Battery pack and energy storage system including same

Abstract

The invention provides a battery pack and an energy storage system including the same. The battery pack may include: a frame having an accommodation space therein; a battery module including a plurality of battery cells arranged in the accommodation space; and a fire extinguishing tube placed on the battery module, and the fire extinguishing tube may include a tube cap filled with a filler and a plurality of injection units formed on the tube cap.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery packs and energy storage systems including such battery packs. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for (re)charging, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to discharge and be recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving motors in hybrid and electric vehicles and for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery typically includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing that houses the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] An energy storage system (ESS) can refer to a system that stores generated electrical energy using materials such as lithium-ion batteries and then uses that energy when needed. Such an ESS enables energy to be used efficiently at all stages of generation, transmission, transformation, distribution, and reception.

[0004] Meanwhile, battery components used in energy storage systems can include multiple lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are energy efficient, but they pose a higher fire risk compared to nickel-cadmium or nickel-metal hydride batteries. When thermal runaway occurs in such lithium-ion batteries, it can lead to fire or explosion and spread to adjacent battery cells. When thermal runaway spreads, the fire is difficult to extinguish due to its high intensity and the risk of subsequent explosion.

[0005] The information disclosed above in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery pack and an energy storage system including the battery pack.

[0007] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in the following description of embodiments of this disclosure, or will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0008] However, the aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects and features not mentioned from the detailed description below.

[0009] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack may include: a frame having a receiving space therein; a battery module including a plurality of battery cells arranged in the receiving space; and a fire extinguishing pipe placed on the battery module, the fire extinguishing pipe including a cap filled with filler and a plurality of spray units formed on the cap.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of battery cells may include: a housing having an opening formed at one end; a cover plate coupled to the opening of the housing and having a vent; and a vent portion disposed on the vent portion, and each of the plurality of injection units is located at a position corresponding to the vent portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0011] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the filler may contain flame-retardant materials.

[0012] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the flame-retardant material may comprise a viscous silicone resin.

[0013] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each of the plurality of injection units may be formed in the shape of a funnel that narrows toward the battery module.

[0014] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack may further include: a connection assembly disposed on the battery module and including a plurality of busbars electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells and a busbar holder supporting the plurality of busbars; and a top plate placed on the connection assembly, and a fire extinguishing pipe may be disposed between the connection assembly and the top plate.

[0015] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the multiple injection units may include a heat-sensitive component having a melting point lower than that of the cap.

[0016] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack may also include fire extinguishing conduits arranged in the containment space between adjacent rows of battery modules and filled with fire extinguishing agent.

[0017] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack may further include a heating element positioned adjacent to the fire extinguishing conduit, and the melting point of the fire extinguishing conduit may be equal to or higher than the melting point of the plurality of spray units.

[0018] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack may also include an insulating plate located between adjacent battery cells among a plurality of battery cells.

[0019] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, an energy storage system includes: one or more battery racks housing multiple battery packs; a fire suppression device connected to one or more battery racks; and a battery management system (BMS) connected to one or more battery racks and the fire suppression device. Each of the multiple battery packs includes: a frame having a housing space therein; a battery module including multiple battery cells arranged in the housing space; and a fire suppression tube placed on the battery module, and the fire suppression tube including a tube cap filled with filler and multiple spray units formed on the tube cap.

[0020] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a viscous flame-retardant material can be applied to the upper part of the battery cell before thermal runaway due to ignition occurs, thereby suppressing the movement of internal debris generated by explosions or the like. Therefore, it is possible to prevent further spread of fire caused by internal debris until the extinguishing agent is sprayed and extinguishes the fire in the battery cell.

[0021] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to detect a fire and spray a extinguishing agent to extinguish it at an early stage before thermal runaway occurs due to ignition. Therefore, the spread of thermal runaway to nearby battery cells can be prevented, thereby minimizing damage caused by the fire.

[0022] However, the aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects and features not mentioned from the detailed description below. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings: Figure 1 A battery cell according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5 This illustrates how filler is sprayed from a fire extinguishing tube onto the upper part of a battery cell according to some embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 6 An energy storage system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 This illustrates how the extinguishing agent is ejected from the extinguishing pipe according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 8 Examples of heating elements in contact with fire extinguishing pipes according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown; and Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for suppressing fire in an energy storage system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0024] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be construed as having a general or dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted as 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 in order to best describe his / her invention.

[0025] The embodiments described in this specification and the constructions shown in the accompanying drawings are merely some of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all the technical spirit, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist to replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0026] 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 also intended to include the plural forms. It will also be understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0027] In the figures, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals denote the same 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." Expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." modify the entire list of elements when following a list, without modifying 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 of the group selected from A, B, and C,” or “at least one of 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 as terms of degree and are intended to account for inherent biases in measurements or calculations that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0028] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases where the deviation is considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, it can mean that it is uniform in terms of the average value.

[0029] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, 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.

[0030] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be a single element or a plurality of elements.

[0031] Arranging any element "above (or below)" or "above (below)" another element can mean that the arbitrary element can be configured to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and that the other element can be placed between the element and the arbitrary element arranged on (or below) the element.

[0032] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element or layer, it can be directly "on," directly connected to, or directly bonded to said other element or layer, or one or more intermediary elements or layers may be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly bonded to" another element or layer, no intermediary element or layer is present. 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 directly connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly bonded to or indirectly connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements. Additionally, it will be understood that when components are referred to as being "linked," "bonded," or "connected" to another component, these components can be directly "bonded," "linked," or "connected" to each other, or another component can be "placed" between these components.

[0033] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges containing the same numerical precision within the described range. For example, the range "1.0 to 10.0" is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0 (and includes both the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0), i.e., having 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.

[0034] Throughout this specification, when “A and / or B” is stated, it means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, it means C or greater and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0035] Figure 1 A battery cell 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 A cross-section of a battery cell 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 2According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery cell 100 may include at least one electrode assembly 210 wound with a separator 216, which serves as an insulator, placed between a positive electrode 212 and a negative electrode 214, a housing 110 in which the electrode assembly 210 is constructed and has an opening 112 formed at one end, and a cover assembly 120 coupled to the opening 112 of the housing 110.

[0036] As an example, the battery cell or cell 100 can be a lithium-ion secondary battery in a rectangular shape. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, but can be applied to various types of batteries, such as pouch cells or cylindrical cells.

[0037] The positive electrode 212 and negative electrode 214 may include coated portions as areas of an active material applied to a current collector formed of a thin metal foil, and uncoated portions 212a and 214a as areas without active material. In an embodiment, the coated portion of the positive electrode 212 may be coated with a positive electrode active material such as a transition metal oxide on a positive electrode plate formed of a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The positive electrode active material may also include a binder and / or a conductive agent. Similarly, the coated portion of the negative electrode 214 may be coated with a negative electrode active material such as graphite or carbon on a negative electrode plate formed of a metal foil such as copper, a copper alloy, nickel, or a nickel alloy. The negative electrode active material may also include a binder and / or a conductive agent.

[0038] The positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214 may be wound together with a diaphragm 216, which serves as an insulator, placed therebetween. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 210 may be formed as a structure in which a plurality of sheets of positive and negative electrodes are stacked alternately with the diaphragm 216 placed between them.

[0039] The housing 110 can form the overall appearance of the battery cell 100 and can be formed of a conductive metal material such as aluminum, aluminum alloy or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the housing 110 can have an opening 112 formed at one end and can provide space to accommodate the electrode assembly 210.

[0040] The cover assembly 120 may include a cover plate 122 covering the opening 112 of the housing 110, and both the housing 110 and the cover plate 122 may be made of a conductive material. Here, the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2, electrically connected to the positive electrode 212 or the negative electrode 214, may be mounted to penetrate the cover plate 122 and protrude outwards. The first terminal 130_1 may be a positive electrode terminal, and the second terminal 130_2 may be a negative electrode terminal. Of course, the reverse is also true.

[0041] The cover plate 122 can be formed as a thin plate and can be attached to the opening 112 of the housing 110. The first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 protruding outward from the cover plate 122 can be in the form of a riveted structure and can be riveted, or can be attached to the cover plate 122 by welding.

[0042] Additionally, the vent hole 123 can be formed at any point on the cover plate 122, and the vent portion 124 with a notch can be placed on the vent hole 123. An electrolyte injection hole 128 on which a sealing plug 126 can be installed can be formed on the cover plate 122.

[0043] The first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 can be electrically connected to a current collector including a first current collector 222 and a second current collector 224 (hereinafter referred to as the positive current collector and the negative current collector) respectively welded to the uncoated portion 212a of the positive electrode and the uncoated portion 214a of the negative electrode.

[0044] For example, the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 can be soldered to the positive current collector 222 and the negative current collector 224. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 can be formed as a single component with the positive current collector 222 and the negative current collector 224.

[0045] Additionally, an insulating member can be installed between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 122. Here, the insulating member may include a first sub-insulating member 232 and a second sub-insulating member 234, and each of the first sub-insulating member 232 and the second sub-insulating member 234 may be installed between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 122.

[0046] Additionally, according to the exemplary embodiment shown, one end of the separation member that can be mounted on the side facing the electrode assembly 210 can be installed between the insulating member and the positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2. Here, the separation member may include a first separation member 242 and a second separation member 244.

[0047] Therefore, one end of the first separating member 242 and the second separating member 244, which can be installed on the side facing the electrode assembly 210, can be installed between the first sub-insulating member 232 and the first terminal 130_1 and between the second sub-insulating member 234 and the second terminal 130_2, respectively.

[0048] Finally, the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2, which are respectively welded to the positive current collector 222 and the negative current collector 224, can be connected to one end of the first sub-insulating member 232 and the second sub-insulating member 234, as well as one end of the first separating member 242 and the second separating member 244.

[0049] The battery cell 100 can be a lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, etc. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and examples of the battery cell 100 can include all cells that can repeatedly provide electricity through charging and discharging. In embodiments, when the battery cell 100 is a lithium-ion battery cell, the battery cell 100 can be used in electric vehicles (EVs) because of its excellent lifespan and high rate capability. For example, the battery cell 100 can be used in hybrid vehicles such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In addition, lithium-ion battery cells can be used in fields that require the storage of large amounts of electricity, such as electric bicycles, power tools, and energy storage systems.

[0050] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The battery pack 300 may include a frame 310 having a receiving space therein, a battery module 320 including a plurality of battery cells 100 arranged in the receiving space, and a fire extinguishing pipe 340 placed on the battery module 320. In embodiments, the battery pack 300 may be included in a vehicle, energy storage system, etc.

[0051] In an embodiment, the frame 310 may be a structure for accommodating or supporting the battery module 320. The frame 310 may have an open side to provide accommodating space therein. The frame 310 may be formed as a rectangular box extending in the front-rear direction D. However, the frame 310 is not limited to this and may be formed in various shapes based on the shape of the battery module 320 accommodated therein. At least a portion of the frame 310 may comprise a plastic composite. For example, at least a portion of the frame 310 may comprise a woven or laminated flame-retardant composite material and may be coated with a flame-retardant coating on the outer and / or inner surfaces. The flame-retardant composite material comprises at least one of a fiber-reinforced composite and a plastic composite. For example, the plastic composite may comprise at least one of polypropylene, polyamide 6, polyamide 66, polycarbonate, polyphenylene ether, and polyurethane as a thermoplastic resin.

[0052] The top plate 312 can be placed on the frame 310. The frame 310 and the top plate 312 can be formed as a single piece or separately. The top plate 312 can be made of the same material as the frame 310. Since the top plate 312 is positioned on the frame 310, it is possible to suppress or delay the spread of a fire that occurs in the containment space within the frame 310.

[0053] In an embodiment, the battery module 320 may include a plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be grouped in a row or more of battery cells 100 facing each other on their wide surfaces in the front-rear direction D. Figure 3A plurality of battery cells 100 arranged in two rows within a battery module 320 are shown. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and they may be arranged in one or more rows. Reference has been made to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The characteristics of the battery cell 100 are disclosed in detail.

[0054] The fire extinguishing hose 340 can be placed on the battery module 320. See below for reference. Figure 4 A detailed description of fire extinguishing pipe 340 is provided.

[0055] In one embodiment, the battery pack 300 may include a connection assembly 330, which is disposed on the battery module 320 and housed in a receiving space within the frame 310. The connection assembly 330 may include a busbar holder 332, a busbar 334, and a circuit 338. The busbar holder 332 may be as follows: Figure 3 The busbar holder 332 is located on the cover plate 122 and can support the busbar 334. For example, the busbar holder 332 can be a rectangular plate and can include insulating material. The busbar holder 332 can have multiple exposed portions formed to expose the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 penetrating the cover plate 122. The busbar 334 can be electrically connected to the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 through the exposed portions formed on the busbar holder 332. Multiple through-holes 336 can be formed on the busbar holder 332. The through-holes 336 can be formed to penetrate the busbar holder 332. Here, the through-holes 336 can be formed at positions corresponding to the vent 124 of each battery cell 100. Therefore, the through-holes 336 can be used as channels through which the gas discharged through the vent 124 flows. In addition, the through-holes 336 can be used as channels through which the fire extinguishing agent moves in the event of a fire inside the battery pack 300. In the accompanying drawings, the through-hole 336 is in the shape of a rectangular column. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the through-hole 336 can be formed into various shapes such as a cylindrical column, a polygonal column, and a narrow and long slit. For example, the shape of the through-hole 336 can be determined based on the shape of the exhaust portion 124.

[0056] Busbar 334 can electrically connect the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2. Busbar 334 can connect multiple battery cells 100 in series and / or in parallel. For this purpose, multiple busbars 334 can be provided. Busbar 334 can electrically connect the first terminal 130_1 of battery cell 100 to the first terminal 130_1 or the second terminal 130_2 of another battery cell 100. Busbar 334 can electrically connect the second terminal 130_2 of battery cell 100 to the first terminal 130_1 or the second terminal 130_2 of another battery cell 100. Busbar 334 can be connected to the first terminal 130_1 and / or the second terminal 130_2 by soldering or the like. The area of ​​battery cell 100 other than the first terminal 130_1 and the second terminal 130_2 can be insulated from busbar 334 by busbar retainer 332.

[0057] Circuit 338 may be arranged between busbar 334 and top plate 312. Circuit 338 may have a rectangular shape. Circuit 338 may be positioned above busbar holder 332. Circuit 338 may be positioned at least adjacent to the area where busbar 334 is mounted for a smooth connection to busbar 334. Circuit 338 may be equipped with various components for obtaining information about the state of battery cell 100 (such as the voltage and / or temperature of battery cell 100), and various components or circuits for controlling and / or managing battery cell 100. Circuit 338 may be electrically connected to the outside of battery module 320 via a separate connector. Circuit 338 may include a battery management module (BMM). BMM may be designed to monitor the state of multiple battery cells 100 included in battery module 320 by monitoring the voltage, current, temperature, etc. of battery cells 100, and to manage the charging and discharging of battery cells 100. BMM may be placed as a separate component within battery module 320, rather than being included in circuit 338. For example, the BMM can be positioned on one side of frame 310.

[0058] The battery module 320's BMM can be connected to the battery management system (BMS) 660. Figure 6 According to an embodiment, the BMS 660 can be connected to multiple BMMs. For example, the BMS 660 and multiple BMMs can be daisy-chained. That is, multiple BMMs that monitor multiple battery modules 320 can be centrally managed by the BMS 660. Therefore, the BMS 660 can monitor the entire energy storage system including multiple battery modules 320.

[0059] In one embodiment, the battery pack 300 may include an insulating plate 350 located between adjacent battery cells 100 of the battery module 320. As shown, the insulating plate 350 may electrically or spatially isolate the multiple battery cells 100 arranged in multiple rows. The insulating plate 350 may comprise a plastic composite material.

[0060] Reference Figure 4 The fire extinguishing pipe 340 can be placed in the receiving space in the frame 310 between the connection assembly 330 of the battery pack 300 and the top plate 312. The fire extinguishing pipe 340 may include a pipe cap 342 filled with filler 344 and a plurality of spray units 346 formed on the pipe cap 342.

[0061] In one embodiment, the cap 342 may be formed of a soft plastic having an internal space. The cap 342 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the frame 310 of the battery pack 300. The cap 342 may have an open end for filling the internal space with filler 344. Here, after the internal space of the cap 342 has been filled with filler 344 through this open end, the open end can be sealed by means of heat welding or the like. When in situations such as... Figure 3 When a fire occurs in at least some of the multiple battery cells 100 of the battery module 320, the cover 342 will melt. Specifically, when a fire occurs in a battery cell 100, the cover 342 will melt due to the heat from the gas emitted from the exhaust port 124.

[0062] In embodiments, the filler 344 may comprise a flame-retardant material. For example, the filler 344 may comprise a viscous polysiloxane. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto; the filler 344 may comprise a viscous flame-retardant material or a non-flammable material. When the cap 342 melts in the event of a fire, the filler 344 may be expelled to cover the battery module 320 located below the connection assembly. For example, when the filler 344 is a viscous polysiloxane, movement of debris within the battery pack 300 caused by a fire event can be suppressed, thereby effectively suppressing the spread of fire.

[0063] In one embodiment, a plurality of injection units 346 may be formed on the surface of the cap 342 facing the connection assembly 330. As shown, the plurality of injection units 346 may be formed in a funnel shape that narrows toward the connection assembly 330 or the battery module 320. In the event of a fire, the plurality of injection units 346 may melt due to the heat of the gas emitted from the vent 124. The plurality of injection units 346 may each be located at a position corresponding to the vent 124 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100. Specifically, each of the plurality of injection units 346 may be arranged one-to-one at a position corresponding to the vent 124 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of injection units 346 may be positioned at a position corresponding to each of the vent 124 such that they may melt rapidly due to the heat of the gas emitted from the vent 124 and may accurately inject filler onto the battery cell 100 where a fire has occurred. The plurality of injection units 346 may include a heat-sensitive member 348 with a melting point lower than that of the cap 342. As a result, the multiple injection units 346 can melt before the cap 342 melts, allowing the filler 344 to be injected through the multiple injection units 346. As described above, the filler 344, made of a viscous flame-retardant material, can be applied to the upper part of the battery cell 100 before thermal runaway occurs due to ignition, thus suppressing the movement of internal debris generated by explosions, etc. Therefore, it is possible to prevent further spread of fire caused by internal debris until the extinguishing agent is injected to extinguish the fire in the battery cell 100.

[0064] Figure 5 The illustration shows how filler 344 is sprayed from fire extinguishing pipe 340 onto the upper portion of battery cell 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Here, for illustrative purposes, the upper portion of battery cell 100 refers to the portion of battery cell 100 in which the vent 124 is positioned based on the orientation shown in the drawings, and not necessarily an upper portion based on a different orientation. Depending on the viewpoint, Figure 5 The upper part of this can be referred to by different terms. (Already referenced...) Figure 4 An embodiment of the fire extinguishing pipe 340 is described. Additionally, refer to... Figure 5 The described components may include Figure 3 In the battery pack 300 shown.

[0065] Reference Figure 5The fire extinguishing tube 340 can be placed above multiple battery cells 100 connected to each other via a connecting assembly 330. When a fire 510 occurs in a battery cell 100, gas can be emitted from the vent 124 on the upper part of the battery cell 100. Here, among the multiple spray units 346 of the fire extinguishing tube 340, the spray unit 346 at the position corresponding to the vent 124 can melt due to the heat of the released gas. Because the melting point of the spray unit 346 is lower than that of the tube cap 342, the spray unit 346 will melt before the tube cap 342 melts. When the spray unit 346 has melted, the filler 344 in the tube cap 342 can be concentratedly sprayed onto the upper part of the battery cell 100 where the fire has occurred through the melted portion of the spray unit 346. Here, the filler 344 can be made of a viscous flame-retardant material, so the spread of fire can be effectively prevented by suppressing the flow of debris generated by the fire in the battery cell 100.

[0066] Figure 6 An energy storage system 600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 6 The energy storage system 600 may include a plurality of battery packs 300 and at least one battery rack 610 for accommodating the plurality of battery packs 300.

[0067] The energy storage system 600 may include a battery management system (BMS) 660. The BMS 660 may be connected to a battery rack 610 and may be connected to multiple battery management modules (BMMs) included in each of the multiple battery packs 300. For example, the BMS 660 and the multiple BMMs may be daisy-chained. That is, the BMS 660 can centrally monitor and manage all of the multiple battery packs 300 in the energy storage system 600.

[0068] The energy storage system 600 may include a fire suppression device 630 connected to the battery rack 610. In response to events occurring in the multiple battery cells of the energy storage system 600, such as gas venting from the exhaust port and fire, the BMS 660 may operate the fire suppression system in response to signals and / or data sensed for each battery cell 100.

[0069] The fire extinguishing device 630 may include a reagent container 632 and a main valve 634. Additionally, the energy storage system 600 may include a main pipe 640 and branch pipes 650 connected to the fire extinguishing device 630. The reagent container 632 may be a type of storage container in which the fire extinguishing agent is stored. The reagent container 632 may be a pressure vessel in which a high-pressure fire extinguishing agent is stored. The fire extinguishing agent can be stored in the reagent container 632 by being pressurized. As a result, when (e.g., by BMS 660) it is determined to spray the fire extinguishing agent from the high-pressure reagent container 632, the main valve 634 may open to spray the fire extinguishing agent.

[0070] The main valve 634 can be used to open and close the discharge section of the reagent container 632. The main valve 634 can control the supply or interruption of the extinguishing agent according to commands from the BMS 660. When the main valve 634 is open, the extinguishing agent can be discharged from the reagent container 632 and transported through the main pipeline 640.

[0071] A main conduit 640 may extend from reagent container 632 to deliver extinguishing agent to each battery rack 610. The main conduit 640 may be positioned / installed externally adjacent to the plurality of battery racks 610. As shown, the main conduit 640 may extend parallel to the direction in which the plurality of battery packs 300 are aligned within the battery racks 610 and may be installed adjacent to the battery racks 610. In other embodiments, the main conduit 640 may branch to insert into each of the plurality of battery racks 610. In this case, the main conduit 640 may extend parallel to the direction in which the battery packs 300 are aligned within the battery racks 610 and may be installed in the upper region within the battery racks 610.

[0072] The main pipe 640 can branch into branch pipes 650, which connect to each of the multiple battery packs 300 in the battery rack 610. The extinguishing agent delivered through the branch pipes 650 can pass through the connecting pipe 722 that connects the branch pipes 650 and the battery packs 300. Figure 7 Fire extinguishing pipe 724 ( ) delivers power to the inside of battery pack 300 Figure 7 Subsequently, as the fire extinguishing pipe 724 melts, the extinguishing agent can be sprayed into the battery pack 300. The following will refer to... Figure 7 The features of the connecting pipe 722 and the fire extinguishing pipe 724 of the battery pack 300 are described in detail.

[0073] Figure 7 The illustration shows how extinguishing agent 730 is sprayed from extinguishing conduit 724 according to some embodiments of this disclosure. (See also...) Figure 7 The battery pack 300 may include a fire extinguishing conduit 724 filled with fire extinguishing agent and placed in the housing space 710 between adjacent rows of battery modules 320, and a connecting conduit 722 connecting the exterior of the battery pack 300 to the fire extinguishing conduit 724. Additionally, the battery pack 300 may include a heating element 726 positioned adjacent to the fire extinguishing conduit 724.

[0074] In an embodiment, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 can be connected to the branch conduit 650 via a connecting conduit 722. The fire extinguishing conduit 724 may be in the shape of a tube with a sealed interior, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The fire extinguishing conduit 724 may have an inner diameter and an outer diameter determined by the thickness of its material. Specifically, the thickness portion between the inner and outer diameters of the fire extinguishing conduit 724 may be completely melted by the heating element 726, thereby forming a hole in the fire extinguishing conduit 724 from which the extinguishing agent can be discharged. Therefore, the heating temperature of the heating element 726 may be higher than the melting point of the fire extinguishing conduit 724.

[0075] In this embodiment, the type of extinguishing agent is not limited, as long as it is a material capable of extinguishing a fire caused by thermal runaway of multiple battery cells 100 in the battery module 320. For example, the extinguishing agent may include solid, liquid, and gaseous substances with cooling effects. Examples of gaseous extinguishing agents include carbon dioxide extinguishing agents, halogen extinguishing agents, etc.; examples of solid extinguishing agents include phosphate extinguishing agents, bicarbonate extinguishing agents, etc.; examples of liquid extinguishing agents include acid-base extinguishing agents, enhanced liquid extinguishing agents, foam extinguishing agents, etc. Specifically, the extinguishing agent may be any one of heptafluoropropane, water-based extinguishing agents for cooling and extinguishing, and 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane. Furthermore, an appropriate extinguishing agent can be determined based on the cell capacity to prevent the spread of thermal runaway.

[0076] In this embodiment, the material of the fire extinguishing conduit 724 is not particularly limited, as long as it is a material that can melt at the heating temperature of the heating element 726. For example, the material of the fire extinguishing conduit 724 may include at least one of polypropylene (PP), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide 6 (PA6), and polyamide 66 (PA66).

[0077] In one embodiment, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 may be spaced apart from the side surface of the battery module 320 and extend along the length of the frame 310 (e.g., the front-to-back direction D). In the illustrated embodiment, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 may be positioned adjacent to the side surface of the battery module 320 and at the center of the frame 310, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The fire extinguishing conduit 724 may be placed at any location, such as adjacent to the side surface, lower surface, or upper surface of the battery module 320.

[0078] The heating element 726 may come into contact with the fire extinguishing conduit 724. For example, the heating element 726 may be wound around the fire extinguishing conduit 724. When the heating element 726 generates heat, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 in contact with the heating element 726 may melt. As a result, the extinguishing agent 730 may be ejected from the fire extinguishing conduit 724.

[0079] In an embodiment, when a fire occurs inside the battery pack 300, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 can melt after the filler 344 sprayed from the plurality of spray units 346 of the fire extinguishing conduit 340 covers the upper part of the battery module 320, allowing the fire extinguishing agent 730 to be sprayed. Therefore, the melting point of the fire extinguishing conduit 724 can be equal to or higher than the melting point of the plurality of spray units 346 of the fire extinguishing conduit 340.

[0080] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to detect a fire and spray a extinguishing agent to extinguish it at an early stage before thermal runaway occurs due to ignition. Therefore, the spread of thermal runaway to nearby battery cells can be prevented, thereby minimizing damage caused by the fire.

[0081] In one embodiment, the battery pack 300 may further include a lower panel 740 mounted on the lower surface of the space within the frame 310 to support the lower portion of the battery module 320. The lower panel 740 may prevent extinguishing agent 730 discharged from the molten extinguishing conduit 724 from moving onto the lower surface of the frame 310.

[0082] Figure 8 An example of a heating element 726 in contact with a fire extinguishing conduit 724 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 8 The heating element 726 can come into contact with the fire extinguishing conduit 724. Here, the heating element 726 can include at least one of a heating band and a heating wire. Specifically, the heating element 726 can be spirally wound around the fire extinguishing conduit 724. In this case, the fire extinguishing conduit 724 can melt due to the heating element 726, allowing the extinguishing agent 730 within the fire extinguishing conduit 724 to be sprayed in all directions.

[0083] Figure 9 This is a flowchart 900 illustrating an example of a method for suppressing fire in an energy storage system 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. First, in S910, when a fire occurs in the battery pack 300 within the energy storage system 600, the spray unit 346 of the fire extinguishing pipe 340 may melt due to gas discharged from the exhaust portion 124 of the battery cell 100. (Refer to...) Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The energy storage system 600 may include a battery rack 610, which includes multiple battery packs 300. In the event of a fire in one of the battery packs 300, the spray unit 346 of the fire extinguishing pipe 340 may melt due to the heat from the gas emitted from the exhaust portion 124 of the individual battery cells 100. Here, the melting point of the spray unit 346 may be lower than the melting point of the pipe cap 342. The spray unit 346 may melt first, allowing the filler 344 to be sprayed concentratedly through the spray unit 346.

[0084] Next, in S920, filler can be sprayed from the molten spraying unit 346 to cover the battery cell 100. (Refer to...) Figure 5 Filler 344 can be sprayed from the spray unit 346 placed above the target battery cell 100 where the fire has occurred 510 to cover the battery cell 100.

[0085] Subsequently, in S930, the battery management system 660 can sense a fire event and activate the fire extinguishing device 630. Next, in S940, the fire extinguishing agent can be sprayed. (See reference...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 When the BMS 660 senses a fire, it can cause the fire extinguishing device 630 to release the extinguishing agent 730. The released extinguishing agent 730 can be sprayed into the battery pack 300 through the main pipe 640 and the branch pipe 650. The branch pipe 650 can be connected to the fire extinguishing pipe 724 through the connecting pipe 722. The fire extinguishing pipe 724 can be melted by the heating element 726 placed adjacent to the fire extinguishing pipe 724, so that the extinguishing agent 730 can be sprayed into the battery pack 300.

[0086] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments and aspects thereof, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, within the spirit of the disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: A frame, in which there is a receiving space; A battery module, comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged in the receiving space; as well as The fire extinguishing hose is placed on the battery module. The fire extinguishing pipe includes a pipe cap filled with filler and multiple spray units formed on the pipe cap.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of battery cells includes: The housing has an opening formed at one end; A cover plate, which is attached to the opening of the housing and has a vent; and An exhaust section is placed on the exhaust port, and Each of the plurality of injection units is located at a position corresponding to the exhaust portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The filler contains flame-retardant materials.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein, The flame-retardant material comprises a viscous polysiloxane.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of injection units is formed in the shape of a funnel that narrows toward the battery module.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: A connection assembly is disposed on the battery module and includes a plurality of busbars electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and a busbar holder supporting the plurality of busbars; as well as The top plate is placed on the connecting assembly. The fire extinguishing pipe is disposed between the connecting assembly and the top plate.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of injection units include a heat-sensitive component having a melting point lower than that of the cap.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The battery pack also includes fire extinguishing conduits arranged in the containment space between adjacent rows of battery modules and filled with fire extinguishing agent.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, further comprising a heating element positioned adjacent to the fire extinguishing conduit, wherein, The melting point of the fire extinguishing pipeline is equal to or higher than the melting point of the plurality of spray units.

10. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising an insulating plate located between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

11. An energy storage system, the energy storage system comprising: One or more battery racks to accommodate multiple battery packs; A fire extinguishing device, connected to one or more of the battery racks; as well as The battery management system is connected to the one or more battery racks and the fire extinguishing device. Each of the plurality of battery packs includes: a frame having a receiving space within the frame; a battery module including a plurality of battery cells arranged in the receiving space; and a fire extinguishing tube placed on the battery module. The fire extinguishing pipe includes a pipe cap filled with filler and multiple spray units formed on the pipe cap.

12. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the plurality of battery cells includes: The housing has an opening formed at one end; A cover plate, which is attached to the opening of the housing and has a vent; and An exhaust section is placed on the exhaust port, and Each of the plurality of injection units is located at a position corresponding to the exhaust portion of each of the plurality of battery cells.

13. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein, The filler contains flame-retardant materials.

14. The energy storage system according to claim 13, wherein, The flame-retardant material comprises a viscous polysiloxane.

15. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the plurality of injection units is formed in the shape of a funnel that narrows toward the battery module.

16. The energy storage system according to claim 11, further comprising: A connection assembly is disposed on the battery module and includes a plurality of busbars electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells and a busbar holder supporting the plurality of busbars; as well as The top plate is placed on the connecting assembly. The fire extinguishing pipe is disposed between the connecting assembly and the top plate.

17. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein, The plurality of injection units include a heat-sensitive component having a melting point lower than that of the cap.

18. The energy storage system according to claim 11, further comprising a fire extinguishing conduit arranged in the containment space between adjacent rows of battery modules, filled with a fire extinguishing agent, and connected to the fire extinguishing device.

19. The energy storage system according to claim 18, further comprising a heating component, the heating component being positioned adjacent to the fire extinguishing pipe, wherein, The melting point of the fire extinguishing pipeline is equal to or higher than the melting point of the plurality of spray units.

20. The energy storage system of claim 11, further comprising an insulating plate located between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

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