Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; a bus bar frame disposed on at least one side of the cell assembly; a module case including a main body frame configured to cover some side surfaces of the cell assembly, and an end frame coupled to the main body frame and configured to cover the bus bar frame; and a blocking member disposed inside a portion where the main body frame and the end frame are joined and configured to cover a portion of the cell assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery modules, battery packs including such battery modules, and vehicles. More specifically, this disclosure relates to battery modules capable of effectively delaying thermal runaway. Background Technology

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

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

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

[0005] In particular, when a battery module comprises a large number of battery cells, high-temperature gases, flames, or sparks generated during thermal runaway in a particular battery cell are likely to be ejected toward the front or rear of adjacent battery modules. As a result, components located at both ends of the battery module (such as components adjacent to the end plate or busbar frame) may suffer thermal damage, leading to structural collapse.

[0006] Furthermore, since endplates or busbar frames are typically made of heat-sensitive materials such as plastics, the risk of heat propagation or chain fire between modules could be further increased if flames or heat generated from adjacent battery modules propagate toward the endplates of the battery modules. Consequently, thermal runaway could potentially spread to the entire battery pack, which includes multiple battery modules.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can prevent or properly control the emission of high-temperature gases or flames from the battery module when a thermal event occurs in the battery module, thereby delaying thermal runaway between battery cells or battery modules. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure was designed to address the problems in the related technologies, and therefore aims to provide a battery module that has improved safety and reliability by properly controlling the high-temperature gas or flame generated in the battery module under abnormal conditions and effectively preventing heat transfer between battery modules.

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

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a busbar frame disposed on at least one side of the cell assembly; a module housing including a main frame and end frames, the main frame being configured to cover some side surfaces of the cell assembly, the end frames being coupled to the main frame and configured to cover the busbar frame; and a blocking member disposed inside a joint between the main frame and the end frames and configured to cover a portion of the cell assembly.

[0013] The blocking component can be set inside the busbar frame.

[0014] The battery module may also include module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the battery cells, and a blocking member may be disposed on the side where the module terminals are located.

[0015] The end frame may include a main cover and an insulating cover, the main cover being connected to the main frame, the insulating cover being inserted between the main cover and the busbar frame, and the blocking member being configured to be located inside the opened portion when the insulating cover is melted by heat and at least a portion is opened.

[0016] The blocking member can be configured in an L-shape.

[0017] The blocking member may have a first part that is inserted between the busbar frame and the cell assembly.

[0018] The blocking member may have a second portion that bends inward from the first portion to be inserted between the upper surface of the cell assembly and the main frame.

[0019] The blocking member can be configured to partially cover the corner of the cell assembly.

[0020] The blocking component may include an elastic material.

[0021] The blocking member can be configured to be compressed along at least one of the longitudinal and height directions of the cell assembly.

[0022] The blocking member can be configured to be compressed by the busbar frame.

[0023] The main frame may include a lower frame and a top plate. The lower frame has an upper opening and is configured to cover the lower, left, and right surfaces of the cell assembly. The top plate is connected to cover the upper opening of the lower frame, and the blocking member may be configured to be compressed by the top plate.

[0024] The blocking member may have a protrusion configured such that at least a portion of the protrusion protrudes toward the battery cell and is inserted between the battery cells.

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

[0026] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery module according to this disclosure is provided.

[0027] Beneficial effects

[0028] According to one aspect of this disclosure, since the blocking member is configured to cover the empty space between the busbar frame and the upper surface of the main frame on the inner side of the joint between the main frame and the end frame, the inflow of high-temperature gas or flame generated in the adjacent battery module into the empty space can be suppressed.

[0029] In particular, according to this aspect of the disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in an adjacent battery module, the heat propagation to the particular battery module caused by damage to the end frame or busbar frame by exhaust gas or flame toward the particular battery module can be minimized.

[0030] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the disclosure, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules can be effectively prevented or delayed. Therefore, in this case, the safety and reliability of a battery module comprising multiple battery cells can be guaranteed.

[0031] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since the blocking member can be compressed toward the cell assembly through the busbar frame or top plate, the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0032] Therefore, in this case, events such as fires or explosions caused by thermal runaway of a battery pack comprising multiple battery modules or a device equipped with multiple battery modules can be prevented or delayed.

[0033] In particular, in the case of electric vehicles, by suppressing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells and / or battery modules, it can be ensured that occupants have sufficient time to evacuate or continue driving.

[0034] In addition, this disclosure may have various other effects, and these effects will be described in the corresponding embodiments, or descriptions of effects that can be easily deduced by those skilled in the art will be omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0035] 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.

[0036] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a side view of a battery cell included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0040] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view illustrating the interior of a battery module in a comparative example, wherein the blocking member included in the battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not provided.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view illustrating the interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 7 This is a front perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a front perspective view of a blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 9 This is a bottom perspective view of a blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the connection position of the blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a blocking member applied according to another embodiment of this disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II' in the diagram.

[0049] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module as viewed from above, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III' in the diagram.

[0050] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which a blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to a busbar frame.

[0051] Figure 16 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 17 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general and dictionary meanings, but rather interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the basis of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation.

[0054] Therefore, the descriptions presented herein are merely preferred examples for illustrative purposes only and do 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] Furthermore, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that these terms are merely for ease of interpretation with reference to the accompanying drawings and may vary depending on the position of the object or the observer.

[0057] For example, in embodiments of this disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure can indicate the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can indicate the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction can indicate the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0058] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a side view of the battery cells included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally, Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0059] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 includes a cell assembly 100, a busbar frame 200, a module housing 300, and a blocking member 400.

[0060] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The cell assembly 100 may include a plurality of battery cells 110. The plurality of battery cells 110 may be stacked along one direction (e.g., along the left-right direction).

[0061] Specifically, the battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly, a cell housing 111 housing the electrode assembly, and electrode leads 112 connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the cell housing 111 to serve as electrode terminals.

[0062] A pair of electrode leads 112 can be provided, and the pair of electrode leads 112 can extend outward from both ends of the battery cell 110 (e.g., in the longitudinal direction (±Y-axis direction)). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 112 can be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead. The battery cell 110 can be configured such that the two electrode leads 112 are located only at one end in the Y-axis direction (e.g., at one end in the +Y-axis direction) as needed.

[0063] like Figure 3 In the embodiments shown, the battery cell 110 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell casing 111 of the pouch-type secondary battery can be configured as a pouch with a metal layer made of aluminum inserted between polymer layers.

[0064] In this case, refer to Figure 3 The cell housing 111 may include a housing portion 111a and a sealing portion 111b.

[0065] The receiving portion 111a can be configured to receive an electrode assembly. The receiving portion 111a may have an internal space in which the surface facing the electrode assembly 100 is recessed, and the electrode assembly 100 can be received within this internal space. Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the storage portion 111a can be configured in a double-cup shape formed on both sides of the cell housing 111.

[0066] The edge of the storage portion 111a can be heat-welded to form a sealing portion 111b. That is, the sealing portion 111b can be provided by sealing the edge of the storage portion 111a. Figure 3 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the sealing portion 111b may be disposed on three of the four edges of the battery cell 110.

[0067] In this configuration, the sealing portion 111b can be configured to protrude from the receiving portion 111a in one direction. The sealing portion 111b can be configured to protrude further in one direction than the receiving portion 111a. At the end of the battery cell 110, the receiving portions 111a can be arranged in close contact with each other, and a predetermined space can be formed between the sealing portions 111b. Additionally, the electrode leads 112 can be configured to extend toward the front and / or rear of the sealing portions 111b of the battery cell 110. In this configuration, the sealing portion 111b for the outward extension of the electrode leads 112 can be defined as a cell platform.

[0068] The battery cell 110 can be configured to stand upright with its edge facing down, without the sealing portion 111b. For example... Figure 2As shown, multiple battery cells 110 can stand upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) while being arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). In this case, each battery cell 110 may have a sealing portion 111b facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upward direction (+Z-axis direction), and a storage portion 111a facing the horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0069] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of battery cell 110, and various battery cells 110 known at the time of filing of this disclosure can be applied to the cell assembly configured in this disclosure. In this embodiment, although a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking will be described as shown in the accompanying drawings, it is apparent that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied to the battery cell 110.

[0070] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 4 The busbar frame 200 can be disposed on at least one side of the cell assembly. The busbar frame 200 can be located on the side where the electrode leads 112 of the battery cell 110 are disposed. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, electrode leads 112 can be located at the front and rear sides of battery cell 110, and busbar frame 200 can be connected to the front and rear sides of cell assembly 100.

[0071] The busbar frame 200 can be formed of, for example, a plastic material with electrical insulating properties.

[0072] The busbar frame 200 may have a lead slit through which at least some of the electrode leads 112 of the plurality of battery cells 110 pass. In this case, the plurality of electrode leads 112 passing through the lead slit may be bent and stacked on top of each other. This stacking structure allows the plurality of battery cells 110 to be electrically connected to each other through the electrode leads 112 that are in contact with each other.

[0073] The module housing 300 can be configured to house the battery cell assembly 100 and the busbar frame 200. Specifically, a receiving space can be formed in the module housing 300, and the receiving space can be configured to house the battery cell assembly 100. The module housing 300 can be made of a rigid and heat-resistant metallic material to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cell assembly 100.

[0074] The module housing 300 may include a main frame 310 and end frames 320. The main frame 310 may be configured to cover some side surfaces of the cell assembly 100. For example, the main frame 310 may be configured as a single frame. In this case, the main frame 310 may be configured as a square tube having an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, a right surface, and front and rear openings. The main frame 310 may cover the remaining sides of the cell assembly 100 except for the front and rear sides.

[0075] Alternatively, such as in this disclosure Figure 2 As shown, the main frame 310 may include a lower frame 311 and a top plate 312. The lower frame 311 may be configured to allow the cell assembly 100 to be mounted thereon.

[0076] Specifically, as shown in the accompanying drawings of this disclosure, the lower frame 311 can be configured as a U-shaped frame. When the lower frame 311 is configured as a U-shaped frame, it can cover the left and right sides and the bottom of the battery cell assembly 100. The lower frame 311 may include a left plate and a right plate covering the left and right sides of the battery cell assembly 100, and a bottom plate covering the bottom of the battery cell assembly 100. Alternatively, the left plate, right plate, and bottom plate can be configured as a single unit. In this case, the lower frame 311 may have an upper opening, a front opening, and a rear opening.

[0077] When the lower frame 311 is configured as a U-shaped frame, the top plate 312 can be configured to connect to the upper opening of the lower frame 311. The top plate 312 can be connected to the lower frame 311 by welding. In this case, the top plate 312 and the lower frame 311 can be connected to form a square tube shape having a front opening and a rear opening.

[0078] The form of the module housing 300 is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the module housing 300 can be formed in various other forms.

[0079] Although not shown in the figure, the module housing 300 may have vent holes that allow for directional exhaust in one direction. For example, multiple vent holes may be formed in the top plate 312, and upward directional exhaust of the battery module 10 may be achieved through the vent holes.

[0080] The end frame 320 can be configured to cover the busbar frame 200. The end frame 320 can be disposed on the front and rear openings of the main frame 310. The end frame 320 can be connected to the main frame 310 by welding or the like.

[0081] Furthermore, heat generated by high-temperature exhaust gases or flames from external sources may move towards the end frame 320 and be transferred to the internal cell assembly 100. Specifically, such as... Figure 1 andFigure 4 As shown in section A, there is a high risk of introducing thermal energy, such as exhaust gases or flames, through the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, when the end frame 320 is configured as an insulating cover 322 made of a plastic injection-molded product, the exposed side of the insulating cover 322 is susceptible to heat, and therefore may be affected by... Figure 1 Part A in the module accelerates heat propagation. This could damage the battery cell assembly 100 inside the module housing 300.

[0082] Therefore, in order to delay the connection between the end frame 320 and the main frame 310 ( Figure 4 Regarding heat propagation in part A), the battery module 10 according to embodiments of this disclosure may include a blocking member 400. The blocking member 400 may be disposed inside the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320. That is, the blocking member 400 may be configured to block heat propagation through the joint between the end frame 320 and the main frame 310. Figure 4 The portion A) introduces heat such as exhaust gases or flames. The blocking member 400 may be provided on one side of the end frame 320. For example... Figure 2 In the embodiments shown, the blocking member 400 may be provided only on the front side.

[0083] Additionally, the barrier member 400 can be configured to protect the cell assembly 100 from heat such as exhaust gases or flames. The barrier member 400 can be configured to cover a portion of the cell assembly 100. For example, as... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the blocking member 400 may be disposed on top of the cell assembly 100 and configured to cover a portion of the upper and front sides of the cell assembly 100.

[0084] The barrier member 400 can be made of a material with high heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the barrier member 400 may include materials such as mica or fire-resistant plastics. Therefore, losses caused by high heat, such as from hot gases or flames, can be suppressed. Alternatively, the barrier member 400 can be made of an electrically insulating material such as plastic.

[0085] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the blocking member 400 is provided at the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320 ( Figure 4 The inner side of part A) can suppress the transfer of heat such as high-temperature gas or flame generated in the adjacent battery module 10 to the cell assembly 100.

[0086] In other words, according to this aspect of the disclosure, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules 10 can be effectively prevented or delayed. Therefore, in this case, the safety and reliability of the battery module 10, which includes multiple battery cells 110, can be ensured.

[0087] Reference Figure 2 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 may include a plurality of busbars 500. The plurality of busbars 500 may be configured to connect the battery cells 110 in series and / or in parallel.

[0088] Additionally, through this electrical connection, the busbar 500 can be configured to send status information about the battery cell 110 to external components. For example, the busbar 500 can be configured to send voltage information of the battery cell 110 to an external control device such as a battery management system (BMS).

[0089] The busbar 500 can be attached to the outer surface of the busbar frame 200. Additionally, the busbar 500 can be positioned further inward than the electrode leads 112. Specifically, the electrode leads 112 of the battery cell 110 can pass through the lead slits of the busbar frame 200 to extend outside the busbar frame 200, and the extended portion can be attached to the surface of the busbar 500 by welding or the like.

[0090] The busbar 500 can be made of a metallic material such as copper, aluminum, or nickel. Furthermore, the busbar 500 can be configured as a strip extending in the height direction.

[0091] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view illustrating the interior of a battery module in a comparative example, where the blocking member included in the battery module according to an embodiment of this disclosure is not provided. Additionally, Figure 6 This is a front perspective view illustrating the interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Components of the battery module 10, such as the busbar frame 200 and the cell assembly 100, can be located inside the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320. Specifically, refer to... Figure 5 In part B, the upper surfaces of the main frame 310 and the busbar frame 200 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. Therefore, without the blocking member 400 according to this disclosure, exhaust gas or flame introduced from the outside through the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320 may pass through the gap between the upper surfaces of the main frame 310 and the busbar frame 200. Figure 5 Part B) moves toward the cell assembly 100.

[0093] However, as Figure 6In the embodiments shown, the blocking member 400 according to the present disclosure can be configured to cover the gap between the upper surfaces of the main frame 310 and the busbar frame 200. Figure 5 Part B). Specifically, the blocking member 400 can be disposed on the inner (rear) side of the busbar frame 200. That is, the blocking member 400 can be disposed in the empty space between the cell assembly 100 and the busbar frame 200.

[0094] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the blocking member 400 is configured to cover the empty space between the upper surface of the main frame 310 and the busbar frame 200 on the inner side of the joint between the main frame 310 and the end frame 320 ( Figure 5 Part B of the battery module 100 can suppress the inflow of high-temperature gas or flame generated from the outside into the empty space. As a result, high-temperature exhaust gas or flame flowing in from the outside can be prevented from moving directly toward the cell assembly 100, thereby minimizing heat transfer between the battery modules 10.

[0095] Additionally, refer to Figure 6 The battery module 10 according to embodiments of this disclosure may further include a module terminal 600. The module terminal 600 may be configured to be electrically connected to the electrode leads 112 of the battery cell 110. The module terminal 600 may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Additionally, the module terminal 600 may be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a BMS.

[0096] Module terminals 600 can be disposed on the side of the battery cell 110 from which the electrode leads 112 extend outward. For example, module terminals 600 can be disposed on the front side of the module housing 300. Module terminals 600 can be disposed on the outer side of the busbar frame 200. Two module terminals 600 can be disposed on the left and right front sides of the front end frame 320. For example, module terminals 600 can be the two outermost busbars 500 among a plurality of busbars 500.

[0097] Additionally, the module terminal 600 can be configured such that at least a portion protrudes beyond the end frame 320. In this case, the end frame 320 may have a hole configured to allow the module terminal 600 to pass through it.

[0098] In this configuration, the blocking member 400 can be positioned on the inner (rear) side of the busbar frame 200 where the module terminal 600 is located. The blocking member 400 can be positioned above the module terminal 600.

[0099] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, damage to the electrode leads 112 connected to the module terminal 600 can be minimized. Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the blocking member 400 is disposed on one side of the module terminal 600, thereby suppressing the movement of exhaust gases or flames generated inside the battery module 10 across the busbar frame 200 toward the module terminal 600.

[0100] Figure 7 This is a front perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] In addition, refer to Figure 7 The end frame 320 may have a main cover 321 and an insulating cover 322. The main cover 321 may be attached to the main frame 310.

[0102] An insulating cover 322 may be disposed inside the main cover 321. The insulating cover 322 may be inserted between the main cover 321 and the busbar frame 200. The insulating cover 322 may be assembled together with the main cover 321 to the main body frame 310 and the busbar frame 200. Additionally, the insulating cover 322 may have a hole configured to allow module terminals 600 to pass through and reach the outside.

[0103] The insulating cover 322 may be formed of a material with electrical insulating properties and configured to electrically insulate the main cover 321 from the busbar 500 or the electrode lead 112. For example, the main cover 321 may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum, and the insulating cover 322 may be formed of plastic. In particular, the insulating cover 322 may be configured to cover the exposed portions of the module terminals 600.

[0104] More specifically, the insulating cover 322 can be configured to cover the module terminals 600 so that the module terminals 600 are exposed to the outside at the front of the battery module 10 equipped with the module terminals 600. In this case, to ensure that the upper part of the module terminals 600 is secured to the insulating cover 322, the upper part of the main frame 310 can be configured to have an inwardly cut portion. As a result, only the upper, left, and right portions of the main cover 321 can be connected to the main frame 310, and the insulating cover 322 can be connected to the remaining portion of the main frame 310 to which the main cover 321 is not connected.

[0105] In this case, such as Figure 7 As shown in section C, because the insulating cover 322 is formed from a heat-sensitive injection-molded plastic product, a portion of the insulating cover 322 may melt due to high-temperature exhaust gases or flames, both internally and externally. Therefore, as... Figure 5 As shown, without the blocking member 400, exhaust gas or flame may flow into the gap between the upper surfaces of the main frame 310 and the busbar frame 200 and move toward the cell assembly 100.

[0106] However, in embodiments of this disclosure, when the insulating cover 322 is melted by heat such as gas or flame and at least partially opened, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be located inside the opened portion (see [link to original document]). Figure 7 (Part C in the text). That is, the blocking member 400 can be provided in the flow path of the exhaust gas or flame flowing into the cell assembly 100 from the outside.

[0107] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, when an external thermal event occurs, damage to the end frame 320 or busbar frame 200 caused by heat from exhaust gases or flames, and heat propagation to the inside of the battery module 10, can be minimized. That is, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, as... Figure 7 As indicated by the arrow, the blocking member 400 can block the flow path of exhaust gas or flame, thereby minimizing the movement of exhaust gas or flame introduced from the outside through the open portion toward the cell assembly 100.

[0108] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 Describe the detailed structure of the blocking member 400.

[0109] Figure 8 This is a front perspective view of the blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 This is a bottom perspective view of a blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The blocking member 400 can be configured in an L-shape. That is, the blocking member 400 can be configured in a single-bend shape. In other words, the blocking member 400 can have a portion extending in the horizontal direction (front-back direction) and a portion extending in the vertical direction (height direction).

[0111] More specifically, the blocking member 400 may have a first portion 410 and a second portion 420. The first portion 410 may refer to a portion extending in the vertical direction. The first portion 410 may be inserted between the busbar frame 200 and the cell assembly 100. The first portion 410 may be configured to cover the front side of the cell assembly 100. Therefore, it can directly block exhaust gas or flame flowing into the front side of the cell assembly 100 across the busbar frame 200.

[0112] Additionally, the second portion 420 can be configured by bending inward from the first portion 410. The second portion 420 may refer to a portion extending in the horizontal direction. The first portion 410 and the second portion 420 can be configured to be substantially perpendicular to each other. The second portion 420 can be inserted between the upper surface of the cell assembly 100 and the main frame 310. The second portion 420 can be configured to cover the top of the cell assembly 100. Therefore, exhaust gases or flames introduced through the upper surface of the cell assembly 100 across the busbar frame 200 can be blocked.

[0113] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the connection position of the blocking member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Reference Figure 10 The following describes the joining structure between the blocking member 400 and the cell assembly 100. The blocking member 400 can be configured to partially cover a corner of the cell assembly 100. The blocking member 400 can be disposed on the top of the cell assembly 100. That is, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be disposed on the cell assembly 100. For example, as... Figure 10 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the blocking member 400 can be configured in an L-shape to cover a portion of the upper edge on the front side of the cell assembly 100. Therefore, the blocking member 400 can be configured to cover portions of the front and upper sides of the cell assembly 100.

[0115] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the blocking member 400 can prevent exhaust gas or flame from flowing into the space between the busbar frame 200 and the main frame 310 and moving towards the front of the cell assembly 100. Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the blocking member 400 is positioned on top of the cell assembly 100, it can prevent the blocking member 400 from separating from the cell assembly 100. Therefore, even if vibration or impact acts on the battery module 10, the blocking member 400 can be configured to stably enclose the cell assembly 100.

[0116] Additionally, the blocking member 400 may comprise a resilient material. For example, the blocking member 400 may be made of a material such as silicone or polyurethane. If the blocking member 400 is made of a resilient material, the sealing effect of the blocking member 400 at the corners of the cell assembly 100 can be further improved. In particular, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, even in complex structures or shapes within the busbar frame 200, the blocking member 400 can maintain a uniform state of compression. In this case, the blocking member 400 can more reliably pressurize the cell assembly 100, thereby precisely preventing exhaust gases or flames from moving toward the battery cell 110.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, while ensuring structural rigidity in the portion where the blocking member 400 contacts the busbar frame 200 or the main frame 310, damage to the battery cell 110 can be minimized in the portion where the blocking member 400 directly contacts the battery cell 110.

[0118] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] As described above, since the blocking member 400 comprises a resilient material, the blocking member 400 can be configured to compress toward the cell assembly 100. More specifically, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be compressed along at least one of the longitudinal direction and the height direction of the cell assembly 100. For example, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be compressed by at least one of the busbar frame 200 and the main body frame 310 disposed on the outer side.

[0120] As a more specific example, refer to Figure 11 The first portion 410 can be configured to be compressed by the busbar frame 200. That is, as the busbar frame 200 is connected to the cell assembly 100, the first portion 410 can be configured to be compressed by the busbar frame 200 toward the front side of the cell assembly 100.

[0121] Additionally, refer to Figure 12 With the lower frame 311 configured as a U-shaped frame, the second part 420 can be configured to be compressed downward by the top plate 312 as the top plate 312 is connected to the lower frame 311.

[0122] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be pressed more tightly against the upper front edge of the cell assembly 100 by at least one of the busbar frame 200 and the main body frame 310. In this case, the blocking member 400 can more reliably pressurize the cell assembly 100 to more precisely prevent exhaust gases or flames from flowing into the gap between the blocking member 400 and the cell assembly 100.

[0123] Furthermore, since the blocking member 400 is compressed when it is connected to at least one of the busbar frame 200 and the top plate 312, the fixing force between the blocking member 400 and the cell assembly 100 can be increased. Additionally, assemblability can be improved during the manufacturing process of the battery module 10.

[0124] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a blocking member applied according to another embodiment of this disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II' in the diagram.

[0125] The blocking member 400 may have a protrusion 430. The protrusion 430 may be configured such that at least a portion of the blocking member 400 protrudes toward the battery cell 110. Multiple protrusions 430 may be provided. Furthermore, the protrusion 430 may be configured to insert into the space between at least some of the battery cells 110. Therefore, the blocking member 400 may be supported by the battery cells 110. According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, due to the provision of the protrusion 430, movement or deformation of the blocking member 400 can be suppressed.

[0126] For example, such as Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking member 400 may include a first protrusion 431 disposed in the first portion 410. That is, the first protrusion 431 may be disposed on the front side of the battery cell 110 by a portion of the first portion 410 protruding rearward. Therefore, the first protrusion 431 may be configured to at least partially insert between the battery cells 110 on the side where the electrode leads 112 of the battery cell 110 are disposed.

[0127] More specifically, the first protrusion 431 can be configured to at least partially insert between the sealing portions 111b on the front side of the battery cell 110. Furthermore, the first protrusion 431 can be configured to fill the space between adjacent cell platforms.

[0128] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the blocking member 400 can be connected such that it is inserted into the space between the battery cells 110 via the first protrusion 431. When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 and venting occurs, the vented gas is likely to move to the electrode lead 112, thus opening the cell platform. However, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the first protrusion 431 fills the space between the cell platforms of the battery cells 110, the pressure of the vented gas concentrated on the cell platform can be minimized, thereby suppressing or blocking the vented gas from being emitted to the side where the electrode lead 112 of the battery cell 110 is located.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above-described configuration, even if exhaust gas or flame is emitted through the space between the sealing portions 111b, the adverse effects caused by the exhaust gas or flame may not be transmitted to the other battery cells 110 separated by the first protrusion 431.

[0130] Therefore, according to the above-described configuration, by preventing adjacent battery cells 110 from being affected by thermal damage, heat propagation between battery cells 110 can be suppressed, and thermal runaway in the battery module can be delayed. Thus, according to the above aspects of this disclosure, the safety and reliability of the battery module 10 can be ensured.

[0131] Furthermore, the first protrusion 431 may be made of an elastomer and have a shape and size corresponding to the space between the cell platforms. According to an embodiment, the area and shape of the first protrusion 431 may be configured to be the same as or similar to the area and shape of the space between the cell platforms. For example, the first protrusion 431 may be configured to be inclined along the direction forming the sealing portion 111b and the electrode lead 112. As a result, when viewed from above, the first protrusion 431 may have a trapezoidal shape, which has the same size and shape as the space between the sealing portions 111b.

[0132] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the shape of the first protrusion 431 corresponds to that of the sealing portion 111b or the electrode lead 112, excessive deformation or damage to the sealing portion 111b or the electrode lead 112 caused by the first protrusion 431 can be minimized.

[0133] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module as viewed from above, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III' in the diagram.

[0134] As another implementation method, such as Figure 9 and Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking member 400 may include a second protrusion 432 disposed in the second portion 420. That is, the second protrusion 432 may be disposed on the top of the cell assembly 100 by protruding downward from a portion of the second portion 420.

[0135] In this case, such as Figure 14 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to at least partially insert between the battery cells 110 from the top of the battery cells 110. For example, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to at least partially insert between the receiving portions 111a of the battery cells 110.

[0136] Furthermore, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to contact the upper surface of the battery cell assembly 100. That is, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to be placed on the housing portion 111a of the battery cell 110. In addition, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to press downward on the upper side of the housing portion 111a of the battery cell 110.

[0137] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the empty space between the battery cells 110 at the top of the cell assembly 100 can be filled with a second protrusion 432. When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 and exhaust gas is generated, the high-temperature exhaust gas or flame is likely to move upward. However, in the above-described implementation configuration, even if the exhaust gas or flame is emitted upward, the adverse effects caused by the exhaust gas or flame may not be transmitted to the other battery cells 110 separated by the second protrusion 432.

[0138] Therefore, according to the above-described configuration, by preventing adjacent battery cells 110 from being affected by thermal damage, heat propagation between battery cells 110 can be suppressed, and thermal runaway in the battery module can be delayed. Thus, according to the above aspects of this disclosure, the safety and reliability of the battery module 10 can be ensured.

[0139] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the protrusion 430 is provided, the movement or deformation of the blocking member 400 in the left-right direction can be suppressed.

[0140] Furthermore, the second protrusion 432 can be configured to correspond to the shape of the sealing portion 111b (folded portion) located on the upper surface of the battery cell 110. According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the second protrusion 432 corresponds to the shape of the upper surface of the cell assembly 100, excessive deformation or damage caused by the second protrusion 432 to the upper sealing portion 111b (folded portion) can be minimized.

[0141] Reference Figure 14 The cell assembly 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a separator 120. The separator 120 may be disposed between the battery cells 110. At least one separator 120 may be included in a battery module 10. Multiple separators 120 may be disposed along one direction in which the battery cells 110 are arranged. Separators 120 may be provided for each group of one or more battery cells 110.

[0142] Specifically, the separator 120 can be configured to separate multiple battery cells 110. The separator 120 can be configured to group the multiple battery cells 110. For example, as... Figure 14 As shown, a separator 120 can be provided for each group of four battery cells 110, so that the battery cells 110 can be grouped into groups of four.

[0143] The separator 120 can be configured as a thinner heat-insulating pad than the battery cell 110. The separator 120 can be formed of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Alternatively, the separator 120 can be configured as a compressible pad made of a material such as silicone or aerogel.

[0144] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the battery cell 110 can be divided or partitioned to prevent gas or flame from being transmitted to other partition members 120 adjacent to the partition member 120. Furthermore, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the partition member 120 can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cell 110 by compressing the battery cell 110 when it expands.

[0145] In this case, in order to increase the fixing force between the blocking member 400 and the separating member 120, the blocking member 400 can be configured such that the distal end of the separating member 120 is inserted therein.

[0146] More specifically, refer to Figure 14 The blocking member 400 may be provided with a fixing groove 440, which is formed by at least a portion of the blocking member 400 being recessed inward. The separating member 120 may be inserted into the fixing groove 440. Therefore, the upper end of the separating member 120 may be in close contact with the fixing groove 440 without gaps.

[0147] According to the above-described implementation of the present invention, since the separator 120 can be inserted into the blocking member 400 and supported from both sides, the fixing force between the separator 120 and the blocking member 400 can be further improved. As a result, the arrangement of the battery cell 110 and the separator 120 can be stably maintained.

[0148] Furthermore, the sealing force between the end of the separator 120 and the blocking member 400 can be reliably ensured. Therefore, according to the above-described configuration, multiple battery cells 110 can be separated more reliably, thereby further improving the heat propagation prevention performance between battery cells 110.

[0149] Furthermore, according to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, the possibility of high-temperature and high-pressure exhaust gases or flames ejecting from the separator 120, or the separator 120 bending and deforming due to the internal pressure of the exhaust, causing heat to be transferred to another battery cell 110, can be reduced. Therefore, when thermal runaway propagation occurs in the battery module 10, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells 110 can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0150] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which a blocking member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to a busbar frame.

[0151] Reference Figure 15The connection structure between the blocking member 400 and the busbar frame 200 is described. The blocking member 400 and the busbar frame 200 can be configured to insert into and assemble with each other. The blocking member 400 can be configured to be at least partially inserted into the busbar frame 200.

[0152] More specifically, refer to Figure 15 The busbar frame 200 may have an insertion portion 210 configured to allow at least a portion of the blocking member 400 to be inserted and fitted therein. The insertion portion 210 may be configured to protrude outward from the busbar frame 200. Additionally, the blocking member 400 may have a connecting portion 450 configured to be inserted and fitted into the insertion portion 210. In this case, the connecting portion 450 may be configured to fit into the insertion portion 210. That is, the connecting portion 450 may be configured to correspond to the shape and size of the insertion portion 210. Furthermore, the connecting portion 450 may be formed at the location where the insertion portion 210 is provided.

[0153] According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, since the connecting portion 450 of the blocking member 400 is assembled into the busbar frame 200, the connection or fixing force between the blocking member 400 and the busbar frame 200 can be improved. In particular, since the connecting portion 450 of the blocking member 400 is supported by the insertion portion 210 in the left-right direction, movement of the blocking member 400 in the left-right direction can be suppressed. Therefore, the structural stability of the blocking member 400 can be ensured.

[0154] Furthermore, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be vertically connected to the busbar frame 200. That is, the blocking member 400 can be configured to be connected to the busbar frame 200 from top to bottom. The insertion portion 210 of the busbar frame 200 can be configured to guide the vertical connection position of the blocking member 400. That is, the connecting portion 450 of the blocking member 400 can be configured to engage with the lower part of the insertion portion 210. According to the above-described implementation configuration of this disclosure, downward, leftward, and rightward movement of the blocking member 400 can be suppressed.

[0155] Figure 16 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] Reference Figure 16 The battery pack 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery modules 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above. The battery pack 1 according to the present disclosure may also include a battery pack housing 2 for housing a battery management system (BMS) for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules, current sensors, fuses, etc., and the aforementioned components.

[0157] According to this disclosure, the battery pack 1 is configured with battery modules 10 including a blocking member 400, thereby blocking exhaust gases or flames emitted from the battery cells 110 from moving toward the end frames 320 of adjacent battery modules 10, thus preventing or delaying thermal runaway between battery modules 10. As a result, the safety of the battery pack 1 can be ensured.

[0158] Figure 17 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] Reference Figure 17 The vehicle 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 1 or battery modules 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle 3 according to the present disclosure may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 3 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle 3 operates by electricity supplied from the battery pack 1 or battery module 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0160] 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 by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains without departing from the technical concept of this disclosure and within the equivalent scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: The battery cell assembly includes a plurality of battery cells; A busbar frame is disposed on at least one side of the cell assembly; A module housing, the module housing including a main frame and end frames, the main frame being configured to cover some side surfaces of the cell assembly, and the end frames being connected to the main frame and configured to cover the busbar frame; as well as A blocking member is disposed inside the joint between the main frame and the end frame and is configured to cover a portion of the cell assembly.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member is disposed inside the busbar frame.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, The battery module also includes module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the battery cells. in, The blocking member is located on the side where the module terminal is located.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The end frame includes: A main cover and an insulating cover, the main cover being connected to the main body frame, and the insulating cover being inserted between the main cover and the busbar frame. The blocking member is configured to be located inside the opened portion when the insulating cover is melted by heat and at least a portion is opened.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member is configured in an L-shape.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member has a first portion that is inserted between the busbar frame and the cell assembly.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, in, The blocking member has a second portion that bends inward from the first portion to be inserted between the upper surface of the cell assembly and the main frame.

8. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member is configured to partially cover the corner of the battery cell assembly.

9. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking component comprises an elastic material.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member is configured to be compressed along at least one of the longitudinal and height directions of the cell assembly.

11. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member is configured to be compressed by the busbar frame.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The main framework includes: The lower frame has an upper opening and is configured to cover the lower surface, left surface, and right surface of the cell assembly. A top plate, configured to connect to the upper opening of the lower frame, and The blocking member is configured to be compressed by the top plate.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The blocking member has a protrusion, which is configured such that at least a portion of the protrusion protrudes toward the battery cell and is inserted between the battery cells.

14. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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