Battery module

Abstract

A battery module includes: a housing; a plurality of battery cells, each of the plurality of battery cells including an electrode assembly, a case accommodating the electrode assembly, a cap plate sealing the case, a pair of terminals protruding from the cap plate, and an exhaust port between the pair of terminals, the plurality of battery cells being arranged in the case in a first direction; a holder in the housing and facing the cover plate; and an inner sheet between the cover plate and the holder to cover the exhaust port. According to the present disclosure, chained ignition due to thermal runaway of any one of the battery cells can be prevented or substantially prevented by arranging an inner sheet having high heat resistance and insulating properties at a position facing an exhaust port of the battery cells.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Several aspects of embodiments of this disclosure relate to battery modules. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, due to the recent surge in battery-powered electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and electric vehicles, the demand for rechargeable batteries with high energy density and high capacity has increased rapidly. Therefore, research and development to improve the performance of lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are actively underway.

[0003] A lithium secondary battery is a battery that includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode containing active materials capable of inserting and deintercalating lithium ions, as well as an electrolyte solution, and generates energy through oxidation / reduction reactions when lithium ions are inserted / deintercalated at the positive and negative electrodes.

[0004] The information disclosed above in the art that forms the background of this disclosure is provided to improve the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and may therefore include information that does not constitute the background art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a battery module is provided that can prevent or substantially prevent chain ignition of battery cells.

[0006] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in or will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery module includes: a housing; a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell including an electrode assembly, a housing containing the electrode assembly, a cover sealing the housing, a pair of terminals protruding from the cover and a vent between the pair of terminals, the plurality of battery cells being arranged in the housing in a first direction; a retainer in the housing and facing the cover; and an inner sheet between the cover and the retainer to cover the vent.

[0008] The retainer may include a pair of first retainer bodies facing the terminals and spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a pair of second retainer bodies extending from the pair of first retainer bodies in the second direction and facing the inner sheet.

[0009] Each of the pair of second retainer bodies can contact the inner sheet and can press the inner sheet toward the cover plate.

[0010] The pair of second retainer bodies may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction, and the distance between the pair of second retainer bodies may be greater than the length of the exhaust port in the second direction.

[0011] The retainer may also include a third retainer body between the pair of second retainer bodies.

[0012] The third retainer body may include a plurality of retainer vents, the plurality of retainer vents being arranged in a first direction, each of the plurality of retainer vents facing the vent of the corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

[0013] The housing may include a housing body that houses the plurality of battery cells and a housing cover that is connected to the housing body and faces the cover plate. The retainer may also include reinforcing ribs that protrude from the second retainer body toward the housing cover.

[0014] The inner sheets can be provided as multiple inner sheets stacked from the cover plate toward the retainer.

[0015] The area of ​​each of the plurality of internal sheets can be reduced toward the retainer.

[0016] The internal plate may include an internal plate exhaust port facing the exhaust port.

[0017] The battery module may also include an adhesive component between the cover plate and the second retainer body, which secures the inner sheet.

[0018] The inner sheet may also include a connecting hole spaced apart from the vent of the inner sheet, through which an adhesive member can pass through the connecting hole and the opposite ends of the adhesive member can be fixed to the cover plate and the second retainer body, respectively.

[0019] The connecting holes and the internal plate exhaust ports can be spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

[0020] The connection hole can extend in the first direction.

[0021] The cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole in the horizontal direction can be increased or decreased towards the cover plate.

[0022] The connection holes may include multiple unit connection holes arranged in the first direction.

[0023] The battery module may also include an external sheet between the retainer and the housing.

[0024] The outer pieces may include a pair of first outer pieces spaced apart from each other in a second direction and facing the pair of first retainer bodies respectively.

[0025] The outer sheet may also include a second outer sheet between the pair of first outer sheets and facing the pair of second retainer bodies.

[0026] The second outer sheet may include a plurality of outer sheet vents, the plurality of outer sheet vents being arranged in a first direction, each of the plurality of outer sheet vents facing the vent of a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings, included in this specification, illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure and further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure together with the detailed description thereof. However, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the configuration of the battery cells;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an electrode assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the installation state of the retainer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view showing the installation state of the retainer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of a retainer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view showing the arrangement of internal sheets according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A schematic plan view of the internal panel configuration;

[0037] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the configuration of the internal pieces;

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the installation state of an adhesive member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 12and Figure 13 Each is shown Figure 10 A view showing a modified example of the connecting hole;

[0040] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the operating state of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the connection holes according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 15 A schematic diagram illustrating a modified example of the unit connection hole;

[0043] Figure 17 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 18 It is shown Figure 17 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration;

[0045] Figure 19 It is shown Figure 17 A schematic plan view of the battery module configuration;

[0046] Figure 20 This is a schematic perspective view showing the arrangement of internal sheets according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation state of an adhesive member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 22 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 23 It is shown Figure 22 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration;

[0050] Figure 24 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 25 It is shown Figure 24 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration;

[0052] Figure 26 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0053] Figure 27This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of an external sheet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Some embodiments of this disclosure will be described in more detail here with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but are to be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of this disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the terms.

[0055] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are provided as some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and do not necessarily represent all the technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it will be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist to replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing of this application.

[0056] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intermediary elements or layers. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly bonded to" another element or layer, there are no intermediary elements or layers. For example, when a first element is described as being "bonded" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly bonded to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly bonded to or connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements.

[0057] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of "may" when describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." modify the entire list of elements when following a list of elements, not individual elements in the list. When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" are used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the terms “use,” “using…,” and “being used” can be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “using…,” and “being exploited,” respectively. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree and are intended to explain the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0058] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or portion.

[0059] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” “above,” etc., are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings and another element(s). It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations shown in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented as “above” or “above” other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0060] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or “containing” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0061] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges containing the same numerical precision within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0, that is, a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any highest numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any lowest numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges included within the range expressly described herein.

[0062] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can indicate that they are identical or substantially the same. Therefore, the phrase “identical” or “substantially identical” can include cases with a deviation considered low in the art, such as 5% or less. Furthermore, when a parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, it can indicate that it is uniform in terms of the mean.

[0063] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0064] When any element is referred to as being arranged (or located or positioned) "above (or below)" or "on (or below)" a component, it can mean that the element is configured to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the component, or that another component can be inserted between the component and the element arranged (or located or positioned) on (or below) the component.

[0065] Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "joined," "linked," or "connected" to another element, the elements may be directly "joined," "linked," or "connected" to each other, or there may be one or more intermediary elements between them through which the element can be "joined," "linked," or "connected" to the other element. Furthermore, when a component is referred to as being "electrically joined" to another component, the component may be directly electrically connected to the other component, or there may be one or more intermediary components between them, such that the component and the other component are indirectly electrically connected to each other.

[0066] Throughout this specification, when “A and / or B” is stated, it means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, it means C or greater and D or less, unless otherwise specified.

[0067] The terminology used in this specification is for describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0068] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] The first direction described below can be based on Figure 1 The direction parallel to the X-axis, the second direction can be based on Figure 1 The direction parallel to the Y-axis, the third direction can be based on Figure 1 The direction parallel to the Z-axis.

[0070] Reference Figure 1 According to one embodiment, a battery module may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a retainer 300, and an internal sheet 400.

[0071] The housing 100 can support the battery cell 200 and protect the battery cell 200 from external impacts and foreign substances.

[0072] The housing 100 may include a housing body 110 and a housing cover 120.

[0073] The housing body 110 can provide space to accommodate the battery cell 200.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the housing body 110 can be formed to have a box shape, which has an empty interior and an open side. For example, based on Figure 1 The opening side of the housing body 110 can be perpendicular to a third direction and positioned upwards. However, the cross-sectional shape of the housing body 110 is not limited to... Figure 1The quadrilateral shape shown can be changed to any suitable shape, such as polygons, circles, ellipses, etc.

[0075] The housing cover 120 can be attached to the housing body 110 to enclose the internal space of the housing body 110.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the housing cover 120 can be formed to have a generally plate shape. The housing cover 120 can be disposed perpendicular to a third direction. The housing cover 120 can be disposed opposite to the opening side of the housing body 110 in a third direction. The housing cover 120 can be fixed to the upper end of the housing body 110 by any of various types of connection methods (such as bolt connection, welding, mating, etc.).

[0077] The battery cell 200 can be used as a unit structure for storing and supplying power in a battery module. The battery cell 200 can be disposed inside the housing 100.

[0078] Here, an example in which the battery cell 200 is a prismatic lithium-ion secondary battery will be described. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 200 may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0079] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the configuration of the battery cells.

[0080] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to one embodiment, the battery cell 200 includes an electrode assembly 210, a housing 220, a cover plate 230, a terminal 240, and an exhaust port 250.

[0081] The electrode assembly 210 can be used as a unit structure in the battery cell 200 to perform the charging and discharging operations of electricity. The electrode assembly 210 can be housed inside the housing 220.

[0082] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an electrode assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Reference Figures 2 to 4 According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly 210 may include a first electrode 211, a second electrode 212, and a diaphragm 213.

[0084] Here, an example in which the electrode assembly 210 is formed in a stacked manner will be described, in which the first electrode 211, the diaphragm 213, and the second electrode 212 are stacked alternately in a first direction. However, the electrode assembly 210 is not limited to this, and in one embodiment, it can be formed in a jelly roll manner, in which the first electrode 211, the diaphragm 213, and the second electrode 212 are stacked sequentially and wound around a winding shaft.

[0085] The first electrode 211 can be the positive electrode of the electrode assembly 210.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first electrode 211 can be in the form of a foil comprising a metallic material (such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The two surfaces or opposing surfaces of the first electrode 211 can be arranged perpendicular to the first direction. However, there are no particular limitations on the type, size, shape, etc., of the first electrode 211, as long as the first electrode 211 is conductive and does not cause chemical changes in the secondary battery. The shape of the first electrode 211 can be changed to any suitable shape other than a rectangular shape.

[0087] In one embodiment, the first electrode 211 may be provided as a plurality of first electrodes. The plurality of first electrodes 211 may be arranged in a first direction. The number of first electrodes 211 may be varied to any number depending on the charging capacity of the battery cell 200, etc.

[0088] The first electrode 211 may include a first active material layer 211a.

[0089] The first active material layer 211a may be provided in the form that at least a portion of the first electrode 211 is coated with the first active material layer 211a. In one embodiment, both surfaces or opposite surfaces of the first electrode 211 may be coated with the first active material layer 211a, or in another embodiment, only one surface of the first electrode 211 may be coated with the first active material layer 211a.

[0090] In one embodiment, the first electrode 211 is a positive electrode, and the first active material layer 211a may include a positive electrode active material.

[0091] The positive electrode active material can be a compound capable of reversibly inserting and deintercalating lithium (lithiation intercalation compound). In one embodiment, one or more composite oxides of metals and lithium selected from the group consisting of cobalt, manganese, nickel, iron, and combinations thereof can be used as the positive electrode active material.

[0092] As an example, positive electrode active materials may include lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP), lithium manganese iron phosphate (LiMnFePO4, LMFP), and lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (LiNi). x Coy Mn z at least one of O2, NCM). Here, 0 < x < 1, 0 < y < 1, 0 < z < 1 and x + y + z = 1 can be satisfied. The positive electrode active material may only include lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP), lithium manganese iron phosphate (LiMnFePO4, LMFP), and lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (LiNi x Co y Mn z O2, NCM), or may include lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP), lithium manganese iron phosphate (LiMnFePO4, LMFP), and lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (LiNi x Co y Mn z O2, NCM) in two or all of them.

[0093] The first active material layer 211a may also contain a positive electrode conductive material.

[0094] The positive electrode conductive material imparts conductivity to the first active material layer 211a, and any suitable electronically conductive material that does not cause a chemical change can be used. Examples of the positive electrode conductive material may include carbon-based materials (such as natural graphite, artificial graphite, carbon black, acetylene black, Ketjen black, carbon fiber, carbon nanofiber, and carbon nanotube), metal-based materials (in the form of metal powder or metal fiber, containing copper, nickel, aluminum, silver, etc.), conductive polymers (such as polyphenylene derivatives), or mixtures thereof.

[0095] The first active material layer 211a may also contain a positive electrode binder.

[0096] The positive electrode binder easily adheres to the particles constituting the positive electrode active material, and also easily attaches the positive electrode active material to the first electrode 211.

[0097] Examples of the positive electrode binder may include non-aqueous binders, aqueous binders, dry binders, or combinations thereof.

[0098] Non-aqueous binders may include polyvinyl chloride, carboxylated polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl fluoride, ethylene propylene copolymer, polystyrene, polyurethane, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamideimide, polyimide, or combinations thereof.

[0099] Waterborne adhesives can be selected from styrene-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylated styrene-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylic rubber, butyl rubber, fluorinated elastomers, polyethylene oxide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyepoxygenated alcohol, polyphosphazene, poly(meth)acrylonitrile, ethylene propylene diene copolymer, polyvinylpyridine, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, latex, polyester resin, (meth)acrylic resin, phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyvinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof.

[0100] If the aqueous binder is used as the positive electrode binder, the aqueous binder may also include a cellulose-based compound capable of imparting viscosity. As a cellulose-based compound, one or more of carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and their alkali metal salts may be mixed and used. In one embodiment, the alkali metal may be Na, K, or Li.

[0101] Dry binders can be fibrous polymeric materials, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, polyethylene oxide, or combinations thereof.

[0102] The first electrode 211 may include a first uncoated portion 211b that is not coated with the first active material layer 211a. According to one embodiment, the first uncoated portion 211b may be disposed at the end region of the first electrode 211 in a second direction. However, the first uncoated portion 211b is not limited thereto, and in one embodiment, it may be formed on the entire edge region of the first electrode 211.

[0103] The second electrode 212 can be the negative electrode of the electrode assembly 210.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the second electrode 212 can be in the form of a foil comprising a metallic material (such as copper, copper alloy, nickel, or nickel alloy). The two surfaces or opposing surfaces of the second electrode 212 can be arranged perpendicular to the first direction. However, there are no particular limitations on the type, size, shape, etc., of the second electrode 212, as long as the second electrode 212 is conductive and does not cause chemical changes in the secondary battery. Except... Figure 4 In addition to the rectangular shape shown, the cross-sectional shape of the second electrode 212 can be changed to any suitable shape.

[0105] In one embodiment, the second electrode 212 may be provided as a plurality of second electrodes. The plurality of second electrodes 212 may be arranged in a first direction. The plurality of first electrodes 211 and the plurality of second electrodes 212 may be alternately arranged in the first direction.

[0106] The second electrode 212 may include a second active material layer 212a and a second uncoated portion 212b.

[0107] The second active material layer 212a may be provided in a form in which at least a part of the second electrode 212 is coated with the second active material layer 212a. In one embodiment, two surfaces or opposite surfaces of the second electrode 212 may be coated with the second active material layer 212a, or in one embodiment, only one surface of the second electrode 212 may be coated with the second active material layer 212a.

[0108] In one embodiment, the second electrode 212 is a negative electrode, and the second active material layer 212a may contain a negative electrode active material.

[0109] The negative electrode active material may include a material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions, lithium metal, a lithium metal alloy, a material capable of doping and dedoping lithium, or a transition metal oxide.

[0110] The material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions may be a carbon-based negative electrode active material, which may include, for example, crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof. Examples of crystalline carbon may include graphite, such as natural graphite or artificial graphite in amorphous, plate-like, flaky, spherical, or fibrous forms, and examples of amorphous carbon may include soft carbon, hard carbon, mesophase pitch carbide, calcined coke, etc.

[0111] As the lithium metal alloy, an alloy of lithium and a metal selected from Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr, Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Si, Sb, Pb, In, Zn, Ba, Ra, Ge, Al, and Sn may be used.

[0112] As the material capable of doping and dedoping lithium, a Si-based negative electrode active material or a Sn-based negative electrode active material may be used. The Si-based negative electrode active material may be silicon, a silicon-carbon composite, SiO x (0 < x ≤ 2), a Si-Q alloy (Q is selected from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, group 13 elements, group 14 elements (excluding Si), group 15 elements, group 16 elements, transition metals, rare earth elements, and combinations thereof), or a combination thereof. The Sn-based negative electrode active material may be Sn, SnO2, a Sn-based alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0113] The silicon-carbon composite may be a composite of silicon and amorphous carbon. According to one embodiment, the silicon-carbon composite may be in the form of silicon particles and amorphous carbon applied on the surface of the silicon particles. For example, the silicon-carbon composite may include secondary particles (cores) in which primary silicon particles are aggregated and an amorphous carbon coating (shell) located on the surface of the secondary particles. The amorphous carbon may be located between the primary silicon particles, for example, such that the primary silicon particles may be coated with amorphous carbon. The secondary particles may be dispersed in an amorphous carbon matrix.

[0114] Silicon-carbon composites may also include crystalline carbon. For example, a silicon-carbon composite may include a core comprising crystalline carbon and silicon particles, and an amorphous carbon coating on the surface of the core.

[0115] Si-based or Sn-based negative electrode active materials can be used in combination with carbon-based negative electrode active materials.

[0116] The second active material layer 212a may also include a negative electrode conductive material and a negative electrode binder.

[0117] The negative electrode conductive material imparts conductivity to the second active material layer 212a, and any suitable electronically conductive material that does not cause a chemical change can be used. Examples of negative electrode conductive materials may include carbon-based materials (such as natural graphite, artificial graphite, carbon black, acetylene black, Ketjen black, carbon fibers, carbon nanofibers, and carbon nanotubes), metal-based materials (in the form of metal powders or metal fibers, including copper, nickel, aluminum, silver, etc.), conductive polymers (such as polyphenylene derivatives), or mixtures thereof.

[0118] The negative electrode binder readily binds the particles constituting the negative electrode active material and also readily attaches the negative electrode active material to the second electrode 212.

[0119] Examples of negative electrode adhesives may include non-aqueous adhesives, aqueous adhesives, dry adhesives, or combinations thereof.

[0120] Non-aqueous adhesives may include polyvinyl chloride, carboxylated polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl fluoride, ethylene-propylene copolymer, polystyrene, polyurethane, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide-imide, polyimide, or combinations thereof.

[0121] Waterborne adhesives can be selected from styrene-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylated styrene-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, (meth)acrylic rubber, butyl rubber, fluorinated elastomers, polyethylene oxide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyepoxygenated alcohol, polyphosphazene, poly(meth)acrylonitrile, ethylene propylene diene copolymer, polyvinylpyridine, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, latex, polyester resin, (meth)acrylic resin, phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyvinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof.

[0122] If the aqueous binder is used as the negative electrode binder, the aqueous binder may also include a cellulose-based compound capable of imparting viscosity. As a cellulose-based compound, one or more of carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and their alkali metal salts may be mixed and used. In one embodiment, the alkali metal may be Na, K, or Li.

[0123] Dry binders can be fibrous polymeric materials, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, polyethylene oxide, or combinations thereof.

[0124] The second electrode 212 may include a second uncoated portion 212b that is not coated with the second active material layer 212a. According to one embodiment, the second uncoated portion 212b may be disposed at the end region of the second electrode 212 in a second direction. However, the second uncoated portion 212b is not limited thereto, and in one embodiment, it may be formed over the entire edge region of the second electrode 212.

[0125] A separator 213 may be disposed between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 212. The separator 213 can prevent or substantially prevent short circuits between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 212, while allowing lithium ions to move between them. In one embodiment, the separator 213 may be configured to completely cover the surface areas of the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 212. Therefore, the separator 213 can prevent or substantially prevent the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 212 from being directly exposed to the outside of the electrode assembly 210.

[0126] The diaphragm 213 can be made of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride or two or more layers of the same, and can be made of mixed multilayer membranes such as two-layer membranes of polyethylene / polypropylene, three-layer membranes of polyethylene / polypropylene / polyethylene, or three-layer membranes of polypropylene / polyethylene / polypropylene.

[0127] The diaphragm 213 may include a porous substrate and a coating layer located on one or both (or opposite) surfaces of the porous substrate, the coating layer comprising an organic material, an inorganic material, or a combination thereof.

[0128] The porous substrate can be a polymer film made of a polymer selected from two or more copolymers or mixtures of polyolefins (such as polyethylene and polypropylene), polyesters (such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate), polyacetal, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polyetherketone, polyaryletherketone, polyetherimide, polyamideimide, polybenzimidazole, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene ether, cyclic olefin copolymers, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethylene naphthalate, glass fiber and polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., Teflon).

[0129] Organic materials may include polymers based on polyvinylidene fluoride or (meth)acrylic acid polymers.

[0130] Inorganic materials may include, but are not limited to, inorganic particles selected from Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, SnO2, CeO2, MgO, NiO, CaO, GaO, ZnO, ZrO2, Y2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, Mg(OH)2, boehmite and combinations thereof.

[0131] Organic and inorganic materials can be mixed in a single coating layer, or they can be in the form of coating layers containing organic materials and coating layers containing inorganic materials stacked on top of each other.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly 210 may further include a first terminal block 214 and a second terminal block 215.

[0133] The first connector 214 can be connected to the first electrode 211.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first terminal piece 214 may be in the form of a foil extending from the first uncoated portion 211b of the first electrode 211 in a direction parallel to the second direction. In one embodiment, the first terminal piece 214 may have a generally rectangular shape. However, the shape of the first terminal piece 214 is not limited to this and may be changed to any suitable shape.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first terminal piece 214 may be integrally formed with the first electrode 211. For example, the first terminal piece 214 may be the area of ​​the first uncoated portion 211b remaining after a portion of the first uncoated portion 211b has been cut or removed during grooving or the like. In one embodiment, the first terminal piece 214 may be manufactured separately from the first electrode 211 and then connected to the first uncoated portion 211b by welding or the like. In one embodiment, the material of the first terminal piece 214 may be the same as the material of the first electrode 211.

[0136] The first contact piece 214 can be provided as a plurality of first contact pieces. Each first contact piece 214 may extend from a different one of the first uncoated portions 211b of the first electrode 211. Adjacent first contact pieces 214 may be arranged facing each other in a first direction. That is, the plurality of first contact pieces 214 may be arranged in a first direction. Adjacent first contact pieces 214 may be arranged parallel to each other. Adjacent first contact pieces 214 may be in contact with each other.

[0137] Multiple first terminals 214 may be provided on each first electrode 211. For example, a pair of first terminals 214 may be formed on each first electrode 211. The pair of first terminals 214 formed on each first electrode 211 may be arranged in a third-order orientation.

[0138] The second connector 215 can be connected to the second electrode 212.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the second terminal piece 215 may be in the form of a foil extending from the second uncoated portion 212b of the second electrode 212 in a direction parallel to the second direction. The extending direction of the first terminal piece 214 and the extending direction of the second terminal piece 215 may be opposite. In one embodiment, the second terminal piece 215 may have a generally rectangular shape. However, the shape of the second terminal piece 215 is not limited to this and can be changed to any suitable shape.

[0140] In one embodiment, the second terminal 215 may be integrally formed with the second electrode 212. For example, the second terminal 215 may be the area of ​​the second uncoated portion 212b remaining after a portion of the second uncoated portion 212b has been cut or removed during grooving or the like. In one embodiment, the second terminal 215 may be manufactured separately from the second electrode 212 and then connected to the second uncoated portion 212b by welding or the like. In one embodiment, the material of the second terminal 215 may be the same as the material of the second electrode 212.

[0141] The second contact 215 can be provided as a plurality of second contact pieces. Each second contact 215 may extend from a different one of the second uncoated portions 212b of the second electrode 212. Adjacent second contact pieces 215 may be arranged facing each other in a first direction. That is, the plurality of second contact pieces 215 may be arranged in the first direction. Adjacent second contact pieces 215 may be arranged parallel to each other. Adjacent second contact pieces 215 may be in contact with each other.

[0142] Multiple second terminals 215 may be provided on each second electrode 212. For example, a pair of second terminals 215 may be formed on each second electrode 212. The pair of second terminals 215 formed on each second electrode 212 may be arranged in a third-direction orientation.

[0143] The housing 220 may form the general outer surface of the battery cell 200 and house the electrode assembly 210. In one embodiment, the housing 220 may include a conductive metallic material, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the housing 220 may include a bottom 221, a first side 222, and a second side 223.

[0145] The bottom 221 can form the lower outer surface of the housing 220. According to one embodiment, the bottom 221 can have a rectangular plate shape. The bottom 221 can be disposed facing the bottom surface of the housing body 110. The bottom 221 can be configured to face the bottom surface of the housing body 110 in a third-order upward direction.

[0146] The first side portion 222 may extend from the bottom portion 221 to form part of the outer surface of the side surface of the housing 220.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first side portion 222 may have a rectangular plate shape extending from the bottom 221 in a direction parallel to a third direction. The first side portion 222 may be disposed perpendicular to a second direction. The lower end of the first side portion 222 may be connected to the edge of the bottom 221 disposed in the first direction. The upper end of the first side portion 222 may be disposed toward the housing cover 120. The upper end of the first side portion 222 may be configured to face the housing cover 120 in a third direction.

[0148] The first side portion 222 can be provided as a pair of first side portions. The pair of first side portions 222 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) and opposite each other in a second direction. The pair of first side portions 222 can be configured to be parallel to each other.

[0149] The second side portion 223 may extend from the bottom portion 221 to form the remainder of the outer surface of the side surface of the housing 220.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the second side portion 223 may have a rectangular plate shape extending from the bottom 221 in a direction parallel to a third direction. The second side portion 223 may be configured to intersect with the first side portion 222. As an example, the second side portion 223 may be configured perpendicular to the first direction.

[0151] The lower end of the second side portion 223 can be connected to the edge of the bottom 221 located in the second direction. The upper end of the second side portion 223 can be positioned toward the housing cover 120. The upper end of the second side portion 223 can be positioned to face the housing cover 120 in the third direction.

[0152] The area of ​​the second side portion 223 can be larger than the area of ​​the first side portion 222.

[0153] The second side portion 223 can be provided as a pair of second side portions. The pair of second side portions 223 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) and opposite each other in a first direction. The pair of second side portions 223 can be configured to be parallel to each other.

[0154] Therefore, the housing 220 according to one embodiment can be formed to have a cuboid shape, which has an open upper end facing the housing cover 120.

[0155] The cover plate 230 can be attached to the housing 220 to seal the housing 220.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the cover plate 230 can be formed in the shape of a flat plate. The cover plate 230 can be configured to face the housing 220 in a third-order direction. As an example, the inner surface of the cover plate 230 can be configured to face the open upper surface of the housing 220. The outer surface of the cover plate 230 can be configured to face the inner surface of the housing cover 120. The cover plate 230 can be disposed parallel to the bottom 221 of the housing 220 and the housing cover 120.

[0157] In one embodiment, the cover plate 230 may be disposed on the upper end of the second side 223 and the upper end of the first side 222. In another embodiment, the cover plate 230 may be inserted into the housing 220, and the peripheral surface of the cover plate 230 may contact the inner surfaces of the second side 223 and the first side 222. The cover plate 230 may be connected to the upper end of the second side 223 and the upper end of the first side 222 by any of a variety of connection methods (such as welding, bolting, mating, etc.).

[0158] Terminal 240 can be connected to cover 230 and can protrude outward from cover 230. Terminal 240 can be electrically connected to electrode assembly 210.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the terminal 240 can extend through the cover plate 230 in a third-direction upward direction. The upper end of the terminal 240 can protrude outward from the cover plate 230, and the lower end of the terminal 240 can protrude into the interior of the housing 220. However, the specific shape of the terminal 240 is not limited to this. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The shape shown can be changed to any suitable shape.

[0160] Terminal 240 may be formed of a conductive material such as aluminum, nickel, copper, etc.

[0161] Terminal 240 can be provided as a pair of terminals. The pair of terminals 240 can be arranged on the cover plate 230 at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) from each other along a second direction.

[0162] Each of the pair of terminals 240 can be connected to a corresponding electrode in the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 212 of the electrode assembly 210. Therefore, each of the pair of terminals 240 can be one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal of the battery cell 200.

[0163] As an example, the first terminal of a pair of terminals 240 may be connected to the first terminal piece 214. In one embodiment, the first terminal of the pair of terminals 240 may be indirectly connected to the first terminal piece 214 via a current collector 241 soldered to the first terminal piece 214. In another embodiment, the terminal 240 may be directly connected to the first terminal piece 214.

[0164] Furthermore, the second terminal of the pair of terminals 240 can be connected to the second terminal piece 215. In one embodiment, the second terminal of the pair of terminals 240 can be indirectly connected to the second terminal piece 215 via a current collector 241 soldered to the second terminal piece 215. In another embodiment, the terminal 240 can be directly connected to the second terminal piece 215.

[0165] An insulator G can be installed between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 230. The insulator G can be provided as a pair of insulators. The pair of insulators G can be spaced apart from each other in a second direction between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 230. Each of the pair of insulators G can be configured to surround a different terminal 240. The insulator G can be made of an insulating material such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), rubber, etc.

[0166] The vent 250 can be opened or closed within the cover 230 and in conjunction with the internal pressure of the housing 220. If the internal pressure of the housing 220 increases to a specific value (e.g., a set value) or greater due to overcurrent, thermal runaway, etc., the vent 250 can provide a discharge path for gases, flames, smoke, etc. generated inside the housing 220. The vent 250 can be located between a pair of terminals 240. As described below, the longitudinal direction of the vent 250 can be parallel to a second direction, and the width direction of the vent 250 can be parallel to a first direction.

[0167] In one embodiment, the exhaust port 250 may include an exhaust hole 251 and an exhaust plate 252.

[0168] The vent 251 may have the shape of a hole extending through the cover 230 in a third-order upward direction. The lower side of the vent 251 may connect to the interior space of the housing 220. The upper side of the vent 251 may connect to the exterior space of the cover 230. The cross-sectional shape of the vent 251 may be varied to any suitable shape, such as elliptical, circular, polygonal, etc. In one embodiment, the area, length, and width of the vent 250, as described below, may be the same as the area, length, and width of the vent 251, respectively. In one embodiment, the ratio of the area of ​​the vent 250 (i.e., the vent 251) to the area of ​​the upper surface of the cover 230 may be 0.05 or greater, or 0.1.

[0169] The vent plate 252 can open or close in response to changes in the internal pressure of the housing 220. That is, if the battery cell 200 is operating normally, the vent plate 252 can remain closed and seal the housing 220. If the internal pressure of the housing 220 increases to a certain value (e.g., a set value) or greater due to overcharging, fire, or other reasons of the battery cell 200, the vent plate 252 can open, and the vent plate 252 can discharge flames, gases, smoke, etc. generated inside the housing 220 to the outside of the housing 220.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the exhaust plate 252 can be formed into a flat plate shape. The exhaust plate 252 can be configured to face the exhaust hole 251 from the third-side upward. In one embodiment, the thickness of the exhaust plate 252 can be less than the thickness of the cover plate 230. The upper surface of the exhaust plate 252 can be connected to the lower surface of the cover plate 230 by any of various types of connection methods (such as welding, bolting, mating, etc.). In one embodiment, the exhaust plate 252 can be inserted into the exhaust hole 251, and the peripheral surface of the exhaust plate 252 can be connected to the inner surface of the exhaust hole 251.

[0171] In one embodiment, an exhaust recess 253 may be formed in the exhaust plate 252 to induce a breakage operation of the exhaust plate 252. According to one embodiment, the exhaust recess 253 may have a groove shape, which recesses into the interior of the exhaust plate 252 from the outer surface of the exhaust plate 252. However, the shape of the exhaust recess 253 is not limited to this. Figure 2 The shape shown can be any of the various patterns on the exhaust plate 252.

[0172] The battery cell 200 can be provided as a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of battery cells 200 can be arranged in multiple rows inside the housing 100. As an example, the plurality of battery cells 200 can be arranged in multiple rows in a first direction inside the housing body 110. However, the arrangement of the plurality of battery cells 200 is not limited to this; the plurality of battery cells 200 can be arranged in multiple rows in a second direction inside the housing body 110, or arranged in multiple rows in both the first and second directions.

[0173] The multiple battery cells 200 can be electrically connected via busbar B.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the busbar B can be formed of a conductive material (such as copper, nickel, aluminum, etc.). The busbar B can be disposed between the battery cell 200 and the housing cover 120. The two or opposite ends of the busbar B can be respectively connected to a terminal 240 of either one of a pair of battery cells 200 arranged adjacent to each other in a first direction and to a terminal 240 of the other battery cell in the pair. Depending on the type of terminals 240 connected to the two or opposite ends of the busbar B, the busbar B can be connected in series or in parallel to the battery cells 200 arranged adjacent to each other in the first direction. However, the shape of the busbar B is not limited to this. Figure 1 The shape shown can be changed to any suitable shape that allows for electrical connection of adjacent battery cells 200.

[0175] Busbar B can be provided as multiple busbars. Each busbar B can be connected to the terminal 240 of a different battery cell 200. The number of busbars B can be changed to any number depending on the number of battery cells 200, the series or parallel connection structure of the battery cells 200, etc.

[0176] The retainer 300 can be disposed inside the housing 100 and configured as a cover 230 facing the battery cell 200. The retainer 300 can support the busbar B and protect the battery cell 200 from external impacts, etc., inside the housing 100. The retainer 300 can be formed of an insulating material. Therefore, the retainer 300 can be electrically insulated from the battery cell 200 and the busbar B.

[0177] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the installation state of the retainer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view showing the installation state of the retainer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of a retainer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] Reference Figures 5 to 7 According to one embodiment, the retainer 300 includes a first retainer body 310 and a second retainer body 320.

[0179] The first retainer body 310 can form the outer surface of one side of the retainer 300 and can be configured to face the terminal 240 of the battery cell 200.

[0180] The first retainer body 310 can be provided as a pair of first retainer bodies. The pair of first retainer bodies 310 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in a second direction. Each first retainer body 310 can be configured to face one of a pair of terminals 240 in the battery cell 200 that are spaced apart from each other in a second direction.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first retainer body 310 may have the shape of a strip extending in a first direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of the first retainer body 310 may be the first direction. The terminals 240 of the plurality of battery cells 200 arranged in the first direction may be configured to face the single first retainer body 310 in a third direction.

[0182] The length of the first retainer body 310 in the second direction may be greater than the length of the terminal 240 in the second direction. In one embodiment, the ratio of the area of ​​the upper surface of the terminal 240 to the area of ​​the entire upper surface of the cover plate 230 may be in the range of 0.1 to 0.15. In one embodiment, the ratio of the total area of ​​the lower surfaces of the pair of first retainer bodies 310 to the total area of ​​the upper surfaces of the cover plate 230 of the plurality of battery cells 200 may be in the range of 0.1 to 0.15. Therefore, the first retainer body 310 may cover the entire upper surface of the terminal 240 protruding from the cover plate 230.

[0183] The first retainer body 310 can support the busbar B. For example, a retainer hole 311 extending through the first retainer body 310 in a third direction can be formed in the first retainer body 310. Multiple retainer holes 311 can be provided. These multiple retainer holes 311 can be arranged in a first direction. Each retainer hole 311 can be positioned facing one of the different terminals 240 arranged in the first direction. The busbar B can be connected to the first retainer body 310 by any of various types of connection methods (such as bolt connection, mating, hook connection, etc.). Two or opposite ends of the busbar B can contact adjacent terminals 240 through the retainer holes 311 and can be connected to the terminals 240 by welding or the like.

[0184] The second retainer body 320 may extend from the first retainer body 310 and may be configured to face the inner sheet 400, which will be described below. The second retainer body 320 may contact the inner sheet 400 and may press the inner sheet 400 toward the cover plate 230.

[0185] The second retainer body 320 can be provided as a pair of second retainer bodies. Each of the pair of second retainer bodies 320 may extend from a corresponding one of the first retainer bodies 310.

[0186] According to one embodiment, a second retainer body 320 can extend from a first retainer body 310 in a direction parallel to a second direction. The pair of second retainer bodies 320 can extend from the inner surfaces of the pair of first retainer bodies 310 in the second direction to face the pair of first retainer bodies 310. The length of the second retainer body 320 in the first direction can be equal to the length of the first retainer body 310 in the first direction. Therefore, the cover 230 of a plurality of battery cells 200 arranged in the first direction can be configured to face a single second retainer body 320.

[0187] The lower surfaces of the pair of second retainer bodies 320 may be configured to face the upper surface of the cover plate 230 located between the pair of terminals 240. The pair of second retainer bodies 320 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in a second direction. In one embodiment, the distance between the pair of second retainer bodies 320 may be greater than the length of the vent 250 in the second direction, i.e., the length of the vent hole 251 in the second direction. Therefore, if the vent 250 is open, the second retainer bodies 320 may not interfere with the gas or flame discharged through the vent 250. In one embodiment, the ratio of the total area of ​​the lower surfaces of the pair of first retainer bodies 310 and the pair of second retainer bodies 320 to the total area of ​​the upper surface of the cover plate 230 (i.e., the ratio of the area of ​​the lower surface of the retainer 300 to the total area of ​​the upper surface of the cover plate 230) may be in the range of 0.1 to 0.95.

[0188] The upper surface of the pair of second retainer bodies 320 can be positioned at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) from the lower surface of the housing cover 120.

[0189] The retainer 300 according to one embodiment may also include reinforcing ribs 330.

[0190] The reinforcing rib 330 can enhance the inherent rigidity of the retainer 300. Therefore, the reinforcing rib 330 can prevent or substantially prevent the second retainer body 320 from deforming due to the pressure of the gas discharged through the exhaust port 250 when the exhaust port 250 is open, and prevent or substantially prevent the obstruction of the gas or flame discharge path due to the deformation of the second retainer body 320.

[0191] According to one embodiment, a reinforcing rib 330 can protrude from the second retainer body 320 to the housing cover 120. The longitudinal direction of the reinforcing rib 330 can be a first direction. The upper end of the reinforcing rib 330 can be located at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) from the housing cover 120. In one embodiment, the height of the reinforcing rib 330 in a third direction can be 40 mm or less.

[0192] In one embodiment, the reinforcing rib 330 may be formed of the same material as the first retainer body 310 and the second retainer body 320, or in another embodiment, it may be formed of a material having greater rigidity than the first retainer body 310 and the second retainer body 320, such as steel.

[0193] The reinforcing rib 330 may be provided as a plurality of reinforcing ribs. One or more reinforcing ribs 330 may be formed on each second retainer body 320. In one embodiment, two or more reinforcing ribs 330 are formed on each second retainer body 320, and the plurality of reinforcing ribs 330 formed on each second retainer body 320 may be arranged at a specific distance (e.g., a set distance) in a first direction.

[0194] Although an example of a retainer 300 including a reinforcing rib 330 according to one embodiment has been described above, the retainer 300 is not limited thereto and may not include the reinforcing rib 330.

[0195] The internal sheet 400 can be disposed between the cover plate 230 and the retainer 300. The internal sheet 400 can cover the vent 250 of the battery cell 200. In the event of thermal runaway of any battery cell 200, the internal sheet 400 can prevent flames, gases, etc. emitted from the corresponding battery cell 200 from moving into the vent 250 of the adjacent battery cell 200.

[0196] Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view showing the arrangement of internal sheets according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A schematic plan view of the internal panel configuration.

[0197] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 According to this embodiment, the inner sheet 400 may have the shape of a flat plate disposed perpendicular to a third direction. The lower surface of the inner sheet 400 may be disposed on the upper surface of the cover plate 230 located between a pair of terminals 240.

[0198] The central portion of the inner sheet 400 can be configured to face the exhaust port 250 in a third-direction upward direction. The length of the inner sheet 400 in the second direction can be greater than the length of the exhaust port 250 in the second direction. Therefore, two or opposite ends of the inner sheet 400 spaced apart from each other in the second direction can be configured to face the upper surface of the cover plate 230 located outside the two or opposite ends of the exhaust port 250. In one embodiment, the length of the inner sheet 400 in the first direction can be equal to or greater than the sum of the lengths of the plurality of cover plates 230 in the first direction. Therefore, the plurality of exhaust ports 250 arranged in the first direction can all be covered by the inner sheet 400.

[0199] The upper surface of the inner piece 400 can contact the lower surface of the second retainer body 320. Two or opposite ends of the upper surface of the inner piece 400 can each contact one of the lower surfaces of the pair of second retainer bodies 320. The second retainer bodies 320 can press the inner piece 400 toward the cover plate 230. Therefore, if the vent 250 is opened, the inner piece 400 will not separate from the cover plate 230 due to the pressure of gas or the like discharged through the corresponding vent 250.

[0200] The inner sheet 400 may include any of various types of insulating materials, such as materials with high heat resistance and insulation, such as mica, aerosol, foam, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber, silicone foam, etc.

[0201] In one embodiment, the thickness of the inner sheet 400 in the third direction can be 0.1 mm or greater and 3 mm or less. In one embodiment, the ratio of the area of ​​the inner sheet 400 to the total area of ​​the upper surface of the cover plate 230 of the plurality of battery cells 200 can be 0.05 or greater and 0.85 or less.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the internal sheet 400 may include an internal sheet vent 410.

[0203] The internal plate vent 410 can be configured to face the vent 250 of the battery cell 200. If the vent 250 of the battery cell 200 is opened, the internal plate vent 410 can cause the central region of the internal plate 400 facing the corresponding vent 250 to open or break.

[0204] According to one embodiment, the internal plate exhaust port 410 may include a plurality of internal plate exhaust recesses 411.

[0205] In one embodiment, the internal sheet venting recess 411 may have the shape of a groove recessed from the outer surface of the internal sheet 400 into the interior of the internal sheet 400. That is, the internal sheet venting recess 411 can cause the internal sheet 400 to open by the pressure of gas or the like discharged through the venting port 250 by reducing the thickness of the portion of the internal sheet 400 facing the venting port 250. In one embodiment, the shape of the internal sheet venting recess 411 may be the same as the shape of the venting recess 253 formed in the venting plate 252. However, the shape of the internal sheet venting recess 411 is not limited to this and can be changed to any suitable shape.

[0206] The plurality of internal plate venting recesses 411 can be arranged in a first direction. Each internal plate venting recess 411 can be configured as a venting port 250 facing different battery cells 200 in a third direction.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the battery module may also include an adhesive member 500.

[0208] An adhesive member 500 can be disposed between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320 to fix the inner sheet 400 between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320. The adhesive member 500 can enhance the bonding strength between the inner sheet 400 and the cover plate 230, as well as the bonding strength between the inner sheet 400 and the second retainer body 320, through its inherent adhesive force. Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200, the adhesive member 500 can prevent or substantially prevent the release of the tight contact between the inner sheet 400 and the cover plate 230 due to the pressure of gases such as those discharged through the vent 250.

[0209] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the configuration of the internal pieces; Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the installation state of an adhesive member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] Reference Figures 1 to 11 The internal sheet 400 according to this embodiment may also include a connecting hole 420.

[0211] The connecting hole 420 can be spaced apart from the internal sheet vent 410 and guide the position of the adhesive component 500.

[0212] According to one embodiment, the connecting hole 420 may have the shape of a hole that passes vertically through the inner sheet 400 in a third direction. The connecting hole 420 may have the shape of an elongated hole, the longitudinal length of which extends in a first direction. In one embodiment, the ratio of the length of the connecting hole 420 in the first direction to the length of the inner sheet 400 in the first direction may be 0.95 or less. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole 420 in the horizontal direction may be formed to have a constant dimension in a third direction.

[0213] The connecting hole 420 and the internal sheet vent 410 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction. In one embodiment, the connecting hole 420 may be provided as a pair of connecting holes. The pair of connecting holes 420 may be configured to face each other in the second direction, with the internal sheet vent 410 inserted between them. In one embodiment, the distance between the connecting hole 420 and the internal sheet vent 410 may be 1 mm or greater. Therefore, the connecting hole 420 can prevent or substantially prevent the adhesive member 500 from interfering with the gas discharged through the vent 250.

[0214] According to one embodiment, the adhesive member 500 may include an adhesive material such as polyurethane, epoxy resin, cyanoacrylate, etc. The adhesive member 500 can pass through the inner sheet 400 via the connection hole 420. As an example, the adhesive member 500 can be injected into the connection hole 420 in a liquid state and then cured. The lower and upper ends of the adhesive member 500 can be fixed to the upper surface of the cover plate 230 and the lower surface of the second retainer body 320, respectively. The peripheral surface of the adhesive member 500 can be fixed to the inner surface of the inner sheet 400, which is configured to surround the connection hole 420. Therefore, the adhesive member 500 can firmly fix the inner sheet 400 between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320.

[0215] Figure 12 and Figure 13 Each is shown Figure 10 A view showing a modified example of the connection hole.

[0216] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The connecting hole 420 can be formed such that its cross-sectional area in the horizontal direction varies toward the cover plate 230. As an example, such as Figure 12 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole 420 in the horizontal direction can increase toward the cover plate 230, and as... Figure 13As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole 420 in the horizontal direction can be reduced toward the cover plate 230. Therefore, the connecting hole 420 can increase the bonding area between the adhesive member 500 and the cover plate 230 or between the adhesive member 500 and the second retainer body 320 and prevent or substantially prevent the adhesive member 500 from separating due to vertical movement between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320.

[0217] Here, the operation of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0218] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the operating state of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0219] Reference Figures 1 to 14 If the vent 250 of the battery cell 200 opens due to overcurrent or thermal runaway, gas and flame are discharged through the vent 250 of the battery cell 200.

[0220] The internal plate 400 is positioned so that the internal plate venting recess 411 of the battery cell 200, which is open due to the gas pressure, faces the venting port 250.

[0221] As an example, the inner plate 400 positioned around the inner plate exhaust notch 411 can bend toward the space between a pair of second retainer bodies 320 due to gas pressure and can open the exhaust path for gas and flame.

[0222] In this process, the inner plate 400 positioned around the inner plate venting recess 411 can be configured to face the inner surface of a pair of second retainer bodies 320.

[0223] Therefore, the gas and flame discharged through the exhaust port 250 do not come into direct contact with the inner surfaces of the pair of second retainer bodies 320, thus preventing or substantially preventing damage to the second retainer bodies 320.

[0224] Furthermore, when the inner sheet 400 is opened, the pressure applied to the second retainer body 320 through the inner sheet 400 can be absorbed by the inherent rigidity of the reinforcing rib 330, and the second retainer body 320 can maintain its initial shape without deformation.

[0225] When a pair of second retainer bodies 320 are spaced apart from each other in the second direction, gas and flame can move into the space between the inner plate 400 and the housing cover 120 without interfering with the second retainer bodies 320.

[0226] Gas and flame that move into the space between the inner plate 400 and the housing cover 120 are not moved into the exhaust ports 250 of the other battery cells 200 except for the battery cells 200 with the exhaust port 250 open, and can be discharged to the outside of the battery module by providing exhaust holes in the housing cover 120 or housing body 110.

[0227] Here, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0228] The battery module according to this embodiment may differ from the battery module according to the aforementioned embodiment of this disclosure in the configuration of the connection hole 420.

[0229] Therefore, when describing the battery module according to this embodiment, only the configuration of the connection hole 420, which is different from the configuration of the battery module according to the aforementioned embodiment of this disclosure, will be described.

[0230] The description of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the other components of the battery module according to this embodiment.

[0231] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the connection holes according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] Reference Figure 15 According to this embodiment, the connection hole 420 may include a plurality of unit connection holes 421.

[0233] Unit connection hole 421 may be a unit structure of connection hole 420, forming part of connection hole 420. In one embodiment, connection hole 420 may refer to a group of holes having two or more unit connection holes 421. Each of a pair of connection holes 420 disposed on both sides or opposite sides of the internal plate exhaust port 410 may include two or more unit connection holes 421.

[0234] According to one embodiment, the unit connection hole 421 may have an elliptical shape having a major axis in the extending direction (i.e., the first direction) of the connection hole 420. In one embodiment, the length of each unit connection hole 421 in the first direction may be greater than the width of the exhaust port 250 in the first direction. Multiple unit connection holes 421 may be arranged at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in the first direction.

[0235] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 15 A schematic diagram illustrating a modified example of the unit connection hole.

[0236] Reference Figure 16According to one embodiment, the unit connection hole 421 can be formed with a circular cross-section. In one embodiment, the diameter of the unit connection hole 421 can be 5 mm or larger.

[0237] In one embodiment, the adhesive member 500 can be injected into each of the different unit connection holes 421 and pass through the different unit connection holes 421 to secure the inner sheet 400 between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320.

[0238] Therefore, the battery module according to one embodiment can further reduce the consumption of adhesive components 500.

[0239] Here, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0240] The battery module according to this embodiment may differ from the battery module according to the aforementioned embodiment of this disclosure in the configuration of the internal sheet 400.

[0241] Therefore, when describing the battery module according to this embodiment, only the configuration of those internal pieces 400 that are different from those of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0242] The description of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the other components of the battery module according to this embodiment.

[0243] Figure 17 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 18 It is shown Figure 17 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration; Figure 19 It is shown Figure 17 A schematic plan view of the battery module configuration; Figure 20 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of an internal sheet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0244] Reference Figures 17 to 20 According to one embodiment, the internal sheet 400 can be provided as a plurality of internal sheets. Although Figures 17 to 20 An example is shown in which the inner sheet 400 is formed as a pair of inner sheets, but the inner sheet 400 is not limited to this and can be formed as three or more inner sheets.

[0245] According to one embodiment, a plurality of internal pieces 400 can be stacked from the cover plate 230 toward the retainer 300. That is, the plurality of internal pieces 400 can be arranged sequentially in a third-order direction between the cover plate 230 and the second retainer body 320.

[0246] As an example, the inner sheet 400 can be provided as a pair of inner sheets, the first inner sheet of which can be disposed on the cover plate 230 and can be in direct contact with the upper surface of the cover plate 230. The other inner sheet 400 of the pair of inner sheets 400 can be disposed on the first inner sheet 400 and can be in direct contact with the lower surface of the second retainer body 320.

[0247] Therefore, the battery module according to one embodiment can enhance the insulation and fire resistance of the battery cell 200 through the plurality of internal sheets 400, and more effectively prevent or substantially prevent each internal sheet 400 from being damaged due to thermal runaway of the battery cell 200.

[0248] The area of ​​each of the plurality of inner pieces 400 can be reduced toward the retainer 300. As an example, the inner pieces 400 can be formed as a pair, and the area of ​​the inner piece 400 in direct contact with the cover plate 230 can be formed to be larger than the area of ​​the inner piece 400 in direct contact with the second retainer body 320. The lower surface of the second retainer body 320 facing the inner pieces 400 can be formed in a stepped shape corresponding to the height of each inner piece 400. Therefore, each of the plurality of inner pieces 400 can be stably contacted with a single second retainer body 320.

[0249] According to this embodiment, the internal plate exhaust port 410 may also include a plurality of internal plate exhaust holes 412.

[0250] The internal sheet vent 412 may have a shape that extends vertically through the internal sheet 400 in a third-order direction. That is, the internal sheet vent 412 can fully open the portion of the internal sheet 400 facing the vent 250. In one embodiment, the area of ​​the internal sheet vent 412 may be larger than the area of ​​the vent 250, and in another embodiment, it may be larger than the area of ​​the vent 251.

[0251] The plurality of internal plate vent holes 412 can be arranged in a first direction. Each internal plate vent hole 412 can be configured as a vent 250 facing different battery cells 200 in a third direction.

[0252] As an example, the internal vent 410 of the internal piece 400 that directly contacts the cover plate 230 may consist only of an internal vent recess 411, and the internal vent 410 of the internal piece 400 that directly contacts the second retainer body 320 may consist only of an internal vent hole 412. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The internal vent 410 of the internal piece 400 that directly contacts the cover plate 230 may consist only of an internal vent hole 412, or the internal vent 410 of the internal piece 400 that directly contacts the second retainer body 320 may consist only of an internal vent recess 411, or each internal piece 400 may include both an internal vent recess 411 and an internal vent hole 412.

[0253] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation state of an adhesive member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0254] Reference Figure 21 According to one embodiment, the connection holes 420 provided in a plurality of internal sheets 400 can be configured to face each other in the third-order direction. The connection holes 420 provided in the plurality of internal sheets 400 can be connected to each other. In one embodiment, the areas of the connection holes 420 provided in the plurality of internal sheets 400 can be formed differently.

[0255] According to one embodiment, the adhesive member 500 can pass through the plurality of inner sheets 400 simultaneously (e.g., at the same time) through a plurality of connecting holes 420 facing each other in a third-party upward direction. Two or opposite ends of the adhesive member 500 can be fixed to the upper surface of the cover plate 230 and the lower surface of the second retainer body 320, respectively, to simultaneously (e.g., at the same time) secure the plurality of inner sheets 400.

[0256] Here, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0257] Figure 22 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 23 It is shown Figure 22 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration.

[0258] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 23 The battery module according to this embodiment may also include an outer sheet 600.

[0259] The battery module according to this embodiment may differ from the battery module according to the aforementioned embodiment of this disclosure in that the battery module further includes an external sheet 600.

[0260] Therefore, when describing the battery module according to this embodiment, only the external sheet 600, which is not described in the battery module of the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure and is different from the battery module of the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure, will be described.

[0261] The description of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the other components of the battery module according to this embodiment.

[0262] The outer sheet 600 can be disposed between the retainer 300 and the housing 100. The outer sheet 600 can be disposed outside the retainer 300 to protect the retainer 300, terminals 240, busbar B, etc. from flames, gases, etc. emitted from the battery cell 200 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200.

[0263] An external sheet 600 according to one embodiment may include a first external sheet 610.

[0264] The first outer piece 610 can be disposed between the first retainer body 310 and the housing cover 120.

[0265] Each of the first outer pieces 610 according to one embodiment may have a flat plate shape perpendicular to a third direction. The longitudinal direction of the first outer piece 610 may be a first direction. The first outer piece 610 may be configured to face the first retainer body 310 in a third direction. The first outer piece 610 may cover the terminal 240 and the busbar B on the first retainer body 310. The first outer piece 610 may be configured to directly face the terminal 240 or the busbar B through the retainer hole 311.

[0266] The lower surface of the first outer piece 610 can be mounted on and supported by the first retainer body 310. The first outer piece 610 can be fixed to the first retainer body 310 by any of various types of connection methods (such as adhesion, bolt connection, etc.).

[0267] The first outer sheet 610 may include any of various types of insulating materials, such as materials with high heat resistance and insulation, such as mica, aerosol, foam, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber, silicone foam, etc.

[0268] In one embodiment, the thickness of the first outer sheet 610 in the third direction can be 0.1 mm or more and 3 mm or less. In one embodiment, the ratio of the area of ​​the first outer sheet 610 to the total area of ​​the cover plate 230 of the plurality of battery cells 200 can be 0.15 or more.

[0269] The first outer piece 610 can be provided as a pair of first outer pieces. The pair of first outer pieces 610 can be positioned apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in a second direction. Each first outer piece 610 can be configured to face a different first retainer body 310 in a third direction.

[0270] Here, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0271] The battery module according to this embodiment may differ from the battery module according to the aforementioned embodiment of this disclosure in the configuration of the retainer 300.

[0272] Therefore, when describing the battery module according to this embodiment, only the configuration of the retainer 300 that is different from that of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0273] The description of the battery module according to the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the other components of the battery module according to this embodiment.

[0274] Figure 24 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 25 It is shown Figure 24 A schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module configuration.

[0275] Reference Figure 24 and Figure 25 The retainer 300 according to this embodiment may further include a third retainer body 340.

[0276] The third retainer body 340 can be disposed between a pair of second retainer bodies 320.

[0277] According to one embodiment, the third retainer body 340 may have the shape of a flat plate disposed perpendicular to a third direction. The third retainer body 340 may be disposed between the inner surfaces of the pair of second retainer bodies 320. Two or opposite ends of the third retainer body 340 may each be connected to one of the inner surfaces of the pair of second retainer bodies 320. The third retainer body 340 may be configured to face the central region of the inner sheet 400 in a third direction.

[0278] The third retainer body 340 may include a plurality of retainer vents 341.

[0279] The retainer vent 341 in the third retainer body 340 provides a guide for the exhaust of gas and flame through the vent 250.

[0280] Each of the retainer vents 341 according to one embodiment may have the shape of a hole that passes vertically through the third retainer body 340 in a third-order direction. The retainer vents 341 may be configured to face the vent 250 of the battery cell 200 in a third-order direction, with an internal sheet vent recess 411 and / or internal sheet vent hole 412 of the internal sheet 400 inserted between the retainer vents 341 and the vent 250 of the battery cell 200. In one embodiment, the area of ​​the retainer vent 341 may be larger than the area of ​​the vent 250, and in another embodiment, larger than the area of ​​the vent hole 251.

[0281] Multiple retainer vents 341 may be arranged at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in a first direction. Each retainer vent 341 may be configured to face a different vent 250. However, the number of retainer vents 341 and the distance between adjacent retainer vents 341 may vary depending on the number of vents 250, the distance between vents 250, etc.

[0282] Here, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0283] The battery module according to this embodiment can be used with... Figure 22 and Figure 24 The difference in the battery module of the embodiment shown is the configuration of the external sheet 600.

[0284] Therefore, when describing the battery module according to this embodiment, only those according to... Figure 22 and Figure 24 The configuration of those different external plates 600 of the battery module in the illustrated embodiment.

[0285] according to Figure 22 and Figure 24 The description of the battery module of the illustrated embodiment can be applied to the other components of the battery module according to this embodiment.

[0286] Figure 26 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 27 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of an external sheet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0287] Here, an example in which the retainer 300 includes a third retainer body 340 will be described, but the retainer 300 is not limited thereto and may not include the third retainer body 340.

[0288] Reference Figure 26 and Figure 27 The outer sheet 600 according to this embodiment may further include a second outer sheet 620.

[0289] The second outer sheet 620 may be configured to be spaced apart from the first outer sheet 610 and face the pair of second retainer bodies 320 and the third retainer body 340. In the case where the retainer 300 does not include the third retainer body 340, the second outer sheet 620 may face only the pair of second retainer bodies 320.

[0290] According to one embodiment, the second outer sheet 620 may have a flat plate shape perpendicular to a third direction. The longitudinal direction of the second outer sheet 620 may be a first direction. Two or opposite ends of the second outer sheet 620 spaced apart from each other in the second direction may each be configured to face one of a pair of second retainer bodies 320 in a third direction. The central portion of the second outer sheet 620 may be configured to face the third retainer body 340 in a third direction. Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200, the second outer sheet 620 can protect the second retainer body 320 and the third retainer body 340 from the effects of gases and flames discharged through the vent 250.

[0291] The lower surface of the second outer piece 620 can be mounted on and supported by the second retainer body 320 and the third retainer body 340. The second outer piece 620 can be fixed to the second retainer body 320 and the third retainer body 340 by any of various types of connection methods (such as adhesion, bolt connection, etc.).

[0292] The second outer sheet 620 may include any of various types of insulating materials, such as materials with high heat resistance and insulation, such as mica, aerosol, foam, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber, silicone foam, etc.

[0293] In one embodiment, the thickness of the second outer sheet 620 in the third direction can be 0.1 mm or more and 3 mm or less.

[0294] The second outer sheet 620 may include an outer sheet exhaust port 621.

[0295] The external plate exhaust port 621 can provide the exhaust of gas and flame discharged through the exhaust port 250 in the second external plate 620.

[0296] According to one embodiment, the external sheet vent 621 may have a shape that passes vertically through the second external sheet 620 in a third-order direction. The external sheet vent 621 may be configured to face the vent 250 of the battery cell 200 in a third-order direction, with the internal sheet vent recess 411 and / or internal sheet vent hole 412 of the internal sheet 400 and the retainer vent 341 of the third retainer body 340 inserted between the external sheet vent 621 and the vent 250 of the battery cell 200. In one embodiment, the area of ​​the external sheet vent 621 may be larger than the area of ​​the vent 250, and in another embodiment, larger than the area of ​​the vent hole 251.

[0297] The external plate exhaust port 621 can be provided as a plurality of external plate exhaust ports. The plurality of external plate exhaust ports 621 can be arranged at a distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in a first direction. Each external plate exhaust port 621 can be configured to face a different exhaust port 250. The number of external plate exhaust ports 621 and the distance between adjacent external plate exhaust ports 621 can vary depending on the number of exhaust ports 250, the distance between exhaust ports 250, etc.

[0298] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, by arranging an internal sheet having high heat resistance and insulation at a position facing the vent of the battery cell, chain ignition due to thermal runaway of any one battery cell can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0299] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, by securing the inner sheet more firmly between the battery cell and the retainer by an adhesive member, it is possible to prevent or substantially prevent the inner sheet from rising or separating due to the pressure of gas discharged through the vent.

[0300] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, by arranging a plurality of internal sheets between the battery cell and the retainer, chain ignition can be prevented or substantially prevented even if the internal sheets are damaged in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell.

[0301] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, by arranging an external sheet outside the retainer, damage to the retainer and terminals by flames or gases generated in the event of thermal runaway of a battery cell can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0302] However, the aspects and effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of this disclosure other technical aspects and effects not mentioned.

[0303] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to some embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these embodiments are illustrative and it will be understood that those skilled in the art can derive various modifications and equivalent other embodiments based on these embodiments.

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: case; A plurality of battery cells, each of the plurality of battery cells including an electrode assembly, a housing housing the electrode assembly, a cover sealing the housing, a pair of terminals protruding from the cover and an exhaust port between the pair of terminals, the plurality of battery cells being arranged in the housing in a first direction; A retainer, located within the housing and facing the cover plate; as well as An inner sheet is placed between the cover plate and the retainer to cover the vent.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the retainer comprises: A pair of first retainer bodies, facing the terminal and spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and A pair of second retainer bodies extend from the pair of first retainer bodies in the second direction and face the inner sheet.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein each of the pair of second retainer bodies contacts the inner sheet and presses the inner sheet toward the cover plate.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein the pair of second retainer bodies are spaced apart from each other in the second direction, and the distance between the pair of second retainer bodies is greater than the length of the vent in the second direction.

5. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein the retainer further comprises a third retainer body between the pair of second retainer bodies.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein the third retainer body includes a plurality of retainer vents, the plurality of retainer vents are arranged in the first direction, and each of the plurality of retainer vents faces the vent of the corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

7. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein the housing comprises: The main body of the casing houses the multiple battery cells; and A housing cover, connected to the housing body and facing the cover plate, and The retainer further includes reinforcing ribs that protrude from the second retainer body toward the housing cover.

8. The battery module of claim 2, wherein the inner sheet is provided as a plurality of inner sheets stacked from the cover plate toward the retainer.

9. The battery module of claim 8, wherein the area of ​​each of the plurality of internal sheets decreases toward the retainer.

10. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein the internal sheet includes an internal sheet exhaust port facing the exhaust port.

11. The battery module of claim 10, further comprising an adhesive member between the cover plate and the second retainer body and for securing the inner sheet.

12. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein the internal sheet further includes a connecting hole spaced apart from the exhaust port of the internal sheet. The adhesive member passes through the inner sheet via the connecting hole, and The opposite ends of the adhesive members are respectively fixed to the cover plate and the second retainer body.

13. The battery module of claim 12, wherein the connection hole and the internal plate vent are spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

14. The battery module of claim 12, wherein the connection hole extends in the first direction.

15. The battery module according to claim 12, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole in the horizontal direction increases or decreases toward the cover plate.

16. The battery module of claim 12, wherein the connection hole includes a plurality of unit connection holes arranged in the first direction.

17. The battery module of claim 2, further comprising an outer sheet between the retainer and the housing.

18. The battery module of claim 17, wherein the outer sheet comprises a pair of first outer sheets spaced apart from each other in the second direction and respectively facing the pair of first retainer bodies.

19. The battery module of claim 18, wherein the outer sheet further comprises a second outer sheet between the pair of first outer sheets and facing the pair of second retainer bodies.

20. The battery module of claim 19, wherein the second outer sheet includes a plurality of outer sheet vents, the plurality of outer sheet vents being arranged in the first direction, each of the plurality of outer sheet vents facing the vent of a corresponding battery cell among the plurality of battery cells.

Images