Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is disclosed. The battery module includes: a module case having an accommodating space formed therein and an open upper side; a top plate mounted to cover an upper side of the module housing; the plurality of battery cells are stacked in the accommodating space of the module shell; and at least one thermal barrier interposed between the one or more battery cells, the at least one thermal barrier connected to the top plate, and when the top plate is opened, the at least one thermal barrier deforms when connected to the top plate to block a flame from propagating toward an adjacent battery cell.

Description

Battery Module Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0132715 filed on October 5, 2023 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0134095 filed on October 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are included as part of this specification.

[0002] This invention relates to a battery module that can suppress the spread of flames within the battery module even when the top plate deforms during thermal runaway. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, a secondary battery consists of a negative electrode, a positive electrode, and an electrolyte, and uses a chemical reaction to generate electrical energy. Due to its ability to be charged and discharged, the use of secondary batteries is gradually increasing. Because of the high energy density per unit weight of lithium-ion batteries, they are widely used as power sources for electronic communication devices or as drive sources for high-output hybrid and electric vehicles.

[0004] Regarding the shape of these secondary batteries, there is an increasing demand for square and pouch-type battery cells that, due to their thinness, can be used in products such as mobile phones. Regarding the materials used in the battery cells, there is an increasing demand for lithium-ion battery cells 130, such as lithium-ion and lithium-ion polymer batteries, which possess high energy density, discharge voltage, and output stability.

[0005] Currently widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these battery cells is approximately 2.5 V to 4.2 V. When a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module. Alternatively, multiple battery modules are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel according to the required charge / discharge capacity. Therefore, the number of battery cells and the electrical connection structure of the battery pack can be selected in various ways according to the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] The battery module may not be able to effectively dissipate the heat generated during charging and discharging. In this case, the battery module may deteriorate as heat accumulates within it. When the degradation of the battery module accelerates, thermal runaway or explosion may occur. The battery module includes a heat insulation plate between multiple battery cells to delay heat transfer and thermal runaway between adjacent battery cells. The heat insulation plate is manufactured in a square plate shape to contact the side surface of the battery cell 130.

[0007] When a flame appears, the top plate of the battery module may deform or open due to the immense pressure. Here, because a space is created between the deformed top plate and the battery cells, the flame and heat can not only escape to the outside of the battery module through the vents, but also move within the battery module through the space beneath the top plate. Furthermore, when the flame and heat move within the battery module, it may be difficult to delay the ignition of adjacent battery cells.

[0008] The background technology of this invention is disclosed in Korean Patent Application Publication No. 2021-0098331 (published on August 10, 2021). Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention aims to provide a battery module in which the top plate can deform when a thermal barrier is attached to the top plate.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery module that can prevent flames and heat from moving to adjacent battery cells inside the battery module.

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery module that can delay thermal runaway time when a flame is generated in the battery module.

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery module that prevents the curved portion of the thermal barrier from blocking the vent.

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery module that prevents the bent portion from drooping downwards and causing friction with the battery cell.

[0015] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is not limited to the above-described objectives, and other objectives and advantages of this invention not described herein may be understood through the following description and will become clearer through examples of this invention. Furthermore, it will be apparent that the objectives and advantages of this invention may be implemented by the means set forth in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] A battery module includes: a module housing having a receiving space therein and an opening at the top of the module housing; a top plate configured to cover the top of the module housing; a plurality of battery cells stacked in the receiving space of the module housing; and one or more thermal barriers inserted between at least one battery cell.

[0018] To address the aforementioned problems, according to the present invention, one or more thermal barriers are connected to a top plate such that when the top plate is opened, one or more thermal barriers deform while remaining connected to the top plate to prevent flames from moving toward adjacent battery cells.

[0019] Each of one or more thermal barriers may include: a thermal insulation pad that is inserted between a plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from a top plate; and a thermal insulation sheet that is stacked on the thermal insulation pad, extends over the thermal insulation pad to connect to the top plate, and deforms while remaining connected to the top plate when the top plate can be opened.

[0020] The insulation sheet can be formed into a curved shape in the section between the insulation pad and the top plate.

[0021] The heat insulation sheet may include: a flat sheet attached to at least one of the two surfaces of the heat insulation pad; and a curved portion formed in a curved shape in a section between the upper part of the heat insulation pad and the top plate, and connected to the top plate.

[0022] The curved portion can have an N-shape.

[0023] The curved section can have a serrated shape in the vertical direction.

[0024] The curved portion can have a rounded N-shape.

[0025] The curved section can be positioned vertically above the heat insulation pad.

[0026] The width of the bend can be within a predetermined range relative to the thickness of the thermal barrier.

[0027] The top plate can be provided with multiple vent holes, and the curved part can be connected to the part of the top plate that does not have vent holes.

[0028] The top plate can be provided with multiple vents, and the vents can be located between adjacent thermal barriers in the top plate.

[0029] Multiple battery cells can be stacked along the width of the module housing, and the heat insulation sheet can block the flame along the width of the module housing to prevent the flame from spreading along the width of the module housing.

[0030] The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate may include attachments. Preferably, the attachment can be established using double-sided tape.

[0031] The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate may include a connector. Preferably, the connector may include fastening components such as screws, rivets, and bolts.

[0032] The connection structure between the thermal barriers and the top plate may include a connection guide that connects to two or more thermal barriers and to the top plate. Preferably, the connection guide may include a rigid member.

[0033] The thermal barrier can be connected to the bottom surface of the top plate. Preferably, the connection of one or more thermal barriers can face the bottom surface of the top plate.

[0034] The thermal barriers may be connected to the upper surface of the top plate. Preferably, one or more thermal barriers pass through the top plate, and the joints of one or more thermal barriers may face the upper surface of the top plate. One or more thermal barriers may pass through the top plate and face the upper surface of the top plate.

[0035] Beneficial effects

[0036] According to the present invention, even when the top plate bends or deforms upward due to strong pressure, the thermal barrier can deform while being attached to the top plate without separating from it.

[0037] According to the present invention, since the thermal barrier is attached to the deformed top plate and still blocks the space below the top plate, it can prevent flames and heat inside the battery module from moving to adjacent battery cells. Therefore, thermal runaway can be delayed when a flame occurs in the battery module.

[0038] According to the present invention, since the heat insulation sheet has an excess length that is greater than the deformation of the top plate, the heat insulation sheet can be prevented from falling off or separating from the top plate even when the top plate is deformed by flame and gas pressure.

[0039] According to the present invention, since the curved portion is attached to the portion of the top plate without an exhaust hole, the curved portion can be prevented from blocking the exhaust hole.

[0040] According to the present invention, since the curved portion is arranged vertically above the heat insulation pad, even if the curved portion droops downward and causes friction with the upper end of the heat insulation pad, friction between the curved portion and the battery cell pouch can be prevented.

[0041] According to the present invention, the thermal barrier can be securely fixed to the top plate by a simple connection structure, thereby facilitating manufacturing.

[0042] In addition to the aforementioned beneficial effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be further described in detail as the specific features of the invention are described. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery module according to the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery module according to the present invention cut along the width direction.

[0045] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the thermal barrier of the battery module according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 4 is an enlarged view schematically showing the curved portion of the thermal barrier according to the invention, which is attached to the top plate away from the vent.

[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bent portion of the thermal barrier that remains engaged with the top plate as the top plate deforms according to the invention.

[0048] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a curved portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0049] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a curved portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0050] Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating the process of connecting the curved portion of the thermal barrier to the top plate by means of a connecting guide according to the present invention.

[0051] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the connecting guide of Figure 8 positioned between the bends of the thermal barrier.

[0052] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting guide in Figure 9.

[0053] Figure 11 shows that the upper end of the curved portion of Figure 10 is bent and fixed to the connecting guide.

[0054] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the process of assembling the top plate in the state shown in Figure 11.

[0055] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the curved portion fixed to the top plate by the barrier connection when the module housing of Figure 12 is covered by the top plate.

[0056] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the plate connection and the top plate, which are connected and fixed by connectors when the module housing in Figure 12 is covered by the top plate.

[0057] Figure 15 is a perspective view illustrating the process of connecting the curved portion of the thermal barrier to the top plate according to another method of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the heat barrier's slit penetrating the top plate and protruding above the top plate, with the module housing of Figure 15 covered by the top plate.

[0059] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the curved portion protruding above the top plate of Figure 16, which is laterally bent and fixed to the upper surface of the top plate.

[0060] Figure 18 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the curved portion in Figure 17.

[0061] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0062] 100: Battery module; 110: Module housing; 112: Terminal; 120: Top plate; 121: Slit; 122: Vent; 123: Part without vent; 130: Battery cell; 140: Thermal barrier; 141: Thermal insulation pad; 143: Thermal insulation sheet; 144: Flat sheet; 145, 146, 147: Bending portion; 160: Connecting guide; 161: Barrier connection portion; 162: Plate connection portion; 170: Connector; W1, W2, W3: Width of bending portion Detailed Implementation

[0063] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] This invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below; various variations can be applied, and it can be implemented in many different forms. The embodiments provided herein are merely intended to complete the disclosure of the invention and to give those skilled in the art a full understanding of its scope. Therefore, this invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and it should be understood that this invention includes all variations and equivalents contained within the technical concept and scope of the invention, as well as substitutions or additions between the configurations of one embodiment and those of another.

[0065] The accompanying drawings are provided merely to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that the technical concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the drawings, but rather encompass all variations, equivalents, and substitutions of the concepts and scope of the invention. In the drawings, although components may be exaggerated or reduced in size or thickness for ease of understanding, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention.

[0066] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments or examples only and is not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions. Throughout this document, terms such as “comprising” and “consisting of” are intended to indicate the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification. That is, it should be understood that terms such as “comprising” and “consisting of” as used herein do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0067] While ordinal terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0068] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as "connected" to another component, the component can be directly connected to the other component, or there can be an intervening component in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there is no intervening component in between.

[0069] When an element is referred to as being “above” or “below” another element, it should be understood that an intercalation element may exist in between as well as directly above or below another element.

[0070] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and unless expressly defined herein, terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning.

[0071] The following will describe a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the battery module of the present invention; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the battery module of the present invention cut in the width direction; Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the thermal barrier of the battery module of the present invention; Figure 4 is an enlarged view schematically showing the curved portion of the thermal barrier of the present invention attached to the top plate, avoiding the vent hole; and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the curved portion of the thermal barrier deformed by maintaining its engagement with the top plate when the top plate of the present invention is deformed.

[0073] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a module housing 110; a top plate 120; a plurality of battery cells 130; and one or more thermal barriers 140.

[0074] The module housing 110 has a receiving space therein and an open upper portion. The module housing 110 is formed of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum, to dissipate heat generated from the multiple battery cells 130. The module housing 110 may include a U-shaped frame and end plates, the U-shaped frame having an open front, rear, and upper portion, and the end plates being connected to the front and rear portions of the U-shaped frame.

[0075] A top plate 120 is mounted to cover the upper part of the module housing 110. The top plate 120 is formed of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum. A plurality of vent holes 122 are formed in the top plate 120. Flames or gases generated inside the module housing 110 can be exhausted to the outside through the vent holes 122. The vent holes 122 are arranged facing the battery cell 130 (vertically above). The vent holes 122 may have an elongated shape parallel to the length direction of the battery cell 130. Therefore, when flames or heat are generated in the battery cell 130, the flames or heat can rise and be exhausted through the vent holes 122.

[0076] Multiple battery cells 130 are stacked in the receiving space of the module housing 110. For example, the multiple battery cells 130 may be parallel to the length direction of the module housing 110 and stacked in the width direction of the module housing 110.

[0077] Multiple battery cells 130 are stacked in one direction. Battery cell 130 is a pouch-type battery cell in which electrode laminates (not shown) are housed inside a pouch.

[0078] The bag comprises a metal film layer, an outer resin layer laminated on the outer surface of the metal film layer, and an insulating layer laminated on the inner surface of the metal film layer. The metal film layer may include aluminum foil or copper film, etc. The outer resin layer may be made of nylon or polyethylene terephthalate with excellent mechanical strength to protect against external influences. The insulating layer has thermal bonding properties and acts as an adhesive, and may be made of polypropylene, polyolefin, C-PP (cast polypropylene), methacrylate, etc.

[0079] The battery cell 130 is formed by sequentially stacking a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode. Additionally, an electrolyte is contained within the battery cell 130. Electrode leads protrude from both sides of the battery cell 130, and multiple electrode leads 113 are connected to a busbar (not shown). Clearly, electrode leads of different polarities can be connected to protrude from one end of the battery cell 130 along its length.

[0080] A thermal barrier 140 can be inserted between one or more battery cells 130. The thermal barrier 140 is attached to a top plate 120, and when the top plate 120 deforms, the thermal barrier 140 deforms upon attachment to the top plate 120 to prevent flames from moving toward adjacent battery cells 130. At least one thermal barrier 140 can be installed inside the module housing 110.

[0081] When flames occur in some of the battery cells 130, heat and some of the flames can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 100 through the vent 122. Additionally, the gas pressure inside the battery module 100 can push the top plate 120 upwards and deform it. As the top plate 120 is bent or deformed upwards under strong pressure, the thermal barrier 140 deforms upon attachment to the top plate 120. Here, since the thermal barrier 140 remains attached to the deformed top plate 120 and blocks the space below the top plate 120, it can prevent the flames and heat from moving to adjacent battery cells 130. Therefore, when flames occur from the battery module 100, the thermal runaway time can be delayed.

[0082] The thermal barrier 140 may include a thermal insulation pad 141 and a thermal insulation sheet 143.

[0083] A heat insulation pad 141 is inserted between multiple battery cells 130 and spaced apart from the top plate 120. The heat insulation pad 141 may have almost the same height and length as the battery cells 130. The heat insulation pad 141 serves to block heat transfer from adjacent battery cells 130.

[0084] A heat shield 143 surrounds the outer surface of a heat shield 141 and extends above the heat shield 141 to attach to a top plate 120. When the top plate 120 is opened, the heat shield 143 deforms while remaining attached to the top plate 120. For example, the heat shield 143 may have a surplus length greater than the amount of deformation of the top plate 120. Therefore, even when the top plate 120 deforms due to flame and gas pressure, the heat shield 143 is prevented from detaching or separating from the top plate 120. That is, even when the top plate 120 deforms away from the thermal barrier 140, the heat shield 143 remains in a state that blocks the space below the top plate 120. Therefore, the transfer of flame and heat generated from a particular battery cell 130 to adjacent battery cells 130 can be prevented.

[0085] Multiple battery cells 130 are stacked in the width direction of the module housing 110. A heat insulation sheet 143 blocks the flame in the width direction of the module housing 110 to prevent the flame from spreading in the width direction of the module housing 110.

[0086] The heat insulation pad 141 may be formed of a flexible material so as to deform under the tension of the top plate 120. The heat insulation pad 141 may include at least one of silicone resin, polyurethane and aerogel.

[0087] Polyurethane foam is a porous polymer compound formed through a gelation and foaming reaction with carbon dioxide gas. Due to the presence of carbon dioxide and its porous structure, polyurethane foam can significantly reduce the load on the insulation pad 141 while improving insulation efficiency. Furthermore, the physical properties of polyurethane foam are almost unaffected by the heat generated from the battery cell 130.

[0088] Aerogels are porous nanostructures obtained by replacing the liquid in a gel structure with air while maintaining the gel structure. Aerogels consist of nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 1 nm to 50 nm. Furthermore, since aerogels are composed of approximately 99.8% air and 1 / 10,000 nm silica (SiO2), they are significantly lightweight and possess remarkably excellent thermal insulation properties. Such an aerogel thermal insulation pad 141 can significantly reduce the load while improving thermal insulation efficiency. Additionally, because aerogels are composed of air and silica, changes or deformations in physical properties caused by heat generated by the battery cell 130 can be minimized.

[0089] The heat insulation sheet 143 can be manufactured as a flame-retardant barrier sheet. The flame-retardant barrier sheet is flexible and flame-retardant. Therefore, the heat insulation sheet 143 is hardly damaged by flames and can deform according to the amount of deformation of the top plate 120.

[0090] The heat insulation sheet 143 can be formed in a curved shape in the section between the heat insulation pad 141 and the top plate 120. Therefore, when the top plate 120 deforms and a tensile force is applied to the heat insulation sheet 143, the curved portion unfolds. As a result, the heat insulation sheet 143 can remain attached to the top plate 120.

[0091] The heat insulation sheet 143 may include a flat sheet 144 and a curved portion 145.

[0092] A flat sheet 144 is attached to both side surfaces of the heat insulation pad 141. The flat sheet 144 can be formed into a single sheet so that it can be attached to both sides of the heat insulation pad 141 simultaneously. Alternatively, the heat insulation sheet 143 can be formed into two sheets so that they can be attached to both sides of the heat insulation pad 141 respectively.

[0093] A curved portion 145 with a curved shape is attached to the top plate 120 in the section between the upper part of the heat insulation pad 141 and the top plate 120. That is, the curved portion 145 is the part that does not face the heat insulation pad 141. The curved portion 145 has an excess length that is larger than the deformation of the top plate 120.

[0094] Multiple vent holes 122 are provided in the top plate 120, and the bent portion 145 can be attached to the portion of the top plate 120 that does not have vent holes 122. Therefore, the bent portion 145 can be prevented from blocking the vent holes 122.

[0095] Multiple vents 122 are provided in the top plate 120, and the vents 122 are formed in the top plate 120 between adjacent thermal barriers 140. Therefore, the vents 122 can be arranged vertically above the battery cell 130. As a result, when the battery cell 130 is ignited, the flame and heat can be smoothly and quickly discharged from the top plate 120.

[0096] The bent portion 145 can have an N-shape. Here, the bent portion 145 is bent at least 2 to 3 times to form an acute angle, and has a portion attached to the top plate 120 arranged vertically above the heat insulation pad 141. This is because the vent 122 is located vertically above the battery cell 130, while the vent 122 is not located vertically above the heat barrier 140. Therefore, the attachment portion of the bent portion 145 can be prevented from blocking the vent 122. In addition, the number of bends of the bent portion 145 is only required to keep the bent portion 145 relaxed when the top plate 120 deforms.

[0097] The width W1 of the bend 145 can deviate from the thickness of the thermal barrier 140 within a certain range. That is, the width W1 of the bend 145 can be the same as or almost the same as the thickness of the thermal barrier 140. This is to prevent the bend 145 from drooping downwards due to external impact or vibration, thereby causing friction with the bag of the battery cell 130. By preventing the bend 145 from causing friction with the bag, damage to the bag can be prevented.

[0098] The bent portion 145 can be positioned vertically above the heat insulation pad 141. Therefore, even when the bent portion 145 droops downward and causes friction with the upper end of the heat insulation pad 141, friction with the battery cell 130 pocket can be prevented. Thus, damage to the battery cell can be prevented.

[0099] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of the curved portion of the thermal barrier of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG6, the heat insulation sheet 143 may include a flat sheet 144 and a curved portion 146.

[0101] The flat sheet 144 is essentially the same as described above, therefore it is given the same reference numerals and its description is omitted.

[0102] The bent portion 146 has a serrated shape in the vertical direction. For example, the bent portion 146 may have a shape that alternates between left and right bends. The bent portion 146 is also bent at an acute angle 2 to 3 times, and the portion attached to the top plate 120 is arranged vertically upward. This is because the vent 122 is located vertically above the battery cell 130, but not vertically above the heat barrier 140. Therefore, the attachment portion of the bent portion 146 can be prevented from blocking the vent 122. In addition, the number of bends of the bent portion 146 is only required to keep the bent portion 146 relaxed when the top plate 120 deforms.

[0103] The width W2 of the bend 146 can be within a certain range (micro-range) relative to the thickness of the thermal barrier 140. That is, the width W2 of the bend 146 can be equal to or nearly equal to the thickness of the thermal barrier 140. This is to prevent the bend 146 from drooping downwards due to external impact or vibration, thereby preventing friction with the bag of the battery cell 130. By preventing the bend 146 from causing friction with the bag, damage to the bag can be prevented.

[0104] The curved portion 146 can be provided vertically above the heat insulation pad 141. Thus, even if the curved portion 146 droops downward and causes friction with the upper end of the heat insulation pad 141, friction with the pouch of the battery cell 130 can be prevented.

[0105] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of the curved portion of the thermal barrier of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIG7, the heat insulation sheet 143 may include a flat sheet 144 and a curved portion 147.

[0107] The flat sheet 144 is essentially the same as described above, therefore it is given the same reference numerals and its description is omitted.

[0108] The bent portion 147 has a rounded N-shape in the vertical direction. For example, the bent portion 147 may have a curved shape that alternates between upward and downward rounding. The bent portion 147 is also configured such that the portion attached to the top plate 120 is arranged vertically upward. This is because the vent 122 is located vertically above the battery cell 130, but not vertically above the heat barrier 140. Therefore, the attachment portion of the bent portion 147 can be prevented from blocking the vent 122. In addition, the number of bends of the bent portion 147 is only required to keep the bent portion 147 relaxed when the top plate 120 deforms.

[0109] The width W3 of the bend 147 can deviate from the thickness of the thermal barrier 140 within a certain range. That is, the width W3 of the bend 147 can be equal to or nearly equal to the thickness of the thermal barrier 140. This is to prevent the bend 147 from drooping downwards due to external impact or vibration, thereby causing friction with the bag of the battery cell 130. By preventing the bend 147 from causing friction with the bag, damage to the bag can be prevented.

[0110] The curved portion 147 can be provided vertically above the heat insulation pad 141. Thus, even if the curved portion 147 droops downward and causes friction with the upper end of the heat insulation pad 141, friction with the pouch of the battery cell 130 can be prevented.

[0111] In the following description, a first embodiment of the method and connection structure for connecting a thermal barrier to the top plate of a battery module according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 14.

[0112] Referring to FIG8, when the laminate of the battery cell 130 and the thermal barrier 140 is housed in the module housing 110, the ends of the bent portions 145 of the heat insulation sheet 143 of the thermal barrier 140 have an upwardly extending orientation. In this state, in order to facilitate the process of connecting the heat insulation sheet 143 to the top plate, a connection guide 160 is installed to temporarily fix the ends of the plurality of heat insulation sheets 143.

[0113] The connecting guide 160 is provided with: a plurality of barrier connecting portions 161, which are respectively connected to the ends of a plurality of heat insulation sheets 143; and a plate connecting portion 162, which integrally connects the plurality of barrier connecting portions 161. The plurality of barrier connecting portions 161 are spaced apart along a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the battery cells 130, and the plate connecting portion 162 extends parallel to the stacking direction of the battery cells 130 and connects the two ends of the plurality of barrier connecting portions 161.

[0114] Next, referring to Figures 9 and 10, the connecting guide 160 is placed above the plurality of thermal barriers 140 such that the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 is adjacent to and protrudes above the barrier connection portion 161.

[0115] Next, as shown in Figure 11, the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 is folded laterally such that the side surface of the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 contacts the upper surface of the barrier connection portion 161. Here, the upper surface of the barrier connection portion 161 and the side surface of the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 can be attached to each other. The attachment method can be by using an adhesive layer or double-sided tape, or by using a separate fixing element such as a screw or rivet, and the fixing method is not limited to these.

[0116] As shown in Figure 12, with the connecting guide 160 connected to multiple heat insulation sheets 143, the module housing 110 is covered by the top plate 120. The connecting guide 160 can be made of a highly fire-resistant material with sufficient rigidity to maintain its shape. Therefore, with the module housing 110 covered by the top plate 120, the ends of the heat insulation sheets 143 fixed to the connecting guide 160 can precisely face the portion 123 of the top plate 120 without vents, as shown in Figure 13. Here, the bottom surface of the top plate 120 and the ends of the heat insulation sheets 143 can be additionally attached.

[0117] Additionally, as shown in Figure 14, the plate connection portion 162 of the connecting guide 160 can be fixed to the top plate 120. For example, the plate connection portion 162 can be securely fixed to the top plate 120 by using a connector 170, such as a bolt, that passes through the top plate 120. Obviously, the type of connector 170 is not limited to a bolt.

[0118] Based on the connection structure between the heat barrier and the top plate, the connection guide 160 can facilitate the handling, arrangement and fixation of multiple heat barriers 140, while also more securely connecting the top plate 120 to the heat barrier 140.

[0119] In the following description, a second embodiment of the connection structure and method for connecting a thermal barrier to the top plate of a battery module according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18. The connection structure according to the second embodiment differs from the connection structure shown in FIG. 2 in that the thermal barrier is connected to the upper surface of the top plate.

[0120] Referring to FIG15, when the laminate of the battery cell 130 and the thermal barrier 140 is housed in the module housing 110, the end of the bent portion 145 of the heat insulation sheet 143 of the thermal barrier 140 has an upwardly extending orientation.

[0121] In this configuration, to facilitate the connection of the heat insulation sheet 143 to the top plate, a top plate 120 with slits 121 through which the heat insulation sheet 143 can pass vertically is used. Multiple slits 121 are provided in the portion of the top plate 120 without vents 122. The slits 121 are thin and long, allowing the heat barrier 140 to pass through.

[0122] During the process of assembling the top plate 120 into the module housing 110, the upper end of the thermal barrier 140 is aligned with the slit 121. The top plate 120 is then moved toward the module housing 110. Then, as shown in FIG16, the upper end of the thermal barrier 140 passes through the slit 121 through the top plate 120 and protrudes upward from the top plate 120.

[0123] Next, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the upper end of the protruding curved portion 145 through the top plate 120 is laterally folded such that the side surface of the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 contacts the upper surface of the top plate 120. Here, the upper surface of the top plate 120 and the side surface of the end of the heat insulation sheet 143 can be fixed to each other. The end of the heat insulation sheet 143 can be attached to the upper surface of the top plate 120 by inserting an adhesive layer or double-sided tape, or by using a separate fixing element such as a screw or rivet. However, the fixing method is not limited to this.

[0124] The end of the heat insulation sheet 143 is attached to the portion 123 of the top plate 120 that does not have an air vent.

[0125] Based on the connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate, the handling, arrangement and fixation of multiple thermal barriers 140 can be facilitated by providing a slit 121 only in the top plate 120 and forming a guide surface around the lower end of the slit 121 in the top plate 120 to guide the thermal barrier to be inserted therein.

[0126] Although the first and second embodiments are described using the bend 145 as an example, it is clear that other types of bends 146 and 147 can also be applied.

[0127] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope and concept of the invention. Furthermore, although the operational effects of the configuration according to the invention are not explicitly described in the description of embodiments of the invention, it should be understood that predictable effects will also be identified through the configuration.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: A module housing, wherein a receiving space is provided in the module housing, and an opening is provided at the top of the module housing; A top plate, configured to cover the upper part of the module housing; a plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells being stacked in the receiving space of the module housing; And one or more thermal barriers, which are inserted between at least one battery cell, are connected to the top plate, and when the top plate is opened, the one or more thermal barriers deform while remaining connected to the top plate to block the flame from moving toward the adjacent battery cell.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the one or more thermal barriers includes: a thermal insulation pad inserted between the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the top plate; and a thermal insulation sheet stacked on the thermal insulation pad, the thermal insulation sheet extending above the thermal insulation pad to connect to the top plate, and deforming while remaining connected to the top plate when the top plate is opened.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The heat insulation sheet is formed in a curved shape in the section between the heat insulation pad and the top plate.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The heat insulation sheet includes: a flat sheet attached to at least one of the two surfaces of the heat insulation pad; and a curved portion formed in a curved shape in a section between the upper part of the heat insulation pad and the top plate, and connected to the top plate.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The curved portion has an N-shape.

6. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The curved portion has a serrated shape in the vertical direction.

7. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The curved portion has a rounded N-shape.

8. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The curved portion is positioned vertically above the heat insulation pad.

9. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The width of the curved portion is within a predetermined range relative to the thickness of the thermal barrier.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The top plate is provided with multiple vent holes, and the curved portion is connected to the portion of the top plate that does not have the vent holes.

11. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The top plate is provided with multiple vent holes, and the vent holes are arranged in the top plate between adjacent thermal barriers.

12. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of battery cells are stacked along the width direction of the module housing, and the heat insulation sheet blocks the flame along the width direction of the module housing to prevent the flame from spreading along the width direction of the module housing.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate includes an attachment.

14. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate includes a connector.

15. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate includes a connection guide that connects to two or more thermal barriers and to the top plate.

16. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The thermal barrier is connected to the bottom surface of the top plate.

17. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The thermal barrier is connected to the upper surface of the top plate.

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