Battery pack and device including the same

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery module; a pack frame accommodating the battery modules and having one open side; a pack cover covering the open side of the pack frame; and a fireproof sheet attached to one end of the battery pack cover. The battery module includes: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; an exhaust part formed on one surface of the battery module for discharging exhaust gas; and a protruding pin protruding from one surface of the battery module toward the pack cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0057822, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on April 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] This disclosure relates to battery packs and devices including the battery packs, and more specifically, to battery packs capable of effectively controlling heat transfer and devices including the battery packs. Background Technology

[0004] The use of mobile devices such as cellular phones, laptops, portable camcorders, and digital cameras has become commonplace in modern society, accelerating technological development in related fields. Furthermore, as a measure to address air pollution caused by existing gasoline vehicles using fossil fuels, rechargeable batteries are being used as a power source for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs). Therefore, the need for developing rechargeable batteries is increasing.

[0005] Currently, commercially available batteries include nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and lithium-ion (LiN) batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are becoming the most popular because they are not affected by the memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, allowing for easy recharging, low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0006] Typically, lithium-ion batteries use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. A lithium-ion battery includes an electrode assembly manufactured by placing a separator between a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, which are respectively coated with positive and negative electrode active materials, and a battery casing that hermetically houses the electrode assembly and the electrolyte together.

[0007] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified according to the external shape of the battery casing into can-shaped secondary batteries, which are manufactured by mounting the electrode assembly in a metal can, and bag-shaped secondary batteries, which are manufactured by mounting the electrode assembly in a bag made of aluminum laminate.

[0008] In the case of secondary batteries for small-sized devices, two or three battery cells are arranged, while in the case of secondary batteries for medium and large-sized devices such as automobiles, battery modules comprising multiple battery cells electrically connected to each other are used. In a battery module, multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel to form a battery cell stack, which increases capacity and power. One or more battery modules can be configured into a battery pack by mounting them together with various control and protection systems such as battery disconnect units (BDUs), battery management systems (BMS), and cooling systems.

[0009] A battery pack may include battery modules as a subordinate concept, and a battery module may include battery cells as a subordinate concept. Furthermore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or the number of battery modules included in a battery pack may be determined differently depending on the output or capacity of the battery pack required by the electric vehicle.

[0010] However, safety is one of the most critical issues in this type of battery pack. In particular, when a thermal event occurs in any of the multiple battery cells included in the battery pack, high-temperature exhaust gases and heat are generated. To protect the battery pack from these high-temperature exhaust gases and heat, and to allow these gases and heat to escape to the outside, venting space must be ensured and maintained inside the battery pack.

[0011] The battery pack may include a battery pack cover covering one end of the battery pack, and a refractory sheet may be attached to one end of the battery pack cover. This refractory sheet protects the battery pack cover from the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat emitted from the battery module. However, over time or in the event of a thermal event, the refractory sheet may detach from the battery pack cover as the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive deteriorates due to heat. If the refractory sheet sags or detaches from the battery pack cover, the venting space for exhaust gases may be reduced, potentially degrading the thermal management performance of the battery module. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Technical issues

[0013] The objective of this invention is to prevent the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the battery pack cover over time or during a thermal event. Specifically, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module that can prevent the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the battery pack cover, thereby effectively controlling the spread of heat.

[0014] However, the technical objectives solved by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the technical objectives disclosed above, and can be extended in various ways within the scope of the technical concepts included in this disclosure.

[0015] Technical solution

[0016] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a battery module; a battery pack frame in which the battery module is housed and one side of the battery pack frame is open; a battery pack cover covering the open side of the battery pack frame; and a refractory sheet attached to one end of the battery pack cover. The battery module includes: a battery cell stack, in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a vent formed on one surface of the battery module to discharge exhaust gases; and a protruding pin protruding from one surface of the battery module toward the battery pack cover.

[0017] The protruding pins can extend along the direction of the battery cell stack.

[0018] The protruding pin can extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the battery cell stack.

[0019] The protruding pin can be located between the exhaust sections.

[0020] The protruding pin can abut against the refractory sheet.

[0021] The battery module includes: a module frame in which a stack of battery cells is housed and one surface of the module frame is open; and a top cover assembly that covers the open surface of the module frame, wherein protruding pins may be provided on the top cover assembly.

[0022] The top cover assembly may include a top plate located on one side of the battery cell; and a top cover covering one surface of the top plate.

[0023] A protruding pin can be formed on the top plate and protrude to one side through the top cover.

[0024] The exhaust section may include at least one exhaust port formed in the top plate to discharge gas inside the module frame.

[0025] The venting section may include a rupture section having the following structure: the structure is formed on the top cover, positioned to correspond to the vent hole, and ruptures under a specified pressure or higher.

[0026] An opening is formed in the area surrounding the rupture portion, except for the area of ​​the connecting portion, and the rupture portion is formed to connect to the top cover via the connecting portion.

[0027] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, an apparatus including a battery pack is provided.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a plurality of protruding pins protruding toward the battery pack cover are applied to a module top plate disposed at one end of the battery module, which prevents the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the battery pack cover, thereby effectively controlling the spread of heat.

[0030] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the appended claims other additional effects not described above. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut by the cutting line A-A'.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4 Viewed from above Figure 3 A plan view of the battery module.

[0035] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An exploded 3D view of the battery module.

[0036] Figure 6 It is shown that it includes Figure 3 and Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the battery cell stack, the first busbar frame, and the second busbar frame in the battery module.

[0037] Figures 7 to 9 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the top cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of the top plate of the top cover assembly.

[0040] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 11 A magnified 3D view of part "B".

[0041] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 10 A partial 3D view of the top cover assembly.

[0042] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 A magnified 3D view of part of the "C".

[0043] Figure 15 This is a plan view of the top plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above.

[0044] Figure 16 This is a plan view of the top cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above.

[0045] Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing an exhaust section according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0046] In the following description, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, to a degree that will enable those skilled in the art to readily practice the present disclosure. The present disclosure can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0047] For clarity in describing this disclosure, descriptions of parts unrelated to this disclosure will be omitted, and identical or similar parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals throughout the description.

[0048] Because the dimensions and thicknesses of each component are arbitrarily illustrated in the accompanying drawings for ease of description, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the dimensions and thicknesses shown. The drawings depict thicknesses at an enlarged scale to clearly show different layers and regions. Furthermore, the drawings enlarge the thickness of specific layers or regions for ease of description.

[0049] When layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are disposed "on" a specific part, the description includes not only cases where the layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are disposed "directly" on the specific part, but also cases where the layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are disposed on the specific part via another part. When a part is disposed "directly" on another part, this means that there is no new component between the two parts. Furthermore, when a component is disposed "on" a reference part, this indicates that the component exists at the top or bottom of the reference part, and does not necessarily indicate that the component is disposed only at the top of the reference part, which is opposite to the direction of gravity.

[0050] Throughout this description, when a part “includes” a component, unless otherwise defined, this does not indicate that the part excludes other components, but rather that the part may also include other components.

[0051] Throughout this description, the term "in a plan view" refers to an object viewed from above, and the term "in a cross-sectional view" refers to a vertical cross-section of an object viewed from the side.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of a battery pack 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut by the cutting line A-A'.

[0053] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack 1000 includes: a battery module 100; a battery pack frame 1100 in which the battery module 100 is housed and one side of the battery pack frame 1100 is open; a battery pack cover 1200 covering the open side of the battery pack frame 1100; and a fire-resistant sheet 1300 attached to one end of the battery pack cover 1200.

[0054] The battery pack frame 1100 may include a base frame 1110 on which at least one battery module 100 is placed, and a side surface frame 1120 extending along the edge of the base frame 1110. The side surface frame 1120 may extend in a direction perpendicular to one surface of the base frame 1110. An interior space with an open side is provided by the base frame 1110 and the side surface frame 1120, and at least one battery module 100 may be accommodated in the interior space.

[0055] In addition, the battery pack cover 1200 can cover the open side of the battery pack frame 1100.

[0056] The battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment may further include a fire-resistant sheet 1300 attached to the lower surface of the battery pack cover 1200 between the battery module 100 and the battery pack cover 1200. The fire-resistant sheet 1300 can protect the battery pack cover 1200 from the effects of high-temperature exhaust gases and heat emitted from the battery module 100. As an example, the fire-resistant sheet 1300 may be a thin sheet containing mica material and may be attached to the lower surface of the battery pack cover 1200 by means of a heat-resistant adhesive.

[0057] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 Viewed from above Figure 3 A plan view of the battery module 100. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of battery module 100. Figure 6 It is shown that it includes Figure 3 and Figure 5 A perspective view of the battery cell stack 120, the first busbar frame 410, and the second busbar frame 420 in the battery module 100.

[0058] Reference Figures 1 to 6According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery module 100 includes: a battery cell stack 120, in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked; an exhaust portion 220V formed on a surface of the battery module 100 to exhaust exhaust gases; and a protruding pin 600 protruding from a surface of the battery module 100 toward a battery pack cover 1200.

[0059] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may include a plurality of battery cells 110. The battery cells 110 according to this embodiment may be various types of battery cells, such as pouch cells, prismatic cells, or cylindrical cells. As an example, such as... Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment can be a pouch-type battery cell. The pouch-type battery cell will be described below, but the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment is not limited to this, and various types of battery cells can be used.

[0060] Multiple battery cells 110 can be formed within the battery module 100. As an example, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked along one direction to electrically connect with each other, thereby forming a battery cell stack 120. As an example, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked in an upright state along a direction parallel to the x-axis. With one surface of a battery cell 110 parallel to the side surface 212 of the bottom frame 210, the battery cells 110 can be stacked from one side surface 212 to the other side surface 212 of the bottom frame 210. As a result, electrode leads 111 can protrude in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. In the battery cell 110, one electrode lead 111 can protrude towards the y-axis direction, and another electrode lead 111 can protrude towards the -y-axis direction. If the battery cell has electrode leads 111 protruding only in one direction, the electrode leads 111 can protrude in either the y-axis direction or the -y-axis direction.

[0061] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may have a unilateral exhaust structure that discharges high-temperature exhaust gas and heat caused by thermal events in a unilateral direction.

[0062] In this disclosure, the exhaust section 220V generally refers to a mechanism that discharges high-temperature exhaust gases and heat generated inside the battery module 100 to the outside of the battery module 100. That is, the structure or shape of the exhaust section 220V is not particularly limited as long as it can discharge the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat generated inside the battery module 100 due to a thermal event. In the case of the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat caused by a thermal event can be discharged in a unilateral direction through the exhaust section 220V.

[0063] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment includes a protruding pin 600 projecting in a unilateral direction on one surface of the battery module 100. The protruding pin 600 can project from one surface of the battery module 100 toward the battery pack cover 1200. The protruding pin 600 ensures and maintains an exhaust space between the battery module 100 and the battery pack cover 1200 through which high-temperature exhaust gases and heat can flow.

[0064] At this time, the protruding pin 600, protruding from one surface of the battery module 100 along a unilateral direction, ensures and maintains an exhaust space VS between the battery module 100 and the battery pack cover 1200, through which high-temperature exhaust gases and heat can flow. To protect the battery pack 1000 from the effects of high-temperature exhaust gases and heat generated due to thermal events or thermal runaway, and to stably exhaust these gases and heat to the outside of the battery pack 1000, the exhaust space VS must be stably ensured and maintained within the battery pack 1000. If the battery pack cover 1200 bends inward or adheres tightly to the battery module 100, making it impossible to ensure and maintain sufficient exhaust space VS, the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat emitted from the exhaust portion 220V of the battery module 100 will be difficult to exhaust to the outside of the battery pack 1000. If the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat cannot be smoothly exhausted to the outside of the battery pack 1000, it may lead to an explosion or fire of the battery pack 1000. In addition, as time goes by and the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive deteriorates, the refractory sheet 1300 may separate from the battery pack cover 1200.

[0065] Therefore, in this embodiment, a protruding pin 600 is provided that protrudes unilaterally on one surface of the battery module 100, thereby achieving a structure capable of supporting the battery pack cover 1200 and the refractory sheet 1300. The degree of protrusion of the protruding pin 600 is not particularly limited, as long as a minimum venting space VS can be ensured. The degree of protrusion of the protruding pin 600 can be adjusted taking into account the size of the battery module 100 and the gap between the battery module 100 and the battery pack cover 1200, and the protruding pin 600 can be in contact with or spaced apart from the battery pack cover 1200. In other words, in the case of the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, since a venting space VS for the flow of high-temperature exhaust gases and heat can be ensured and maintained between the battery module 1000 and the battery pack cover 1200, the safety of the battery pack 1000 is improved.

[0066] Without the protruding pin 600 protruding towards the refractory sheet 1300, the separated refractory sheet 1300 would cover the exhaust portion 220V, and high-temperature exhaust gases and heat could not be properly discharged. On the other hand, in this embodiment, even if the refractory sheet 1300 is separated from the battery pack cover 1200, the protruding pin 600 can ensure and maintain the exhaust space VS between the battery module 100 and the refractory sheet 1300 while supporting the separated refractory sheet 1300. That is, in the case of the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, since the exhaust space VS for the flow of high-temperature exhaust gases and heat can be ensured and maintained between the battery module 100 and the refractory sheet 1300, the safety of the battery pack 1000 is improved.

[0067] There is no particular limitation on the number of protruding pins 600, but it is preferable that the protruding pins 600 are formed in multiples so as to be evenly distributed on one surface of the battery module 100, thereby ensuring and maintaining the venting space VS. In addition, there is no particular limitation on the specific shape or configuration of the protruding pins 600, as long as they are in a form that protrudes from one surface of the battery module 100.

[0068] The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 will be described in detail below.

[0069] Refer again Figures 1 to 6 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the protruding pin 600 may extend along the direction of the battery cell 110 stack.

[0070] As described above, multiple battery cells 110 can be arranged in one direction ( Figure 5 The cells are stacked along the x-axis (in the x-axis direction) to be electrically connected to each other, thereby forming a battery cell stack 120. Specifically, refer to... Figures 3 to 5 The protruding pin 600 can extend along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, which allows the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat emitted from the exhaust section 220V described below to be guided in the direction of emission. That is, when the protruding pin 600 is stacked along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 as in this embodiment, the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat can be emitted along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 (…). Figure 5 The x-axis direction is discharged.

[0071] The following describes how the protruding pin 600 is applied to the battery module 100 in various ways to continuously guide the exhaust direction of the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat emitted from the exhaust section 220V.

[0072] Figures 7 to 9 This is a perspective view showing a battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Reference Figure 7Although the protruding pins 600 according to the embodiments of this disclosure extend along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, each protruding pin 600 is not continuously connected from one end of the battery module to the other, and the center of the protruding pin 600 can be disconnected. That is, with Figure 6 Compared to the protruding pin 600 shown, the protruding pin 600 in this embodiment can be considered to play a smaller role in guiding the direction of the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat emitted from the exhaust section 220V.

[0074] Reference Figure 8 According to embodiments of this disclosure, the protruding pin 600 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. That is, the protruding pin 600 can extend in a direction perpendicular to one of the directions in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked. Figure 8 (Extends along the y-axis).

[0075] When the protruding pins 600 are stacked in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, high-temperature exhaust gases and heat can be released in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. Figure 5 Discharged along the y-axis.

[0076] Reference Figure 9 Although the protruding pins 600 according to the embodiments of this disclosure extend in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, each protruding pin 600 is not continuously connected from one end of the battery module to the other, and the protruding pin 600 can be disconnected at its center. That is, with... Figure 8 Compared to the protruding pin 600 shown, the protruding pin 600 in this embodiment can be considered to play a smaller role in guiding the direction of the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat emitted from the exhaust section 220V.

[0077] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the protruding pin 600 may be disposed between the exhaust sections 220V. That is, the protruding pin 600 is disposed between the exhaust sections 220V so that the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat emitted from the exhaust section 220V can be guided to be emitted in a desired direction without interfering with the emission of the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat from the exhaust section 220V.

[0078] The orientation, shape, and size of the protruding pin 600 can be intentionally designed based on the location of the vent valve (not shown) provided in the battery pack 1000, the venting method of the battery pack 1000, the components of the battery module 100 and the battery pack 1000, and the arrangement of the components. Specifically, for example, protruding pins 600 extending along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 and protruding pins 600 extending in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 can be used in combination. The orientation, shape, and size of the protruding pin 600 are not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0079] Furthermore, according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the protruding pin 600 can abut against the refractory sheet 1300. In this embodiment, since the protruding pin 600 abuts against the refractory sheet 1300, even if the refractory sheet 1300 is separated from the battery pack cover 1200, the protruding pin 600 abuts against and supports the separated refractory sheet 1300 from the outset, thereby ensuring and maintaining the venting space VS between the battery module 100 and the refractory sheet 1300. That is, in the case of the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, since the venting space VS for the passage of high-temperature exhaust gas and heat can be ensured and maintained between the battery module 100 and the refractory sheet 1300, the safety of the battery pack 1000 is improved. However, in the case of this disclosure, the protruding pin 600 is not limited to its form of contact with the refractory sheet 1300. If the protruding pin 600 protrudes sufficiently to ensure and maintain the venting space VS, the protruding pin 600 can be spaced apart from the refractory sheet 1300 by a predetermined distance.

[0080] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the top cover assembly 220 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] Reference Figures 3 to 6 and Figure 10 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 100 includes: a module frame 200, in which a battery cell stack 120 is housed and one side of the module frame 200 is open; and a top cover assembly 220 that covers the open side of the module frame 200, wherein a protruding pin 600 may be disposed on the top cover assembly 220.

[0082] The protruding pin 600 can be formed in the module frame 200. More specifically, the protruding pin 600 can be formed in the top cover assembly 220 of the module frame 200.

[0083] Furthermore, the battery module 100 may include a module frame 200 for housing battery cells 110. As an example, a stack of battery cells 120 may be housed within the module frame 200. An exhaust port 220V may be formed on one surface of the module frame 200.

[0084] Specifically, the module frame 200 may include a bottom frame 210 on which the battery cell 110 is placed, and a top cover assembly 220 covering one side of the battery cell 110. An exhaust portion 220V according to this embodiment may be formed in the top cover assembly 220. The battery cell 110 may be accommodated in the space formed by the bottom frame 210 and the top cover assembly 220. The bottom frame 210 and the top cover assembly 220 may be joined at corresponding corners by a method such as welding, so that the module frame 200 may cover the upper, lower, and two sides of the battery cell stack 120.

[0085] For example, the bottom frame 210 according to this embodiment may include a bottom 211 and two side surface portions 212. The two side surface portions 212 may extend upward from two opposite sides of the bottom 211 in a direction perpendicular to one surface of the bottom 211. The bottom 211 and the two side surface portions 212 may cover the lower surface and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120. As described above, one surface of the battery cell 110 in the battery cell stack 120 is parallel to the side surface portion 212 of the bottom frame 210, and the battery cells 110 may be stacked in a direction from one side surface portion 212 to the other side surface portion 212. Referring later... Figures 10 to 18 The detailed structure of the top cover assembly 220 according to this embodiment is described.

[0086] On the other hand, in the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, the first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 can be respectively disposed on one surface and the opposite surface of the battery cell stack 120 in the direction in which the electrode leads 111 protrude. The first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 can be joined to the module frame 200 by a method such as welding. The module frame 200, the first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 can include metallic materials to have a predetermined strength. The battery cell stack 120 can be covered by the module frame 200, the first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 to be protected from external impacts, vibrations, etc.

[0087] A battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first insulating cover 810 covering the inner surface of a first end plate 310 and a second insulating cover 820 covering the inner surface of a second end plate 320. The first insulating cover 810 may be located between the first end plate 310 and the first busbar frame 410, and the second insulating cover 820 may be located between the second end plate 320 and the second busbar frame 420. The first insulating cover 810 and the second insulating cover 820 may include electrically insulating materials and may prevent the first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 from contacting the electrode leads 111 or the busbar 510, thereby preventing a short circuit.

[0088] Furthermore, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment may include a first busbar frame 410 and a second busbar frame 420, which respectively cover one surface and the opposite surface of the battery cell stack 120 in the direction in which the electrode leads 111 protrude. The first busbar frame 410 may be located between the battery cell stack 120 and the first end plate 310, and the second busbar frame 420 may be located between the battery cell stack 120 and the second end plate 320. The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 may include electrically insulating material and may prevent the busbar 510 or terminal busbar 520 described below from contacting other parts of the battery cell 110 besides the electrode leads 111, thus preventing a short circuit.

[0089] The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 may be respectively equipped with a busbar 510, a terminal busbar 520, a module connector 530, etc. Specifically, the busbar 510, the terminal busbar 520, the module connector 530, etc., may be arranged in the first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 on the surface opposite to the surface facing the battery cell stack 120. The busbar 510 may be electrically connected to the electrode lead 111 of the battery cell 110. As an example, the busbar 510 and the electrode lead 111 may be joined by welding. The first busbar frame 410 and the second busbar frame 420 may be formed with slits, and the electrode lead 111 may pass through the slits and connect to the busbar 510. The battery cells 110 may be electrically connected in series or in parallel via the busbar 510.

[0090] The terminal busbar 520 can be electrically connected to the electrode leads 111, and a portion of the terminal busbar can be exposed to the outside of the battery module 100. The battery module 100 can form an HV (high voltage) connection with other battery modules or electrical equipment via this terminal busbar 520. Here, an HV connection is used as a connection to supply power requiring high voltage, and refers to a connection between battery cells or between battery modules.

[0091] The module connector 530 may have the function of transmitting voltage information of the battery cell 110 or temperature information inside the battery module 100 to the outside. Therefore, a portion of the module connector 530 may also be exposed to the outside of the battery module 100.

[0092] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 A perspective view of the top plate of the top cover assembly 220. Figure 12 It is shown Figure 11 A magnified 3D view of part "B". Figure 13 It is shown Figure 10A partial perspective view of the top cover 222 of the top cover assembly 220. Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 A magnified 3D view of part of the "C".

[0093] Reference Figures 10 to 14 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the top cover assembly 220 may include a top plate 221 located on one side of the battery cell 110; and a top cover 222 covering one surface of the top plate 221.

[0094] As an example, the top plate 221 may include a metallic material and be welded to the bottom frame 210 (see [link]). Figure 4 On the other hand, the top cover 222 may include FRB-silicone resin material or mica material. In order to guide the connection portion 222C of the connection fracture portion 222R to break under a specified pressure, the top cover 222 may not be made of metal material.

[0095] Even if welding and joining between the top plate 221 and the top cover 222 is not possible, the top cover 222 can be secured to the top plate 221 using flange bolts (not shown) and spacers (not shown). Using flange bolts and spacers to secure the top cover 222 can be useful, given the materials of the top plate 221 and the top cover 222.

[0096] Refer again Figures 10 to 14 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a protruding pin 600 is formed in the top plate 221 and can protrude to one side through the top cover 222. That is, the protruding pin 600 formed in the top plate 221 can protrude toward one end through a slit 600b formed in the top cover 222 provided at one end of the top plate 221.

[0097] Alternatively, a protrusion (not shown) may be formed in the top cover 222 into which the protruding pin 600 can be inserted. In this case, the protruding pin 600 formed in the top plate 221 can be connected to the protrusion of the top cover 222.

[0098] Figure 15 This is a plan view of the top plate 221 as viewed from above according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 16 This is a plan view of the top cover 222 as viewed from above according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 10 to 16 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the exhaust section 220V may include at least one exhaust port 221VH formed in the top plate 221 to exhaust gas inside the module frame 200.

[0100] In addition, the exhaust section 220V may include a rupture section 222R, which has the following structure: formed on the top cover 222, positioned to correspond to the exhaust port 221VH, and ruptures under a specified pressure or higher.

[0101] As described above, the exhaust section 220V generally refers to a mechanism that discharges high-temperature exhaust gases and heat generated inside the battery module 100 to the outside of the battery module 100. According to this embodiment, the exhaust section 220V may refer to a component that integrates an exhaust port 221VH and a rupture section 222R.

[0102] As described above, the module frame 200 may include a bottom frame 210 on which the battery cell 110 is placed and a top cover assembly 220 covering one side of the battery cell 110, and an exhaust port 220V may be formed in the top cover assembly 220. As described above, the top cover assembly 220 may include a top plate 221 located on one side of the battery cell 110 and a top cover 222 covering one surface of the top plate 221.

[0103] The vent 220V may include a vent 221VH formed in the top plate 221 and a rupture portion 222R formed in the top cover 222 and positioned corresponding to the vent 221VH. The rupture portion 222R may have a structure that ruptures under a specified pressure or higher.

[0104] The vent 221VH may be a through hole formed in the top plate 221. The rupture portion 222R may cover the vent 221VH on one side of the top plate 221.

[0105] Refer again Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 10 to 16 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an opening 222P is formed in the area surrounding the rupture portion 222R except for the connecting portion 222C, and the rupture portion 222R can be formed to be connected to the top cover 222 via the connecting portion 222C.

[0106] The opening 222P can be formed in the area surrounding the rupture 222R, excluding the connecting portion 222C. The opening 222P refers to the perforated portion of the top cover 222. According to this embodiment, the rupture 222R can be formed to connect to the top cover 222 via the connecting portion 222C. In other words, the rupture 222R can be provided in the top cover 222 by forming a perforated opening 222P in the top cover 222, excluding the connecting portion 222C.

[0107] Furthermore, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to one surface of the top cover 222, the opening 222P can be located on the outer periphery of the vent 221VH. Viewing along a direction perpendicular to one surface of the top cover 222 can correspond to... Figure 4 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 The image shown is taken along the -z axis in the xy-plane. Furthermore, Figure 14 and Figure 16 It is depicted that in any vent 221VH, the opening 222P is located outside the vent 221VH.

[0108] When the exhaust portion 220V is observed from the inside of the battery module 100 through the above structure, the exhaust port 221VH is blocked by the rupture portion 222R, and the opening 222P is covered by the top plate 221. In other words, since the exhaust port 221VH is formed in a more inner region than the opening 222P, when observed from the inside of the battery module 100, only the rupture portion 222R is exposed through the exhaust port 221VH, and the opening 222P is not exposed.

[0109] Therefore, under normal conditions without a thermal event, the vent 221VH is blocked by the rupture portion 222R, and thus the vent 220V does not release internal gas. However, due to a thermal event or thermal runaway, if high-temperature exhaust gas and heat are generated inside the battery module 100 and the internal pressure of the battery module 100 increases, the rupture portion 222R can rupture. Specifically, if the increased internal pressure of the battery module 100 exceeds the limit strength of the connection portion 222C, the connection portion 222C can break, and the rupture portion 222R can separate from the top cover 222. Therefore, the vent 221VH opens, and the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat can be released to the outside of the battery module 100 through the vent 221VH. More specifically, the high-temperature exhaust gas and heat can be released through the vent 221VH into the exhaust space VS between the battery pack cover 1200 and the battery module 100. High-temperature exhaust gases and heat flowing along the exhaust space VS can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 through an exhaust device (not shown) provided in the battery pack frame 1100 or battery pack cover 1200.

[0110] Figure 17 and 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing exhaust sections 220V' and 220V" according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0111] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18As described above, the exhaust portions 220V' and 220V" generally indicate a mechanism for discharging high-temperature exhaust gases and heat generated inside the battery module to the outside of the battery module. According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust portion 220V' may be a portion with a thinner thickness than the adjacent area to discharge high-temperature exhaust gases and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly 220' of the module frame 200 may be a single plate-like portion, and the exhaust portion 220V' may be a portion of the top cover assembly 220' with a thinner thickness than the surrounding area. When high-temperature exhaust gases and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the relatively thin exhaust portion 220V' may rupture, thereby discharging the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat.

[0112] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust portion 220V” may be a portion with a groove 220G formed along its periphery to discharge high-temperature exhaust gases and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly 220” of the module frame 200 may be a single plate shape, and the exhaust portion 220V” may be the inner portion of the groove 220G formed in the top cover assembly 220”. When high-temperature exhaust gases and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the groove 220G may rupture first and the exhaust portion 220V” may open, thereby discharging the high-temperature exhaust gases and heat.

[0113] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, an apparatus including a battery pack 1000 is provided.

[0114] One or more battery modules according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be installed together with various control and protection systems such as a battery management system (BMS), a battery disconnect unit (BDU), and a cooling system to form a battery pack 1000.

[0115] The battery module 100 or battery pack 1000 can be applied to various devices, including vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles. However, it is not limited to these; the battery module or battery pack can be applied to various devices that use secondary batteries.

[0116] In the above embodiments, expressions indicating directions such as "front," "back," "left," "right," "up," and "down" have been used. These expressions are only for ease of description and may vary, for example, depending on the position of the target object or the observer.

[0117] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments, but also includes various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the concepts defined in the appended claims.

[0118] Description of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0119] 100: Battery Module

[0120] 110: Battery Cells

[0121] 120: Battery cell stack

[0122] 220: Top cover assembly

[0123] 221: Top plate

[0124] 222: Top Cover

[0125] 220V: Exhaust section

[0126] 600: Prominent Selling

[0127] 1000: Battery pack

[0128] 1300: Refractory sheet

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: Battery module; A battery pack frame, in which the battery modules are housed, and one side of the battery pack frame is open; A battery pack cover that covers the open side of the battery pack frame; as well as A fire-resistant sheet is attached to one end of the battery pack cover. The battery module includes: A battery cell stack, in which multiple battery cells are stacked; An exhaust section, formed on one surface of the battery module, is provided for the discharge of exhaust gases; and A protruding pin protrudes toward the battery pack cover on one surface of the battery module.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The protruding pin extends along the direction of the battery cell stack.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The protruding pin extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the battery cell stack.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The protruding pin is disposed between the exhaust sections.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The protruding pin abuts against the refractory sheet.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery module includes: a module frame in which the battery cell stack is housed and one surface of the module frame is open; and a top cover assembly that covers the open surface of the module frame. The protruding pin is disposed on the top cover assembly.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, The top cover assembly includes: A top plate, the top plate being located on one side of the battery cell; and A top cover that covers one surface of the top plate.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, in, The protruding pin is formed on the top plate and protrudes to one side through the top cover.

9. The battery pack according to claim 7, in, The exhaust section includes at least one exhaust port formed in the top plate to discharge gas inside the module frame.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The venting section includes a rupture section having the following structure: the structure is formed on the top cover, positioned to correspond to the vent hole, and ruptures under a specified pressure or higher.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, An opening is formed around the periphery of the fracture, except in the area of ​​the connecting portion, and The rupture is formed to be connected to the top cover via the connecting portion.

12. An apparatus comprising a battery pack according to claim 1.

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