Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

A battery pack according to the present disclosure comprises: a plurality of battery modules; a pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery modules; and a heat sink disposed between the battery modules and the pack case, in which the heat sink includes: a plurality of heat exchange flow paths configured to exchange heat with each of the plurality of battery modules at positions corresponding to each of the plurality of battery modules; a connection flow path configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths; a main inlet port and a main outlet port configured to supply fluid to the plurality of heat exchange flow paths therethrough; and an auxiliary inlet port and an auxiliary outlet port configured to supply fluid to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths therethrough.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

[0002] Secondary batteries can be charged and discharged, and thus are widely used in mobile devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, and notebook computers, and in particular, recently, are attracting attention as an energy source of an electric vehicle, an energy storage system (ESS), or the like. On the other hand, since an electric vehicle or an ESS requires high capacity and high output power, a middle- and large-sized battery device, for example, a battery module in which a plurality of secondary batteries are accommodated in a case or a battery pack equipped with a plurality of battery modules, is widely used.

[0003] Since it is desirable that, if possible, a middle- and large-sized battery device is manufactured to be small in size and light in weight, a square battery cell, a soft-pack type battery cell, or the like, which can be accumulated at a high density and has a low weight with respect to capacity, is mainly used as a battery cell (unit cell). In particular, recently, a soft-pack type battery cell using an aluminum laminate or the like as an external member is attracting attention due to advantages such as low weight, low manufacturing cost, and easy shape change.

[0004] On the other hand, these middle- and large-sized battery devices can generate a large amount of heat during charging and discharging, and thus include a heat sink configured to release heat from the inside of the device.

[0005] However, a heat sink capable of collectively cooling or heating all of the plurality of modules or cells installed has a difficulty that partial cooling or heating can not be implemented when needed. SUMMARY

[0006] TECHNICAL PROBLEM The disclosure was conceived based on the above-described problem, and aims to provide a battery pack configured to cool or heat each region of the battery pack.

[0007] TECHNICAL SOLUTION A battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure includes a plurality of battery modules, a battery pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery modules, and a heat sink disposed between the battery modules and the battery pack case, and the heat sink includes a plurality of heat exchange flow paths configured to exchange heat with each of the plurality of battery modules at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of battery modules, a connection flow path configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths, a main inlet port and a main outlet port configured to supply a fluid to the plurality of heat exchange flow paths, and an auxiliary inlet port and an auxiliary outlet port configured to supply the fluid to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths.

[0008] The heat sink can further include a flow regulating portion configured to block connection with the connection flow path, such that the fluid supplied from the auxiliary inlet port circulates within the corresponding heat exchange flow path.

[0009] The flow regulating portion can be configured to control the fluid flow by adjusting a size of a cross section perpendicular to a fluid moving direction of the heat exchange flow path.

[0010] The flow regulating portion can include a fixing bolt configured to be movable in a direction perpendicular to a fluid moving direction of the heat exchange flow path, and a boss portion configured to be engaged with the fixing bolt.

[0011] The connection flow path can include a first connection flow path configured to deliver the fluid flowing in from the main inlet port to the plurality of heat exchange flow paths, and a second connection flow path configured to deliver the fluid completing heat exchange in the plurality of heat exchange flow paths to the main outlet port.

[0012] Each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths can include an inlet flow path connected with the first connection flow path, an outlet flow path connected with the second connection flow path, and an intermediate flow path configured to connect the inlet flow path with the outlet flow path.

[0013] The flow regulating portion can include a first flow regulating portion configured to block connection with the first connection flow path, and a second flow regulating portion configured to block connection with the second connection flow path.

[0014] The heat sink can include a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path adjacent to each other among the plurality of heat exchange flow paths, and can be configured to, when inflow and outflow of the fluid are blocked by the first flow regulating portion and the second flow regulating portion corresponding to the first heat exchange flow path, prevent the fluid flowing in from the auxiliary inlet port of the first heat exchange flow path from flowing toward the second heat exchange flow path, and make the fluid flow toward the auxiliary outlet port of the first heat exchange flow path.

[0015] The battery pack can be provided with an adhesive member between the heat sink and the plurality of battery modules.

[0016] The adhesive member can include a thermally conductive member.

[0017] A vehicle according to an example embodiment of the disclosure can include a battery pack according to the disclosure.

[0018] Advantageous effects According to an aspect of the disclosure, the fluid can quickly flow in and out of the heat exchange flow path corresponding to the predetermined battery module. Using the auxiliary inlet port and the auxiliary outlet port, the fluid can directly flow in and out of the heat exchange flow path corresponding to the predetermined battery module, thereby reducing the time.

[0019] In addition, when the connection flow path is configured to connect a plurality of heat exchange flow paths in parallel, rapid heat exchange between the heat sink and the battery module is possible. Since the existing heat exchange flow path is formed by a single path without branching of the flow path, there is a problem that when the battery pack is large, it takes a lot of time for the fluid to circulate the entire path, and the cooling performance is relatively low in the module located at the rear end. However, according to the disclosure, the fluid flowing in along the main inlet port is divided into a plurality of branches from the first connection flow path, and the fluid is delivered in parallel to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths, thereby achieving rapid heat exchange and uniform cooling performance.

[0020] According to another aspect of the disclosure, heat can be exchanged between the heat sink and the battery module more effectively. When a predetermined battery module requires rapid heat exchange, using the first flow rate adjusting part and the second flow rate adjusting part corresponding to the heat exchange flow path corresponding to another battery module, it is possible to block the flow of fluid to the heat exchange flow path, thereby moving the fluid only through the heat exchange flow path corresponding to the predetermined battery module. In addition, when the predetermined battery module does not require heat exchange, using a similar manner as described above, it is possible to move the fluid only through the heat exchange flow path corresponding to another battery module.

[0021] According to still another aspect, the flow rate can be easily adjusted. The fixing bolt can be operated in a manual manner by manipulation of the operator, and also automatically operated by an electric signal when connected to an actuator. In addition, the fixing bolt can be continuously operated such that a cross section substantially perpendicular to the moving direction of the heat exchange flow path becomes any state from a completely blocked state to a completely open state, and thus, rapid response based on the required degree and position of heat exchange is possible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 is an assembled perspective view of a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along Figure 2 A-A' shown in FIG. 1.

[0025] Figure 4 is a view showing a heat sink according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5 is Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a portion shown in FIG. 1.

[0027] Figure 6 is Figure 5a cross-sectional view of a portion shown in FIG. 1.

[0028] Figure 7 is Figure 5 a bottom perspective view of a portion shown in FIG. 1.

[0029] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of a heat sink included in a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a replacement process of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0031] Figures 10 to 13 is a diagram illustrating a first flow regulating portion included in a battery pack before and after operation according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Before describing the disclosure, the terms or words used in the disclosure and the appended claims are not limited to general definitions or dictionary definitions. The terms and words should be interpreted according to the principles of the inventor who can appropriately define the terms in order to describe the invention in the best way. Therefore, since the example embodiments described in the disclosure and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most desirable example embodiments, and do not represent all the technical spirits of the disclosure, it should be understood that there can be various equivalents and modifications that can replace the example embodiments and configurations at the time of filing the application of the disclosure.

[0034] The same reference numerals or symbols shown in the drawings represent components or elements performing substantially the same functions. For ease of description and understanding, the same reference numerals or symbols can be used to describe example embodiments that are different from each other. In other words, although multiple drawings show elements having the same reference numerals, the multiple drawings do not mean only one example embodiment.

[0035] In the following description, the singular form of the terms includes the plural form of the terms unless there is an obviously and contextually conflicting description. Terms such as "include" or "comprise" are used to indicate that there is a presence of a feature, number, operation, action, element, component, or a combination thereof. It should be understood that these terms do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features, numbers, operations, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof can be present or added.

[0036] In addition, it should be noted in advance that expressions such as an upper side, an upper portion, a lower side, a lower portion, a side surface, a front surface, or a rear surface are based on the directions shown in the drawings, and the expressions can change when the direction of the corresponding object changes.

[0037] A term including an ordinal such as "first" or "second" used in the specification and claims can be used to distinguish elements. Such ordinals are used to distinguish the same or similar elements from each other on the context. The meaning of the term can not be limited by the use of the ordinal. For example, the order of use, the order of handling, etc. of the elements having such ordinals can not be limited to be interpreted by the number. The ordinals can be replaced with each other as needed.

[0038] Hereinafter, example embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the concept of the disclosure is not limited to the presented example embodiments. For example, another example embodiment included in the scope of the concept of the disclosure can be presented by addition, change, removal, etc. of elements by those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the disclosure. However, other example embodiments are also included in the scope of the concept of the disclosure. In order to describe more clearly, the shape, size, etc. of elements in the drawings can be exaggerated.

[0039] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 2 is a combined perspective view of a battery pack according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along Figure 2 A-A' line shown in FIG. 1.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 The battery pack 10 according to the disclosure can include a battery module 100, a battery pack case 200, and a heat spreader 300.

[0041] The battery module 100 can include a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of battery cells can be pouch-type battery cells. The pouch-type battery cells can include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a pouch exterior material. The plurality of pouch-type battery cells can be stacked in at least one direction to constitute the battery module 100. The plurality of pouch-type battery cells can be disposed to be stacked in an X-axis direction.

[0042] The battery module 100 can not include a module case. In other words, the battery pack 10 can not be provided with a separate module case to implement a cell-to-pack (CTP) type battery pack 10 using pouch-type battery cells. Accordingly, the battery module 100 according to the disclosure can refer to a bundle of a plurality of pouch-type battery cells stacked in one direction.

[0043] In some cases, the battery module 100 can include a battery cell cover at least partially surrounding the exterior of the stacked plurality of battery cells.

[0044] In addition, the features of the disclosure can also be identically applied in the case where the battery module 100 includes a module case.

[0045] The battery pack case 200 can accommodate a plurality of battery modules 100. The battery pack case 200 can form a space inside to accommodate a plurality of battery modules 100. For example, the battery pack case 200 can be provided with a case body 210, a partition wall 220, and a battery pack cover 230. The case body 210 can be configured in the form of a box open at the upper end, and can accommodate a plurality of battery modules 100 in the internal space. The partition wall 220 can partition the internal space of the case body 210. The partition wall 220 can be provided in a space corresponding to a space between a plurality of battery modules 100 adjacent to each other. The battery pack cover 230 can be configured in the form of a cover for covering an open portion of the upper end of the case body 210 (the open portion is located in the positive Z-axis direction). On the other hand, the battery pack case 200 is not limited to the structure described herein, and for example, the case body 210 can be composed of a bottom plate, an end plate, a front plate, and a side plate.

[0046] The heat sink 300 can be provided between the battery module 100 and the battery pack case 200. The heat sink 300 can be configured to perform heat exchange with the battery module 100 based on a coolant flowing therein. For example, the coolant can flow into the heat sink 300 from the outside in a cooled state, and in the process of flowing through a predetermined flow path provided therein, can be raised in temperature by heat conducted from the battery module 100, and the coolant is discharged back to the outside. The coolant can have a circulation structure of being cooled again in the outside and flowing into the heat sink 300, and can perform heat exchange with the battery module 100 while flowing through a predetermined flow path provided inside thereof, and then be discharged.

[0047] Referring again to Figure 3 , the battery pack 10 can be provided with an adhesive member 400.

[0048] The adhesive member 400 can be provided between the heat sink 300 and the plurality of battery modules 100. The adhesive member 400 can be provided between the heat sink 300 and the battery pack case 200. The adhesive member 400 can be a polyurethane-based thermal adhesive.

[0049] The adhesive member 400 can include a thermally conductive member. The thermally conductive member can be a thermal interface material (TIM). Heat generated in the battery module 100 can be exchanged through the adhesive member 400 and the heat sink 300, and then be released.

[0050] Hereinafter, a more detailed structure of the heat sink 300 will be described. Figures 4 to 13

[0051] Figure 4 is a view illustrating a heat sink according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 5 ​is Figure 4 an enlarged view of a portion shown in FIG. 1. Figure 6 is Figure 5 a sectional view of a portion shown in FIG. 1. Figure 7 is Figure 5 a bottom perspective view of a portion shown in FIG. 1.

[0052] Referring to Figures 4 to 7 , the heat sink 300 can include a main inlet port I1, a main outlet port O1, a plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310, connection flow paths 320, 330, an auxiliary inlet port I2, and an auxiliary outlet port O2.

[0053] The main inlet port I1 can be configured to allow fluid to enter an inside of the battery pack 10 from an outside of the battery pack 10. The fluid can enter the inside of the battery pack 10 from the outside of the battery pack 10 by a fluid supply device connected to the main inlet port I1. The fluid supply device can allow the fluid to enter at a constant pressure or a preset pressure.

[0054] The main outlet port O1 can be configured to allow fluid to be discharged from the inside of the battery pack 10 to the outside of the battery pack 10. The fluid can be discharged from the inside of the battery pack 10 to the outside of the battery pack 10 by a fluid recovery device connected to the main outlet port O1. The fluid recovery device can recover the fluid at a constant pressure or a preset pressure.

[0055] The main inlet port I1 and the main outlet port O1 can include a ball valve. The main inlet port I1 and the main outlet port O1 can include a check valve. In addition, the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2, which will be described below, can also include a ball valve or a check valve. However, the main inlet port I1, the main outlet port O1, the auxiliary inlet port I2, and the auxiliary outlet port O2 are not limited to including only a ball valve or a check valve.

[0056] The plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 can communicate with the main inlet port I1 and the main outlet port O1. Each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 can be disposed at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of battery modules 100. The plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 can be configured to perform heat exchange with the respective battery modules 100.

[0057] The connection flow paths 320, 330 can connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The connection flow paths 320, 330 can include a first connection flow path 320 and a second connection flow path 330. However, the connection flow paths 320, 330 can not only be configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 in parallel as Figure 4 indicated, but also can include being configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 in series or being configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 in various connection manners including parallel connection and series connection.

[0058] The first connection flow path 320 can be configured to transfer fluid, which enters from the main inlet port I1, to the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The first connection flow path 320 can be in direct communication with the main inlet port I1. The first connection flow path 320 can be in direct communication with each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The fluid, which enters from the main inlet port I1, can be transferred to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 while flowing along the first connection flow path 320 formed clockwise within the radiator 300 from the main inlet port I1.

[0059] The second connection flow path 330 can be configured to transfer fluid, which completes heat exchange in the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310, to the main outlet port O1. The second connection flow path 330 can be in direct communication with the main outlet port O1. The second connection flow path 330 can be in direct communication with each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The fluid, which completes heat exchange in the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310, can be transferred to the main outlet port O1 while flowing along the second connection flow path 330 clockwise.

[0060] In other words, fluid, which enters through the main inlet port I1, can be transferred to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 through the first connection flow path 320. The fluid, which is transferred to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310, can exchange heat with each of the plurality of battery modules 100 while flowing along each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The fluid, which completes heat exchange with each of the plurality of battery modules 100, can flow to the second connection flow path 330. The fluid, which flows to the second connection flow path 330, can be discharged through the main outlet port O1.

[0061] The auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 can be provided in correspondence with each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. Each of the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 can be configured to supply fluid to or discharge fluid from each heat exchange flow path 310. The auxiliary inlet port I2 can be configured to flow fluid from the outside of the battery pack 10 into the heat exchange flow path 310. The auxiliary outlet port O2 can be configured to flow fluid from the heat exchange flow path 310 to the outside of the battery pack 10.

[0062] On the other hand, the positions of the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 can also be provided in reverse to those shown in the drawings.

[0063] Alternatively, the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 can also perform functions opposite to the respective names. This is premised on the case where the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 are configured in the same physical structure.

[0064] As described above, the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 can include a ball valve or a check valve.

[0065] According to such a configuration according to the disclosure, the fluid can flow in and out of the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to the predetermined battery module 100 quickly. Using the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2, the fluid can flow in and out of the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to the predetermined battery module 100 directly, thereby reducing the time.

[0066] Further, when the connection flow path 320, 330 is configured to connect a plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 in parallel, rapid heat exchange between the heat sink 300 and the battery module 100 can be performed. Since the existing heat exchange flow path is formed by a single path without branching of the flow path, there is a problem that when the battery pack 10 is large, the fluid takes a lot of time to circulate in the entire path, and the cooling performance is relatively low in the module located at the rear end. However, according to the disclosure, the fluid entering along the main inlet port I1 is divided into a plurality of branches from the first connection flow path 320, and the fluid is delivered to each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 in parallel, thereby achieving rapid heat exchange and uniform cooling performance.

[0067] Referring to Figure 5 , each of the plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 can include an inlet flow path 311, an outlet flow path 315, and an intermediate flow path 313.

[0068] The inlet flow path 311 can be connected to the first connection flow path 320. One inlet flow path 311 can be formed.

[0069] The outlet flow path 315 can be connected to the second connection flow path 330. Two outlet flow paths 315 can be formed.

[0070] The intermediate flow path 313 can connect the inlet flow path 311 and the outlet flow path 315. The intermediate flow path 313 can be formed long in a zigzag pattern so that the time for heat exchange with the battery module 100 is sufficient.

[0071] However, the number and position of the inlet flow path 311 and the outlet flow path 315 in the disclosure are not limited to the above. For example, two inlet flow paths 311 and two outlet flow paths 315 can be formed, and the inlet flow path 311 can be connected to the outlet flow path 315 through an independent intermediate flow path 313, or the two outlet flow paths 315 can be combined into one like the inlet flow path 311 when connected to the second connection flow path 330, and connected.

[0072] Referring again to Figure 5 , the heat sink 300 can include flow regulating portions 340a, 340b.

[0073] The flow regulating portions 340a, 340b can be configured to block the connection with the connection flow paths 320, 330, such that the fluid supplied by the auxiliary inlet port I2 circulates within the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to the corresponding auxiliary inlet port I2.

[0074] The flow regulating portions 340a, 340b can include a first flow regulating portion 340a and a second flow regulating portion 340b.

[0075] The first flow regulating portion 340a can be configured to block the connection of the heat exchange flow path 310 with the first connection flow path 320. The first flow regulating portion 340a can be configured to selectively control the flow of fluid flowing from the first connection flow path 320 to the heat exchange flow path 310. The first flow regulating portion 340a can be disposed in the inlet flow path 311. The first flow regulating portion 340a can be disposed in the first connection flow path 320. The number of first flow regulating portions 340a can be the same as the number of heat exchange flow paths 310.

[0076] The second flow regulating portion 340b can be configured to block the connection of the heat exchange flow path 310 with the second connection flow path 330. The second flow regulating portion 340b can be configured to selectively control the flow of fluid flowing from the heat exchange flow path 310 to the second connection flow path 330. The second flow regulating portion 340b can be disposed in the second connection flow path 330. The number of second flow regulating portions 340b can be the same as the number of heat exchange flow paths 310.

[0077] However, the number and position of the first flow regulating portion 340a and the second flow regulating portion 340b are not limited to Figure 5 For example, the first flow regulating portion 340a can not be disposed in the inlet flow path 311 but in the first connection flow path 320, and the second flow regulating portion 340b can also not be disposed in the second connection flow path 330 but in each of the outlet flow paths 315.

[0078] According to such a configuration of the present disclosure, heat exchange between the heat sink 300 and the battery module 100 can be performed more efficiently. When a predetermined battery module 100 needs rapid heat exchange, using the first flow regulating portion 340a and the second flow regulating portion 340b corresponding to the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to another battery module 100, the flow of fluid to the heat exchange flow path 310 can be blocked, thereby causing the fluid to move only through the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to the predetermined battery module 100. In addition, when the predetermined battery module 100 does not need heat exchange, using a similar manner as described above, the fluid can move only through the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to another battery module 100.

[0079] Specifically, this method can be used to weaken the adhesive strength of the bonding member 400. During the use of the battery pack 10, a situation may arise where only a specific battery module 100 malfunctions, and only that specific battery module 100 needs to be replaced or inspected. In this case, only the specific battery module 100 with the problem needs to be separated. During the separation of the specific battery module 100, the battery module 100 may be damaged due to excessive adhesive strength of the bonding member 400, or the separation process may be difficult. In particular, when the battery module 100 is configured without a separate module frame for the CTP type, the problem of damage to the battery module 100 occurs more frequently during the separation process.

[0080] The adhesive strength of the adhesive member 400 may decrease at a predetermined temperature or higher. Therefore, by directing fluid only to the heat exchange path 310 corresponding to the specific battery module 100 that needs to be separated in the manner described above, and by allowing fluid at a predetermined temperature or higher to flow in through the inlet port, the adhesive strength of the adhesive member 400 can be weakened, and the specific battery module 100 can be easily separated. The predetermined temperature can be approximately 50 degrees Celsius (°C), and can be an appropriate temperature that prevents damage to individual battery cells while facilitating the separation of the battery module 100.

[0081] Figure 8 This is an enlarged view of a portion of a heat sink 300 included in a battery pack 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Reference Figure 8 The radiator 300 may include a first heat exchange flow path 310a and a second heat exchange flow path 310b that are adjacent to each other among a plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310. The first heat exchange flow path 310a and the second heat exchange flow path 310b may be adjacent to each other along the Y-axis direction. However, the first heat exchange flow path 310a and the second heat exchange flow path 310b are used to describe a plurality of heat exchange flow paths 310 that are adjacent to each other, and the number of heat exchange flow paths 310 is not limited to two.

[0083] The radiator 300 can be configured to prevent fluid flowing into the first heat exchange path 310a from flowing to the second heat exchange path 310b when the inflow and outflow of fluid are blocked by the first flow regulating unit 340a and the second flow regulating unit 340b corresponding to the first heat exchange path 310a, and instead direct it to flow to the auxiliary outlet port O2 of the first heat exchange path 310a. (Refer to...) Figure 8With the inflow and outflow of fluid blocked by the first flow regulator 340a and the second flow regulator 340b, the fluid moves along the heat exchange flow path 310 when it flows into the auxiliary inlet port I2. During this movement, the fluid does not move to the first connecting flow path 320 due to the blockage of the first flow regulator 340a, and flows out to the auxiliary outlet port O2. Furthermore, even if a portion of the fluid does not flow out to the auxiliary outlet port O2, it can flow back to the auxiliary outlet port O2 and flow out again due to the blockage of the second flow regulator 340b.

[0084] Reference Figure 9 The replacement process of the battery module 100 using the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2 is described in more detail.

[0085] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the replacement process of a battery module 100 included in a battery pack 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] During the replacement process of battery module 100, it is necessary to reduce the bonding strength of adhesive member 400. To reduce the bonding strength of adhesive member 400, fluid at a predetermined temperature or higher needs to flow into and out of the heat exchange flow path 310 corresponding to the predetermined battery module 100. However, if the auxiliary inlet port I2 and auxiliary outlet port O2 are not used, and the main inlet port I1 and main outlet port O1 are used, the high-temperature fluid flows through the entire first connection flow path 320 and the second connection flow path 330. In this case, since areas of battery module 100 that do not need to be removed are also heated by the high-temperature fluid, battery module 100 may experience reduced bonding strength or separation. The use of auxiliary inlet port I2 and auxiliary outlet port O2 is intended to prevent this problem.

[0087] For example, in the normal driving state of the vehicle, in other words, when cooling of the battery pack 10 is required, the vehicle radiator hose can be connected to the main inlet port I1 and the main outlet port O1, and coolant for cooling can be supplied. When the predetermined battery module 100 needs to be replaced, the vehicle radiator hose can be connected to the auxiliary inlet port I2 and the auxiliary outlet port O2, and coolant for heating can be supplied. In this case, the coolant for cooling and the coolant for heating can be the same material, but can be supplied at different temperatures.

[0088] In the following text, refer to Figures 10 to 13 The flow regulation operation of the first flow regulation unit 340a and the second flow regulation unit 340b is described. Figures 10 to 13 This is a diagram showing the first flow regulating unit 340a included in the battery pack 10 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure before and after operation.

[0089] Figures 10 to 13 Only the first flow regulating unit 340a is shown before and after operation, but the second flow regulating unit 340b can also operate in a similar manner.

[0090] The first flow regulating unit 340a and the second flow regulating unit 340b can be configured to control fluid flow by adjusting the size of a cross-section that is substantially perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310. The first flow regulating unit 340a and the second flow regulating unit 340b can be configured to control fluid flow by adjusting the width in the height direction relative to the heat exchange flow path 310.

[0091] The first flow regulating unit 340a and the second flow regulating unit 340b may include a fixing bolt F and a boss part B. The fixing bolt F is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310. The fixing bolt F is movable along the height direction of the heat exchange flow path 310. The boss part B may be configured to engage the fixing bolt F from below. The inner surface of the boss part B may be provided with threads corresponding to the fixing bolt F to ensure a stable engagement of the fixing bolt F. The fixing bolt F can engage with the boss part B from below.

[0092] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first flow regulating section 340a is shown when flow rate adjustment is not required. The fixing bolt F engages with the boss section B, but the fixing bolt F does not move in the height direction. Therefore, the cross section that is approximately perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310 is in a fully open state.

[0093] Figure 12 and Figure 13 The first flow regulating section 340a is shown when flow rate adjustment is required. The fixing bolt F engages with the boss portion B and moves in the height direction; therefore, it can be seen that the size of the cross-section substantially perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310 decreases. The fixing bolt F can be operated continuously, such that the cross-section substantially perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310 can be in any state, from fully open to fully blocked.

[0094] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the flow rate can be easily adjusted. The fixing bolt F can be operated manually by an operator and also automatically by an electrical signal connected to the actuator. In addition, the fixing bolt F can be operated continuously, such that the cross-section substantially perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path 310 can be in any state from a completely blocked state to a completely open state, thus enabling rapid response based on the required degree and location of heat exchange.

[0095] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the battery pack 10 according to the present disclosure may include various other components in addition to the battery module 100, such as components of the battery pack 10 known on the date of filing of the present disclosure, such as the battery management system (BMS), relays, and current sensors.

[0096] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating vehicle 1 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Reference Figure 14 The vehicle 1 according to this disclosure may include a battery pack 10 according to this disclosure. In addition to the battery pack 10, the vehicle 1 may also include various other components included in the vehicle 1. For example, in addition to the battery pack 10 according to this disclosure, the vehicle 1 according to this disclosure may also include a body, a motor, control devices such as an electronic control unit (ECU), etc.

[0098] As described above, although this disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings focusing on preferred exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various obvious modifications can be made based on these descriptions without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should be interpreted by the described claims to include these many examples of modifications.

[0099] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures] 1: Vehicle 10: Battery Pack 100: Battery Module 200: Battery pack casing 210: Shell Body 220: Partition wall 230: Battery pack cover 300: Radiator I1: Main Entry Port O1: Main exit port 310: Multiple heat exchange flow paths 311: Inlet Flow Path 315: Exit flow path 313; Intermediate flow path 320: First connection path 330: Second connection path 340a: First Flow Regulation Section 340b: Second Flow Regulation Section B: Bossed section F: Fixing bolt I2: Auxiliary Entry Port O2: Auxiliary exit port 310a: First heat exchange flow path 310b: Second heat exchange path 400: Adhesive component

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: Multiple battery modules; A battery pack housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery modules; as well as A heat sink is disposed between the battery module and the battery pack housing. The heat sink includes: Multiple heat exchange paths are configured to exchange heat with each of the multiple battery modules at a location corresponding to each of the multiple battery modules. A connection flow path, wherein the connection flow path is configured to connect the plurality of heat exchange flow paths; A main inlet port and a main outlet port, the main inlet port and the main outlet port being configured to supply fluid to the plurality of heat exchange paths; and Auxiliary inlet port and auxiliary outlet port are configured to supply fluid to each of the plurality of heat exchange paths.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The radiator further includes a flow regulating unit configured to block the connection with the connecting flow path, so that the fluid supplied by the auxiliary inlet port circulates within the corresponding heat exchange flow path.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The flow regulation unit is configured to control fluid flow by adjusting the size of a cross-section perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein, The flow regulating part includes: a fixing bolt configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the fluid movement direction of the heat exchange flow path; and a boss configured to engage with the fixing bolt.

5. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The connection path includes: A first connecting flow path, configured to transfer fluid flowing in from the main inlet port to the plurality of heat exchange flow paths; and A second connecting flow path is configured to transfer fluid that has undergone heat exchange in the plurality of heat exchange flow paths to the main outlet port.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein, Each of the plurality of heat exchange paths includes: An inlet flow path, wherein the inlet flow path is connected to the first connecting flow path; An outlet flow path, the outlet flow path being connected to the second connecting flow path; and An intermediate flow path is configured to connect the inlet flow path and the outlet flow path.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The flow regulation unit includes: A first flow regulating unit, configured to block the connection with the first connecting flow path; and The second flow regulating unit is configured to block the connection with the second connecting flow path.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, wherein, The radiator includes a first heat exchange path and a second heat exchange path that are adjacent to each other in the plurality of heat exchange paths, and The radiator is configured to prevent fluid flowing from the auxiliary inlet port of the first heat exchange path from flowing to the second heat exchange path, and instead direct it to flow to the auxiliary outlet port of the first heat exchange path, when the inflow and outflow of the fluid are blocked by the first flow regulating unit and the second flow regulating unit corresponding to the first heat exchange path.

9. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The battery pack has an adhesive component between the heat sink and the plurality of battery modules.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein, The adhesive component includes a thermally conductive component.

11. A vehicle comprising the battery pack of any one of claims 1 to 10.

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