Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; the battery pack shell is configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells; and a cover member provided in a space between the plurality of battery cells and the pack case, extending in a horizontal direction, and configured to prevent movement of exhaust gas generated from the battery cells.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0066701, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on May 22, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Secondary batteries 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 attracting 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 do not produce byproducts from energy use.

[0004] 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. Furthermore, 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.

[0005] Meanwhile, because battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may deteriorate if they are used at temperatures above the appropriate level, and accidental ignition or explosion may occur if heat cannot be controlled to the appropriate temperature. Therefore, if a thermal event such as thermal runaway occurs inside a battery pack comprising multiple battery modules, high-temperature gases or flames emanating from the included battery cells may spread to adjacent battery modules, causing a chain reaction that could lead to an explosion within the battery modules, posing a significant safety risk.

[0006] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a structure that can quickly exhaust the high-temperature gas or flame generated inside the battery module to the outside when thermal runaway occurs, thereby alleviating the heat accumulation inside the battery module.

[0007] In addition, a structure needs to be developed to prevent gases or flames emitted in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module from flowing into other adjacent battery modules. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure aims to address the problems of the related technologies, and therefore aims to provide a battery pack that improves safety and reliability by minimizing the thermal energy transferred to adjacent battery modules when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, thereby preventing or suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules.

[0010] In addition, this disclosure also provides a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0011] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description of the present invention that other problems not mentioned above will be addressed.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a battery pack housing configured to store the plurality of battery cells; and a cover member disposed in a space between the plurality of battery cells and the battery pack housing to extend horizontally and configured to prevent movement of exhaust gas generated from the battery cells.

[0014] The battery pack may further include multiple module housings configured to store the multiple battery cells by grouping them, and vent holes are formed on at least one side of the multiple module housings to allow exhaust to be released to the outside.

[0015] Some of the multiple module housings may be configured such that the front surfaces of the module terminals are facing each other, and the vent holes may be formed on the rear side of the module housings.

[0016] The cover member can be configured to surround the upper part of the rear side of the module housing.

[0017] The battery pack housing may include a crossbeam disposed between the plurality of battery cells, and the cover member may be configured to cover the top of the crossbeam.

[0018] The crossbeam may be configured to have a height less than that of the battery cell, and the cover member may be configured such that at least a portion of the cover member protrudes toward the crossbeam.

[0019] The cover member can be configured to be in close contact with the crossbeam.

[0020] The cover member can be configured to cover the top of both the crossbeam and the battery cell.

[0021] The cover member can be configured such that the crossbeam is inserted therein.

[0022] The cover member can be configured as a single sheet covering the plurality of battery cells.

[0023] The battery pack housing may include: a bottom frame configured such that the battery cells are mounted on the bottom frame; and a side frame configured to extend upward from an edge of the bottom frame, and the cover member may be configured to be spaced apart from the side frame by a predetermined distance.

[0024] The battery pack housing may include an exhaust device configured to communicate with the space between the cover member and the side frame.

[0025] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery pack according to this disclosure is provided.

[0026] Beneficial effects

[0027] According to one aspect of this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, the thermal energy transferred to adjacent battery modules can be minimized. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0028] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since high-temperature gases or flames can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack, the heat buildup inside the battery pack can be dissipated.

[0029] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when a battery module experiences thermal runaway, it can prevent high-temperature gases or flames emitted to the outside of the battery module from flowing back into another battery module.

[0030] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, events such as fires or explosions caused by thermal runaway of the battery pack or equipment equipped with the battery pack can be prevented or delayed.

[0031] In addition, this disclosure may have various other effects, which will be described in the various embodiments, or descriptions of effects that can be readily 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 pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

[0035] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal section of a battery pack 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.

[0037] Figure 5 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

[0039] Figure 7 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a bottom perspective view of a cover member included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the exhaust direction of the exhaust gas during thermal runaway of the battery module.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a top view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the exhaust direction of the exhaust gas during thermal runaway of the battery module.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another 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] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail 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 meaning, but rather is interpreted based on the principle of allowing the inventors to appropriately define terms for best interpretation, and based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of this disclosure.

[0049] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes 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] At the same time, 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 the convenience of interpretation with reference to the accompanying drawings and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the position of the observer.

[0052] For example, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure can represent the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can represent the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction can represent the up-down direction (vertical direction) that is perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0053] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 4 This is a longitudinal section of a battery pack 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.

[0054] refer to Figures 1 to 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack 20 includes a battery cell 100, a battery pack housing 200, and a cover member 300.

[0055] First, refer to Figure 2The system may include multiple battery cells 100. Furthermore, the multiple battery cells 100 may include electrode assemblies, a cell housing storing the electrode assemblies, and electrode leads connected to the electrode assemblies and extending outward from the cell housing to serve as electrode terminals. In this configuration, the multiple battery cells 100 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0056] The battery cell 100 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery casing of such a pouch-type secondary battery can be configured as a pouch, wherein a metal layer made of aluminum is inserted between polymer layers.

[0057] This disclosure is not limited to a particular type or shape of battery cell 100, and various battery cells 100 known at the time of filing of this disclosure can be used to configure the battery pack 20 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, although a high-energy-density and easily stackable pouch-type secondary battery is depicted as shown, it is apparent that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied to the battery cell 100.

[0058] Multiple battery cells 100 can stand upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and be arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction).

[0059] The battery pack housing 200 can be configured to store a plurality of battery cells 100. The battery pack housing 200 can have a plurality of storage spaces S, which are configured to store a plurality of battery cells by dividing them into multiple battery cells. The storage spaces S are empty spaces and can be configured to store a predetermined number of divided battery cells 100 therein. Specifically, the storage spaces S can be divided by a crossbeam 230 as described below and configured to store the battery cells 100 therein.

[0060] The battery pack housing 200 may be made of a material capable of maintaining mechanical strength, such as metal (e.g., steel or SUS) or plastic, or may include such a material to securely protect the battery cells 100 stored therein.

[0061] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cover member 300 can be disposed in the space between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the battery pack housing 200. For example, the cover member 300 can be disposed on top of the battery cells 100. In particular, the cover member 300 can be configured to fill the space between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the battery pack housing 200. The cover member 300 can be configured to extend in a horizontal direction.

[0062] The cover member 300 can be configured to prevent the movement of exhaust gas generated from the battery cells 100. The cover member 300 can be disposed in the upper part of the space between the battery cells 100. Therefore, it is possible to prevent exhaust gas generated from the battery cells 100 from moving through the space between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the battery pack housing 200.

[0063] The cover member 300 may be formed of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as mica. Alternatively, the cover member 300 may be formed of a compressible material such as silicone or polyurethane.

[0064] When a thermal event occurs in a battery cell 100, exhaust or flames can travel through the space between the battery cell 100 and the battery pack housing 200 to another battery cell 100, causing thermal runaway propagation. However, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell 100, exhaust or other fumes can be prevented from moving towards other battery cells 100, thereby minimizing the thermal energy transferred to adjacent battery cells 100. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells 100 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 20.

[0065] Additionally, the cover member 300 can be configured to direct exhaust gas or flame to the external space of the battery cell 100. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to separate the storage space S of the battery cell 100 from other spaces inside the battery pack housing 200. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, exhaust gas or flame generated from the battery cell 100 can flow only outside the battery cell 100.

[0066] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the battery cell 100 and the space for venting or flame flow are separated by the cover member 300, direct thermal damage to the battery cell 100 can be minimized even in the event of a thermal event. Furthermore, venting streams released into the external space of the cover member 300 can be prevented from flowing back into the other battery cell 100. Therefore, heat propagation to other battery cells 100 can be minimized, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 20.

[0067] Specifically, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the cover member 300 can prevent the movement of sparks or electrode particles, thereby preventing the accumulation of electrode particles or dust in the other battery cell 100. Therefore, the temperature of the battery cell 100 can be prevented from continuously rising due to the heat island effect.

[0068] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, substances such as sparks or electrode particles that can be ignition factors can be prevented from contacting oxygen outside the battery pack housing 200, thereby preventing fires from occurring inside the battery pack housing 200.

[0069] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery pack housing 200 may include a bottom frame 210 and a side frame 220.

[0070] The bottom frame 210 can form the lower side of the battery pack housing 200 and can be configured in the shape of a square plate. Furthermore, the bottom frame 210 can be configured to allow multiple battery cells 100 to be mounted on its upper surface. Additionally, the bottom frame 210 can have a flat upper surface, allowing multiple battery modules 10 to be stably mounted on it.

[0071] Side frames 220 may extend upward from corresponding edges of the bottom frame 210. Side frames 220 may have multiple unit walls to surround multiple battery cells 100 or battery modules 10. More specifically, side frames 220 may include a right wall at the end of the bottom frame 210 in the -X-axis direction, a rear wall at the end in the +Y-axis direction, a left wall at the end in the +X-axis direction, and a front wall at the end in the -Y-axis direction, thereby forming the side of the battery pack housing 200.

[0072] Furthermore, the battery pack housing 200 may also include a crossbeam 230. The crossbeam 230 may be disposed between multiple battery cells 100. Multiple crossbeams 230 may be provided. The crossbeam 230 may be configured to divide the storage space S into multiple spaces. That is, the crossbeam 230 may be configured to divide the battery cells 100 disposed in multiple storage spaces S arranged in rows and columns. The crossbeam 230 may be configured to connect the side frames 220 facing each other among the multiple side frames 220. As a result, as Figure 2 As shown, the storage space S can be divided into four rows and two columns by using the crossbeam 230.

[0073] The battery pack housing 200 may also include a battery pack cover 240 attached to the top of the side frame 220. The battery pack cover 240 may be configured to form the upper surface of the battery pack housing 200. The battery pack cover 240 may be configured to cover the top of the battery cell 100.

[0074] Figure 5 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6Multiple battery cells 100 can be modularized into one or more battery modules 10. That is, the battery pack 20 according to this disclosure may include multiple battery modules 10, and the multiple battery cells 100 included in the battery pack 20 may be divided and included in multiple battery modules 10. In this case, the multiple battery cells 100 included in the battery module 10 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0076] Multiple battery modules 10 may be respectively disposed in each storage space S of the battery pack housing 200. The multiple battery modules 10 may be divided and separated by a crossbeam 230. Specifically, the battery pack 20 according to this disclosure may include a module housing 11. The module housing 11 may have empty spaces formed therein and may be configured to store at least some of the multiple battery cells 100 in its internal space. Specifically, the module housing 11 may be configured to store the battery cells 100 disposed in each storage space S. That is, the module housing 11 may be included in each storage space S to group the multiple battery cells 100 into multiple battery modules 10, and may physically define the boundaries of the internal space of each battery module 10.

[0077] The battery module 10 may include a busbar assembly electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 100 stored therein. Furthermore, the battery module 10 may include module terminals 12 electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells 100. Module terminals 12 may include positive and negative terminals. Module terminals 12 may be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device, such as a BMS located in the battery pack housing 200. Module terminals 12 may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is exposed to the outside of the module housing 11.

[0078] The module terminal 12 can be located on the side of the battery cell 100 where the electrode leads extend outward. For example, the module terminal 12 can be located on the front side of the module housing 11.

[0079] The battery module 10 may include a vent H. The vent H may be configured to allow gas generated from the battery cells 100 stored inside the module housing 11 to be discharged to the outside of the module housing 11. That is, the vent H may be located in the module housing 11 and configured to allow directional ventilation in a specific direction.

[0080] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 Multiple battery modules 10 can be disposed inside the battery pack housing 200 such that their module terminals 12 face each other. For example, some of the multiple module housings 11 can be configured such that their front surfaces face each other.

[0081] In this case, the vent H can be formed on the side opposite to the side where the module terminal 12 is located. For example, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, module terminals 12 can be located on the front side of module housing 11 (in Figure 5 and Figure 6 (in the -Y axis direction), and the vent H can be formed on the rear side of the module housing 11 (in Figure 5 and Figure 6 (in the +Y axis direction).

[0082] In this configuration, the cover member 300 can be configured to guide exhaust gases or the like released in the event of thermal runaway in the battery module 10 to the rear side of the battery module 10. According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, fluids such as exhaust gases discharged from the vent H can be minimized from flowing towards the module terminals 12.

[0083] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The cover component 300 is described in more detail.

[0084] Figure 7 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 8 This is a bottom perspective view of a cover member included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] refer to Figure 7 The cover member 300 can be configured to cover the top of the crossbeam 230. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the upper part of the space between adjacent battery cells 100 or battery modules 10.

[0086] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since adjacent storage spaces S can be reliably separated by the cover member 300, even if a thermal event occurs in any battery module 10, exhaust gas or flames can be prevented from moving to adjacent battery modules 10 above the crossbeam 230. Therefore, heat propagation between battery modules 10 can be prevented.

[0087] As a more specific example, such as Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the height of the crossbeam 230 may be less than the height of the battery cell 100. In this case, the cover member 300 may be configured such that at least a portion of it protrudes toward the crossbeam 230. That is, the cover member 300 may be configured such that at least a portion of it is inserted between the battery modules 10.

[0088] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the cover member 300 is disposed above the space between the battery modules 10, the cover member 300 can more reliably separate the battery modules 10 from each other, thereby suppressing heat transmission of the crossbeam 230 made of a metal material such as aluminum.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the gap between the crossbeam 230 and the cover member 300 is located at the lower part, exhaust gas or flame leakage through the gap between the crossbeam 230 and the cover member 300 can be prevented. Therefore, heat transfer between the battery modules 10 can be prevented more effectively.

[0090] Simultaneously, when the battery pack cover 240 and the crossbeam 230 are bolted together, the cover member 300 can also be bolted to the crossbeam 230. According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the assemblability of the battery pack 20 can be improved.

[0091] Furthermore, the cover member 300 can be configured to contact the crossbeam 230. That is, the protrusion of the cover member 300 can be configured to contact the upper end of the crossbeam 230. Specifically, the cover member 300 can be made of a compressible material such as silicone resin to ensure close contact with the crossbeam 230. Therefore, the cover member 300 can be configured to maintain close contact with the crossbeam 230, the battery module 10, and the battery pack housing 200.

[0092] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the cover member 300 can more reliably separate and isolate the space between the battery modules 10. Therefore, even if exhaust gas or flames are discharged from the battery modules 10, heat propagation to adjacent battery modules 10 can be suppressed.

[0093] Furthermore, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the top of both the crossbeam 230 and the battery cell 100. The cover member 300 can be configured to cover not only the top of the crossbeam 230, but also the top of the battery module 10.

[0094] The cover member 300 can be configured to cover the top of at least some of the plurality of battery modules 10. For example, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the top of a particular battery module 10. Alternatively, as Figure 4 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover a single sheet of multiple battery cells 100. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the entire top area of ​​multiple battery modules 10 arranged in a horizontal direction. In this case, the upper surface of the cover member 300 can be configured to be flat.

[0095] Furthermore, the cover member 300 can be configured to be in close contact with the upper surface of the module housing 11. The cover member 300 can be configured to completely fill the space formed by the battery module 10, the crossbeam 230, and the battery pack housing 200.

[0096] More specifically, see reference Figure 7 and Figure 8The cover member 300 may include a body 310 and a protrusion 320. The body 310 may be placed on the battery module 10. The body 310 may be configured in the form of a square plate. Furthermore, the protrusion 320 may protrude downward from the body 310 and may be disposed on the crossbeam 230. The protrusion 320 may be configured to correspond to the shape and position of the crossbeam 230. Therefore, the protrusion 320 may be configured to extend in the front-back direction or the left-right direction.

[0097] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the cover member 300 is configured as a single sheet, the exhaust gas generated from the battery cell 100 can be completely prevented from moving within the space where the battery module 10 is disposed. In particular, since the cover member 300 completely covers the battery module 10, the area of ​​the battery module 10 affected by flame and / or dust can be minimized.

[0098] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the sheet cover member 300 is configured to fill the space between the battery module 10 and the battery pack housing 200, the possibility of the cover member 300 deforming structurally due to heat can be minimized.

[0099] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the cover member 300 can reliably separate the space where the battery module 10 is stored from the external space inside the battery pack housing 200. Therefore, emissions released to the outside of the cover member 300 can be prevented from affecting the battery module 10.

[0100] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] As another embodiment, the cover member 300 and the crossbeam 230 can be configured to be connected to each other. More specifically, as Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 300 can be configured such that the crossbeam 230 is inserted therein. The upper end of the crossbeam 230 can be configured to insert into the protrusion 320 of the cover member 300. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to surround the end of the crossbeam 230. Therefore, the fixing force between the cover member 300 and the crossbeam 230 can be improved.

[0102] More specifically, see reference Figure 9 The cover member 300 may have a groove G formed by at least a portion that is recessed inward. The crossbeam 230 may be configured to insert into the groove G. Therefore, the upper end of the crossbeam 230 may be in close contact with the groove G without any gaps.

[0103] According to the above embodiments of this disclosure, since the crossbeam 230 is inserted into the cover member 300 and supported from both sides, the fixing force between the crossbeam 230 and the cover member 300 can be further improved. Furthermore, according to the above embodiments of this disclosure, the sealing force between the end of the crossbeam 230 and the cover member 300 can be stably fixed. Therefore, according to the configuration described above, the multiple battery modules 10 can be more reliably divided and separated, thereby further improving the heat propagation prevention performance between the battery modules 10.

[0104] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] As another implementation, an empty space can be formed in the cover member 300. More specifically, the upper surface of the cover member 300 can be configured to be at least partially spaced from the battery pack housing 200. In this case, the cover member 300 can be configured to fill only a portion of the space between the battery cell 100 and the battery pack housing 200. For example, the body 310 of the cover member 300 can be configured such that a portion of the upper surface is recessed inward.

[0106] Therefore, as Figure 10 As shown in part A, another portion of the upper surface of the cover member 300 can be configured to protrude upwards. In particular, the upper protrusion structure of the cover member 300 can be provided above the crossbeam 230. Furthermore, the upper protrusion structure of the cover member 300 can be provided on the edge of the battery module 10, specifically on the outermost edge of the battery module 10 located in the battery pack housing 200.

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, an air layer can be formed in the cover member 300 to improve the insulation of the cover member 300. Furthermore, since an empty space is formed on the cover member 300 located on top of the battery module 10, the main body 310 of the cover member 300 can also expand accordingly when the upper surface of the module housing 11 expands outward due to heat.

[0108] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the upper protrusion structure is provided in the cover member 300, the cover member 300 can minimize its protrusion from the module housing 11 when the upper surface of the module housing 11 expands. Therefore, excessive expansion of the upper surface of the module housing 11 can be suppressed.

[0109] Reference Figures 11 to 13 The direction of exhaust flow is described according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10 within the battery pack 20.

[0110] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the exhaust direction of vents during thermal runaway of the battery module. Furthermore, Figure 13 This is a top view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the exhaust direction of the exhaust gas during thermal runaway of the battery module.

[0111] Simultaneously, the cover member 300 can be configured to be spaced apart from the side frame 220 by a predetermined distance. Specifically, the ends of the cover member 300 can be configured in the front-rear direction (i.e., in...) Figure 13 The cover member 300 is spaced apart from the side frames 220 located on both sides of the battery pack housing 200 in the +X or -X axis direction. The cover member 300 can be configured not to cover the ends of the crossbeam 230 around the side frames 220. Vents, etc., can be configured to be movable between the cover member 300 and the side frames 220.

[0112] The cover member 300 can be configured to guide exhaust vents and the like into the space between the cover member 300 and the side frame 220 and the battery pack 20. Therefore, exhaust vents and the like can move to both sides of the battery pack housing 200 in the front-rear direction.

[0113] Specifically, when thermal runaway occurs in battery module 10, such as Figure 12 As indicated by the arrow, exhaust fumes can be discharged through the exhaust port H located on the rear side of the battery module 10, and can move towards the top of the battery module 10. Subsequently, as... Figure 13 As indicated by the arrow, the exhaust and other components can be moved to the space between the cover member 300 and the crossbeam 230.

[0114] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust path for venting, etc., can be fixed inside the battery pack 20. Furthermore, the exhaust path in the battery pack 20 can be configured as a specific path, rather than being diversified in various directions, thereby preventing accidental damage to components.

[0115] Furthermore, according to the above embodiments of this disclosure, exhaust gas and the like can be guided to move to the top of the battery module 10, thereby preventing exhaust gas and the like from flowing into the exhaust port H of the adjacent battery module 10 during movement.

[0116] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when multiple battery modules 10 are arranged such that their module terminals 12 face each other, exhaust gas or flames can be more effectively suppressed from advancing toward the module terminals 12.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the battery module 10 is positioned as close as possible to the side frame 220, the volume of the battery module 10 can be maximized. As a result, the energy efficiency of the battery module 10 and the battery pack 20 can be maximized.

[0118] Additionally, the battery pack housing 200 may include an exhaust device 250. The exhaust device 250 may be configured to discharge exhaust or flame generated from the battery module 10 to the outside of the battery pack housing 200. The exhaust device 250 may be configured as a hole connecting the inside and outside of the battery pack housing 200. Alternatively, the exhaust device 250 may be configured to be mountable in a hole in the battery pack housing 200 and to operate when emissions are generated inside the battery pack housing 200.

[0119] The venting device 250 can be disposed on the side of the battery pack housing 200, that is, on the side frame 220. Multiple venting devices 250 can be disposed. The venting devices 250 can be disposed on at least some unit walls of the side frame 220. Alternatively, the venting devices 250 can be formed on two or more unit walls respectively, or two or more venting devices 250 can be formed on one unit wall. For example, see reference... Figure 13 Multiple exhaust devices 250 can be respectively installed on the front wall and the rear wall. In addition, the multiple exhaust devices 250 can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the side frame 220.

[0120] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when the battery cell 100 is in an abnormal state, high-temperature gases and the like can be discharged in both directions of the battery pack housing 200, thereby making it easier and faster to discharge the gases and the like to the outside of the battery pack housing 200.

[0121] At the same time, Figure 13 The number of installations or locations of the exhaust device 250 described in the embodiments, etc., are merely examples and may be varied to other values.

[0122] The exhaust device 250 can be configured to communicate with the space between the cover member 300 and the side frame 220. In this case, the cover member 300 can be configured to guide exhaust gas or flame emitted from the battery module 10 to the exhaust device 250. That is, as Figure 13 As indicated by the arrow, exhaust gas discharged through the vent H to the rear side of the battery module 10 can move to the space between the cover member 300 and the side frame 220, and then move to the exhaust device 250.

[0123] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust direction of the battery module 10 and the movement direction within the exhaust path of the battery pack 20 can be configured to be connected to each other. Therefore, when a thermal event occurs in the battery module 10, the cover member 300 can guide the exhaust or flame toward the exhaust device 250, thereby more quickly discharging the exhaust or the like to the outside of the battery pack housing 200. Thus, an increase in internal pressure within the battery pack housing 200 can be prevented.

[0124] Furthermore, during the process of the exhaust or flame moving to the exhaust device 250, the movement of the exhaust or flame towards other battery modules 10 or module terminals 12 can be minimized. Therefore, further chain ignition of other battery modules 10 can be prevented.

[0125] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack with a covered member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] As another embodiment, the end of the cover member 300 can be configured to be bent to surround a portion of the module housing 11. For example, as Figure 14 As shown in part B, the end of the cover member 300 can be configured to surround the upper part of the rear surface of the module housing 11 (in Figure 14 (in the +X axis direction).

[0127] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, exhaust gas and other contaminants discharged from the exhaust port H located on the rear side of the battery module 10 can be prevented from flowing into the gap between the module housing 11 and the cover member 300. Therefore, exhaust gas, flames, dust, and other contaminants can be more effectively suppressed from moving into the space between the upper side of the module housing 11 and the upper side of the battery pack housing 200.

[0128] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] refer to Figure 15 The vehicle V according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 20 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle V according to the present disclosure may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle V includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle V can operate using electricity supplied from the battery packs 20 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0130] 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 are possible without departing from the technical concept of this disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

Claims

1.A battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a battery pack case configured to store the plurality of battery cells; and a cover member disposed in a space between the plurality of battery cells and the battery pack case so as to extend in a horizontal direction, and configured to block movement of exhaust gas generated from the battery cells. 2.The battery pack of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of module cases configured to store the plurality of battery cells by grouping the plurality of battery cells, and exhaust holes formed on at least one side of the plurality of module cases to allow exhaust gas to be discharged to the outside. 3.The battery pack of claim 2, some of the plurality of module cases are disposed such that front surfaces in which module terminals are disposed face each other, and wherein wherein the exhaust holes are formed at rear sides of the module cases. 4.The battery pack of claim 2, the cover member is configured to surround upper portions of the rear sides of the module cases. wherein 5.The battery pack of claim 1, the battery pack case includes a cross beam disposed between the plurality of battery cells, and wherein wherein the cover member is configured to cover a top portion of the cross beam. 6.The battery pack of claim 5, the cross beam is configured to have a height less than a height of the battery cells, and wherein wherein the cover member is configured such that at least a portion of the cover member protrudes toward the cross beam. 7.The battery pack of claim 5, the cover member is configured to be in close contact with the cross beam. wherein 8.The battery pack of claim 5, the cover member is configured to cover top portions of both the cross beam and the battery cells. wherein, 9.The battery pack of claim 5, the cover member is configured such that the cross beam is inserted therein. wherein 10.The battery pack of claim 1, the cover member is configured to cover a single sheet of the plurality of battery cells. wherein, 11.The battery pack of claim 1, the battery pack case includes: wherein a bottom frame configured such that the battery cells are seated on the bottom frame; and a side frame configured to extend upward from edges of the bottom frame, and wherein the cover member is configured to be spaced apart from the side frame by a predetermined distance. 12.The battery pack of claim 11, the battery pack case includes an exhaust device configured to communicate with a space between the cover member and the side frame. wherein 13.A vehicle comprising the battery pack of any one of claims 1 to 12. ​

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