Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module case accommodating the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of vent holes formed in one side surface of the module case; and a barrier member disposed inside the module case, dividing the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups, and allowing the plurality of cell groups to communicate with the vent holes corresponding to each of the cell groups.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a battery module capable of suppressing heat propagation within the battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0060562, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on May 8, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Secondary batteries, offering high applicability across product categories and possessing electrical properties such as high energy density, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. Such secondary batteries are gaining attention as a new energy source for enhancing environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, not only because of their major advantage of significantly reducing fossil fuel use but also because they do not produce byproducts from energy consumption.

[0004] Currently widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells can be connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charging / discharging capacity, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to configure a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or battery pack can be configured differently depending on the required output voltage or charging / discharging capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, because battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade when used in environments exceeding suitable temperatures. Furthermore, if thermal control is not properly maintained at the appropriate temperature, there remains a potential risk of accidental ignition or explosion. Additionally, the battery modules are configured such that the battery cells are densely housed within the module housing. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in any one battery cell, the high-temperature gases and flames emitted from it could propagate to adjacent battery cells, potentially leading to a chain reaction that could cause a battery cell explosion, posing a significant safety risk.

[0006] Therefore, traditional battery modules are configured to separate or isolate battery cells by inserting thermal barriers, such as aerogel or silicone, between them. However, these thermal barriers are susceptible to flame damage and have low rigidity, posing a high risk of damage should a battery cell explode. Furthermore, the shape of the thermal barriers can deform due to the expansion of the battery cells, the release of gases, or the high pressure caused by flames, making it difficult to prevent physical damage to the battery cells.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can more reliably separate battery cells to prevent gas or flame from spreading to other battery cells within the battery module and causing thermal runaway, even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, thereby suppressing and delaying heat propagation. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure is designed to address the problems of related technologies, and therefore relates to providing a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells by clearly separating and disconnecting the battery cells.

[0010] This disclosure also provides a battery pack and a vehicle that include such a battery module.

[0011] However, the technical problems that this disclosure seeks to solve are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the invention below that there are other problems not mentioned above.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is configured including: a plurality of battery cells; a module housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of vent holes formed on one side of the module housing; and a barrier member disposed inside the module housing and configured to divide the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups and to communicate each of the plurality of cell groups with the vent holes corresponding to each of the plurality of cell groups.

[0014] The barrier component can be configured by repeatedly bending a single plate.

[0015] The barrier member can be configured by multiple bending to form a plurality of first spaces configured to accommodate the battery cell assembly and a second space configured to separate the plurality of first spaces from each other.

[0016] The first space can be configured to have an opening facing the exhaust port.

[0017] The second space can be configured to have an opening on the opposite side facing the exhaust port.

[0018] Multiple vents can be provided, and the second space can be located between adjacent vents.

[0019] Cooling medium may be provided in the second space.

[0020] The module housing may include a partition wall configured to be inserted into the second space.

[0021] The barrier member can be configured in a bent shape and can include a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, the horizontal portion being configured to extend flatly along the stacking direction of the battery cells such that the cell assembly is placed on the horizontal portion, and the vertical portion being configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cells.

[0022] The vertical section can be arranged between adjacent battery cell groups.

[0023] The vertical portion can be configured as a double-overlapping structure.

[0024] The end of the vertical section can be configured to contact one side surface of the module housing.

[0025] The end of the vertical portion can be configured to be partially bent inward.

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

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery pack according to this disclosure is provided.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] According to one aspect of this disclosure, even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, the diffusion of gas or flame into other battery cells within the battery module and the resulting thermal runaway can be effectively prevented or delayed by clearly dividing and separating the cell groups within the battery module using barrier members. Therefore, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0030] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since various materials such as air layers, cooling media, and insulating materials can be provided between the cell packs by barrier members configured with multiple bends, heat transfer between adjacent battery cells can be prevented more effectively.

[0031] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since the barrier member is configured in a Z-shape through multiple bends, multiple cell groups can be divided, thereby improving productivity when manufacturing battery modules.

[0032] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since the high-temperature gas or flame generated from the battery cells inside the battery module can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module, the propagation of thermal runaway due to increased internal pressure of the battery module can be prevented or delayed.

[0033] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, since the barrier members fix the cell assembly, the deformation or damage of the battery cells can be prevented when thermal runaway occurs inside the battery module or when the battery cells expand. Therefore, the structural stability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0034] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, events such as fires or explosions caused by thermal runaway of a battery pack that includes or is equipped with multiple battery modules can be prevented or delayed.

[0035] Furthermore, this disclosure may have various other effects, and these effects will be described in the corresponding embodiments, or descriptions of effects that can be readily deduced by those skilled in the art will be omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A in the image.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a barrier member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 12 This is a partially exploded cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general and dictionary meaning, but rather as being interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the basis of the principle that allows the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation.

[0053] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and does not represent the full scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0054] Furthermore, this disclosure may include various embodiments. Redundant descriptions of substantially the same or similar configurations will be omitted from the various embodiments, and descriptions will be based on the differences between them.

[0055] At the same time, although directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that these terms are merely for the convenience of interpretation with reference to the accompanying drawings and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the observer's position.

[0056] For example, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure can represent the left-right direction, that is, the stacking direction of the battery cells; the Y-axis direction can represent the front-back direction, that is, the length direction of the battery cells, which is perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane); and the Z-axis direction can represent the up-down direction (vertical direction), that is, the height direction of the battery cells, which is perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0057] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0058] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 may include a battery cell 100, a module housing 200, and a barrier member 300.

[0059] Multiple battery cells 100 can be provided. These multiple battery cells 100 can be arranged to be stacked in one direction. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 100 can be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0060] The battery cell 100 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery cell 100 may include an electrode assembly and a cell housing housing the electrode assembly. The cell housing may have a receiving portion configured to receive the electrode assembly and a sealing portion formed by thermally fusing the edges of the receiving portion. The sealing portion may be provided on three of the four edges of the battery cell 100.

[0061] Furthermore, each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may have an electrode lead 110. The electrode lead 110 may be connected to an electrode assembly and may extend to the outside of the cell housing, serving as an electrode terminal.

[0062] A pair of electrode leads 110 may be provided, and the pair of electrode leads 110 may extend outward from both ends of the battery cell 100, i.e., extend in the length direction (±Y-axis direction). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 110 may be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead. The battery cell 100 may be configured such that the two electrode leads 110 are located only at one end in the Y-axis direction, for example, at one end in the +Y-axis direction, as needed.

[0063] The battery cell 100 can be configured to stand upright with its edge, excluding the sealing portion, facing downwards. For example... Figure 2As shown, multiple battery cells 100 can be arranged vertically (Z-axis direction) and side-by-side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). In this case, each battery cell 100 can have a sealing portion facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upward direction (+Z-axis direction), and a storage portion facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0064] With the battery cell 100 configured as described above, the discharge direction to one side can be easily controlled, and edge cooling can be performed through the surface excluding the sealing portion, thereby ensuring cooling performance.

[0065] This disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of battery cell 100, and can be applied to various battery cells 100 known at the time of filing of this disclosure. In this embodiment, although a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking will be described as shown, it will be apparent that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied to battery cell 100.

[0066] Furthermore, the battery cell 100 disclosed herein can represent a single battery or a group of batteries.

[0067] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 The battery module 10 of this disclosure may further include a busbar frame assembly 400. The busbar frame assembly 400 may be disposed inside the module housing 200 and configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells 100. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the busbar frame assembly 400 can be connected to the front and rear sides of multiple battery cells 100.

[0068] The busbar frame assembly 400 may include a busbar frame 410 and a plurality of busbars 420. The busbar frame 410 may be configured to substantially connect to the front and rear sides of a plurality of battery cells 100. The busbar frame 410 may have a slit through which the electrode leads 110 of the battery cells 100 extend outward in a +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. Additionally, the busbar frame 410 may be formed of an electrically insulating material (such as a plastic material) and configured such that the busbars 420 can be attached to an outer surface.

[0069] As a device for connecting battery cells 100 in series and / or parallel, multiple busbars 420 can be formed of a metallic material (such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc.) and can be configured in the shape of bars. The electrode leads 110 of the battery cells 100 can pass through the slits of the busbar frame 410 and extend to the outside of the busbar frame 410, and the extended portions can be attached to the surface of the busbars 420 by welding or the like.

[0070] The module housing 200 can be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells 100. Specifically, an internal space can be formed in the module housing 200, and the plurality of battery cells 100 can be accommodated in the internal space.

[0071] Vent holes H can be formed in the module housing 200. Multiple vent holes H can be arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions). Vent holes H can be configured to discharge exhaust gases generated from the battery cell 100 to the outside of the module housing 200.

[0072] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the vent H can be formed on the upper side of the module housing 200. Therefore, the battery module 10 can vent upwards through the vent H.

[0073] The barrier member 300 can be disposed inside the module housing 200. The barrier member 300 can be configured to group multiple battery cells 100. The barrier member 300 can be configured to divide the multiple battery cells 100 into multiple cell groups G. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the barrier member 300 can be configured to group the battery cells 100 into groups of four. That is, a cell group G may include four battery cells 100.

[0074] The barrier member 300 can be formed of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the barrier member 300 can be formed of mica material. Therefore, the barrier member 300 can be configured to maintain a sealed structure without deformation even under high temperature and high pressure.

[0075] Furthermore, the barrier member 300 can be made of a compressible material. For example, the barrier member 300 can be any of silicone, aerogel, polyurethane, etc. Therefore, the barrier member 300 can be configured to be in close contact with the adjacent battery cell 100.

[0076] Furthermore, the barrier member 300 may include a material with electrical insulating properties. Therefore, electrical insulation can be ensured between the battery cells 100.

[0077] Simultaneously, each cell group G can be provided with a vent H. Furthermore, the multiple vents H can be separated or divided by a barrier member 300. The barrier member 300 can be configured such that each of the multiple cell groups G is in communication with the vent H corresponding to each of the multiple cell groups G.

[0078] More specifically, the barrier member 300 can be configured to cover some of the six sides of the cell assembly G. For example, the barrier member 300 can be configured to cover the left, right, and bottom sides of the cell assembly G. In this case, the side of the cell assembly G not covered by the barrier member 300 (e.g., the top side of the cell assembly G) can be positioned facing the vent H.

[0079] Therefore, each cell group G can be connected to the vent H, so that... Figure 3 As indicated by the thick arrow, exhaust gases or flames generated by thermal events occurring in the cell assembly G can be discharged to the outside of the module housing 200 through the exhaust port H corresponding to the cell assembly.

[0080] According to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, multiple cell packs G can be divided or separated to prevent the spread of gas or flame generated in any cell pack G to another adjacent cell pack G, thereby preventing heat propagation. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells 100 can be prevented or delayed. Thus, the safety and reliability of the battery module 10 can be ensured.

[0081] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, high-temperature gas or flame generated from the battery cell 100 inside the battery module 10 can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the vent H. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway due to increased internal pressure of the battery module 10 can be prevented or delayed.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since each cell group G is only connected to its corresponding vent H, gas or flame generated in a particular cell group G can be discharged to the outside of the module housing 200 only through the vent H. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells 100 can be prevented more effectively.

[0083] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 The module housing 200 may include a housing body 210 and a top plate 220. The housing body 210 may be configured to have at least an upper opening. For example, the housing body 210 may have an upper opening as well as a front opening and a rear opening. That is, the housing body 210 may be configured as a U-shaped frame.

[0084] The housing body 210 can be configured as a rigid and heat-resistant metallic material to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cell 100.

[0085] A top plate 220 can be provided to form the upper side of the module housing 200. The top plate 220 can be welded to the housing body 210. In this case, the top plate 220 and the housing body 210 can be welded to each other. In this case, the top plate 220 and the housing body 210 can be connected to form a square tube with a front opening and a rear opening.

[0086] The module housing 200 may include end plates 230 disposed on the front and rear openings of the housing body 210. The end plates 230 may be welded to the housing body 210. Although not shown in the drawings for convenience, the end plates 230 may be configured such that, for example, the inner surface is made of an insulating material and the outer surface is made of a metallic material. Furthermore, the end plates 230 may be partially provided with holes or slits to expose components that need to be exposed to the outside, such as the positive and negative terminals or connectors of the battery module 10.

[0087] Furthermore, the module housing 200 can be formed in various other shapes. For example, the module housing 200 may include a box-shaped lower housing with an upper opening and an upper cover configured to cover the upper opening of the lower housing. Alternatively, the module housing 200 may be configured as a single frame.

[0088] In this case, such as Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the vent H can be formed in the top plate 220. That is, the vent H can be provided above the cell assembly G. In this case, the barrier member 300 can be configured not to cover the upper side of the cell assembly G. In other words, the barrier member 300 can be configured such that the upper side of the cell assembly G is exposed. Therefore, exhaust gases or flames generated in the cell assembly G can be discharged upward through the vent H provided above the cell assembly G.

[0089] High-temperature gases or flames, such as exhaust gases generated from battery cell 100, have a strong upward tendency and can move toward the empty space above battery cell 100. In this case, according to the above-described embodiment of the present disclosure, since the exhaust port H is located above battery cell 100, the flow of heat such as exhaust gases or flames to other battery cells 100 can be minimized.

[0090] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A in the image, and Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a barrier member included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Besides... Figures 1 to 3 In addition, it will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The structure of the barrier component 300 is described in more detail.

[0091] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5The barrier member 300 can be constructed by bending a single plate multiple times. The barrier member 300 can also be constructed by bending a single plate multiple times in opposite directions. Furthermore, the barrier member 300 can be constructed by bending a single plate at 180 degrees. Therefore, the barrier member 300 can be configured in a zigzag shape. Additionally, the barrier member 300 can be configured in a Z-shape.

[0092] Multiple barrier members 300 having the above-described structure can be disposed inside the module housing 200. Alternatively, such as Figure 3 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, a single barrier member 300 may be disposed inside the module housing 200 to cover all battery cells 100.

[0093] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the barrier member 300 is configured in a Z-shape through multiple bends, multiple cell groups G can be easily divided. Therefore, productivity can be improved when manufacturing the battery module 10.

[0094] Furthermore, multiple bends of the barrier member 300 can create multiple spaces. More specifically, the barrier member 300 can be constructed in the form of multiple bends to form a first space S1 and a second space S2. That is to say, the first space S1 and the second space S2 can be formed by bending the barrier member 300 multiple times.

[0095] The first space S1 can be configured to accommodate the battery cell assembly G. The first space S1 can be configured to allow the battery cell assembly G to be housed therein. Multiple first spaces S1 can be formed. Therefore, each battery cell assembly G can be disposed in each first space S1.

[0096] The second space S2 can be configured to separate multiple first spaces S1 from each other. The second space S2 can be disposed between adjacent first spaces S1. Multiple second spaces S2 can be formed. The first spaces S1 and second spaces S2 can be arranged alternately along the stacking direction of the battery cells 100. An air layer can be formed in the second space S2. In the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, due to the provision of the second space S2, heat propagation between adjacent cell groups G can be suppressed or delayed.

[0097] Simultaneously, each of the plurality of exhaust ports H can be disposed in the first space S1. In this case, the first space S1 can have an opening facing the exhaust port H. For example, as Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the vent H can be positioned above the cell assembly G, and the first space S1 can have an opening facing upwards towards the cell assembly G. Therefore, exhaust gases or flames generated from the cell assembly G within the first space S1 can be discharged upwards through the vent H.

[0098] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the first space S1 can be configured to communicate with the exhaust port H, such that exhaust gases generated from the battery cell group G in the first space S1 can be guided and discharged only toward the exhaust port H, rather than moving toward other battery cell groups G.

[0099] The second space S2 can be configured to have an opening on the opposite side facing the exhaust port H. For example, as Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the second space S2 may have an opening facing the lower side of the cell assembly G.

[0100] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the first space S1 for accommodating the battery cell 100 can be reliably divided or separated by the second space S2. As a result, even if a thermal event occurs in some of the battery cells 100 inside the battery module 10, it can effectively prevent or delay the spread of gas or flame to other battery cells 100 inside the battery module 10 and prevent thermal runaway.

[0101] As described above, multiple exhaust ports H can be provided. In this case, the second space S2 can be located between adjacent exhaust ports H. According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the first space S1 and the exhaust ports H corresponding to the first space S1 can be more reliably separated and isolated by the second space S2.

[0102] More specifically, refer to Figures 3 to 5 The barrier member 300 can be configured to be bent and can include a horizontal portion 310 and a vertical portion 320. That is, the horizontal portion 310 and the vertical portion 320 can be defined by bending the barrier member 300 multiple times.

[0103] The horizontal portion 310 can be configured such that the cell assembly G is mounted thereon. The horizontal portion 310 can be configured to extend flatly along the stacking direction of the battery cells 100. The horizontal portion 310 can be configured in the form of a flat plate.

[0104] The vertical portion 320 can be configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cell 100. The vertical portion 320 can extend upward from the horizontal portion 310. The angle between the vertical portion 320 and the horizontal portion 310 can be approximately 90 degrees.

[0105] The first space S1 can be formed by one horizontal portion 310 and two vertical portions 320. The vertical portions 320 can be disposed between adjacent cell groups G. The vertical portions 320 can be disposed on both the left and right sides of the cell group G. That is, the vertical portions 320 can be configured to divide multiple cell groups G.

[0106] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the cell pack G is configured to be at least partially surrounded by the vertical portion 320 and the horizontal portion 310, heat propagation between the battery cells 100 can be suppressed.

[0107] Furthermore, the vertical portion 320 can be configured to fix the cell assembly G from both sides. According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when the battery cell 100 expands, the barrier member 300 can apply pressure to the cell assembly G from both sides, thereby suppressing the expansion of the battery cell 100. Therefore, the barrier member 300 can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cell 100.

[0108] In addition, refer to Figure 5 In part B, the vertical portion 320 can be configured as a double-overlapping structure. The vertical portion 320 may include a first vertical portion 321 and a second vertical portion 322. The first vertical portion 321 and the second vertical portion 322 can be formed by bending a single plate at approximately 180 degrees. According to... Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be bent twice at approximately 90 degrees to form a first vertical portion 321 and a second vertical portion 322. One end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to be closed.

[0109] In this configuration, the first vertical portion 321 and the second vertical portion 322 can be spaced apart from each other. The space formed between the first vertical portion 321 and the second vertical portion 322 can be defined as a second space S2.

[0110] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Simultaneously, various materials can fill the second space S2 formed by the vertical portion 320, which is configured such that one end is closed. For example, as... Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the cooling medium 500 can be disposed within the second space S2. That is, a cooling path can be formed within the second space S2.

[0112] In this case, although not shown in the figure, the cooling medium 500 can also be disposed between the bottom surface of the module housing 200 and the horizontal portion 310 of the barrier member 300. That is, a cooling path can be formed at the bottom of the battery cell 100, and this cooling path can communicate with the second space S2, thereby cooling not only the lower side of the cell assembly G, but also the left and right sides of the cell assembly G.

[0113] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the cooling medium 500 can be disposed between the cell packs G to cool both sides of the cell pack G in the event of a thermal event in the battery cell 100. Therefore, heat propagation between the battery cells 100 inside the battery module 10 can be delayed more effectively.

[0114] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the first space S1 where the battery cell 100 is disposed as described above has an opening toward the exhaust port H, and the second space S2 where the cooling medium 500 is disposed has an opening toward the opposite side of the exhaust port H, so that the cooling path and the exhaust path can be reliably separated.

[0115] Alternatively, unlike the embodiments described above, an insulating material may be provided in the second space S2. Alternatively, a fire-resistant pad may be provided in the second space S2. Alternatively, a thermosetting resin may be provided in the second space S2. Furthermore, various materials may be provided in the second space S2.

[0116] According to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, various materials, such as cooling media or insulating materials, can be inserted between adjacent cell groups G through barrier members 300 constructed with multiple bends. Therefore, heat transfer between adjacent battery cells 100 can be prevented more effectively.

[0117] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] The barrier member 300 can be configured to extend further outward than the battery cell 100, for example, upward. Specifically, the vertical portion 320 of the barrier member 300 can be configured to extend further upward than the battery cell 100. The barrier member 300 can also be configured to extend further upward than the housing portion of the battery cell 100. That is, the vertical height of the barrier member 300 can be configured to be greater than the vertical height of the battery cell 100.

[0119] For ease of assembly or to accommodate assembly tolerances, one side of the module housing 200 and the battery cell 100 can be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. In this case, if a thermal event occurs in one battery cell 100, exhaust gases or flames may diffuse to another adjacent battery cell 100 through the predetermined space formed between the battery cell 100 and the module housing 200. However, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the barrier member 300 can more reliably separate and isolate the battery cells 100, thereby preventing exhaust gases or flames from moving beyond the barrier member 300.

[0120] In addition, such as Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier member 300 can be configured to at least partially contact one side of the module housing 200. Specifically, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to contact one side of the module housing 200. For example, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to contact the top plate 220. The end of the vertical portion 320 can indicate a portion of the barrier member 300 that is bent at a 180-degree angle.

[0121] The barrier member 300 can make surface contact with one side of the module housing 200. The side of the module housing 200 and the barrier member 300 can be configured to make surface contact along the length of the battery cell 100.

[0122] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the gap between the barrier member 300 and the module housing 200 is minimized, the space through which the exhaust gas can flow is reduced, making it more reliable to prevent thermal runaway from propagating to the adjacent battery cell 100.

[0123] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to be partially bent. For example, as Figure 8 As shown in part C, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to be partially bent inward. The end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured such that its width decreases when the battery cell 100 expands. That is, as the battery cell 100 expands, the vertical portion 320 can be compressed from both sides, allowing the bent portion of the vertical portion 320 to be folded. The vertical portion 320 can be configured such that when the battery cell 100 switches to its normal state, the width of the vertical portion 320 returns to its initial state.

[0125] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when the battery cell 100 expands, the expansion pressure can be absorbed by the barrier member 300, which is configured such that the end of the vertical portion 320 bends inward. Therefore, when the battery cell 100 expands, deformation or damage to the battery cell 100 can be prevented. Thus, the structural stability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0126] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the end of the vertical portion 320 may be configured to at least partially protrude toward the exhaust port H. For example, as Figure 9As shown in part D, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured such that a portion of it bends outward. The end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to be inclined toward the exhaust port H. Therefore, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to guide exhaust gas or flame toward the exhaust port H.

[0128] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, through the outward bending portion at the end of the vertical portion 320, exhaust gas or flame can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the exhaust port H without moving to another cell group G.

[0129] Furthermore, the end of the vertical portion 320 can be configured to contact the inner surface of the module housing 200. In this case, the airtight space can be formed by adjacent vertical portions 320 among a plurality of vertical portions 320. Here, the airtight space refers to the space in which the movement of exhaust gases, etc., is restricted based on a vertical portion 320 disposed between adjacent cell groups G in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0130] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, upward exhaust can be generated more effectively. If the gas generated inside the battery module 10 is exhausted in all directions, the time required to exhaust the exhaust gas may become longer, which may significantly reduce the safety of the battery module 10. However, according to this embodiment, the exhaust gas, etc., can be quickly guided to the exhaust port H, and diffusion in all directions within the module housing 100 can be minimized.

[0131] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module with a barrier member applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the vertical portion 320 can be configured to open at least partially by venting gas or a flame. For example, as in Figure 13 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the vertical section 320 can be configured to be melted by the heat of the discharged gas. More specifically, a portion of the vertical section 320 can be opened to form an opening O. The opening O formed by melting due to heat can be configured to discharge the cooling medium 500 disposed inside the second space S2 to the outside of the vertical section 320. In particular, the opening O can be provided at the end of the vertical section 320.

[0133] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell 100, the opening O provided on one side of the vertical portion 320 can be opened, allowing the cooling medium 500 to be discharged to the outside of the vertical portion 320 through the opening O (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 10(The dashed arrow in the image). Furthermore, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100 within the first space S1, the discharged cooling medium 500 can move to the first space S1 where the battery cell 100 is located, thereby controlling the thermal event in the battery cell 100. Therefore, the battery cell 100 can be rapidly cooled, thereby suppressing thermal runaway of the battery module 10.

[0134] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 12 This is a partially exploded cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the module housing 200 and the barrier member 300 can be configured to be connected to each other. For example, as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the housing body 210 can be configured to be at least partially inserted into the second space S2. The housing body 210 may have a partition wall 211 configured to be inserted into the second space S2. The partition wall 211 can be fitted into the second space S2 formed in the vertical portion 320.

[0136] According to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, the assembly position of the barrier member 300 can be guided during the process of connecting the barrier member 300 to the housing body 210, thereby improving assemblability.

[0137] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the partition wall 211 is inserted into the second space S2 formed by the barrier member 300, the fixing force between the module housing 200 and the barrier member 300 can be improved. Therefore, even if thermal runaway occurs inside the battery module 10, deformation or damage to the barrier member 300 can be prevented, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the battery module 10.

[0138] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, the possibility that high-temperature and high-pressure exhaust gases or flames may push out the vertical portion 320 of the barrier member 300 or that the vertical portion 320 may deform and bend due to the internal pressure of the exhaust gases, thereby causing heat transfer to other cell groups G, can be reduced.

[0139] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the top plate 220 and the barrier member 300 can be configured to be connected to each other. For example, as Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, the top plate 220 may have a protrusion 221. The protrusion 221 may be configured such that at least a portion of it protrudes inward from the inner surface of the top plate 220.

[0141] Multiple protrusions 221 can be provided along one direction. One direction can be defined as the direction in which the battery cell 100 is arranged, i.e., the left-right direction (parallel to the X-axis). In addition, the protrusions 221 can be configured to extend along the length direction (front-back direction) of the battery cell 100.

[0142] Furthermore, the end of the vertical portion 320 of the barrier member 300 can be configured to be inserted into the space between adjacent protrusions 221. That is, the protrusions 221 can be configured to fix the end of the vertical portion 320 from both sides in the left-right direction. In this case, the protrusions 221 can be configured to correspond to the length of the vertical portion 320.

[0143] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the barrier member 300 can be supported by the protrusions 221 on both sides, the fixing force between the barrier member 300 and the top plate 220 can be further improved. Therefore, the arrangement of the battery cell 100 and the barrier member 300 can be stably maintained.

[0144] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the assembly position of the top plate 220 can be guided during the process of connecting the top plate 220 to the housing body 210, thereby improving assemblability.

[0145] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, the possibility of high-temperature and high-pressure exhaust gases or flames pushing out the vertical portion 320 of the barrier member 300 or the barrier member 300 deforming and bending due to the internal pressure of the exhaust gases, thereby causing heat transfer to other battery cells 100, can be reduced. Therefore, when thermal runaway propagation occurs in the battery module 10, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells 100 can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0146] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing force between the end of the barrier member 300 and the top plate 220 can be reliably ensured. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment, the multiple battery cells 100 can be more reliably divided and separated, thereby further improving the heat propagation prevention performance between the battery cells 100.

[0147] Meanwhile, the protrusion 221 can be integrally formed with the top plate 220. That is, the protrusion 221 can be integrally constructed with the bottom surface of the top plate 220. Specifically, the top plate 220 can be compressed so that the protrusion 221 is integrally formed with the top plate 220. When the top plate 220 is compressed, the protrusion 221 can be formed to extend in a straight line along the compression direction.

[0148] According to the above-described embodiment of this disclosure, since the protrusion 221 is integrally provided with the top plate 220, the process of assembling the protrusion 221 with the top plate 220 can be omitted, and defects at the connection between the protrusion 221 and the top plate 220 can be minimized.

[0149] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Reference Figure 14 The battery pack 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery modules 10 as described above according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. The battery pack 1 according to the present disclosure may also include a battery pack housing 2 for housing a BMS (Battery Management System) for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules, a current sensor, a fuse, etc., and the above-mentioned components.

[0151] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] Reference Figure 15 The vehicle 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 1 or battery modules 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle 3 according to the present disclosure may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 3 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle 3 can be operated by electricity supplied from the battery pack 1 or battery module 10.

[0153] As described above, although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the technical concept of this disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: Multiple battery cells; A module housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of vent holes formed on one side of the module housing; as well as A barrier member is disposed inside the module housing and configured to divide the plurality of battery cells into a plurality of cell groups and to communicate each of the plurality of cell groups with a vent corresponding to each of the plurality of cell groups.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The barrier component is configured by repeatedly bending a single plate.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The barrier member is configured by multiple bending to form a plurality of first spaces configured to accommodate the battery cell assembly and a second space configured to separate the plurality of first spaces from each other.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, in, The first space is configured to have an opening facing the exhaust port.

5. The battery module according to claim 3, in, The second space is configured to have an opening on the opposite side facing the exhaust port.

6. The battery module according to claim 3, in, The plurality of vents are arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells, and The second space is located between adjacent exhaust ports.

7. The battery module according to claim 3, in, The second space contains a cooling medium.

8. The battery module according to claim 3, in, The module housing includes a partition wall configured to be inserted into the second space.

9. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The barrier member is configured in a bent shape and includes: A horizontal portion, configured to extend flatly along the stacking direction of the battery cells, such that the cell assembly is mounted on the horizontal portion; and The vertical portion is configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cell.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, in, The vertical section is positioned between adjacent battery cell groups.

11. The battery module according to claim 9, in, The vertical section is configured as a double-overlapping structure.

12. The battery module according to claim 9, in, The end of the vertical section is configured to contact one side surface of the module housing.

13. The battery module according to claim 9, in, The end of the vertical section is configured to be partially bent inward.

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

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

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