Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is provided. The battery module comprises: a housing; a plurality of battery cells accommodated in the case, and each battery cell including a case having a vent hole and a cell terminal protruding from the case; a bus bar electrically connecting the cell terminal of one of the plurality of battery cells and the cell terminal of another of the plurality of battery cells; and a bus bar holder including a holder body supporting the bus bar and including a holder through hole corresponding to the vent hole, and a first protection member including a thermal insulation material and positioned between the holder body and the housing to face the housing.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0137949, filed on October 10, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] An aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a battery module. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, with the rapid proliferation of 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.

[0004] Secondary batteries are widely used not only in small devices (such as portable electronic devices) to power or store energy, but also in medium to large devices (such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS)). In medium to large devices, multiple electrically connected battery cells can be configured into a battery module to enhance the output and / or capacity of the secondary battery.

[0005] When the battery module is charging or discharging, high-temperature gases and flammable substances may be emitted to the outside of the battery cells due to abnormal internal reactions or external impacts. These gases and substances may cause thermal deformation of the busbar holder supporting the busbar. If the busbar holder deforms due to heat, a short circuit may occur in the busbar or electronic components housed within the holder, potentially causing sparks and possibly leading to a large fire or explosion.

[0006] The aforementioned information disclosed in this background section is provided to enhance the understanding of the background art of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute related art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery module is provided that includes a busbar retainer in which deformation and damage due to high-temperature gases and flammable substances emitted from the battery cells are suppressed.

[0008] However, the technical aspects and objectives to be achieved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects and objectives not described above through the following description of the disclosure.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery module includes: a housing; a plurality of battery cells housed in the housing, each battery cell including a housing having a vent and a cell terminal protruding from the housing; a busbar electrically connecting a cell terminal of one of the plurality of battery cells to a cell terminal of another of the plurality of battery cells; and a busbar retainer including a retainer body and a first protective member, the retainer body supporting the busbar and including a retainer through-hole corresponding to the vent, the first protective member including a heat-insulating material and located between the retainer body and the housing to face the housing.

[0010] The first protective component can be attached to the retainer body.

[0011] The first protective component can be in close contact with the outer periphery of the vent hole of the housing.

[0012] The vent hole and the corresponding retainer through hole can be aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body.

[0013] Thermal insulation materials can include any of mica, aerogel, and ceramics.

[0014] The first protective component may not seal the retainer through hole.

[0015] The first protective member may include: a first base portion located between the retainer body and the housing; and a first partition portion that bends from the first base portion and extends in a direction away from the housing, and has a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner circumferential surface of the retainer through hole is covered.

[0016] The retainer body may include: a plate portion, stacked with a first base portion; and a side edge portion, protruding from the plate portion such that a retainer through-hole extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion and in a direction away from the housing.

[0017] The first dividing section can contact the side edge section.

[0018] The thickness of the first substrate portion can be greater than the thickness of the first partition portion.

[0019] The thickness of the first partition can decrease as the distance from the vent increases.

[0020] The battery module may also include a second protective member, which includes a heat-insulating material and is located on the opposite side of the first protective member, with the retainer body located between the second protective member and the first protective member.

[0021] The second protective member may include a second base portion that is stacked with and attached to the plate portion.

[0022] The second protective member may also include a second partition portion that bends from the second base portion and extends in a direction away from the housing, and has a closed-curve profile shape to surround the side edge portion.

[0023] The second dividing section can contact the side edge section.

[0024] The second protective member may also include a wing-shaped portion that connects to the second base portion and covers the busbar.

[0025] The wing-shaped portion can be spaced apart from the main body of the retainer.

[0026] The insulation material of the second protective component may include any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic.

[0027] The retainer body may include synthetic resin.

[0028] The first protective member can be inserted into a mold of the molded retainer body and joined to the retainer body by insert molding in which molten synthetic resin is injected into the mold. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art through a further detailed description of some exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 yes FIG. 1 An exploded perspective view of the battery module, showing the battery module without the cover; FIG. 3 It is shown separately. FIG. 2 A perspective view of a single battery cell; FIG. 4 It is shown schematically. FIG. 3 A cross-sectional view of the structure of a single battery cell; FIG. 5 It is along FIG. 1 A sectional view taken by line A1-A1 in the diagram; FIG. 6 It is along FIG. 1 A sectional view taken by line B1-B1 in the diagram; FIG. 7 It shows the view from below. FIG. 1 A perspective view of the busbar holder; FIG. 8 yes FIG. 1 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 9This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 It is along FIG. 9 A sectional view taken by line A2-A2 in the diagram; FIG. 11 It is along FIG. 9 A sectional view taken by line B2-B2 in the diagram; FIG. 12 It shows the view from above. FIG. 9 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 13 It is shown FIG. 12 An enlarged perspective view of the first protective component; FIG. 14 It shows the view from below. FIG. 9 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 15 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 16 It is along FIG. 15 A sectional view taken by line A3-A3 in the diagram; FIG. 17 It is along FIG. 15 A sectional view taken by line B3-B3 in the diagram; FIG. 18 It shows the view from below. FIG. 15 A perspective view of the busbar holder; FIG. 19 It shows the view from above. FIG. 15 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 20 It shows the view from below. FIG. 15 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 21 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a view showing the second protective member separated from the holder body; FIG. 22 It is along FIG. 21 A sectional view taken by line A4-A4 in the diagram; FIG. 23 It is along FIG. 21 A sectional view taken by line B4-B4 in the diagram; FIG. 24 Viewed from above FIG. 21 A perspective view of the busbar retainer, and a view showing the second protective member attached to the retainer body; FIG. 25 It shows the view from above. FIG. 21 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; and FIG. 26 It shows the view from below. FIG. 21 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Here, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail 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 conventional or dictionary meanings, but are to be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical concept of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor can be his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms.

[0031] The embodiments described in this specification and the constructions shown in the accompanying drawings are provided as some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and do not necessarily represent all technical concepts, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it is understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist to replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0032] It is 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 directly 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.

[0033] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals denote 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, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." When expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." are placed after a list of elements, they modify the entire list of elements, not individual elements within that list. When a list of elements A, B, and C is specified using 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 A, B, and C,” or “at least one selected from A, B, and C,” the phrase may refer to any suitable combination (or subset) of A, B, and C, and all suitable combinations (or subsets), such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term “use” and its variations may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize” and its variations, respectively. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree and are intended to explain the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0034] It is 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 are not 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, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0035] 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 and another element(s) as shown in the figure. It is understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would subsequently be oriented “above” or “above” other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0036] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit the disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well. It is further understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0037] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value 1.0 and the described maximum value 10.0 (and including both the described minimum value 1.0 and the described maximum value 10.0) (i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0), such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, in order to clearly describe any subranges contained within the range explicitly described herein, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims).

[0038] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are identical or substantially identical. Therefore, the phrase “identical” or “substantially identical” can include cases with a deviation considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, this can mean that it is uniform in terms of the mean.

[0039] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0040] When any element is described as being arranged (or located or placed) "above (or below)" or "on (or under)" a component, this can mean that the element is positioned to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the component, and it can also mean that other components may be located between the component and any element arranged (or located or placed) on (or below) the component.

[0041] Additionally, it is understood that when an element is referred to as being "joined," "linked," or "connected" to another element, the elements can be directly "joined," "linked," or "connected" to each other, or there can be one or more intermediary elements between them through which the one element can be "joined," "linked," or "connected" to the other element. Furthermore, when a part is referred to as being "electrically joined" to another part, the part can be directly electrically connected to the other part, or there can be one or more intermediary parts between them such that the part and the other part are indirectly electrically connected to each other.

[0042] Throughout this specification, when “A and / or B” is stated, unless otherwise stated, it means A, B, or A and B. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, unless otherwise stated, it means C or greater and D or less.

[0043] The terminology used in this specification is used to describe embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 1 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 yes FIG. 1 An exploded perspective view of the battery module, showing the battery module without the cover; FIG. 3 It is shown separately. FIG. 2 A perspective view of a single battery cell; FIG. 4 It is shown schematically. FIG. 3 A cross-sectional view of the structure of a single battery cell; FIG. 5 It is along FIG. 1 A sectional view taken by line A1-A1 in the diagram; FIG. 6 It is along FIG. 1 A sectional view taken by line B1-B1 in the diagram; FIG. 7 It shows the view from below. FIG. 1 A perspective view of the busbar retainer; and FIG. 8 yes FIG. 1 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer.

[0045] Here, an example of a prismatic battery, which is a lithium-ion secondary battery, will be described. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the secondary battery may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0046] Reference FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery module 10A includes a housing 11, a plurality of battery cells 100, a busbar 20, and a busbar holder 200. The plurality of battery cells 100 can be arranged in one direction (e.g., along a direction based on...). FIG. 1 and FIG. 2Arranged in rows (in the X direction).

[0047] In an embodiment, the housing 11 may include a pair of end plates 12, a pair of side plates 15, a cover 19, and a plurality of battery cell supports 80. The pair of end plates 12 may be spaced apart from each other, with the plurality of battery cells 100 positioned between the pair of end plates 12. One of the end plates 12 may be configured to cover the front surface 105 of the foremost battery cell 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0048] One of the pair of end plates 12 can be configured to cover the rear surface 106 of the rearmost battery cell 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100 (see FIG. 5 ).

[0049] A pair of side plates 15 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction, with a plurality of battery cells 100 located between the pair of side plates 15. The pair of side plates 15 may be configured to cover a pair of side surfaces 107 of the plurality of battery cells 100 respectively and face each other. The front and rear ends (i.e., the two side ends or opposite side ends in the X direction) of the pair of side plates 15 may be joined to the two side ends or opposite side ends of a pair of end plates 12 in the Y direction by means such as welding, applying adhesive, etc.

[0050] The cover 19 can cover the busbar holder 200, so that the busbar holder 200 and the busbar 20 disposed on the plurality of battery cells 100 are not exposed.

[0051] Multiple battery cell holders 80 can be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the number of battery cells 100. Each of the battery cell holders 80 can be attached to the lower surface 108 of the corresponding battery cell 100 (see...). FIG. 4 The lower surface 108 is contacted and supported. The battery cell support 80 may extend in the Y direction. The two ends or opposite ends of the battery cell support 80 in the longitudinal width direction may be attached to and supported by a pair of side plates 15.

[0052] exist FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 In this context, the positive (+) and negative (-) directions parallel to the X-axis are referred to as the first direction, the positive (+) and negative (-) directions parallel to the Y-axis are referred to as the second direction, and the positive (+) and negative (-) directions parallel to the Z-axis are referred to as the third direction. For example, the first direction can be the longitudinal direction of the battery module 10A, the second direction can be the width direction of the battery module 10A, and the third direction can be the height direction of the battery module 10A. The first direction can also be the direction in which multiple battery cells 100 are arranged in a row.

[0053] Reference FIG. 3 and FIG. 4The battery cell 100 may include an electrode assembly 150, a housing 102, a cell terminal 130, and a cell vent 120.

[0054] The electrode assembly 150 may include a positive electrode 160, a negative electrode 170, and a diaphragm 180 disposed between the positive electrode 160 and the negative electrode 170.

[0055] The positive electrode 160 and the negative electrode 170 may include coated portions and uncoated portions 160a and 170a. The coated portions are areas where active material is applied to a current collector formed by a thin metal foil, and the uncoated portions 160a and 170a are areas where no active material is applied.

[0056] In one embodiment, after the diaphragm 180, which serves as an insulator, is positioned between the positive electrode 160 and the negative electrode 170, the electrode assembly 150 can be wound into an electrode core shape. However, the electrode assembly 150 is not limited to this shape and can be formed as a stacked structure in which the positive electrode 160 and the negative electrode 170, formed of multiple sheets, are alternately stacked with the diaphragm 180 between them.

[0057] A single electrode assembly 150 can be formed, or multiple electrode assemblies 150 can be provided.

[0058] The housing 102 can form the entire exterior of the battery cell 100. In an embodiment, the housing 102 can have a hexahedral shape with six surfaces. For example, the housing 102 can have a cuboid shape. The electrode assembly 150 can be housed within the housing 102.

[0059] The housing 102 may include a housing body 103 and a cover 110 that closes the opening side of the housing body 103. The housing body 103 may include a conductive metallic material, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel.

[0060] The cover plate 110 can be formed to have, for example, a flat plate shape. The cover plate 110 can be disposed on the housing body 103 to cover the opening side of the housing body 103. The cover plate 110 can be attached to the housing body 103 by any of various types of joining methods (such as welding, bolting, assembly, etc.). The cover plate 110 can be formed of at least one conductive material including aluminum, aluminum alloy, etc.

[0061] Individual terminal 130 may protrude from housing 102. For example, individual terminal 130 may be mounted to pass through cover 110 and protrude outward from cover 110. A pair of individual terminals 130 protruding outward from cover 110 may be formed. The pair of individual terminals 130 may be independently connected to the positive electrode 160 and negative electrode 170 of electrode assembly 150. Therefore, the pair of individual terminals 130 may be used as the positive electrode terminal and negative electrode terminal of battery cell 100, respectively.

[0062] For example, a single terminal 130 can be electrically connected to a first current collector 191 (here referred to as the positive electrode current collector) and a second current collector 192 (here referred to as the negative electrode current collector), the first current collector 191 and the second current collector 192 being soldered to the uncoated portion 160a of the positive electrode or the uncoated portion 170a of the negative electrode. For example, a pair of single terminals 130 can be soldered to the positive electrode current collector 191 and the negative electrode current collector 192, respectively. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto; for example, the single terminal 130 and the current collectors 191 and 192 can be integrally joined.

[0063] The cover plate 110 may also include an electrolyte inlet 118, in which a sealing stop (not shown) may be installed. The cover plate 110 may also include a vent 115.

[0064] The vent 115 may be a through hole extending through the cover plate 110 in the thickness direction. The vent 115 provides a path through which high-temperature gases and flammable substances formed inside the housing 102 are discharged from the battery cell 100 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 100.

[0065] The individual cell vent 120 can open and close in response to changes in the internal pressure of the housing 102. During normal operation of the battery cell 100, the individual cell vent 120 can remain closed to seal the housing 102. When the internal pressure of the housing 102 rises above a certain value (e.g., a set value) due to overcharging of the battery cell 100, ignition, or other reasons, the individual cell vent 120 can open. Therefore, high-temperature gases and flammable substances generated inside the housing 102 can be discharged to the outside of the housing 102.

[0066] Insulating members 193 and 194 can be installed between the electrode assembly 150 and the cover plate 110. Insulating members 193 and 194 may include a first lower insulating member 193 and a second lower insulating member 194. The first lower insulating member 193 and the second lower insulating member 194 can be installed between the electrode assembly 150 and the cover plate 110.

[0067] The separators 195 and 196 can be mounted such that the first end of the first side surface facing the electrode assembly 150 can be mounted between the insulating members 193 and 194 and the individual terminal 130.

[0068] The separators 195 and 196 may include a first separator 195 and a second separator 196. The first separator 195 and the second separator 196 may be mounted to face the electrode assembly 150 between a first lower insulating member 193 and a second lower insulating member 194 and a pair of individual terminals 130.

[0069] A pair of individual terminals 130 soldered to the first current collector 191 and the second current collector 192 can be coupled to the first lower insulating member 193 and the second lower insulating member 194, and to the first separating member 195 and the second separating member 196.

[0070] The housing 102 may include a front surface 105 and a rear surface 106 orthogonal to and spaced apart from each other along the first direction, a pair of side surfaces 107 orthogonal to and spaced apart from each other along the second direction, and a lower surface 108 and an upper surface 109 orthogonal to and spaced apart from each other along the third direction.

[0071] In the battery cell 100 of this embodiment, a cell vent 120 is mounted on an upper surface 109, and the upper surface 109 may be referred to as the cell vent surface. A pair of cell terminals 130 may be disposed on the cell vent surface 109. The front surface 105, rear surface 106, a pair of side surfaces 107, lower surface 108, and upper surface 109 of the housing 102 may be referred to as the front surface 105, rear surface 106, a pair of side surfaces 107, lower surface 108, and upper surface 109 of the battery cell 100. Furthermore, the front surface 105, rear surface 106, a pair of side surfaces 107, and lower surface 108 of the housing 102 may be referred to as the front surface 105, rear surface 106, a pair of side surfaces 107, and lower surface 108 of the housing body 103.

[0072] Busbar 20 electrically connects the cell terminal 130 of any of the plurality of cell 100 included in the battery module 10A to the cell terminal 130 of another cell 100.

[0073] Multiple busbars 20 may be provided. Individual terminals 130 and busbars 20 may be joined, for example, by welding. Busbars 20 may comprise metal sheets. For example, busbars 20 may be manufactured by stamping a metal sheet.

[0074] The busbar retainer 200 includes a retainer body 201 and a first protective member 250. A terminal exposure portion 210 and a retainer through hole 215 may be formed in the retainer body 201.

[0075] Terminal exposure portion 210 exposes individual terminal 130. In an embodiment, individual terminal 130 protrudes third-direction through terminal exposure portion 210, and individual terminal 130 can be exposed without being covered by busbar retainer 200.

[0076] The exposed terminal portion 210 may be a through-hole that passes through the plate portion 202 in the thickness direction. In an embodiment, the exposed terminal portions 210 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of individual terminals 130 included in the battery module 10A.

[0077] The retainer through-hole 215 is formed to correspond to the vent hole 115. The vent hole 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 215 can be aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body 201. FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 In this embodiment, the vent 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 215 may be located on an imaginary straight line parallel to a third direction. The retainer through-holes 215 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of vents 115 included in the battery module 10A.

[0078] Busbar 20 can be supported on retainer body 201. Although in FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 It is not clearly shown, but the retainer body 201 may include units for retaining and supporting the busbar 20, such as a busbar bracket.

[0079] The retainer body 201 may include a plate portion 202 and a side edge portion 220. For example, the plate portion 202 may be a flat plate portion having a rectangular planar shape. The outer peripheral edge portion of the plate portion 202 may be coupled to and supported by a pair of side plates 15 or a pair of end plates 12. Terminal exposure portions 210 and retainer through holes 215 may be formed in the plate portion 202.

[0080] The side edge portion 220 may protrude from the plate portion 202 such that the retainer through-hole 215 may extend in the thickness direction of the plate portion 202 and in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the side edge portion 220 may extend upward in a third direction. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 220 may be a closed curve shape corresponding to the planar shape of the retainer through-hole 215. When the side edge portion 220 extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion 202, the length of the retainer through-hole 215 in the third direction may be greater than the thickness of the plate portion 202.

[0081] The first protective member 250 is located between the retainer body 201 and the housing 102, facing the housing 102. The first protective member 250 includes a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the first protective member 250 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may include any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the first protective member 250 may have the property of withstanding a temperature of, for example, above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0082] The first protective member 250 may include a first base portion 251 and a first partition portion 260. The first base portion 251 may be located between the retainer body 201 and the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 251 may be located between the individual exhaust port surface 109 (i.e., the upper surface of the housing 102) and the plate portion 202 of the retainer body 201. Therefore, the plate portion 202 and the first base portion 251 may be stacked in a third-order direction.

[0083] The first partition portion 260 may be bent from the first base portion 251 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the first partition portion 260 may extend upward in a third direction.

[0084] A hollow portion 254 corresponding to the retainer through hole 215 can be formed in the first base portion 251, and the first partition portion 260 can be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 254.

[0085] In an embodiment, the first partition portion 260 may have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner peripheral surface of the retainer through-hole 215 is covered. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first partition portion 260 may be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 220.

[0086] Therefore, the first protective member 250 will not close the retainer through hole 215, and the high-temperature gas and flammable substances discharged through the vent hole 115 when the single cell vent 120 is opened can pass through the busbar retainer 200 along the retainer through hole 215 and be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10A.

[0087] The first protective member 250 can be attached to the retainer body 201. In an embodiment, for example, the first base portion 251 can be attached to the plate portion 202 via double-sided tape. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 As shown, the first partition portion 260 can contact the side edge portion 220. In an embodiment, the first partition portion 260 can be attached to the side edge portion 220 via double-sided tape, just like the first base portion 251.

[0088] When the busbar retainer 200 is attached to and supported by the side plate 15 or end plate 12 with the first protective member 250 attached to the retainer body 201, the first protective member 250 can be in close contact with the periphery of the vent 115 of the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 251 can be in close contact with the surface 109 of the individual exhaust port around the vent 115.

[0089] Therefore, high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged through the vent 115 due to thermal runaway of some of the battery cells 100 will not diffuse through the gap between the housing 102 of the battery cell 100 and the busbar holder 200 to adjacent battery cells 100. Thus, complete combustion of the battery module due to continuous thermal runaway, and large fires or explosions due to complete combustion, can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0090] In an embodiment, the first protective members 250 may be provided in a number corresponding one-to-one with the number of retainer through holes 215. However, with FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 The embodiments shown differ, and may provide one first protective member or a plurality of first protective members fewer than the number of retainer through holes. In this case, the first protective member may include a first base portion and a plurality of first partition portions connected to and spaced apart from each other.

[0091] In this embodiment, the retainer body 201 may include synthetic resin. For example, the retainer body 201 may be an injection-molded product formed by injecting molten synthetic resin into a mold (not shown) and allowing the molten synthetic resin to harden.

[0092] In an embodiment, if the retainer body 201 and the first protective member 250 are manufactured separately, the first protective member 250 can be attached to the retainer body 201 via, for example, double-sided tape, as described above.

[0093] In another embodiment, the first protective member 250 can be joined to the retainer body 201 via insert molding. In this embodiment, the first protective member 250 can be placed in a mold for molding the retainer body 201, molten synthetic resin can be injected into the mold, and the molten synthetic resin can be hardened in the mold. Through this process, a busbar retainer 200 in which the first protective member 250 is joined to the retainer body 201 can be molded. The busbar retainer 200 molded in this manner can be removed from the mold.

[0094] FIG. 9 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 It is along FIG. 9 A sectional view taken by line A2-A2 in the diagram; FIG. 11 It is along FIG. 9 A sectional view taken by line B2-B2 in the diagram; FIG. 12 It shows the view from above. FIG. 9 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; FIG. 13 It is shown FIG. 12 An enlarged perspective view of the first protective component; and FIG. 14It shows the view from below. FIG. 9 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer.

[0095] Reference FIG. 9 to FIG. 14 According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 10B includes a housing 11 and a plurality of battery cells 100 (see...). FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 The housing 11, battery cell 100, and busbar 20 may be the same components with the same names as those described in the battery module 10A according to the previously described embodiments of this disclosure, are indicated by the same reference numerals, and may omit repeated descriptions.

[0096] The busbar retainer 300 includes a retainer body 301 and a first protective member 350. A terminal exposure portion 310 and a retainer through hole 315 may be formed in the retainer body 301.

[0097] Terminal exposure portion 310 exposes individual terminal 130. In an embodiment, individual terminal 130 protrudes through terminal exposure portion 310 in a third-order direction, and individual terminal 130 can be exposed without being covered by busbar retainer 300.

[0098] The exposed terminal portion 310 may be a through-hole that passes through the plate portion 302 in the thickness direction. In an embodiment, the exposed terminal portions 310 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of individual terminals 130 included in the battery module 10B.

[0099] The retainer through-hole 315 is formed to correspond to the vent hole 115. The vent hole 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 315 can be aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body 301. FIG. 9 to FIG. 14 In one embodiment, the vent 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 315 may be located on an imaginary straight line parallel to a third direction. In another embodiment, the retainer through-holes 315 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of vents 115 included in the battery module 10B.

[0100] The busbar 20 can be supported on the retainer body 301. The retainer body 301 may include a plate portion 302 and a side edge portion 320. For example, the plate portion 302 may be a flat plate portion having a rectangular planar shape. The outer peripheral edge portion of the plate portion 302 may be coupled to and supported by a pair of side plates 15 or a pair of end plates 12. Terminal exposure portions 310 and retainer through holes 315 may be formed in the plate portion 302.

[0101] The side edge portion 320 may protrude from the plate portion 302 such that the retainer through-hole 315 may extend in the thickness direction of the plate portion 302 and in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the side edge portion 320 may extend upward in a third direction. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 320 may be a closed curve shape corresponding to the planar shape of the retainer through-hole 315. When the side edge portion 320 extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion 302, the length of the retainer through-hole 315 in the third direction may be greater than the thickness of the plate portion 302.

[0102] The first protective member 350 is located between the retainer body 301 and the housing 102, facing the housing 102. The first protective member 350 includes a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the first protective member 350 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may include any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the first protective member 350 may have the property of withstanding a temperature of, for example, above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0103] The first protective member 350 may include a first base portion 351 and a first partition portion 360. The first base portion 351 may be located between the retainer body 301 and the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 351 may be located between the individual exhaust port surface 109 (i.e., the upper surface of the housing 102) and the plate portion 302 of the retainer body 301. Therefore, the plate portion 302 and the first base portion 351 may be stacked in a third-order direction.

[0104] The first partition portion 360 may be bent from the first base portion 351 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the first partition portion 360 may extend upward in a third direction.

[0105] A hollow portion 354 corresponding to the retainer through hole 315 can be formed in the first base portion 351, and the first partition portion 360 can be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 354.

[0106] In an embodiment, the first partition portion 360 may have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner peripheral surface of the retainer through-hole 315 is covered. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first partition portion 360 may be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 320.

[0107] Therefore, the first protective member 350 will not close the retainer through hole 315, and the high-temperature gas and flammable substances discharged through the vent hole 115 when the single cell vent 120 is opened can pass through the busbar retainer 200 along the retainer through hole 315 and be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10B.

[0108] The first protective member 350 can be attached to the retainer body 301. In an embodiment, for example, the first base portion 351 can be attached to the plate portion 302 via double-sided tape. FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 As shown, the first partition portion 360 can contact the side edge portion 320. In an embodiment, the first partition portion 360 can be attached to the side edge portion 320 via double-sided tape, just like the first base portion 351.

[0109] When the busbar retainer 300 is attached to and supported by the side plate 15 or end plate 12 with the first protective member 350 attached to the retainer body 301, the first protective member 350 can be in close contact with the periphery of the vent 115 of the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 351 can be in close contact with the surface 109 of the individual exhaust port around the vent 115.

[0110] Therefore, high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged through the vent 115 due to thermal runaway of some of the battery cells 100 will not diffuse through the gap between the housing 102 of the battery cell 100 and the busbar holder 300 to adjacent battery cells 100. Thus, complete combustion of the battery module due to continuous thermal runaway, and large fires or explosions due to complete combustion, can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0111] The thickness BT of the first base portion 351 can be thicker than the thickness LT of the first partition portion 360. In an embodiment, the first base portion 351, located near the vent 115, is formed to be thicker, so that thermal deformation of the first protective member 350 and the retainer body 301 can still be reliably suppressed even though high-temperature gases and flammable substances are discharged through the vent 115.

[0112] In this embodiment, the thickness LT of the first partition portion 360 can decrease as it moves away from the vent 115. This reduces the amount of insulation material consumed in the first protective member 350 and lowers production costs.

[0113] The temperature of the gas and flammable material discharged from the vent 115 is reduced due to heat exchange with the surrounding environment, and thermal deformation of the first protective member 350 and the retainer body 301 can be reliably suppressed even when the thickness LT of the first partition portion 360 becomes thinner as it moves further away from the vent 115.

[0114] In an embodiment, the first protective members 350 may be provided in a number corresponding one-to-one with the number of retainer through holes 315. However, with FIG. 12 and FIG. 14The embodiments shown differ, and may provide one first protective member or a plurality of first protective members fewer than the number of retainer through holes. In one embodiment, the first protective member may include a first base portion and a plurality of first separating portions connected to the first base portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0115] In an embodiment, the retainer body 301 may include a synthetic resin. For example, the retainer body 301 may be an injection-molded article formed by injecting molten synthetic resin into a mold (not shown) and allowing the molten synthetic resin to harden.

[0116] In an embodiment, if the retainer body 301 and the first protective member 350 are manufactured separately, the first protective member 350 can be attached to the retainer body 301 via double-sided tape, as described above.

[0117] In another embodiment, the first protective member 350 can be inserted into the retainer body 301 via insert molding. More specifically, the first protective member 350 can be placed in a mold for molding the retainer body 301, molten synthetic resin can be injected into the mold, and the molten synthetic resin can be hardened in the mold. Through this process, a busbar retainer 300 in which the first protective member 350 is inserted into the retainer body 301 can be molded. The busbar retainer 300 molded in this manner can be removed from the mold.

[0118] FIG. 15 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 16 It is along FIG. 15 A sectional view taken by line A3-A3 in the diagram; FIG. 17 It is along FIG. 15 A sectional view taken by line B3-B3 in the diagram; FIG. 18 It shows the view from below. FIG. 15 A perspective view of the busbar holder; FIG. 19 It shows the view from above. FIG. 15 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; and FIG. 20 It shows the view from below. FIG. 15 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer.

[0119] Reference FIG. 15 to FIG. 20 According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 10C includes a housing 11 and a plurality of battery cells 100 (see...). FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 The housing 11, battery cell 100, and busbar 20 may be the same components with the same names as those described in the battery module 10A according to the previously described embodiments of this disclosure, are indicated by the same reference numerals, and may omit repeated descriptions.

[0120] The busbar retainer 400 includes a retainer body 401, a first protective member 450, and a second protective member 470. A terminal exposure portion 410 and a retainer through-hole 415 may be formed in the retainer body 401.

[0121] Terminal exposure portion 410 exposes individual terminal 130. In an embodiment, individual terminal 130 protrudes third-direction through terminal exposure portion 410, and individual terminal 130 can be exposed without being covered by busbar retainer 400.

[0122] The exposed terminal portion 410 may be a through-hole extending through the plate portion 402 in the thickness direction. In an embodiment, the exposed terminal portions 410 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of individual terminals 130 included in the battery module 10C.

[0123] The retainer through-hole 415 is formed to correspond to the vent hole 115. The vent hole 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 415 can be aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body 201. FIG. 15 to FIG. 20 In one embodiment, the vent 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 415 may be located on an imaginary straight line parallel to a third direction. In another embodiment, the retainer through-hole 415 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of vents 115 included in the battery module 10C.

[0124] The busbar 20 can be supported on the retainer body 401. The retainer body 401 may include a plate portion 402 and a side edge portion 420. For example, the plate portion 402 may be a flat plate portion having a rectangular planar shape. The outer peripheral edge portion of the plate portion 402 may be coupled to and supported by a pair of side plates 15 or a pair of end plates 12. Terminal exposure portions 410 and retainer through holes 415 may be formed in the plate portion 402.

[0125] The side edge portion 420 may protrude from the plate portion 402 such that the retainer through-hole 415 may extend in the thickness direction of the plate portion 402 and in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the side edge portion 420 may extend upward in a third direction. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 420 may be a closed curve shape corresponding to the planar shape of the retainer through-hole 415. When the side edge portion 420 extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion 402, the length of the retainer through-hole 415 in the third direction may be greater than the thickness of the plate portion 402.

[0126] The first protective member 450 is located between the retainer body 401 and the housing 102, facing the housing 102. The first protective member 450 comprises a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the first protective member 450 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may comprise any of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the first protective member 450 may have the property of withstanding temperatures of, for example, above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0127] The first protective member 450 may include a first base portion 451 and a first partition portion 460. The first base portion 451 may be located between the retainer body 401 and the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 451 may be located between the individual exhaust port surface 109 (i.e., the upper surface of the housing 102) and the plate portion 402 of the retainer body 401. Therefore, the plate portion 402 and the first base portion 451 may be stacked in a third-order direction.

[0128] The first partition portion 460 may be bent from the first base portion 451 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the first partition portion 460 may extend upward along a third direction.

[0129] A hollow portion 454 corresponding to the retainer through hole 415 can be formed in the first base portion 451, and the first partition portion 460 can be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 454.

[0130] In an embodiment, the first partition portion 460 may have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner peripheral surface of the retainer through-hole 415 is covered. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first partition portion 460 may be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 420.

[0131] Therefore, the first protective member 450 will not close the retainer through hole 415, and when the single cell exhaust port 120 is opened, the high temperature gas and flammable substances discharged through the exhaust hole 115 can pass through the busbar retainer 400 along the retainer through hole 415 and be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10C.

[0132] The first protective member 450 can be attached to the retainer body 401. For example, the first base portion 451 can be attached to the plate portion 402 via double-sided tape. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 As shown, the first dividing portion 460 can contact the side edge portion 420. In an embodiment, the first dividing portion 460 can be attached to the side edge portion 420 via double-sided tape, just like the first base portion 451.

[0133] When the busbar retainer 400 is attached to and supported by the side plate 15 or end plate 12 with the first protective member 450 attached to the retainer body 401, the first protective member 450 can be in close contact with the periphery of the vent 115 of the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 451 can be in close contact with the surface 109 of the individual exhaust port around the vent 115.

[0134] Therefore, high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged through the vent 115 due to thermal runaway of some of the battery cells 100 will not diffuse through the gap between the housing 102 of the battery cell 100 and the busbar holder 400 to adjacent battery cells 100. Thus, complete combustion of the battery module due to continuous thermal runaway, and large fires or explosions due to complete combustion, can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0135] In an embodiment, the first protective member 450 may be provided in a number corresponding one-to-one with the number of retainer through holes 415. However, with FIG. 18 to FIG. 20 The embodiments shown differ, and may provide one first protective member or a plurality of first protective members fewer than the number of retainer through holes. In one embodiment, the first protective member may include a first base portion and a plurality of first separating portions connected to the first base portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0136] The second protective member 470 may be located on the opposite side of the first protective member 450, and the retainer body 401 may be located between the second protective member 470 and the first protective member 450. The second protective member 470 comprises a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the second protective member 470 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may comprise any of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the second protective member 470 may have the property of withstanding temperatures of, for example, above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0137] The second protective member 470 may include a second base portion 471 and a second partition portion 480. The second base portion 471 may be stacked with and attached to the plate portion 402. The second partition portion 480 may be bent from the second base portion 471 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the second partition portion 480 may extend upward in a third direction.

[0138] A hollow portion 474 corresponding to the retainer through-hole 415 can be formed in the second base portion 471, and the second partition portion 480 can be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 474. In an embodiment, the second partition portion 480 can have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape to surround the side edge portion 420. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the second partition portion 480 can be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 420. Therefore, the second protective member 470 does not close the retainer through-hole 415.

[0139] The second protective member 470 can be attached to the retainer body 401. For example, the second base portion 471 can be attached to the plate portion 402 via double-sided tape. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 As shown, the second partition portion 480 can contact the side edge portion 420. In an embodiment, the second partition portion 480 can be attached to the side edge portion 420 via double-sided tape, just like the second base portion 471.

[0140] In an embodiment, the second protective member 470 may be provided in a number corresponding one-to-one with the number of retainer through holes 415. However, with FIG. 18 to FIG. 20 The embodiments shown differ, and may provide one second protective member or a plurality of second protective members fewer than the number of retainer through holes. In one embodiment, the second protective member may include a second base portion and a plurality of second partition portions connected to the second base portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0141] In this embodiment, the retainer body 401 may include synthetic resin. For example, the retainer body 401 may be an injection-molded product formed by injecting molten synthetic resin into a mold (not shown) and allowing the molten synthetic resin to harden.

[0142] In an embodiment, if the retainer body 401 is manufactured separately from the first protective member 450 and the second protective member 470, then as described above, the first protective member 450 and the second protective member 470 can be attached to the retainer body 401 via double-sided tape.

[0143] In another embodiment, the first protective member 450 and the second protective member 470 can be joined to the retainer body 401 by insert molding. More specifically, the first protective member 450 and the second protective member 470 can be placed in a mold for molding the retainer body 401, molten synthetic resin can be injected into the mold, and the molten synthetic resin can be hardened in the mold. By this process, a busbar retainer 400 in which the first protective member 450 and the second protective member 470 are joined to the retainer body 401 can be molded. The busbar retainer 400 molded in this way can be removed from the mold.

[0144] FIG. 21 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a view showing the second protective member separated from the holder body; FIG. 22 It is along FIG. 21 A sectional view taken by line A4-A4 in the diagram; FIG. 23 It is along FIG. 21 A sectional view taken by line B4-B4 in the diagram; FIG. 24 Viewed from above FIG. 21 A perspective view of the busbar retainer, and a view showing the second protective member attached to the retainer body; FIG. 25 It shows the view from above. FIG. 21 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer; and FIG. 26 It shows the view from below. FIG. 21 Exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer.

[0145] Reference FIG. 21 to FIG. 26 According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 10D includes a housing 11 and a plurality of battery cells 100 (see...). FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 The housing 11, battery cell 100, and busbar 20 may be the same as components with the same names described in the battery module 10A according to the previously described embodiments of this disclosure, are indicated by the same reference numerals, and may omit repeated descriptions.

[0146] The busbar retainer 500 includes a retainer body 501, a first protective member 550, and a second protective member 570. A terminal exposure portion 510 and a retainer through hole 515 may be formed in the retainer body 501.

[0147] Terminal exposure portion 510 exposes individual terminal 130. In an embodiment, individual terminal 130 protrudes third-direction through terminal exposure portion 510, and individual terminal 130 can be exposed without being covered by busbar retainer 500.

[0148] The exposed terminal portion 510 may be a through-hole that passes through the plate portion 502 in the thickness direction. In an embodiment, the exposed terminal portions 510 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of individual terminals 130 included in the battery module 10D.

[0149] The retainer through-hole 515 is formed to correspond to the vent hole 115. The vent hole 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 515 can be aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body 501. FIG. 21 to FIG. 26In one embodiment, the vent 115 and the corresponding retainer through-hole 515 may be located on an imaginary straight line parallel to a third direction. In another embodiment, the retainer through-holes 515 may be provided in a number corresponding to the total number of vents 115 included in the battery module 10D.

[0150] The busbar 20 can be supported on the retainer body 501. The retainer body 501 may include a plate portion 502 and a side edge portion 520. For example, the plate portion 502 may be a flat plate portion having a rectangular planar shape. The outer peripheral edge portion of the plate portion 502 may be engaged with and supported by a pair of side plates 15 or a pair of end plates 12. Terminal exposure portions 510 and retainer through holes 515 may be formed in the plate portion 502.

[0151] The side edge portion 520 may protrude from the plate portion 502 such that the retainer through-hole 515 may extend in the thickness direction of the plate portion 502 and in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the side edge portion 520 may extend upward in a third direction. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 520 may be a closed curve shape corresponding to the planar shape of the retainer through-hole 515. When the side edge portion 520 extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion 502, the length of the retainer through-hole 515 in the third direction may be greater than the thickness of the plate portion 502.

[0152] The first protective member 550 is located between the retainer body 501 and the housing 102, facing the housing 102. The first protective member 550 includes a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the first protective member 550 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may include any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the first protective member 550 may have the property of withstanding temperatures above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0153] The first protective member 550 may include a first base portion 551 and a first partition portion 560. The first base portion 551 may be located between the retainer body 501 and the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 551 may be located between the individual exhaust port surface 109 (i.e., the upper surface of the housing 102) and the plate portion 502 of the retainer body 501. Therefore, the plate portion 502 and the first base portion 551 may be stacked in a third-order direction.

[0154] The first partition portion 560 may be bent from the first base portion 551 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the first partition portion 560 may extend upward along a third direction.

[0155] A hollow portion 554 corresponding to the retainer through hole 515 can be formed in the first base portion 551, and the first partition portion 560 can be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 554.

[0156] In an embodiment, the first partition portion 560 may have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner peripheral surface of the retainer through-hole 515 is covered. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first partition portion 560 may be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 520.

[0157] Therefore, the first protective member 550 will not close the retainer through hole 515, and when the single cell vent 120 is opened, the high-temperature gas and flammable substances discharged through the vent hole 115 can pass through the busbar retainer 500 along the retainer through hole 515 and be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10D.

[0158] The first protective member 550 can be attached to the retainer body 501. For example, the first base portion 551 can be attached to the plate portion 502 via double-sided tape. FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 As shown, the first partition portion 560 can contact the side edge portion 520. In an embodiment, the first partition portion 560 can be attached to the side edge portion 520 via double-sided tape, just like the first base portion 551.

[0159] When the busbar retainer 500 is attached to and supported by the side plate 15 or end plate 12 with the first protective member 550 attached to the retainer body 501, the first protective member 550 can be in close contact with the periphery of the vent 115 of the housing 102. For example, the first base portion 551 can be in close contact with the surface 109 of the individual exhaust port around the vent 115.

[0160] Therefore, high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged through the vent 115 due to thermal runaway of some of the battery cells 100 will not diffuse through the gap between the housing 102 of the battery cell 100 and the busbar holder 500 to adjacent battery cells 100. Thus, complete combustion of the battery module due to continuous thermal runaway, and large fires or explosions due to complete combustion, can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0161] In an embodiment, the first protective member 550 may be provided in a number corresponding one-to-one with the number of retainer through holes 515. However, with FIG. 25 and FIG. 26The embodiments shown differ, and may provide one first protective member or a plurality of first protective members fewer than the number of retainer through holes. In one embodiment, the first protective member may include a first base portion and a plurality of first separating portions connected to the first base portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0162] The second protective member 570 may be located on the opposite side of the first protective member 550, and the retainer body 501 may be located between the second protective member 570 and the first protective member 550. The second protective member 570 comprises a heat-insulating material with excellent heat resistance. For example, the second protective member 570 may be formed of a heat-insulating material. For example, the heat-insulating material may comprise any of mica, aerogel, and ceramic. In an embodiment, the second protective member 570 may have the property of withstanding temperatures of, for example, above 1000°C for at least ten seconds without deformation.

[0163] The second protective member 570 may include a second base portion 571 and a second partition portion 580. The second base portion 571 may be stacked with and attached to the plate portion 502. The second partition portion 580 may be bent from the second base portion 571 and extend in a direction away from the housing 102. For example, the second partition portion 580 may extend upward in a third direction.

[0164] A hollow portion 574 corresponding to the retainer through-hole 515 may be formed in the second base portion 571, and the second partition portion 580 may be bent and protrude from the inner peripheral edge of the hollow portion 574. In an embodiment, the second partition portion 580 may have a closed-curve cross-sectional shape to surround the side edge portion 520. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the second partition portion 580 may be a closed-curve shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side edge portion 520. Therefore, the second protective member 570 does not close the retainer through-hole 515.

[0165] The second protective member 570 may further include a wing-shaped portion 590 connected to the second base portion 571 and covering the busbar 20. In an embodiment, a pair of wing-shaped portions 590 may be provided. The second protective member 570 may extend in a second direction, and the pair of wing-shaped portions 590 may be disposed one-to-one at two ends or opposite ends of the second protective member 570 in the longitudinal direction.

[0166] A pair of wing-shaped portions 590 belonging to a second protective member 570 may cover the busbar 20 coupled to the positive electrode terminal 130 of a battery cell 100 and the busbar 20 coupled to the negative electrode terminal 130 of the battery cell 100.

[0167] The wing-shaped portion 590 can be spaced apart from the retainer body 501. For example, the wing-shaped portion 590 can be spaced apart from the plate portion 502 in the thickness direction of the plate portion 502. Even if high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged from the vent holes 115 of some battery cells 100 pass through the retainer through-holes 515 and are discharged to the outside of the battery module 10D, and then fall onto the busbar retainer 500 due to gravity, electrical damage to the busbar 20 or electronic components such as sensors connected to the busbar 20 can be suppressed because the wing-shaped portion 590 covers the busbar 20. Therefore, sparks caused by short circuits in the busbar 20 or electronic components, as well as fires or explosions caused by such sparks, can be reliably suppressed or delayed.

[0168] The second protective member 570 can be attached to the retainer body 501. For example, the second base portion 571 can be attached to the plate portion 502 via double-sided tape. FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 As shown, the second partition portion 580 can contact the side edge portion 520. In an embodiment, the second partition portion 580 can be attached to the side edge portion 520 via double-sided tape, just like the second base portion 571.

[0169] When assembling the battery module 10D, a busbar retainer semi-finished product, wherein the first protective member 550 is attached to the retainer body 501, can be placed on a plurality of battery cells 100 such that the cell terminal 130 passes through the terminal exposure portion 510, the busbar 20 and the cell terminal 130 can be joined, for example, by a method such as welding, and then the second protective member 570 can be attached to the retainer body 501.

[0170] In this embodiment, the retainer body 501 may include synthetic resin. For example, the retainer body 501 may be an injection-molded product formed by injecting molten synthetic resin into a mold and allowing the molten synthetic resin to harden.

[0171] In an embodiment, if the retainer body 501 is manufactured separately from the first protective member 550 and the second protective member 570, then as described above, the first protective member 550 and the second protective member 570 can be attached to the retainer body 501 via double-sided tape.

[0172] In another embodiment, the first protective member 550 can be inserted into the retainer body 501 via insert molding. More specifically, the first protective member 550 can be placed in a mold for molding the retainer body 501, molten synthetic resin can be injected into the mold, and the molten synthetic resin can be hardened in the mold. Through this process, a semi-finished manifold retainer 500 in which the first protective member 550 is inserted into the retainer body 501 can be molded. The semi-finished manifold retainer 500 molded in this manner can be removed from the mold.

[0173] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the outer periphery of the retainer through-hole of the busbar retainer is covered by a first protective member including heat-insulating material, and high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged from the vent of the battery cell can pass through the vent and be discharged to the outside of the battery module without directly impacting the retainer body of the busbar retainer.

[0174] Therefore, it can suppress deformation and damage to the holder body caused by high heat, suppress or delay short circuits of busbars or electronic components in the holder body and the generation of sparks caused by such short circuits, and prevent or substantially prevent large fires or explosions.

[0175] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the first protective member is in close contact with the outer periphery of the vent hole of the housing, and high-temperature gases and flammable substances discharged from the vent hole due to thermal runaway of some battery cells will not diffuse through the gap between the battery cells and the busbar holder to adjacent battery cells. Therefore, complete combustion of the battery module due to continuous thermal runaway and large fires or explosions due to complete combustion can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0176] However, the aspects and features of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects and features not mentioned above through the detailed description given above.

[0177] Although the invention has been described with reference to some embodiments and the accompanying drawings illustrating aspects of the invention, the invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the invention and the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: shell; Multiple battery cells are housed in the housing, and each battery cell includes a housing with vent holes and a cell terminal protruding from the housing; The busbar electrically connects the terminal of one of the plurality of battery cells to the terminal of another of the plurality of battery cells. as well as A manifold retainer includes a retainer body and a first protective member. The retainer body supports the manifold and includes a retainer through-hole corresponding to the vent hole. The first protective member includes thermal insulation material and is located between the retainer body and the housing to face the housing.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first protective member is attached to the retainer body.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first protective member is in close contact with the outer periphery of the vent hole of the housing.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The vent hole and the retainer through hole corresponding to the vent hole are aligned in the thickness direction of the retainer body.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The thermal insulation material includes any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first protective component does not seal the retainer through hole.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein, The first protective component includes: A first base portion is located between the retainer body and the housing; and The first dividing portion bends from the first base portion and extends in a direction away from the housing, and has a closed-curve cross-sectional shape such that the inner circumferential surface of the retainer through hole is covered.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein, The retainer body includes: The plate portion is stacked with the first substrate portion; and The side edge portion protrudes from the plate portion such that the retainer through hole extends in the thickness direction of the plate portion and in a direction away from the housing.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein, The first dividing portion contacts the side edge portion.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein, The thickness of the first substrate portion is greater than the thickness of the first partition portion.

11. The battery module according to claim 10, wherein, The thickness of the first dividing portion decreases as the distance from the exhaust port increases.

12. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein the battery module further comprises a second protective member, the second protective member comprising a heat-insulating material and located on the opposite side of the first protective member, and the retainer body is located between the second protective member and the first protective member.

13. The battery module according to claim 12, wherein, The second protective member includes a second base portion that is stacked with and attached to the plate portion.

14. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein, The second protective member further includes a second partition portion that bends from the second base portion to extend in a direction away from the housing and has a closed-curve profile shape to surround the side edge portion.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein, The second dividing portion contacts the side edge portion.

16. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein, The second protective member also includes a wing-shaped portion that is connected to the second base portion and covers the busbar.

17. The battery module according to claim 16, wherein, The wing-shaped portion is spaced apart from the main body of the retainer.

18. The battery module according to claim 12, wherein, The thermal insulation material of the second protective component includes any one of mica, aerogel, and ceramic.

19. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer body comprises synthetic resin.

20. The battery module according to claim 19, wherein, The first protective member is inserted into a mold that molds the retainer body and is joined to the retainer body by molding an insert into which molten synthetic resin is injected.

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