configuration proposed in the embodiments of the present specification and the drawings indicates only the most preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and does not represent all technical ideas of the present disclosure, and it is understood that various equivalents and modifications can be made thereto at the time of filing the present application.

[0066] In addition, the present disclosure can include various embodiments. Redundant descriptions of configurations substantially the same or similar will be omitted from various embodiments, and will be described based on the differences therebetween.

[0067] For ease of explanation and illustration, the sizes of some elements shown in the drawings can be exaggerated rather than reflecting their actual sizes. Also, in the embodiments, the same reference numerals can be assigned to the same elements.

[0068] Although "first", "second", and the like are used to describe various elements, the elements are not limited to these terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one element from another element, and the first element can also be the second element unless otherwise specified.

[0069] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, a corresponding element can include a single or a plurality of elements.

[0070] The configuration in which an element is disposed in the "upper portion (or lower portion)" or "top (or bottom)" of a target element can indicate that the element can be disposed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the target element, and another element can be interposed between the target element and the element disposed in the top (or bottom) of the target element.

[0071] In addition, the expression "an element 'connected', 'coupled', or 'fastened' to another element" should be understood that the elements can be directly connected, coupled, or fastened to each other, and another element can be "interposed" between the elements, or the elements can be "connected", "coupled", or "fastened" through another element.

[0072] A single element herein should be interpreted to encompass a plurality of elements. In the present specification, the expression "an element 'configured to' or 'including' other elements or steps" should be understood that the element can exclude some other elements or steps, and the element can also include additional elements or steps.

[0073] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, "A and / or B" can mean A or B, or A and B.

[0074] Meanwhile, in the embodiments of the disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the X-axis direction in which a plurality of battery cells 100 are stacked is referred to as a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction which is a horizontal direction orthogonal to the cell stacking direction is referred to as a front-rear direction, and the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the X-Y plane is referred to as an up-down direction (vertical direction). Further, in the case of a pouch-type cell, the Y-axis direction can also be referred to as a longitudinal direction of the cell. Further, the left-right direction, the front-rear direction, and the up-down direction can also be denoted as a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction, respectively.

[0075] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear directions are used in the present specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms are merely for convenience of explanation and can vary depending on the position of the target object or the position of the observer.

[0076] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view illustrating the battery module 10 in Figure 1 FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a battery cell 100 included in the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 3

[0077] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 , the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include the battery cell 100, a module case 200, a busbar assembly 300, and a pressing member 400.

[0078] The battery cell 100 can include an electrode assembly, a cell case 110 accommodating the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead 120 connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the cell case 110 to serve as an electrode terminal.

[0079] The battery cell 100 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. Such a pouch-type secondary battery can be configured as a pouch in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers in the cell case 110.

[0080] Specifically, referring to Figure 3 , the battery cell 100 can include a storage portion R and a sealing portion S. The storage portion R can store an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. For example, the cell case 110 can have two pouches (e.g., a left pouch and a right pouch), and the storage portion R can be positioned in a central portion between the left pouch and the right pouch such that edges of the storage portion R can be sealed. In this case, the storage portion R in at least a portion of the two pouches can have an inner space formed in a concave shape facing the electrode assembly, and the electrode assembly can be mounted in the inner space. Although Figure 3 ​The illustrated embodiment shows a double cup configuration in which the storage portion R is formed on both sides of the cell case 110, but the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the shape of the cell case 110. For example, the battery cell 100 can be configured in a single cup shape in which the storage portion R is formed on only one side of the cell case 110.

[0081] The sealing portion S can be configured to surround the storage portion R, and can be a portion in which the edge of the storage portion R is heat-fused. That is, the sealing portion S can be formed by sealing the edge of the storage portion R. In particular, the battery cell 100 can have four sides (edges) of the storage portion R. In this case, all four sides can be sealed, or only three sides can be sealed. A cell having four sealed sides can be referred to as a four-sided sealed cell, and a cell having three sealed sides can be referred to as a three-sided sealed cell. For example, in the case of a three-sided sealed cell, the bottom side of the left and right pouches can be folded to connect the left and right pouches to each other. Figure 3 In the illustrated configuration, the battery cell 100 is configured in an upright posture such that the front, rear, and top sides of the left and right pouches are sealed, and such that the bottom sides of the left and right pouches are folded rather than sealed to connect to each other. That is, the battery cell 100 is configured to have three sealed sides.

[0082] Each battery cell 100 can have an electrode lead 120. The electrode lead 120 can include a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead, and the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead can be disposed to protrude from the same side (edge) or different sides of the battery cell 100. A cell in which the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead are located on the same side can be referred to as a single-direction cell, and a cell in which the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead are located on different sides (in particular, opposite sides) can be referred to as a bi-directional cell.

[0083] The electrode lead 120 can be configured to extend to the front and / or rear of the sealing portion S of the battery cell 100. In this case, the sealing portion S from which the electrode lead 120 extends outward can be defined as a platform portion T. Here, the platform portion T can indicate the sealing portion S extending in a vertical direction from the front end and / or the rear end of the battery cell 100.

[0084] Referring to Figure 3 , the sealing portion S can include two platform portions T and an upper sealing portion S1. Here, the two platform portions T can indicate the front and rear sealing portions of the battery cell 100.

[0085] Referring to Figure 3In part A, the upper sealing portion S1 can be folded at least once. That is, a portion of the upper sealing portion S1 can be formed as a folded region F. The front sealing portion or the rear sealing portion (i.e., the platform portion T) is the portion where the electrode lead 120 is located, so it can be stored inside the module housing 200 without being folded. On the other hand, the upper sealing portion S1 can be stored in a folded state inside the module housing 200.

[0086] Multiple battery cells 100 may be included in the battery module 10. Furthermore, the multiple battery cells 100 may be stacked on top of each other in at least one direction. For example, the multiple battery cells 100 may be upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). In particular, in the case of three-sided sealed cells, the corresponding battery cells 100 may be configured to be upright, such that the side without the sealing portion S is at the bottom. In this case, each battery cell 100 may have a sealing portion S pointing in the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upward direction (+Z-axis direction), and a storage portion R pointing in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0087] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of battery cell 100, and various battery cells 100 known at the time of submission of this disclosure can be used to implement the cell assembly of this disclosure. In this embodiment, although a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking will be described as shown in the accompanying drawings, it will be apparent that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied to the battery cell 100.

[0088] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the module housing 200 can be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells 100 within an internal space. That is, the module housing 200 can have empty spaces formed therein, and a plurality of battery cells 100 can be accommodated within this internal space. For example, the module housing 200 can have an upper plate, a lower plate, a left plate, a right plate, a front plate, and a rear plate to form the internal space. Furthermore, the plurality of battery cells 100 can be stored within a limited internal space. Here, the module housing 200 can comprise metal and / or plastic materials.

[0089] Furthermore, at least some of the plates constituting the module housing 200 can be configured in an integrated manner. For example, refer to Figure 2In this case, the single frame can have a front opening and a rear opening, and front and rear plates as end frames can be coupled to the front and rear openings of the single frame, thereby sealing the internal space of the single frame. As another example, the module case 200 can be configured as a U-shaped frame in which the lower plate, the left plate, and the right plate are integrated with each other. In this case, the upper plate, the front plate, and the rear plate can be coupled to the top end, the front end, and the rear end of the U-shaped frame. Meanwhile, the respective components of the module case 200 can be coupled by various fastening methods such as welding or bolting. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific material, shape, or coupling method of the module case 200.

[0090] According to the embodiment, although not shown in the drawings, at least one of the plates (for example, the upper plate) constituting the module case 200 can include at least one exhaust area through which the exhaust gas released from the battery cell 100 is discharged. For example, the exhaust area can be configured as one of an exhaust hole or a preliminary breaking line. According to the implementation configuration of the present disclosure, the upper plate of the module case 200 can be provided with an exhaust area to induce directional exhaust to the top of the battery module 10.

[0091] The busbar assembly 300 can be configured to be electrically connected to the electrode lead 120. The busbar assembly 300 can be configured such that the electrode leads 120 of the plurality of battery cells 100 are connected to each other. More specifically, the busbar assembly 300 can be configured to support the electrode leads 120, facilitate interconnection of the electrode leads 120, and enable sensing of voltage, etc. from the electrode leads 120.

[0092] The busbar assembly 300 can be positioned adjacent to the platform portion T in which the electrode lead 120 among the sealing portions S of the battery cell 100 is located. For example, the busbar assembly 300 can be positioned adjacent to the platform portion T in which the electrode lead 120 among the sealing portions S facing the front side of the battery cell 100 (the side facing the -Y axis direction) is located.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 2, the busbar assembly 300 can include a busbar terminal 310 and a busbar frame 320. Figure 2

[0094] The busbar terminal 310 can be configured to electrically connect two or more electrode leads 120, or to one or more electrode leads 120, and transmit sensing information to a control unit such as a BMS (Battery Management System).

[0095] ​Further, the busbar frame 320 can be made of an electrically insulating material such as a plastic material. The busbar frame 320 can be configured such that the busbar terminal 310 is seated on the busbar frame 320 and fixed to the busbar frame 320. Further, the busbar frame 320 can have a slit formed thereon. Further, the busbar terminal 310 can be attached to an outer surface of the busbar frame 320, for example, a front side thereof (in the -Y axis direction). In this case, the electrode lead 120 can pass through the slit of the busbar frame 320 and contact the busbar terminal 310 located on the outer side. In particular, a single electrode lead 120 or two or more electrode leads 120 stacked with each other can be fixed to the busbar terminal 310. In this case, the coupling between the electrode lead 120 and the busbar terminal 310 can be performed by laser welding or ultrasonic welding, but various other coupling methods can also be applied.

[0096] The pressing member 400 can be positioned on the inner side of the busbar frame 320. Specifically, with reference to Figure 6 , the pressing member 400 can be positioned on the inner side of the busbar frame 320, and the busbar terminal 310 can be positioned on the outer side of the busbar frame 320. That is, the pressing member 400 and the busbar terminal 310 can be disposed on opposite sides of the busbar frame 320. In this case, the electrode lead 120 can pass through the slit 321 of the busbar frame 320 and contact the busbar terminal 310 located on the outside.

[0097] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portion of a battery module including a pressing member according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 5 FIG. 5 is a front view schematically illustrating a pressing member included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 6 FIG. 6 is a top cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which a pressing member is coupled to a battery cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a portion of a battery pack including a pressing member according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0098] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5At least a portion of the pressing member 400 can be disposed to face at least one surface of the platform portion T. The pressing member 400 can be configured to pressurize the platform portion T from both sides of the platform portion T. One surface of the pressing member 400 can be disposed to face the first surface 111 of the platform portion T, and the other surface of the pressing member 400 can be disposed to face the second surface 112 of the platform portion T, which faces in the opposite direction to the first surface 111. Here, the first surface 111 of the platform portion T can be one surface facing in the left direction (for example, the -X axis direction), and the second surface 112 can be one surface facing in the right direction (for example, the +X axis direction). For example, as indicated by the arrows in the drawing, the portion of the pressing member 400 positioned on the left side of the platform portion T can pressurize the platform portion T to the right, and the portion positioned on the right side of the platform portion T can pressurize the platform portion T to the left.

[0099] The pressing member 400 can be configured to pressurize the platform portion T when the internal pressure of the battery cell 100 increases. The pressing member 400 can pressurize all or a portion of the platform portion T and the electrode lead 120, thereby preventing any portion of the platform portion T from being opened.

[0100] According to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure, the pressing member 400 can be configured to suppress the opening or separation of the platform portion T. In particular, the sealing portion S (for example, the platform portion T) of the battery cell 100 is a fusion portion, which can have lower durability against high temperature, high pressure, flame, etc., compared to the storage portion R of the battery cell 100. However, according to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure, since the platform portion T of the battery cell 100 is protected by the pressing member 400, the platform portion T can be prevented from being affected by the discharge gas or flame discharged from other battery cells 100. Accordingly, the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells 100 inside the battery module 10 can be effectively prevented.

[0101] In addition, by pressurizing both sides (for example, the left and right sides) of the platform portion T, it is possible to prevent the platform portion T from being opened to both sides or moving in one direction. As described above, when the platform portion T is pressed from both sides, since the platform portion T is reliably pressurized, the sealing maintenance performance of the platform portion T can be further improved.

[0102] According to an embodiment, with reference to part B in FIG. 11, Figure 5 The pressing member 400 can be disposed such that at least one surface thereof faces at least one surface of the module case 200. That is, at least one surface of the pressing member 400 can be formed to extend toward the module case 200.

[0103] With reference to Figure 4One surface of the battery cell 100 and one surface of the module case 200 configured to accommodate the battery cell 100 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a specified distance. That is, an empty space g can be formed between one surface of the battery cell 100 and one surface of the module case 200 configured to accommodate the battery cell 100. When a thermal event occurs, the exhaust gas or flame released from the battery cell 100 can move to other nearby battery cells 100 through the empty space g.

[0104] According to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in one battery cell 100, the high-temperature gas or flame released therefrom can be prevented from spreading to other battery cells 100 through the empty space g between the module case 200 and the battery cell 100. Accordingly, a chain explosion of the battery cells 100 can be prevented and / or delayed.

[0105] Referring to Figure 4 The pressing member 400 can be configured to extend in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) along the platform portion T. To prevent the gas from being exhausted through the platform portion T, the pressing member 400 can be configured to extend in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) corresponding to the shape of the platform portion T and pressurize the entire length of the platform portion T. For example, the vertical length of the pressing member 400 can be substantially equal to or greater than the vertical length of the platform portion T.

[0106] That is, the pressing member 400 can pressurize the entire platform portion T from the bottom to the top, thereby preventing the entire platform portion T from being opened or broken. According to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure, the gas or flame can be completely blocked from being exhausted through the platform portion T, and the platform portion T can be more reliably prevented from being broken due to the pressure of the exhaust gas or flame.

[0107] A plurality of pressing members 400 can be provided. The plurality of pressing members 400 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell 100.

[0108] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The module case 200 can include a top plate 210 (e.g., an upper plate). The top plate 210 can be disposed to cover the top of the battery cell 100. In this case, referring to part B in Figure 5 The pressing member 400 can be configured to be in contact with the top plate 210 of the module case 200. That is, the upper surface of the pressing member 400 can be in direct contact with the top plate 210.

[0109] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 7The battery cell 100 can be roughly divided into edge portions 101 at the front and rear ends and a center portion 102 therebetween. The pressing member 400 can be configured to extend to the top plate 210 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and press the edge portions 101 of the upper portion (e.g., the upper sealing portion S1) of the battery cell 100 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction).

[0110] When the battery module 10 is in an abnormal state, the pressing member 400 can cause high-temperature gas or flames generated from the battery cell 100 to be discharged upward. In the case where the front and / or rear platform portion T of the battery cell 100 is pressed by the pressing member 400, discharge can be induced in a direction other than the front and / or rear direction of the battery module. For example, in this case, it can be more appropriately applied to top discharge toward the top of the battery module.

[0111] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, discharge at the front and / or rear edge portions 101 in the upward direction of the battery module 10 can be prevented in addition to front and / or rear discharge through the platform portion T. Furthermore, discharge can be induced at the center portion 102 other than the front and / or rear edge portions 101 in the upward direction of the battery cell 100.

[0112] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, high-temperature gas or flames discharged from one battery cell 100 can be prevented from being transferred to other battery cells 100 through the empty space g between the top plate 210 and the battery cell 100. Accordingly, chain explosion of the battery cells 100 can be prevented and / or delayed.

[0113] According to embodiments, the upper surface of the pressing member 400 and the lower surface of the top plate 210 can be coupled using an adhesive or the like. For example, an adhesive member (not shown) such as an adhesive or an adhesive tape can be disposed between the upper surface of the pressing member 400 and the lower surface of the top plate 210. However, the coupling of the pressing member 400 and the top plate 210 is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be designed in various ways.

[0114] The pressing member 400 can include an insulating or heat-resistant material. For example, the pressing member 400 can be made of or include an insulating or heat-resistant material. For example, the pressing member 400 can include a material having high insulation and / or heat resistance (including fire resistance) properties, such as at least one of plastic, rubber, silicon, aerogel, metal, and GFRP (glass fiber reinforced plastic). For example, the pressing member 400 can include a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance in order to physically or chemically prevent the platform portion T from being broken.

[0115] According to the configuration of the implementation according to the disclosure, the heat or flame blocking performance of the platform portion T can be more stably ensured. More specifically, according to the configuration of the implementation described above, the pressing member 400 having the insulation or heat resistance performance can effectively block the discharged gas or flame from moving to the other battery cells 100 in the space around the platform portion T.

[0116] However, the material of the pressing member 400 is not limited to the embodiment described above, and any material can be applied as long as it exhibits a predetermined insulation or heat resistance.

[0117] Figure 8a is a front view schematically illustrating a pressing member according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 8b is a magnified view of an upper portion of a pressing member according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0118] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 8a , the pressing member 400 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the platform portion T. The pressing member 400 can surround at least three surfaces of the platform portion T. The pressing member 400 can surround two surfaces of the platform portion T and one surface therebetween. For example, the pressing member 400 can surround the first surface 111 and the second surface 112 of the platform portion T and one surface (e.g., the upper surface) therebetween.

[0119] The pressing member 400 can include a first pressing portion 410 disposed to face the first surface 111 of the platform portion T, a second pressing portion 420 disposed to face the second surface 112 of the platform portion T facing a direction opposite to the first surface 111, and a third pressing portion 430 connecting the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420.

[0120] The first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420 can be disposed in parallel to the platform portion T interposed therebetween. The third pressing portion 430 can be disposed perpendicular to the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420. For example, the pressing member 400 can have a "U" shape.

[0121] The pressing member 400 can further include a slit 432 surrounded by the first pressing portion 410, the second pressing portion 420, and the third pressing portion 430. The platform portion T can pass through the slit 432 of the pressing member 400.

[0122] ​The slit 432 can be formed to extend long in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The upper side of the slit 432 can be closed by the third pressing portion 430, and the lower side of the slit 432 can be open. Accordingly, when the pressing member 400 is assembled with the battery cell 100, the pressing member 400 can be assembled from the top to the bottom, and the platform portion T can be inserted into the slit 432 having the lower opening.

[0123] The width (length in the X-axis direction) W1 of the slit 432 can be substantially equal to or greater than the thickness (length in the X-axis direction) of the platform portion T.

[0124] According to an embodiment, the width (length in the X-axis direction) W1 of the slit 432 can be greater than the thickness (length in the X-axis direction) of the platform portion T. That is, one surface of the pressing member 400 can be disposed to be spaced apart from the platform portion T by a predetermined distance. Here, the predetermined distance can refer to a gap that allows the battery cell 100 to swell while preventing the battery cell 100 from being damaged due to thermal runaway.

[0125] Accordingly, swelling of the battery cell 100 to a certain level or more can be absorbed or allowed to some extent. In addition, when a particular battery cell 100 experiences thermal runaway, even if the internal pressure of the battery cell 100 increases, the pressing member 400 can prevent the fusion (sealing) portion of the sealing portion from being opened.

[0126] According to another embodiment, the width (length in the X-axis direction) W1 of the slit 432 can be substantially the same as the thickness (length in the X-axis direction) of the platform portion T. That is, the pressing member 400 can be configured to be in contact with at least one surface of the platform portion T. The pressing member 400 can be in close contact with at least one surface of the platform portion T. In this case, the pressing member 400 can be configured to press and / or pressurize the platform portion T in a normal state. That is, even if no thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the pressing member 400 can be configured to be in contact with the platform portion T and pressurize the platform portion T to a certain level or more.

[0127] According to the above-described implementation configuration of the present disclosure, the pressing member 400 can pressurize the platform portion T even in a normal state, so that pressurization of the platform portion T can be performed from the initial stage when thermal runaway occurs. Accordingly, separation of the platform portion T can be more reliably prevented, thereby completely preventing escape of the discharge gas or the like through the platform portion T. In addition, since the platform portion T is pressurized even in a normal state in which thermal runaway does not occur, the position of the platform portion T of each battery cell 100 can be more stably fixed, and movement of the battery cell 100 can be prevented.

[0128] According to an embodiment, the first pressing portion 410, the second pressing portion 420, and the third pressing portion 430 of the pressing member 400 can be integrally formed. According to another embodiment, the first pressing portion 410, the second pressing portion 420, and the third pressing portion 430 of the pressing member 400 can be joined by an adhesive or the like. However, the coupling of the pressing member 400 is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be variously designed.

[0129] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of pressing members 400 does not pressurize each of the platform portions T, but one pressing member 400 can pressurize the platform portions T from different directions, so that the pressurization is easy and the pressing force can be relatively increased. In addition, the pressing member 400 can be easily fixed to the battery cell 100.

[0130] At least a portion of the pressing member 400 can be disposed at an upper side of the sealing portion S. At least a portion of the pressing member 400 can be positioned at an upper side of the upper sealing portion S1. That is, the pressing member 400 can cover at least a portion of the upper sealing portion S1.

[0131] Specifically, the third pressing portion 430 can be disposed at an upper side of the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420. The third pressing portion 430 can be located on the upper sealing portion S1. That is, the vertical height of the pressing member 400 can be greater than the vertical height of the battery cell 100.

[0132] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, the upper sealing portion S1 can be formed to protrude upward from the storage portion R of the battery cell 100. Therefore, in terms of space utilization, it can be appropriate for the pressing member 400 to protrude upward from the battery cell 100.

[0133] A groove 431 can be formed on the pressing member 400 such that at least a portion of the folding area F of the upper sealing portion S1 is inserted therein. The groove 431 can be formed on the third pressing portion 430 of the pressing member 400. The groove 431 can extend from the slit 432 of the pressing member 400 and be configured to be recessed in the upward direction.

[0134] The size of the recess 431 can be substantially equal to or greater than the size of the folding area F of the upper sealing portion S1. For example, the recess 431 can extend from the slit 432 and can be configured to extend from the slit 432 in the right direction (+X-axis direction) so as to correspond to the shape of the folding area F. For example, the recess 431 can have a rectangular shape including a horizontal surface and a vertical surface. For example, the recess 431 can include an inclined surface corresponding to the shape of the folding area F. For example, the recess 431 can at least partially have a curved surface. However, the shape and size of the recess 431 are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and any shape and size capable of being inserted into the upper sealing portion S1 (e.g., the folding area F) are possible.

[0135] According to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, the pressing member 400 can protect the upper portion of the sealing portion S (i.e., the upper sealing portion S1). In addition, it can be possible to prevent the folding area F of the upper sealing portion S1 from being unfolded or deformed.

[0136] The pressing member 400 can be configured to allow venting in the center portion 102 of the battery cell 100 when the discharge gas is discharged upward from the at least one battery cell 100.

[0137] When the battery module 10 is in an abnormal state, the pressing member 400 can cause the high-temperature gas or flame generated from the battery cell 100 to be discharged upward. In the case where the front and / or rear platform portion T of the battery cell 100 is pressurized by the pressing member 400, it can be possible to cause venting in a direction other than the front and / or rear direction of the battery module 10. For example, in this case, it can be more appropriately applied to top venting in the upward direction of the battery module 10.

[0138] When the discharge gas is discharged to the top of the battery cell 100, the edge portion 101 of the upper sealing portion S1 can be broken. In this case, the same problem as the venting in the platform portion T can occur. For example, when the discharge gas is discharged to the edge portion 101 (at the front and rear portions) of the upper sealing portion S1, the discharge gas can move to the platform portion T in which a relatively wide space exists in the internal space of the battery module 10. In addition, the discharge gas or flame can be transferred to other battery cells 100 through the space around the platform portion T.

[0139] According to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, since the pressing member 400 surrounds the edge portion 101 of the upper sealing portion S1, it can be possible to suppress venting through the edge portion 101. In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, it can be possible to perform venting in the center portion 102 of the battery cell 100 while causing top venting.

[0140] Figure 9is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery pack including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0141] The pressing member 400 can be formed such that the upper end (the upper end in the vertical direction) extends toward the center portion 102 of the battery cell 100. That is, the third pressing portion 430 can be formed to extend toward the center portion 102 of the battery cell 100. The third pressing portion 430 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420. For example, the pressing member 400 can have a "T" shape.

[0142] A length of a portion extending in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) toward the center portion 102 of the battery cell 100 in the third pressing portion 430 can have a first length L1. For example, the first length L1 can be configured as a predetermined length that allows discharge gas discharged from the battery cell 100 to be discharged upward while limiting exhaust through the edge portion 101. For example, the first length L1 can be 2% to 25% of the length (length in the Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 100. For example, the first length L1 can be 5% to 20% of the length (length in the Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 100.

[0143] According to the embodiment, compared to Figure 7 , an area of the upper sealing portion S1 surrounded by the pressing member 400 (the third pressing portion 430) can be relatively increased. According to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, exhaust toward the center portion 102 in the upper portion of the battery cell 100 can be further induced, and exhaust toward the edge portion 101 can be effectively prevented.

[0144] Figure 10 is a front view illustrating a pressing member according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0145] The pressing member 400 can be configured to surround all four surfaces of the platform portion T. The platform portion T can be surrounded by the pressing member 400 on the upper surface, the lower surface, the left surface, and the right surface.

[0146] As shown in part C in Figure 10 , the pressing member 400 can further include a fourth pressing portion 440 disposed at the bottom of the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420 to connect the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420. The fourth pressing portion 440 can be disposed perpendicular to the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420. The fourth pressing portion 440 can be disposed parallel to the third pressing portion 430. For example, the pressing member 400 can have a "T" shape.

[0147] ​​According to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure, assembly of the pressing member 400 can be easier. Further, the fixing force between the pressing member 400 and the battery cell 100 can be further strengthened, and upward or downward movement of the platform portion T can be more effectively prevented.

[0148] Figure 11 is a front view illustrating a pressing member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pressing member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0149] The battery module 10 can further include a barrier 500. The barrier 500 can be interposed between adjacent battery cells 100. For example, the barrier 500 can be a plate arranged in a vertical direction. That is, in a state in which the battery cells 100 are stacked in at least one direction, the barrier 500 can be interposed between the stacked battery cells 100. For example, in a state in which a plurality of battery cells 100 are stacked in the X-axis direction, the barrier 500 can be interposed between adjacent battery cells 100. One or more barriers 500 can be provided in each battery module 10. In particular, in the case of including three or more battery cells 100, a plurality of barriers 500 can be provided so that each barrier 500 is interposed between each pair of battery cells 100.

[0150] The barrier 500 can be configured to suppress the transmission of heat, flame, pressure, impact, or the like between the battery cells 100. For example, the barrier 500 can be a thermal barrier configured to block the transmission of heat or flame between the battery cells 100. Alternatively, the barrier 500 can be a compression pad configured to absorb pressure or shape deformation due to expansion between the battery cells 100. The barrier 500 according to the disclosure can employ various components interposed between the battery cells 100 in a conventional battery module or battery pack (e.g., a battery pack 1 in Figure 19 .

[0151] In particular, the barrier 500 can be interposed between the storage portions R of adjacent battery cells 100. That is, as described above, each battery cell 100 can have a storage portion R in the center portion 102 thereof, and the barrier 500 can be interposed between the storage portions R of adjacent battery cells 100 so as to face the storage portions R of the battery cells 100.

[0152] According to an embodiment, the barrier 500 interposed between the storage portions R of adjacent battery cells 100 can have an end portion protruding therefrom and extending into a space between the sealing portions S (particularly, the platform portions T) of the adjacent battery cells 100.

[0153] The pressing member 400 can face at least one surface of the barrier 500. The pressing member 400 can be attached to one surface of the barrier 500. According to an embodiment, the battery module 10 according to the disclosure can further include an adhesive member 501 disposed between the pressing member 400 and the barrier 500. That is, the pressing member 400 can be adhered to the barrier 500. In addition thereto, the pressing member 400 can be fixed to the barrier 500 in various other fastening methods.

[0154] According to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, the pressing member 400 can be supported by the barrier 500. In addition, since the pressing member 400 is attached to the barrier 500, the fixing force of the pressing member 400 can be further improved.

[0155] Figure 13 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 14 FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating a pressing member according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 15 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module including a pressing member according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0156] According to an embodiment, the pressing member 400 can include two or more different materials. In addition, the pressing member 400 can be configured as a plurality of layers.

[0157] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the pressing member 400 can include a first pressing layer 401 including a first material and a second pressing layer 402 including a second material different from the first material. For example, the first pressing layer 401 can be disposed to face the sealing portion S (e.g., the platform portion T) and the upper sealing portion S1, and the second pressing layer 402 can be disposed to face the barrier 500.

[0158] According to the above-described embodiment of the disclosure, the pressing member 400 can have different materials between the layers, thereby providing a function of supporting the adjacent platform portion T and a function of absorbing swelling occurring in the battery cell 100.

[0159] According to an embodiment, the pressing member 400 can include two or more materials having different strengths. For example, the first material and the second material can have different strengths. Here, the strength can have substantially the same meaning as the hardness, the intensity, the elasticity, etc. For example, the first material and the second material can be different in elasticity. In this case, the first material of the first pressing layer 401 facing the platform portion T can have a lower hardness than the second material of the second pressing layer 402.

[0160] According to the above implementation configuration of the present disclosure, the first pressing layer 401 facing the platform portion T is configured of a material having a lower hardness than that of the second pressing layer 402, so that in the case where the battery cell 100 swells to a certain level or more of swelling, it can be compressed to absorb or allow the swelling of the battery cell 100 to some extent. However, since the second pressing layer 402 has a higher hardness than the first pressing layer 401, the swelling of the battery cell 100 can be limited. Thus, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the platform portion T of the battery cell 100 can be prevented from being completely opened.

[0161] According to another embodiment, referring to Figure 15 , the pressing member 400 can further include a third pressing layer 403 including a third material different from the second material. For example, the first pressing layer 401 and the third pressing layer 403 can be positioned to face the adjacent platform portion T or the barrier 500, respectively. For example, the third material can have a different hardness from the second material. For example, the third material can have a different elasticity from the second material. For example, the first material and the third material can be different materials, or can be substantially the same material. According to an embodiment, the first pressing layer 401 and the third pressing layer 403 can have a lower hardness than the second pressing layer 402.

[0162] According to an embodiment, as Figure 14 indicated, the first pressing portion 410 and the second pressing portion 420 can be configured of the first pressing layer 401 and the second pressing layer 402, but the third pressing portion 430 can be configured of only the second pressing layer 402. When the battery cell 100 swells, the third pressing portion 430 can not directly face the swelled portion. Thus, the third pressing portion 430 can be made of a material suitable to secure the structural or mechanical stability of the pressing member 400, rather than a material responsive to the swelling.

[0163] According to the above implementation configuration of the present disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the swelling of the battery cell 100 to a certain level or more of swelling can be allowed, and the opening of the platform portion T of the battery cell 100 can be prevented.

[0164] Figure 16 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a pressing member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0165] One surface of the third pressing portion 430 facing the -X axis can have a flat plate shape not forming a groove (e.g., the groove 431 in Figure 8a ). That is, the upper sealing portion S1 and / or the folding area F surrounded by the third pressing portion 430 can not be exposed to the outside. When viewed in the X-axis direction, the upper sealing portion S1 and / or the folding area F can not be visible.

[0166] The third pressing portion 430 can be configured to protrude farther in the left direction (-X axis direction) than the first pressing portion 410 and / or the second pressing portion 420. The third pressing portion can protrude a predetermined length L2 farther than the first pressing portion 410 and / or the second pressing portion 420. For example, the third pressing portion can be configured to protrude from the edge portion 101 of the upper sealing portion S1 by a length L2. Figure 8a The third pressing portion can be configured in the form obtained from the pressing member 400 in FIG. 10, further having a cover capable of covering the upper sealing portion S1 and / or the folding area F. However, the protruding shape and length of the third pressing portion are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously designed.

[0167] According to the above-described implementation configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to reliably prevent the exhaust gas or flame from moving to the space on the platform portion T. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the exhaust gas passing through the edge portion 101 of the upper sealing portion S1.

[0168] Figure 17 is a front view illustrating a partial configuration of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 18 is a view illustrating a state in which the lower surface of a top plate and a pressing member are separated in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 is a view illustrating a process in which the lower surface of a top plate and a pressing member are coupled according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] The top plate 210 can include at least one protrusion 211 protruding downward (-Z axis direction) from the lower surface 210a of the top plate 210. The protrusion 211 can be disposed between the pressing members 400.

[0170] A plurality of protrusions 211 can be provided. The plurality of protrusions 211 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the stacking direction (X axis direction) of the battery cells 100. In this case, the distance G1 between the protrusions 211 can be substantially equal to or greater than the width W2 of the pressing members 400 in the X axis direction.

[0171] Referring to Figure 18 , the protrusion 211 can be formed to extend in the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the battery cells 100. The extension length (length in the Y axis direction) L4 of the protrusion 211 can substantially correspond to the transverse length L3 of the pressing member 400. For example, the extension length (length in the Y axis direction) L4 of the protrusion 211 can be substantially the same as, or shorter or longer than, the transverse length L3 of the pressing member 400. A plurality of protrusions 211 can be provided on both sides of the pressing member 400. That is, the pressing member 400 can be inserted between the protrusions 211.

[0172] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, the position of the pressing member 400 can be stably fixed by the protrusions 211. In particular, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, pressure can be applied to the pressing member 400. According to the above-described embodiments, even if such pressure is applied, the pressing member 400 can be stably maintained without departing from its position. Further, according to the above embodiments, it can be more effectively prevented that the pressing member 400 is structurally broken by high-temperature gas or flame.

[0173] According to embodiments, the protrusions 211 can be configured such that the fixing force for the pressing member 400 decreases as it is closer to the inside (the center portion 102). That is, the protrusions 211 can be configured such that the fixing force for the pressing member 400 increases as it is closer to the outside (the front portion 101) in the front-to-back direction of the battery cell 100. Figure 19 Figure 19 According to embodiments, the protrusions 211 can have portions in which the gap between the protrusions 211 and the pressing member 400 gradually increases as it is closer to the inside. That is, the distance G2 between the inner ends of the protrusions 211 can be greater than the width W2 of the pressing member 400 in the X-axis direction.

[0174] According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, it can be more easily achieved that the top venting in the battery cell 100. That is, according to the above-described implementation configuration, since the fixing force for the pressing member 400 decreases as it is closer to the inside (the center portion 102), it can be stably induced that the venting in the center portion 102 of the upper sealing portion S1 in the battery cell 100. On the other hand, according to the above-described implementation configuration, it can be effectively prevented that the venting in the battery cell 100 at the front edge portion or the rear edge portion 101 of the upper sealing portion S1.

[0175] Figure 20 FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 1, the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a plurality of battery cells 100, a plurality of protrusions 211, and a pressing member 400. Figure 20 According to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, the position of the pressing member 400 can be stably fixed by the protrusions 211. In particular, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, pressure can be applied to the pressing member 400. According to the above-described embodiments, even if such pressure is applied, the pressing member 400 can be stably maintained without departing from its position. Further, according to the above embodiments, it can be more effectively prevented that the pressing member 400 is structurally broken by high-temperature gas or flame.

[0177] Further, the battery module 10 according to the present disclosure can further include a plurality of protrusions 211, and a pressing member 400. Figure 15 ​The battery pack housing 11 can provide a space in which the battery module 10 according to the present disclosure can be stored. In particular, in the case in which a plurality of battery modules 10 are included in the battery pack 1, the battery pack housing 11 can be divided into spaces for storing the plurality of battery modules 10 by cross beams.

[0178] Figure 21 FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a configuration of a battery pack 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0179] Referring to Figure 21 The battery pack 1 according to the present disclosure can include the battery module 10 according to the present disclosure, and can be configured such that the module housing 200 of the battery module functions as a battery pack housing in addition to the battery pack housing. In this case, components of the battery pack, such as a BMS, busbars, or relays, can be disposed inside the module housing 200. This type of battery pack 1 is also referred to as a cell-to-pack (CTP) type in which battery cells 100 are directly stored in a battery pack housing. Recently, active development of CTP-type battery packs 1 is in progress, and the present disclosure can also be applied to the CTP-type battery pack 1.

[0180] Figure 22 FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a configuration of a battery pack 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0181] Referring to Figure 22 The vehicle V according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include one or more battery packs 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure or the battery module 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The vehicle V according to the present disclosure can be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle V includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the vehicle V can be operated by power supplied from the battery pack 1 or the battery module 10.

[0182] As described above, although the present disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and changes can be made within the technical idea of the present disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

Claims

1.A battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells each having a storage portion and a sealed portion, and configured to be stacked with each other; a module case configured to house the plurality of battery cells in an internal space; and a pressing member disposed such that at least one surface faces at least one surface of a platform portion where electrode leads among the sealed portions of the battery cells are located, and such that at least another surface faces at least one surface of the module case, and configured to pressurize the platform portion when internal pressure of the battery cells increases. 2.The battery module according to claim 1, the module case includes a top plate disposed to cover a top of the battery cells, and wherein wherein the pressing member is configured to be in contact with the top plate. 3.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member is configured to surround at least a portion of a circumference of the platform portion. wherein 4.The battery module according to claim 1, at least a portion of the pressing member is disposed on an upper side of the sealed portion. wherein, 5.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member has a groove formed to be configured such that at least a portion of a folded area of the sealed portion is inserted into the groove. wherein 6.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member is configured such that venting is performed in a central portion of the battery cell when exhaust gas is discharged upward from the battery cell. wherein 7.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member is formed such that an upper end extends toward a central portion of the battery cell. wherein 8.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member is configured to surround all four surfaces of the platform portion. wherein 9.The battery module according to claim 1, the battery module further includes a busbar assembly positioned on a side of the platform portion where electrode leads among the sealed portions of the battery cells are located, and electrically connected to the electrode leads, the pressing member is positioned on an inner side of the busbar assembly. wherein 10.The battery module according to claim 1, the battery module further includes a barrier interposed between adjacent battery cells, the pressing member is configured to face at least one surface of the barrier. wherein, 11.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member includes an insulating material or a heat-resistant material. wherein 12.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member includes two or more different materials. wherein 13.The battery module according to claim 1, the pressing member includes two or more materials having different strengths. wherein, 14.A battery pack including the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13. 15.A vehicle including the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13. ​

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