Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a module case in which an internal space is formed; a plurality of battery cells accommodated in the internal space of the module case; and a barrier unit including a first barrier member disposed between the plurality of battery cells and a second barrier member disposed on at least one side of the first barrier member and formed such that an end portion of the second barrier member is bent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery modules, battery packs including such battery modules, and vehicles. Specifically, this disclosure relates to battery modules capable of suppressing heat dissipation within the battery module, and battery packs including such battery modules, and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, with their wide applicability across product categories and electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric power sources. Such secondary batteries are gaining attention as a new energy source for enhancing environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, not only because of their major advantage of significantly reducing fossil fuel use but also because they produce no byproducts during energy use.

[0003] Currently widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells can be connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Alternatively, to increase charging / discharging capacity, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to configure a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or battery pack can be configured differently depending on the required output voltage or charging / discharging capacity.

[0004] Furthermore, because battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade when used in environments exceeding suitable temperatures. Additionally, if thermal control is not properly maintained at appropriate temperatures, there remains a potential risk of accidental fire or explosion. Moreover, the battery modules are configured with such a structure that the battery cells are densely stored within the module housing. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in any one battery cell, the high-temperature gases and flames emitted from that cell could propagate to adjacent cells, potentially leading to a chain reaction that could cause a battery cell explosion, posing a significant safety risk.

[0005] Therefore, conventional battery modules have thermal barriers, such as aerogel or silicone resin, inserted between the battery cells to separate or isolate them. However, these thermal barriers are susceptible to flame damage and have low rigidity, posing a high risk of damage should any battery cell explode. Furthermore, the shape of the thermal barrier can deform due to the expansion of the battery cell, the release of gases, or the high pressure caused by a flame, making it difficult to prevent physical damage to the battery cell.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation by more reliably dividing the battery cells, so that even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, it can prevent the spread of gas or flame to other battery cells within the battery module and cause thermal runaway. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] This disclosure was designed to address the problems in the related technologies, and therefore aims to provide a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells by clearly separating the battery cells.

[0009] This disclosure also provides a battery pack and a vehicle that include such a battery module.

[0010] However, the technical problems that this disclosure seeks to solve are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the invention below that there are other problems not mentioned above.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a module housing having an internal space formed therein; a plurality of battery cells configured to be stored in the internal space of the module housing; and a barrier unit including a first blocking member and a second blocking member, the first blocking member being disposed between the plurality of battery cells, and the second blocking member being disposed on at least one side of the first blocking member and configured such that an end of the second blocking member is bent.

[0013] The curved portion of the second blocking member can be configured such that its end contacts the inner surface of the module housing.

[0014] The curved portion of the second blocking member can be configured to bend in a direction away from the first blocking member.

[0015] The second blocking member can be configured such that its surface faces the surface of the battery cell.

[0016] The second blocking member may be disposed on both sides of the first blocking member, and the end of the second blocking member may be configured to be bent in a direction away from the first blocking member.

[0017] The module housing may include a housing body and a top plate, the housing body having an upper opening to allow battery cells to be placed in the housing body, the top plate being connected to cover the upper opening of the housing body, and the curved portion of the second blocking member being configured to be compressible by the top plate.

[0018] The module housing may have an exhaust port formed on the upper side to discharge exhaust gases generated in the battery cell to the outside, and the curved portion of the second blocking member may be configured to bend toward the exhaust port.

[0019] The curved portion of the second blocking member can be configured such that its end contacts the vent hole.

[0020] The bent portion of the second blocking member may include a support member configured such that the end of the support member bends toward the inner circumferential surface of the vent.

[0021] The curved portion of the second blocking member may have one or more uneven portions, said one or more uneven portions being configured such that at least a portion of the uneven portions protrudes inward.

[0022] The curved portion of the second blocking member may have an inner curved portion, which is configured such that its end bends toward the battery cell.

[0023] In another aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack including a battery module according to this disclosure is provided.

[0024] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery module according to this disclosure is provided.

[0025] Beneficial effects

[0026] According to one aspect of this disclosure, high-temperature gas or flame can be suppressed from moving along the stacking direction of the battery cells in the space between the battery cells and the module housing by reliably separating the battery cells inside the battery module by a second blocking member.

[0027] Therefore, according to the above aspects of this disclosure, even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, it can effectively prevent or delay the spread of gas or flame to other battery cells within the battery module and prevent thermal runaway. As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0028] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the high-temperature gas or flame generated in the battery cells inside the battery module can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to suppress the backflow of high-temperature gases or flames emitted to the outside of the battery module into the battery module.

[0030] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, events such as fires or explosions caused by thermal runaway of a battery pack including or equipped with multiple battery modules can be prevented or delayed.

[0031] In addition, this disclosure may have various other effects, and these effects will be described in the corresponding embodiments, or descriptions of effects that can be easily deduced by those skilled in the art will be omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0033] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The enlarged view of part A illustrates the direction of gas and other emissions during thermal runaway of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a barrier unit included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a state in which the top plate, included in the battery module, is separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general and dictionary meanings, but rather interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the basis of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation.

[0049] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the full scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0050] Furthermore, this disclosure may include various embodiments. Redundant descriptions of substantially the same or similar configurations will be omitted from the various embodiments, and descriptions will be based on the differences between them.

[0051] Furthermore, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that these terms are merely for ease of interpretation with reference to the accompanying drawings and may vary depending on the position of the object or the observer.

[0052] For example, in an embodiment of this disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure can indicate the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can indicate the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane) (i.e., the longitudinal direction of the battery cell), and the Z-axis direction can indicate the up-down direction (vertical direction) (i.e., the height direction of the battery cell perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions).

[0053] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I' in the diagram. Additionally, Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The enlarged view of part A illustrates the direction of gas and other emissions during thermal runaway of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 may include a module housing 100, a battery cell 200, and a barrier unit 300.

[0055] First, the module housing 100 can be configured to store a plurality of battery cells 200 and barrier units 300. Specifically, an internal space can be formed in the module housing 100, and the plurality of battery cells 200 and barrier units 300 can be stored in the internal space.

[0056] Multiple battery cells 200 can be configured. These multiple battery cells 200 can be stacked in one direction. For example, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 200 can be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0057] The battery cell 200 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery cell 200 may include electrode assemblies and a cell housing 210 for storing the electrode assemblies. The cell housing 210 stores the electrode assemblies in a receiving portion, and the edges of the receiving portion can be heat-fused to form a sealed portion. The sealed portion may be located on three of the four edges of the battery cell 200.

[0058] Additionally, each of the plurality of battery cells 200 may have an electrode lead 220. The electrode lead 220 may be connected to an electrode assembly and may extend to the outside of the cell housing 210, serving as an electrode terminal.

[0059] A pair of electrode leads 220 can be provided, and the pair of electrode leads 220 can extend outward from both ends of the battery cell 200, for example, in the longitudinal direction (±Y-axis direction). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 220 can be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead. As needed, the battery cell 200 can be configured such that the two electrode leads 220 are located at only one end in the Y-axis direction (e.g., at the end in the +Y-axis direction).

[0060] The battery cell 200 can be configured to stand upright with the edges, which do not have a sealing portion, facing downwards. For example... Figure 2As shown, multiple battery cells 200 can stand upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) while being arranged side-by-side in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). In this case, each battery cell 200 can have a sealing portion facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upward direction (+Z-axis direction), and a storage portion facing the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). With the battery cells 200 arranged as described above, it is easy to control the exhaust direction to one side, and edge cooling can be performed through the edge excluding the sealing portion, thereby ensuring cooling performance.

[0061] This disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of battery cell 200, and can be applied to various battery cells 200 known at the time of filing of this disclosure. In this embodiment, although a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking will be described as shown, it is apparent that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied to battery cell 200.

[0062] In addition, refer to Figure 2 The battery module 10 of this disclosure may further include a busbar frame assembly 400. The busbar frame assembly 400 may be disposed inside the module housing 100 and configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells 200. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the busbar frame assembly 400 can be connected to the front and rear sides of multiple battery cells 200.

[0063] The busbar frame assembly 400 may include a busbar frame 410 and a plurality of busbars 420. The busbar frame 410 may be configured to substantially connect to the front and rear sides of a plurality of battery cells 200. The busbar frame 410 may have a slit through which the electrode leads 220 of the battery cells 200 extend outward in a +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. Additionally, the busbar frame 410 may be formed of an electrically insulating material such as plastic and configured such that the busbars 420 can be attached to an outer surface.

[0064] As a device for connecting battery cells 200 in series and / or parallel, multiple busbars 420 can be formed of metallic materials such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and can be configured in a strip shape. The electrode leads 220 of the battery cells 200 can pass through the slits of the busbar frame 410 and extend to the outside of the busbar frame 410, and the extended portions can be attached to the surface of the busbars 420 by welding or the like.

[0065] Reference Figure 3Barrier units 300 can be disposed between battery cells 200. Specifically, a battery module 10 may include at least one barrier unit 300. Multiple barrier units 300 may be disposed along one direction in which the battery cells 200 are arranged. The barrier units 300 may be configured to be disposed for at least one battery cell 200.

[0066] Specifically, the barrier unit 300 can be configured to separate multiple battery cells 200. The barrier unit 300 can be configured to group the multiple battery cells 200. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, a barrier unit 300 can be set for each group of four battery cells 200, so that the battery cells 200 can be divided into groups of four.

[0067] The barrier unit 300 can be configured to extend further upward than the battery cell 200. In this case, the barrier unit 300 can be configured such that at least a portion of it contacts the inner surface of the module housing 100. As a result, the gap between the barrier unit 300 and the module housing 100 can be minimized, thereby reducing the space for exhaust gas flow and preventing thermal runaway from propagating to other adjacent battery cells 200.

[0068] Furthermore, the barrier unit 300 can be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Therefore, the barrier unit 300 can be configured to maintain a sealed structure without deformation even under high temperature and high pressure.

[0069] According to the configuration of the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 200 grouped by the barrier unit 300, the movement of exhaust gases, flames, and / or particles to other groups of battery cells 200 can be suppressed. The propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells 200 can be effectively prevented or delayed. Therefore, the safety and reliability of the battery module 10 can be ensured.

[0070] In addition, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the barrier unit 300 can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cell 200 by compressing the battery cell 200 when it expands.

[0071] More specifically, the barrier unit 300 may include a first blocking member 310 and a second blocking member 320. The first blocking member 310 may be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 200. The first blocking member 310 may be configured to block heat generated during a thermal event occurring inside the battery module 10. The first blocking member 310 may be configured as a heat-insulating pad that is thinner than the battery cell 200. Alternatively, the first blocking member 310 may be configured as a compression pad made of a material such as silicone or aerogel.

[0072] The second blocking member 320 may be disposed on at least one side of the first blocking member 310. That is, the second blocking member 320 may be disposed between the first blocking member 310 and the battery cell 200. The second blocking member 320 may be disposed on one or both sides of the first blocking member 310.

[0073] The second barrier member 320 can be configured to protect the first barrier member 310 from the outside. For this purpose, the second barrier member 320 can be formed of a material with higher heat resistance and / or fire resistance than the first barrier member 310. Additionally, the second barrier member 320 can be made of a material with a higher melting point than the first barrier member 310. For example, the second barrier member 320 can be made of SUS material. As a result, even under high temperature and high pressure, the second barrier member 320 can maintain a sealed structure, thereby preventing damage or destruction of the first barrier member 310.

[0074] Furthermore, the second blocking member 320 can be configured to be bent at its end. For example, as Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second blocking member 320 can be configured such that its upper end is bent. That is, the second blocking member 320 can have a bent portion 321 formed at its end.

[0075] The curved portion 321 can be configured to suppress the movement of exhaust gases or flames between adjacent battery cells 200. (See reference...) Figure 4 As shown by the thick arrow, even when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 200 located on one side of the second blocking member 320, the bent portion 321 can be configured to prevent exhaust gas or flame from moving across the bent portion 321 to the adjacent battery cell 200. Additionally, the bent portion 321 can be configured to guide exhaust gas or flame to move only toward the battery cell 200 located on one side of the second blocking member 320.

[0076] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the battery cells 200 can be reliably separated by the curved shape of the second blocking member 320. Specifically, when a thermal event occurs in any battery cell 200, the curved portion 321 can suppress the spread of high-temperature exhaust gases or flames along the stacking direction (left-right direction) of the battery cells 200 to adjacent battery cells 200 (see [link]). Figure 4 (The thick arrow in the image). Therefore, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells 200 can be effectively prevented or delayed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery module 10.

[0077] Furthermore, considering ease of assembly or assembly tolerances, the first blocking member 310 can be configured to be spaced apart from the upper surface of the module housing 100 by a predetermined distance. In this case, the second blocking member 320 can be configured to extend further in the vertical direction than the first blocking member 310. That is, the vertical height of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to be greater than the vertical height of the first blocking member 310.

[0078] In this scenario, when a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 200, exhaust gases or flames may spread to another adjacent battery cell 200 through a specific gap formed between the first barrier member 310 and the module housing 100. As a result, a gap may be formed between the first barrier member 310 and the module housing 100, making it more likely that exhaust gases or the like will spread to another adjacent battery cell 200 through this gap.

[0079] Therefore, as Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured such that its end contacts the inner surface of the module housing 100. That is, the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to be supported by the inner surface of the module housing 100.

[0080] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the gap between the second blocking member 320 and the module housing 100 is minimized, the battery cells 200 can be reliably separated and isolated. Therefore, thermal runaway propagation to other adjacent battery cells 200 can be prevented.

[0081] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the bent portion 321 is supported by the module housing 100, the second blocking member 320 can be prevented from being pushed towards adjacent battery cells 200 by high pressure such as exhaust gas or flame. Therefore, even in the event of a thermal event, the possibility of the second blocking member 320 deforming due to high temperature and high pressure exhaust gas or flame, and the possibility of exhaust gas or flame spreading to other battery cells 200, can be reduced.

[0082] Additionally, the bent portion 321 can be configured to direct exhaust gases or flames toward the outside of the module housing 100 in the event of a thermal event in any of the battery cells 200. The bent portion 321 can also direct exhaust gases or flames to move toward adjacent battery cells 200 without crossing the second blocking member 320.

[0083] More specifically, refer to Figure 4 The bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to bend in a direction away from the first blocking member 310. That is, the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to bend toward the battery cell 200.

[0084] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, it is possible to further prevent exhaust gases or flames from moving past the second blocking member 320 toward the adjacent battery cell 200. Furthermore, by preventing exhaust gases or flames from advancing toward the first blocking member 310, it is possible to further prevent the first blocking member 310 from being damaged or destroyed.

[0085] Specifically, when the battery module 10 is viewed from the front or rear, the curved portion 321 can be configured in an inclined shape. For example, the curved portion 321 can be configured to tilt upwards. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the angle θ formed between the second blocking member 320 and the bent portion 321 can be configured as an obtuse angle. The tilt angle of the second blocking member 320 and the bent portion 321 can be configured to be approximately the same as the tilt angle formed by the sealing portion (folded portion) of the battery cell 200. Therefore, the bent portion 321 can be disposed above the battery cell 200 disposed on one side of the second blocking member 320.

[0086] The exhaust gas or spark emitted from the battery cell 200 may have a strong upward tendency due to its high temperature. As a result, as disclosed in the above embodiments, when the curved portion 321 is configured to cover the upper part of the battery cell 200, the flame or spark with a strong tendency to move in a straight line will inevitably collide with the curved portion 321, thereby changing the flow direction of the exhaust gas or spark. Therefore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the movement of exhaust gas, etc., to adjacent battery cells 200 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0087] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] As another implementation method, refer to Figure 5 The bent portion 321 can be bent such that the end of the second blocking member 320 is perpendicular to the second blocking member 320. The bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to contact the inner surface of the module housing 100. Furthermore, the bent portion 321 can be configured to surface contact the inner surface of the module housing 100.

[0089] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 maintains stable contact with the upper surface of the module housing 100, the second blocking member 320 can be prevented from being pushed out or moved in the lateral direction by high-temperature and high-pressure exhaust gas or flame. Furthermore, the possibility of the second blocking member 320 bending or deforming due to the internal pressure of the exhaust gas can be reduced. As a result, the mechanical stability or holding force of the battery module 10 can be ensured.

[0090] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a barrier unit included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] As described above, the battery cell 200 can be configured such that the storage portion faces left-right. Additionally, the second blocking member 320 can be configured in the form of a sheet or a thin pad. For example, the second blocking member 320 can be formed from an SUS sheet with high thermal conductivity.

[0092] Additionally, refer to Figure 6 The second blocking member 320 can be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 200. The second blocking member 320 can be configured to have the same or similar shape or length as the housing portion of the battery cell 200. Therefore, both sides of the battery cell 200 can be blocked by the second blocking member 320, thereby preventing the movement of gas, etc.

[0093] See Figure 6 The second blocking member 320 can be configured such that its side faces the side of the battery cell 200. That is, the second blocking member 320 can be disposed on at least one side of the battery cell 200 so as to face the receiving portion of the battery cell 200. Specifically, the second blocking member 320 can be configured to contact the surface of the receiving portion of the battery cell 200. For this purpose, the second blocking member 320 can be configured as a flat plane.

[0094] If the temperature deviation within a battery cell 200 is large during the charging and discharging process of the battery module 10, the lifespan or performance of the battery cell 200 may be significantly reduced. Furthermore, such temperature deviation within the battery cell 200 may accelerate thermal runaway between the battery cells 200 when a thermal event occurs. However, in the implementation configuration described above, since the second barrier member 320, having high thermal conductivity, is in contact with the surface of the housing portion of the battery cell 200, the temperature deviation within the battery cell 200 can be minimized. That is, the second barrier member 320 can dissipate heat within the battery cell 200 to minimize the generation of excessive heat in a specific area.

[0095] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the second blocking member 320 is configured to contact the battery cell 200, the battery cell 200 can be protected from physical damage or impact. In particular, damage to the battery cell 200 caused by pressure (such as exhaust gases or flames generated from adjacent battery cells 200 or expansion of the battery cell 200) can be minimized.

[0096] The second blocking member 320 can be disposed on both sides of the first blocking member 310. Therefore, when four battery cell groups 200 are disposed between the four barrier units 300, the second blocking member 320 can be disposed on both sides of each battery cell group 200. That is, as Figure 6 In the embodiments shown, the battery cell 200, the second blocking member 320, the first blocking member 310, the second blocking member 320 and the battery cell 200 can be arranged in sequence.

[0097] In this configuration, the second barrier member 320 can be configured to be in full contact with the battery cell 200. The second barrier member 320 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the first barrier member 310 on both sides. The second barrier member 320 can be made of a material with a higher melting point than the first barrier member 310. For example, the first barrier member 310 can be made of aerogel (with a melting point of about 1200 degrees Celsius), and the second barrier member 320 can be made of SUS (with a melting point of about 1400 degrees Celsius or higher).

[0098] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the first barrier member 310 can be further protected by the second barrier member 320. Even if the first barrier member 310 is made of a material with good thermal insulation properties, it may still be damaged when directly exposed to high-temperature exhaust gases or flames. However, according to the above-described implementation configuration, the first barrier member 310 can be protected by the second barrier member 320 made of a material with a relatively high melting point, thereby maximizing the thermal insulation performance of the first barrier member 310.

[0099] Furthermore, in this configuration, the ends of the second blocking members 320 located on both sides of the first blocking member 310 can be configured to be bent in a direction away from the first blocking member 310. That is, the bent portions 321 of the second blocking members 320 can be configured to face the battery cell groups 200 that are facing each other. Additionally, as... Figure 4 In the embodiments shown, the second blocking members 320 disposed on both sides of the first blocking member 310 can be configured to be symmetrical about the first blocking member 310.

[0100] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the battery cell 200 group can be reliably separated and isolated by the second blocking members 320 disposed on both sides of the battery cell 200 group. Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell 200 group, the movement of high-temperature exhaust gases or flames along the stacking direction of the battery cells 200 in the space between the battery cells 200 and the module housing 100 can be further suppressed. Therefore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, thermal runaway between the battery cells 200 in the battery module 10 can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0101] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a state in which the top plate, included in the battery module, is separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] Reference Figure 7 As shown in the other accompanying drawings, the module housing 100 may include a housing body 110 and a top plate 120. The housing body 110 may be configured to house the battery cell 200 therein. The housing body 110 may be configured to be made of a rigid and heat-resistant metallic material to physically or chemically protect the stored battery cell 200.

[0103] In this configuration, the housing body 110 may have an upper opening, a front opening, and a rear opening. For example, the housing body 110 may be configured as a U-shaped frame. When the housing body 110 is configured as a U-shaped frame, it may be arranged to cover the left, right, and lower sides of the plurality of battery cells 200. The housing body 110 may include a left plate and a right plate covering the left side of the plurality of battery cells 200, and a lower plate covering the lower side of the plurality of battery cells 200. Alternatively, the left plate, right plate, and lower plate may be configured as a single unit.

[0104] The top plate 120 can be configured to form the upper side of the module housing 100. When the housing body 110 is configured as a U-shaped frame, the top plate 120 can be connected to the upper opening of the housing body 110. The top plate 120 can be welded to the housing body 110. In this case, the top plate 120 and the housing body 110 can be connected to each other to form a square tube with a front opening and a rear opening.

[0105] Additionally, refer to Figure 2 As shown in the accompanying drawings, the module housing 100 may include end plates 130 disposed on front and rear openings of the housing body 110. The end plates 130 may be welded to the housing body 110. Although not illustrated in the drawings for convenience, the end plates 130 may be configured such that, for example, the inner surface is made of a thermally insulating material and the outer surface is made of a metallic material. Additionally, the end plates 130 may be partially provided with holes or slits for exposing components such as positive and negative terminals or connectors of the battery module 10 that require external exposure.

[0106] In addition, the module housing 100 can be formed in various other shapes. For example, the module housing 100 may include a box-shaped lower housing with an upper opening and an upper cover configured to cover the upper opening of the lower housing.

[0107] In this case, refer to Figure 7 The curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to be compressed by the top plate 120. That is, as the top plate 120 is connected to the housing body 110, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to be pressed downward by the top plate 120.

[0108] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, as the top plate 120 is connected to the housing body 110 via the curved shape of the second blocking member 320, the end of the curved portion 321 can be naturally pressed by the top plate 120. In this case, since the curved portion 321 and the top plate 120 are configured to be in complete and tight contact with each other, it is more reliable to prevent exhaust gas or flame from moving into the gap between the second blocking member 320 and the top plate 120. Therefore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since it is not necessary to consider the tolerance between the second blocking member 320 and the top plate 120, the assemblability of the battery module 10 can be improved.

[0109] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] Reference Figure 8 An exhaust port H may be formed in the module housing 100. The exhaust port H may be configured to discharge exhaust gases generated from the battery cell 200 to the outside of the module housing 100.

[0111] For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, the vent H can be formed on the upper side of the module housing 100 (i.e., on the top plate 120), so that the battery module 10 can be vented upward through the vent H.

[0112] Multiple vent holes H can be provided at specified intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions). The multiple vent holes H can be located between adjacent barrier units 300 arranged in one direction.

[0113] In other words, the vent H can be located above one or more battery cells 200 disposed between adjacent barrier units 300. For example, as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, in the battery module 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, a barrier unit 300 can be provided for each group of four battery cells 200, and a plurality of vent holes H can be formed in rows above the battery cells 200 disposed between the barrier units 300, along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cells 200.

[0114] As described above, the vent H provided in the top plate 120 can be configured to discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery module 10 to the outside of the battery module 10 in the event of thermal runaway. Therefore, the remaining portion of the module housing 100, except for the vent H, can be closed, and gas or flame can be discharged in a straight line toward the vent H.

[0115] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell 200, the gas or flame generated from the battery cell 200 can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through a specific vent H provided above the battery cell 200, thereby enabling smooth venting.

[0116] In this configuration, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to bend toward the vent H. That is, the curved portion 321 can be configured to guide the exhaust gas or flame toward the vent H. As a result, the exhaust gas or flame can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the vent H without moving toward the first blocking member 310 or another set of battery cells 200 via the curved portion 321.

[0117] In this configuration, the sealed space can be formed by adjacent second barrier members 320 among a plurality of barrier units 300. Here, the sealed space refers to the space used to restrict the movement of exhaust gas between adjacent battery cells 200 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) when a second barrier member 320 is provided between them. The sealed space can be configured to communicate with the exhaust port H, such that gas generated in the battery cell 200 is guided and discharged only towards the exhaust port H, and not towards other battery cells 200.

[0118] Therefore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, upward venting can be performed more efficiently. When gases generated inside the battery module 10 are vented in all directions, the time required to vent the vented gases may become longer, which could significantly reduce the safety of the battery module 10. However, according to this configuration, vented gases, etc., can be quickly guided to the vent port H, thereby minimizing the spread of gas in all directions within the module housing 100.

[0119] Furthermore, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured such that its end contacts the vent hole H. That is, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be located in the region forming the vent hole H. The region forming the vent hole H can be within a range from the inner circumferential surface of the vent hole H to the internal space formed by the vent hole H (e.g., ...). Figure 8 (The area indicated by S in the text). For example, such as... Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the end of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to contact the portion corresponding to the inner surface of the top plate 120 where the vent hole H begins to form.

[0120] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the end of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured to contact the exhaust port H, thereby more reliably forming a sealed space and restricting the movement of the exhaust gas or flame in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, the exhaust gas or flame can be further guided toward the exhaust port H, thereby performing rapid directional discharge to the outside.

[0121] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] In another embodiment, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be configured such that its end is disposed within the internal space formed by the vent hole H. That is, the outer surface of the curved portion 321 can contact the inner surface of the top plate 120, and the end of the curved portion 321 can be disposed within the internal space of the vent hole H.

[0123] The module housing 100 (top plate 120) can be made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, so that heat can be transferred to the module housing 100 when a thermal event occurs. However, according to the above-described configuration, exhaust gases, sparks, or flames can be suppressed or prevented from contacting the inner surface of the exhaust port H (i.e., the top plate 120) through the end of the bent portion 321. Therefore, heat propagation through the module housing 100 can be suppressed.

[0124] Furthermore, as the top plate 120 presses down on the end of the bent portion 321, the end of the bent portion 321 may exert a force on the top plate 120 as a reaction force, pushing the top plate 120 outward. In this case, the top plate 120 may expand upward to form a gap between the top plate 120 and the second blocking member 320. However, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the force exerted by the end of the bent portion 321 on the top plate 120 is minimized, it is possible to prevent the top plate 120 from expanding upward and thus creating a gap between the top plate 120 and the second blocking member 320. Therefore, the movement of exhaust gases or flames to another adjacent battery cell 200 group can be suppressed.

[0125] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] When the end of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 is configured to contact the vent hole H, such as Figure 10 As shown, the top plate 120 may have an inclined surface 121. The inclined surface 121 may be provided on the inner surface of the top plate 120 (i.e., the inner circumferential surface of the vent H). The inclined surface 121 may be formed in the top plate 120 by chamfering a portion of the component in which the vent H is formed. Therefore, the end of the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 may be configured to contact the inclined surface 121. The end of the bent portion 321 may be configured to contact the surface of the inclined surface 121.

[0127] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the inclined surface 121 and the end of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 are in surface contact with each other, a repulsive force can be applied between the inclined surface 121 and the end of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320. Therefore, when high pressure, such as exhaust gas or flame, is applied to the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320, the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be supported by the inclined surface 121, thereby further increasing the holding force between the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 and the top plate 120. In particular, when a force is applied to the second blocking member 320 in a direction away from the battery cell 200 due to the expansion of the battery cell 200, the movement or deformation of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be minimized because the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 is in close contact with the inclined surface 121.

[0128] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] Reference Figure 11The second blocking member 320 may include a support member 322. The support member 322 may be configured such that the end of the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 is bent outwards. More specifically, the support member 322 may be configured such that the end of the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 is bent toward the inner surface of the vent hole H. In this case, two second blocking members 320 are disposed on the left and right sides of a vent hole H, and the support member 322 may be bent in a manner corresponding to the location where the vent hole H is formed.

[0130] The support member 322 can be configured to be supported on the inner peripheral surface of the vent hole H. Specifically, the support member 322 can contact the inner surface of the component in the top plate 120 where the vent hole H is formed (the internal space formed by the vent hole H). For this purpose, the support member 322 can have an outer surface parallel to the inner surface of the vent hole H. For example, the support member 322 can have a plate shape that stands vertically parallel to the YZ plane to contact the inner surface of the vent hole H.

[0131] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the second blocking member 320 can be supported more reliably on the top plate 120. Therefore, it will not undergo deformation such as bending due to external vibration or impact, or internal sparks or pressure of exhaust gases, thus stably maintaining the shape and position of the second blocking member 320.

[0132] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the movement of the second blocking member 320 in the outward direction can be further suppressed, thereby stably maintaining the arrangement of the battery cell 200 and the barrier unit 300. In particular, when a force is applied to the second blocking member 320 in the direction away from the battery cell 200 (outward direction) due to the expansion of the battery cell 200, the movement of the bent portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 can be minimized because the support member 322 is in close contact with the inner surface of the vent hole H.

[0133] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Reference Figure 12 The second blocking member 320 may have an uneven portion 323. The uneven portion 323 may be configured such that at least a portion of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 protrudes. The uneven portion 323 may be configured to protrude from the inner surface of the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 in a direction toward the battery cell 200 (i.e., toward the interior of the module housing 100).

[0135] Additionally, multiple uneven portions 323 can be provided. These uneven portions 323 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The uneven portions 323 can be configured to face upwards as they approach the outer end of the curved portion 321. Furthermore, the uneven portions 323 can be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell 200.

[0136] Furthermore, the uneven portion 323 can be configured to form a space (groove) in which sparks or flames emitted from the battery cell 200 are collected. The uneven portion 323 can be configured as a point shape protruding from the inner surface of the curved portion 321. Alternatively, such as Figure 12 As shown in the embodiment, the uneven portion 323 can be configured such that the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320 bends at least once. In this case, the uneven portion 323 can refer to a portion protruding inward from the curved portion 321 of the second blocking member 320. In this case, the second blocking member 320, made of SUS metal material, can be bent to form the uneven portion 323.

[0137] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, sparks or flames emitted from the battery cell 200 can be reflected by the uneven portion 323, thereby suppressing the flow of sparks or flames with a strong tendency to move in a straight line. Furthermore, in this case, spark particles can be collected by forming grooves or the like between the uneven portions 323. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent sparks or flames from being emitted to the outside of the module housing 100 through the vent hole H. Thus, the occurrence of flames can be suppressed by the reaction of sparks and oxygen outside the module housing 100.

[0138] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a second blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Reference Figure 13 The second blocking member 320 may have an inwardly curved portion 324. The inwardly curved portion 324 may be configured such that the end of the curved portion of the second blocking member 320 extends inwardly at a predetermined angle. Specifically, the inwardly curved portion 324 may be configured such that the end of the curved portion 321 bends toward the battery cell 200. The inwardly curved portion 324 may be configured such that it... Figure 13 The inner curved portion 324 moves closer to the battery cell 200 in the inward direction (-Z-axis direction). Here, the inner curved portion 324 can be configured with an inclined shape. That is, the inner curved portion 324 can be configured to form an obtuse angle with the curved portion 321.

[0140] Furthermore, the inner bend portion 324 can be configured to prevent sparks from moving toward the vent port H. That is, the inner bend portion 324 can be configured to guide sparks, etc., moving toward the vent port H and the outside of the module housing 100 toward the inside of the module housing 100. For example, in Figure 13 In one embodiment, the inner curved portion 324 can change the flow direction of the spark moving toward the exhaust port H in the +Z axis direction, so that the spark moves in the opposite direction (i.e., in the -Z axis direction).

[0141] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the second blocking member 320 can change the flow direction of sparks from the interior of the module housing 100 toward the exhaust port H to the inside, thereby effectively preventing sparks from being discharged to the outside of the module housing 100. Therefore, the reaction of sparks with oxygen to generate a flame outside the module housing 100 can be suppressed.

[0142] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the inner curved portion 324 only covers a portion of the exhaust port H, the exhaust gas can be discharged through the exhaust port H. Therefore, while blocking sparks, etc., the exhaust gas can be smoothly discharged through the exhaust port H.

[0143] Reference Figures 1 to 13 The battery module 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a module cover 500.

[0144] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 The module cover 500 can be configured to at least partially cover the module housing 100. For example, the module cover 500 can be configured to cover the top plate 120. The module cover 500 can be disposed on the exterior and / or interior of the module housing 100.

[0145] Specifically, the module cover 500 can be configured to cover the vent holes H. In this case, the module cover 500 can be configured as a sheet and mounted on the module housing 100. The module cover 500 can be configured to cover all of the plurality of vent holes H.

[0146] The module cover 500 can be configured to suppress the spread of exhaust gases or flames emitted during a thermal event inside the battery module 10 to another battery module 10. For this purpose, the module cover 500 can be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as mica sheets or silicon composite materials.

[0147] Therefore, even when high temperatures are generated, the module cover 500 can maintain its morphological stability without deformation, thereby stably blocking high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery cell 200. According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the module cover 500 is made of a hard and heat-resistant material, deformation caused by high-temperature gases or flames can be minimized.

[0148] like Figure 4 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the module cover 500 can be configured to be at least partially opened by venting gas or a flame. Specifically, at least a portion of the module cover 500 can be configured to rupture by the pressure or heat of the venting gas toward the vent H. Alternatively, at least a portion of the module cover 500 can be configured to be completely separated.

[0149] For this purpose, the module cover 500 may be provided with a tear line L. The tear line L may be configured to open by exhaust gas, thereby venting the exhaust gas to the outside of the battery module 10.

[0150] Multiple tear lines L can be provided at predetermined intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions). In particular, the tear lines L can be formed at positions corresponding to the vent holes H. Alternatively, unlike the embodiment shown in the figures, the tear lines L can be configured to have a shape corresponding to the vent holes H.

[0151] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell 200, the tear line L provided on one side of the specific battery cell 200 can rupture to open at least one of a plurality of vent holes H. Therefore, exhaust gases, etc., can be discharged to the outside of the module housing 100 through the opened vent hole H (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4 (The thick arrow in the middle).

[0152] Furthermore, the module cover 500 prevents gases or flames emitted to the outside of the module housing 100 from flowing back into the battery module 10. That is, the vent H located on the side of the battery cell 200 where no thermal event has occurred can remain closed and not be opened. As a result, exhaust gases or flames emitted to the outside through the open vent H can be substantially prevented from flowing back into the battery module 10. Additionally, the unbroken portion of the module cover 500 not only blocks heat but also blocks high-temperature gases, flames, or emissions generated from the battery cell 200.

[0153] In other words, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10, not only can the exhaust gas or flame generated inside the battery module 10 be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10, but the discharged exhaust gas or flame can also be prevented from flowing back into the battery module 10. Therefore, thermal runaway propagation can be effectively prevented or delayed by minimizing the heat propagation to adjacent battery cells 200 or battery module 10.

[0154] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] Reference Figure 14 The battery pack 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery modules 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above. The battery pack 1 according to the present disclosure may also include a battery pack housing 2 for accommodating the following components: a battery management system (BMS) for integrating and controlling the charging and discharging of one or more battery modules, a current sensor, a fuse, etc., and the aforementioned components.

[0156] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] Reference Figure 15 The vehicle 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 1 or battery modules 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle 3 according to the present disclosure may 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 operates using electricity supplied from the battery packs 1 or battery modules 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0158] As described above, although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains without departing from the technical concept of this disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1.A battery module comprising: a module case having an internal space formed therein; a plurality of battery cells configured to be stored in the internal space of the module case; and a barrier unit including a first barrier member disposed between the plurality of battery cells and a second barrier member disposed on at least one side of the first barrier member and configured such that an end portion of the second barrier member is bent. 2.The battery module of claim 1, the bent portion of the second barrier member is configured such that an end portion thereof is in contact with an inner surface of the module case. wherein 3.The battery module of claim 1, the bent portion of the second barrier member is configured to be bent in a direction away from the first barrier member. wherein 4.The battery module of claim 1, the second barrier member is configured such that a surface of the second barrier member faces a surface of the battery cell. wherein, 5.The battery module of claim 1, the second barrier member is disposed on both sides of the first barrier member, and the end portions of the second barrier member are configured to be bent away from each other in a direction away from the first barrier member. wherein 6.The battery module of claim 1, the module case includes: wherein a case body having an upper opening to allow the battery cells to be seated therein; and a top plate coupled to cover the upper opening of the case body, and wherein the bent portion of the second barrier member is configured to be compressible by the top plate. 7.The battery module of claim 1, the module case has a vent hole formed on an upper side to discharge exhaust gas generated in the battery cells to the outside, and wherein wherein the bent portion of the second barrier member is configured to be bent toward the vent hole. 8.The battery module of claim 7, the bent portion of the second barrier member is configured such that an end portion thereof is in contact with the vent hole. wherein, 9.The battery module of claim 7, the bent portion of the second barrier member includes a support configured such that an end portion of the support is bent toward an inner peripheral surface of the vent hole. wherein, 10.The battery module of claim 1, the bent portion of the second barrier member has one or more uneven portions configured such that at least a portion of the uneven portions protrudes inward. wherein, 11.The battery module of claim 1, the bent portion of the second barrier member has an inner bent portion configured such that an end portion thereof is bent toward the battery cell. wherein 12.A battery pack including the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 11. 13.A vehicle including the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 11. ​

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