Battery pack and device including the same

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present application includes a plurality of battery cells, a battery pack frame including a bottom frame and side frames that form an accommodation space that accommodates the battery cells, and a coolant that flows and directly cools the battery cells in the accommodation space. An inlet port for introducing the coolant and an outlet port for discharging the coolant are provided in the side frames. Hollow portions are formed inside the side frames, and each hollow portion communicates with the inlet port and the outlet port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0013810, filed on January 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, and more specifically, to an immersion-cooled battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack. Background Technology

[0004] With technological advancements and increasing demands for mobile devices, the need for rechargeable batteries as an energy source is also rapidly growing. Consequently, extensive research has been conducted on rechargeable batteries capable of meeting diverse requirements.

[0005] Secondary batteries have attracted widespread attention as an energy source for power-driven devices such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles, as well as for mobile devices such as mobile phones, digital cameras, and laptops.

[0006] In recent years, with the increasing demand for high-capacity secondary battery structures (including the use of secondary batteries as energy storage), the demand for battery packs formed by assembling multiple secondary batteries has also increased.

[0007] Meanwhile, when multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel to construct a battery pack, the battery pack is usually constructed by setting multiple battery cells in the battery pack frame and adding other components.

[0008] Because these battery cells are composed of rechargeable secondary batteries, these high-output, high-capacity secondary batteries generate a significant amount of heat during charging and discharging. In this situation, the heat generated from the numerous battery cells accumulates in a confined space, causing the temperature to rise more rapidly and excessively. In other words, battery modules with a large number of stacked battery cells can achieve high output, but it is difficult to dissipate the heat generated from the battery cells during charging and discharging. When heat dissipation of the battery cells is not properly implemented, battery cell degradation accelerates, lifespan is shortened, and the possibility of explosion or fire increases.

[0009] Furthermore, in the case of vehicle battery packs, they are frequently exposed to direct sunlight and can be placed in high-temperature conditions (such as summer or desert regions). Additionally, because multiple battery modules are clustered together to increase vehicle range, flames or heat generated in one battery cell can easily spread to adjacent cells, potentially leading to the battery pack itself catching fire or exploding. Therefore, to effectively cool high-capacity battery packs, immersion cooling (where the coolant directly cools the battery cells inside the pack) is used. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack having an efficient coolant circulation structure of the immersion cooling type, which directly cools the battery cells using a coolant.

[0012] However, the technical objectives to be addressed by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned objectives, and various extensions can be made within the scope of the technical ideas included in this disclosure.

[0013] Technical solution

[0014] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a battery pack frame including a bottom frame and a side frame forming a receiving space for accommodating the battery cells; and a coolant flowing in while directly cooling the battery cells in the receiving space, wherein the side frame is provided with an inlet port for allowing coolant to flow in and an outlet port for allowing coolant to drain out, and wherein cavities are formed inside the side frame and each cavity communicates with the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0015] The side frame can have a square tube structure with internal cavities.

[0016] The inlet and outlet ports can be located on the surfaces opposite to the side frame surface facing the battery cell.

[0017] Cooling holes that communicate with the cavity can be formed on the side frame surface facing the battery cell.

[0018] The coolant can flow into or out of the containment space while passing through the cavity.

[0019] The cavity may include an inflow cavity connected to an inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to an outlet port. The inflow cavity and the outlet cavity may be separate from each other.

[0020] Coolant can flow into the containment space through the inlet port and the inflow chamber. Coolant that directly cools the battery cells can be discharged to the outside through the outlet chamber and the outlet port.

[0021] The side frame may include a first side frame and a second side frame positioned opposite to each other, and the battery cell is located between the first side frame and the second side frame. The first side frame may have both an inlet port and an outlet port formed therein.

[0022] The cavity may include an inflow cavity connected to an inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to an outlet port. Vertical beams dividing the containment space into a first region and a second region may be located on the bottom frame. Coolant may flow sequentially through the first and second regions.

[0023] The separation frame can be located between the battery cell and the second side frame. The coolant can circulate along the inflow cavity of the first side frame, the first region, the cavity inside the separation frame, the second region, and the outlet cavity of the first side frame.

[0024] The cavity may include an inflow cavity connected to an inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to an outlet port. Vertical beams dividing the containment space into a first region and a second region, with channels formed therein, may be located on the bottom frame. Coolant flowing through the first region and coolant flowing through the second region may flow in the same direction.

[0025] The coolant can circulate along the inflow chamber of the first side frame, the first region and the second region, the channel inside the vertical beam, and the discharge chamber of the first side frame.

[0026] The battery cell may include a venting section. The bottom frame may have a venting channel that guides the exhaust gas or particles discharged from the venting section of the battery cell.

[0027] Vertical beams that divide the space into multiple zones can be located on the bottom frame. The exhaust passage corresponding to any one zone can have an independent exhaust flow path that is not shared with the exhaust passages corresponding to other zones.

[0028] According to certain other aspects of this disclosure, an apparatus including the above-described battery pack is provided.

[0029] Beneficial effects

[0030] According to certain embodiments of this disclosure, in immersion cooling where the battery cell is directly cooled by a coolant, the cavity formed inside the side frame can be used as a cooling flow path for the coolant, thereby increasing space utilization efficiency and achieving an efficient coolant circulation structure.

[0031] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the appended claims other effects not mentioned above. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery pack according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 and Figure 2A perspective view of the battery pack frame included in the battery pack.

[0034] Figure 4 (a) and (b) are perspective and side views of a battery cell according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively.

[0035] Figure 5 It shows along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line A-A' in (a).

[0036] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery pack according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A magnified cross-sectional view of part "B".

[0039] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A magnified cross-sectional view of part "C".

[0040] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 8 A magnified cross-sectional view of the "D" section.

[0041] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing a battery cell, retaining frame, and spacer according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing a first side frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of the inlet port including the first side frame taken along a section according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 14 A magnified cross-sectional view of the “E” section.

[0045] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of the outlet port including the first side frame taken along a certain embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 17 It is shown Figure 16 A magnified cross-sectional view of the “F” section.

[0047] Figure 18 This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the inlet and outlet ports formed in the first side frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 19 It shows along including Figure 18 A perspective cross-sectional view of the section taken from the entrance port portion of the first side frame.

[0049] Figure 20 It shows along including Figure 18 A perspective view of the cross section of the portion of the outlet port in the first side frame.

[0050] Figure 21 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the bottom frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 22 This is a plan view showing the bottom frame and battery cells according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing a first side frame according to certain other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 24 It shows along Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line G-G'.

[0054] Figure 25 It shows along Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line H-H'.

[0055] Figure 26 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the bottom frame according to certain other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 27 It shows along Figure 26 A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line I-I'.

[0057] Figure 28 This is a plan view showing the bottom frame and battery cells according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0058] In the following, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to readily practice the present disclosure. The present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0059] For clarity in describing this disclosure, descriptions of parts unrelated to this disclosure will be omitted, and the same or similar reference numerals will be used throughout the description to denote the same or similar parts.

[0060] For ease of description, the accompanying drawings arbitrarily show the dimensions and thicknesses of each component; therefore, this disclosure is not limited to what is shown. The drawings depict thicknesses at an enlarged scale to clearly show different layers and regions. Furthermore, the drawings exaggerate the thickness of a particular layer or region for descriptive purposes.

[0061] When layers, membranes, regions, plates, etc., are arranged "on" a specific part, this description includes not only cases where layers, membranes, regions, plates, etc., are arranged "directly" on the specific part, but also cases where layers, membranes, regions, plates, etc., are arranged on the specific part via another part. When one part is arranged "directly" on another part, it indicates that there are no new components between the two parts. Furthermore, when a component is arranged "on" a reference part, it means that the component exists on top of or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that the component is only arranged on top of the reference part opposite to the direction of gravity.

[0062] Throughout this description, when a section “includes” a component, unless otherwise specified, it does not mean that the section excludes other components, but rather that the section may include other components.

[0063] Throughout this description, the term "plan view" refers to an object viewed from above, while the term "section view" refers to a vertical cross-section of an object viewed from the side.

[0064] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery pack according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of the battery pack frame included in the battery pack.

[0065] Reference Figures 1 to 3According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack 100 includes: a plurality of battery cells 110; a battery pack frame 200 including a bottom frame 210 and a side frame 220 forming a receiving space SS for receiving the battery cells 110; and a coolant that flows while directly cooling the battery cells 110 in the receiving space SS. The side frame 220 of the battery pack frame 200 is provided with an inlet port 910 for allowing coolant to flow in and an outlet port 920 for allowing coolant to drain out. Cavities are formed inside the side frame 220, and each cavity communicates with the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920. That is, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment corresponds to an immersion-cooled battery pack 100 in which coolant flows inside the battery pack frame 200 and contacts the battery cells 110 to directly cool the battery cells 110, rather than a conventional indirect-cooled battery pack in which a radiator through which coolant flows is provided in the battery pack.

[0066] The side frame 220 according to this embodiment has an internal cavity. In one example, the side frame 220 may have a square tube structure in which the cavity is formed, and may include a metallic material. This reduces the weight of the battery pack 100 while ensuring its rigidity.

[0067] Furthermore, in the immersion-cooled battery pack 100, each cavity within the side frame 220 communicates with the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920, allowing the cavities within the side frame 220 to serve as cooling paths for supplying and discharging coolant. The side frame 220 can function as a component for coolant circulation, rather than simply an outer tube frame. Therefore, the number of components used for supplying coolant can be reduced, thereby reducing the weight and volume of the battery pack 100 and improving its assembly performance.

[0068] The battery cell 110 according to this embodiment will now be described in detail.

[0069] Figure 4 (a) and (b) are perspective and side views of a battery cell according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively. Figure 5 It shows along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line A-A' in (a). Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0070] Common Reference Figures 4 to 6 According to this embodiment, the battery cell 110 may have an exhaust section 110V. The exhaust section 110V is generally referred to as a component or mechanism provided in the battery cell 110, which is able to exhaust exhaust gases and the like inside the battery cell 110.

[0071] In one example, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment may be a cylindrical battery cell. Specifically, the battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly 10; a battery can 20 that houses the electrode assembly 10 and has an open upper portion; and a cover assembly 30 that is connected to the open upper portion of the battery can 20. A gasket 50 may be inserted between the battery can 20 and the cover assembly 30. An exemplary structure of the battery cell 110 will be described below, but the battery cell disclosed herein is not limited to this structure.

[0072] According to this embodiment, the battery canister 20 can be a cylindrical shell with an open upper part and can accommodate the electrode assembly 10 and electrolyte (not shown) in the internal accommodating space, and can include a metallic material such as aluminum (Al).

[0073] The cover assembly 30 according to this embodiment may include a plate-shaped top cover 31 and a connecting plate 32 electrically and mechanically connected to the top cover 31. The top cover 31 may include a conductive metallic material and may cover the open upper part of the battery canister 20. The top cover 31 may be electrically connected to a first section 11 connected to a first electrode of the electrode assembly 10, while being electrically insulated from the battery canister 20 by a gasket 50. Therefore, the cover assembly 30 including the top cover 31 according to this embodiment can be used as a first electrode terminal 111 (which is an external terminal of the first electrode included in the electrode assembly 10).

[0074] Specifically, in the electrical connection between the top cover 31 and the first section 11, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment may further include a first current collector 41 located on the upper part of the electrode assembly 10. The first current collector 41 may include a conductive metal material (such as aluminum, copper, steel, nickel, etc.) and may be electrically connected to the first section 11 of the electrode assembly 10. The electrical connection may be made by welding. A lead wire 60 may be connected to this first current collector 41. The lead wire 60 may extend in the upward direction of the electrode assembly 10 and be connected to the connecting plate 32. In some other embodiments, the lead wire 60 may be directly connected to the lower surface of the top cover 31. The connection between the lead wire 60 and other components may be made by welding. Furthermore, the first current collector 41 may be integrally formed with the lead wire 60. In this case, the lead wire 60 may have a long plate shape extending outward from near the center of the first current collector 41.

[0075] The first current collector 41 may have a plurality of protrusions and recesses (not shown) radially formed on its lower surface. With the radial protrusions and recesses provided, the first current collector 41 can be pressed to press the protrusions and recesses into the bent first segment 11. For example, the connection between the first current collector 41 and the first segment 11 can be performed by laser welding. Laser welding can be performed by partially melting the substrate of the first current collector 41. In a variant embodiment, welding between the first current collector 41 and the first segment 11 can be performed with solder inserted. In this case, the solder may have a lower melting point compared to the first current collector 41 and the first segment 11. Laser welding can be replaced by resistance welding, ultrasonic welding, spot welding, etc.

[0076] Furthermore, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment may also include a second current collector 42 located at the lower part of the electrode assembly 10. Specifically, the second current collector 42 may be located between the electrode assembly 10 and the bottom 20F of the battery canister 20. The second current collector 42 may include a conductive metal material (such as aluminum, copper, steel, nickel, etc.) and may be electrically connected to the second section 12 of the electrode assembly 10. One surface of the second current collector 42 may be connected to the second section 12, and the opposite surface of the second current collector 42 may be connected to the bottom 20F of the battery canister 20. Welding may be applied to the connection of the second current collector 42. Therefore, the battery canister 20 according to this embodiment can be used as a second electrode terminal 112 (which is the external terminal of the second electrode included in the electrode assembly 10).

[0077] Meanwhile, the secondary battery according to this embodiment may include an insulating plate 70. The insulating plate 70 may cover the first current collector 41. The insulating plate 70 covers the first current collector 41 at its upper surface, thus preventing the first current collector 41 from contacting the battery canister 20 (particularly the rolled edge 20B of the battery canister 20 described below). The insulating plate 70 may also be provided with a separate lead hole, so that a lead 60 extending upward from the first current collector 41 can be pulled out. The lead 60 can be pulled upward through the lead hole of the insulating plate 70 and connected to the lower surface of the connecting plate 32 or the lower surface of the top cover 31.

[0078] The outer edge region of the insulating plate 70 can be inserted between the first current collector 41 and the rolled edge 20B of the battery canister 20, thereby fixing the connector between the electrode assembly 10 and the first current collector 41. Therefore, the connector between the electrode assembly 10 and the first current collector 41 can restrict its movement along the axial direction of the electrode assembly 10, thereby improving the assembly stability of the secondary battery. The insulating plate 70 can be made of an insulating polymer resin. In one example, the insulating plate 70 may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyimide, and polybutylene terephthalate.

[0079] Meanwhile, the battery can 20 according to this embodiment may include a crimping portion 20C and a rolled edge portion 20B. The crimping portion 20C is part of the battery can 20 and surrounds the cover assembly 30 and the gasket 50. Specifically, the battery can 20 and the cover assembly 30 can be joined by crimping with the gasket 50 inserted therebetween. That is, crimping can be applied to the connection between the battery can 20 and the cover assembly 30. Therefore, the crimping portion 20C can be formed in the battery can 20. More specifically, the gasket 50 is located between the battery can 20 and the cover assembly 30, and then the upper end of the battery can 20 is bent in the direction of the cover assembly 30 to form a crimped joint.

[0080] The rolled edge portion 20B refers to a portion of the side surface of the battery can 20 that is recessed towards the center in the area above the electrode assembly 10, and is designed to stably position the cover assembly 30 and prevent movement of the electrode assembly 10. In other words, the cover assembly 30 and the gasket 50 surrounding the cover assembly 30 according to this embodiment can be mounted on the rolled edge portion 20B of the battery can 20. The aforementioned pressing can be performed with the cover assembly 30 and the gasket 50 surrounding the cover assembly 30 mounted on the rolled edge portion 20B.

[0081] According to this embodiment, the gasket 50 is located between the battery canister 20 and the cover assembly 30, thus enhancing the sealing performance of the secondary battery. The gasket 50 may also include an electrically insulating material and can prevent a short circuit between the battery canister 20, which serves as the second electrode terminal 112, and the cover assembly 30, which serves as the first electrode terminal 111. The gasket 50 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA).

[0082] According to this embodiment, the vent 110V can be formed on the lower surface of the battery cell 110. That is, the vent 110V can be formed at the bottom 20F of the battery canister 20 (see...). Figure 6 )superior.

[0083] When a thermal event or thermal runaway occurs inside the battery cell 110, high-temperature exhaust gases or particles may be generated. The exhaust portion 110V is collectively referred to as a component or mechanism capable of venting such high-temperature exhaust gases or particles. In one example, a notch 110N, thinner than the area adjacent to the bottom of the battery, may be formed on the lower surface of the battery cell 110. The notch 110N may have a constant outer edge. When the internal pressure of the battery cell 110 increases due to any high-temperature exhaust gases generated inside the battery cell 110, the notch 110N, being thinner and less rigid, may rupture first. Due to the rupture of the notch 110N, the exhaust portion 110V opens, and high-temperature exhaust gases or particles can be discharged through the exhaust portion 110V opened in this manner.

[0084] However, the structure of the exhaust section 110V is only an illustrative example, and the shape of the exhaust section 110V is not particularly limited, as long as it is a component or mechanism that can discharge internal exhaust gases in the event of a thermal event or thermal runaway.

[0085] Furthermore, although not specifically shown, the battery cell according to this disclosure can be a square battery cell in which electrode assemblies are housed in a square can. That is, although the battery cell according to this embodiment is depicted as a cylindrical battery cell in the figures, this is only an exemplary structure of the battery cell according to this disclosure, and the battery cell according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure can be a square battery cell.

[0086] At the same time, refer to again Figures 1 to 3The battery pack frame 200 according to this embodiment includes a bottom frame 210 and a side frame 220 forming a receiving space SS for accommodating a battery cell 110 as described above. The battery cell 110 can be placed on the bottom frame 210, and the side frame 220 can extend along the edge of the bottom frame 210. In one example, the side frame 220 may include a first side frame 221, a second side frame 222, a third side frame 223, and a fourth side frame 224. The first side frame 221, the second side frame 222, the third side frame 223, and the fourth side frame 224 can be arranged along the four sides of the bottom frame 210, which has a square shape. The receiving space with an open upper portion is provided by the bottom frame 210 and the side frame 220, and the battery cell 110 can be arranged in this receiving space. After the battery cell 110 is arranged in the receiving space, the open upper portion of the receiving space can be covered by the battery pack top cover 610. The battery pack cover 610 can be joined to the side frame 220 of the battery pack frame 200, and in one example, welding or adhesive bonding can be applied. The battery cells 110 can be sealed by the battery pack frame 200 and the battery pack cover 610. Furthermore, although not specifically shown, gaskets for improving sealing performance can be inserted between the battery pack cover 610 and the side frame 220.

[0087] Meanwhile, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may include a mounting portion 220M1 and a mounting beam 220M2 disposed on the side frame 220 for fixing the battery pack 100. In one example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows a mounting portion 220M1 formed on the first side frame 221 and the second side frame 222, and a mounting beam 220M2 formed on the third side frame 223 and the fourth side frame 224. The mounting portion 220M1 and the mounting beam 220M2 can be used when installing the battery pack 100 into the device. In one example, when installing the battery pack 100 into a vehicle device, the mounting portion 220M1 and the mounting beam 220M2 can be fixed to the vehicle chassis.

[0088] The battery pack structure for preventing coolant leakage in an immersion-cooled type according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0089] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery pack according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A magnified cross-sectional view of part "B". Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A magnified cross-sectional view of part "C". Figure 10 It is shown Figure 8A magnified cross-sectional view of the "D" section. Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing a battery cell, retaining frame, and spacer according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 7 to 11 According to this embodiment, the battery pack 100 may further include a spacer 300 located on the upper part of the bottom frame 210 and on which the battery cell 110 is disposed, and a retaining frame 400 located on the upper part of the spacer 300 and having holes 400H formed therein into which the battery cell 110 is assembled.

[0091] The coolant CL flowing into the inlet port 910 can flow within the space between the spacer 300 and the retaining frame 400, thereby directly cooling the battery cells 110 inside the battery pack frame 200. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the coolant CL flowing in the space between the spacer 300 and the retaining frame 400 can directly cool the battery cell 110 while in contact with it.

[0092] As described above, the side frame 220 may be formed with an inlet port 910 and an outlet port 920. In one example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows the state in which inlet port 910 and outlet port 920 are formed within the first side frame 221. Coolant CL flowing in through inlet port 910 can cool the battery cell 110 while flowing along the space between spacer 300 and retaining frame 400, and then exits through outlet port 920. Inlet port 910 and outlet port 920 are connected to a coolant circulation system (not shown) outside the battery pack 100, allowing the coolant CL to circulate continuously.

[0093] The retaining frame 400 can be located between the spacer 300 and the battery pack cover 610. The retaining frame 400 has a hole 400H so that the battery cell 110 can be assembled into the hole 400H. For this purpose, the hole 400H of the retaining frame 400 can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the battery cell 110. If the battery cell 110 is a cylindrical battery, the hole 400H of the retaining frame 400 can be circular, and if the battery cell 110 is a prismatic battery, the hole 400H of the retaining frame 400 can be square.

[0094] The frame 400 can also include a 400P protrusion. For example... Figure 11As shown, the protrusion 400P of the retaining frame 400 can be hooked to the side frame 220 or the vertical beam 700 described below. Due to the hooking connection of the protrusion 400P, the retaining frame 400 can be mounted on the side frame 220 or the vertical beam 700 while being spaced apart from the spacer 300. The spaced distance between the retaining frame 400 and the spacer 300 ensures space for the coolant CL to flow through.

[0095] The spacer 300 can be placed on the bottom frame 210. The spacer 300 can have a mounting portion 310 for placing the battery cell 110. The battery cell 110 is not directly located on the bottom frame 210, but can be placed on the bottom frame 210 while simultaneously being placed on the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300. For this purpose, the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300 can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the battery cell 110. If the battery cell 110 is a cylindrical battery, the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300 can be circular, and if the battery cell 110 is a prismatic battery, the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300 can be square. The battery cell 110 is located in the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300, so that the battery cell 110 can be stably arranged and fixed in the space inside the battery pack frame 200.

[0096] As described above, the spacer 300 and the retaining frame 400 define the flow space for the coolant CL and prevent the coolant CL from leaking into other spaces. The spacer 300 corresponds to the lower limit of coolant flow, and the retaining frame 400 corresponds to the upper limit of coolant flow. By preventing coolant leakage in this way, the safety and cooling performance of the battery pack 100 can be improved.

[0097] Specifically, in the area above the retaining frame 400, a busbar 130 guiding the electrical connections of the battery cells 110 can be connected to the electrode terminals 111 and 112 of the battery cells 110. As described above, the cover assembly 30 and the battery canister 20 of the battery cells 110 can serve as the first electrode terminal 111 and the second electrode terminal 112 of the battery cells 110. The busbar 130 is connected to either the first electrode terminal 111 or the second electrode terminal 112, thereby enabling HV connections (which are electrical connections of the battery cells 110). An HV connection is a connection used as a power source to supply power requiring high voltage, and refers to an electrical connection between battery cells or an electrical connection between a battery pack and a device. That is, electrical connections between battery cells 110 can be made in the upper region of the retaining frame 400. In other words, the flow space for the coolant CL and the space for the HV connections that make electrical connections between battery cells 110 can be separated from each other by the retaining frame 400. As will be described later, the coolant CL can be insulating oil or cooling water. When the coolant CL, acting as cooling water, comes into contact with the HV connection, a short circuit may occur, potentially leading to serious safety issues. Furthermore, even if the coolant CL is an insulating oil, its contact with the portion forming the electrical connection between the battery cells 110 may negatively impact this connection. Therefore, in this embodiment, by separating the space where the coolant CL flows to the retaining frame 400 from the space forming the electrical connection between the battery cells 110, the impact of the coolant CL on the electrical connection of the battery cells 110 can be minimized, while maintaining the effect of improving cooling performance through direct cooling of the coolant CL.

[0098] In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, a first waterproof adhesive 500a can be applied to the upper part of the retaining frame 400. Due to the presence of the first waterproof adhesive 500a applied to the upper part of the retaining frame 400, coolant CL can be prevented from passing through the retaining frame 400 and leaking into the upper region of the retaining frame 400. With the battery cell 110 installed into the hole 400H of the retaining frame 400, the first waterproof adhesive 500a can be applied to the upper surface of the retaining frame 400 and the upper region of the battery cell 110.

[0099] As described above, the battery pack 100 may include a battery pack cover 610 covering the open upper portion of the battery pack frame 200, wherein a first waterproof adhesive 500a may be applied to the space between the retaining frame 400 and the battery pack cover 610. Specifically, at least some of the busbars 130 may be surrounded by the first waterproof adhesive 500a. Furthermore, the peripheral space of the busbars 130 may be filled with the first waterproof adhesive 500a. Additionally, the space between the retaining frame 400 and the battery pack cover 610 may be filled with the first waterproof adhesive 500a. Due to the presence of the retaining frame 400 and the first waterproof adhesive 500a, coolant CL leakage into the upper region of the retaining frame 400 can be prevented.

[0100] In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, a second waterproof adhesive 500b can be applied to the surface of the spacer 300 facing the battery cell 110. Specifically, the second waterproof adhesive 500b can be applied to the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300. Due to the presence of the spacer 300 and the second waterproof adhesive 500b, coolant CL can be prevented from passing through the spacer 300 and leaking into the lower region of the spacer 300.

[0101] The first waterproof adhesive 500a and the second waterproof adhesive 500b according to this embodiment are not particularly limited in terms of materials, as long as they exhibit waterproof performance and have impact resistance, adhesion, electrical insulation properties, etc. In one example, the first waterproof adhesive 500a and the second waterproof adhesive 500b may include a two-component epoxy-based material in which the curing agent is mixed into the main agent.

[0102] Meanwhile, the coolant CL according to this embodiment can be a fluid. In the battery pack 100, the coolant CL is in direct contact with the battery cell 110, thereby making the coolant CL electrically insulating. The coolant CL can be a material with insulating properties. In one example, the coolant CL can be insulating oil. However, in the case of the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, since leakage of the coolant CL into areas other than the space between the spacer 300 and the retaining frame 400 is prevented, general-purpose cooling water can also be used as the coolant CL.

[0103] The coolant circulation structure in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment will now be described.

[0104] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing a first side frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 12 The surface of the first side frame where the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 are located is shown, and Figure 13The surface of the first side frame opposite to the surfaces where the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 are located is shown. Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of the inlet port including the first side frame taken along a section according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 15 It is shown Figure 14 A magnified cross-sectional view of the “E” section. Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of the outlet port including the first side frame taken along a certain embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17 It is shown Figure 16 A magnified cross-sectional view of the “F” section.

[0105] Common Reference Figure 3 and Figures 12 to 17 As described above, the side frame 220 is provided with an inlet port 910 for allowing coolant to flow in and an outlet port 920 for allowing coolant to drain out. In one example, the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 may be located in the first side frame 221 of the side frame 220.

[0106] Furthermore, the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 can be located on the surfaces of the side frame 220 facing the battery cell 110. Cavities 220C are formed inside the side frame 220, and each cavity 220C communicates with the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920. Simultaneously, cooling holes 220H communicating with the cavities 220C can be formed on the surface of the side frame 220 facing the battery cell 110. That is, in the side frame 220, the cooling holes 220H can be located on the opposite sides of the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920.

[0107] In the immersion-cooled battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cavity 220C inside the side frame 220 can be used as a cooling path for supplying and discharging coolant. That is, the coolant CL can flow into the housing space SS where the battery cell 110 is located while flowing through the cavity 220C, or it can be discharged from the housing space SS.

[0108] Meanwhile, for ease of explanation, Figures 12 to 17 The diagram shows the first side frame 221 with both side surfaces open, making the cavity 220C visible. However, in reality, as shown... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the sealing plate 220S can be attached to the two side surfaces of the first side frame 221. The cavity 220C inside the side frame 220 is closed on both side surfaces. That is, the cavity 220C has a sealed structure in which all four sides are closed except for the paths through the inlet port 910, the outlet port 920 and the cooling hole 220H.

[0109] Meanwhile, according to this embodiment, the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 can both be located in a single side frame 220. In one example, the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 can be formed in the first side frame 221. A coolant circulation system (not shown) for circulating coolant CL can be connected to the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920. However, since this coolant circulation system (not shown) can be provided only on one side of the battery pack 100 (the side where the first side frame 221 is located in this embodiment), it can help improve the space utilization within the device in which the battery pack 100 is installed.

[0110] Meanwhile, the cavity 220C according to this embodiment may include an inflow cavity 220C1 connected to the inlet port 910 and an outlet cavity 220C2 connected to the outlet port 920. The inflow cavity 220C1 and the outlet cavity 220C2 may be in a state of separation from each other. The purpose of setting the inflow cavity 220C1 and the outlet cavity 220C2 to be non-communicating with each other is to separate the path of coolant inflow from the path of coolant outflow in the coolant circulation structure. That is, the coolant flowing through the inflow cavity 220C1 does not mix with the coolant flowing through the outlet cavity 220C2.

[0111] Furthermore, the cooling hole 220H formed on the surface opposite to the surface where the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 are formed may include: an inflow cooling hole 220H1 connected to an inflow chamber 220C1; and an outlet cooling hole 220H2 connected to an outlet chamber 220C2. The inlet port 910, the inflow chamber 220C1, and the inflow cooling hole 220H1 may communicate with each other, and the outlet port 920, the outlet chamber 220C2, and the outlet cooling hole 220H2 may communicate with each other.

[0112] Therefore, coolant CL can flow into the receiving space SS through inlet port 910 and inlet cavity 220C1. More specifically, coolant CL can pass sequentially through inlet port 910, inlet cavity 220C1 and inlet cooling hole 220H1, and flow into the receiving space SS in which battery cell 110 is placed.

[0113] Simultaneously, the coolant CL directly cooling the battery cell 110 can be discharged to the outside through the discharge chamber 220C2 and the outlet port 920. More specifically, the coolant CL directly cooling the battery cell 110, while flowing around it in the containment space SS, can be discharged to the outside through the cooling outlet 220H2, the discharge chamber 220C2, and the outlet port 920, and return to the coolant circulation system. Through the above series of processes, immersion cooling can be performed while the coolant CL circulates within the battery pack 100.

[0114] The circulation pattern of coolant CL according to certain embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail.

[0115] Figure 18 This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the inlet and outlet ports formed in the first side frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 19 It shows along including Figure 18 A perspective cross-sectional view of the section taken from the entrance port portion of the first side frame. Figure 20 It shows along including Figure 18 A perspective view of the cross section of the portion of the outlet port in the first side frame. Figure 21 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the bottom frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 22 This is a plan view showing the bottom frame and battery cells according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 22 The bottom frame and battery cells are shown as viewed along the -z axis in the xy plane.

[0116] Common Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 13 , Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 22 As described above, the side frame 220 according to this embodiment may include a first side frame 221, a second side frame 222, a third side frame 223, and a fourth side frame 224. Here, the first side frame 221 and the second side frame 222 may be positioned opposite to each other and the battery cell 110 may be disposed therebetween. Furthermore, as described above, both the inlet port 910 and the outlet port 920 may be formed in the first side frame 221.

[0117] Meanwhile, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, vertical beams 700 dividing the battery cells 110 into multiple battery cell groups can be located on the bottom frame 210. The vertical beams 700 can be positioned upright on the bottom frame 210 such that one surface of the vertical beams 700 is perpendicular to one surface of the bottom frame 210. The accommodating space SS containing the battery cells 110 can be divided into multiple regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4 by the vertical beams 700. In one example, three vertical beams 700 are shown positioned on the bottom frame 210 at certain intervals. Through the three vertical beams 700, the accommodating space SS can be divided into a first region Z1, a second region Z2, a third region Z3, and a fourth region Z4.

[0118] Meanwhile, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may include a separation frame 800 positioned adjacent to the side frame 220. In one example, the separation frame 800 may be positioned adjacent to the second side frame 222. The separation frame 800 may be located between the battery cell 110 and the second side frame 222, and may be placed on the bottom frame 210. As a discharge space for exhaust gases discharged from the battery cell 110, an exhaust space VS may be formed between the separation frame 800 and the second side frame 222. The exhaust space VS will be described later.

[0119] Similar to the side frame 220, the vertical beam 700 and the separation frame 800 according to this embodiment can be metal frames with cavities. Specifically, the vertical beam 700 and the separation frame 800 can be metal frames in the form of square tubes with cavities. Therefore, the weight of the battery pack 100 can be reduced, while ensuring the rigidity of the battery pack 100. Furthermore, since the bottom frame 210, side frame 220, vertical beam 700, and separation frame 800 are made of metallic materials, welding can be used for connections between the frames. There are no particular limitations on the welding method; however, in one example, metal inert gas welding (MIG welding) or friction stir welding (FSW) can be applied.

[0120] Additionally, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may also include a lower battery pack cover 620 covering the lower part of the bottom frame 210. The lower battery pack cover 620 may be a plate-shaped member comprising a metallic material.

[0121] As described above, the coolant CL can sequentially pass through the inlet port 910, the inflow cavity 220C1, and the inflow cooling hole 220H1, and flow into the housing space SS where the battery cell 110 is placed. At this time, by using the vertical beam 700 that divides the housing space SS into a first region Z1 and a second region Z2, the coolant CL can flow sequentially through the first region Z1 and the second region Z2. Furthermore, the coolant CL can flow sequentially through the third region Z3 and the fourth region Z4 via the vertical beam 700 that divides the housing space SS into a third region Z3 and a fourth region Z4. The direction of the coolant CL flowing through the first region Z1 can be opposite to the direction of the coolant CL flowing through the second region Z2. Furthermore, the direction of the coolant CL flowing in the third region Z3 can be opposite to the direction of the coolant CL flowing in the fourth region Z4.

[0122] Specifically, in the cooling holes 220H formed in the side frame 220, the inflow cooling hole 220H1 can communicate with the first region Z1 and the third region Z3, and the outflow cooling hole 220H2 can communicate with the second region Z2 and the fourth region Z4. Furthermore, a separation frame hole 800H can be formed on the outer surface of the separation frame 800. Specifically, the separation frame 800 can have an internal cavity, and the separation frame hole 800H can connect to the internal cavity of the separation frame 800.

[0123] Coolant CL sequentially passes through inlet port 910, inflow cavity 220C1, and inflow cooling hole 220H1, and flows into first region Z1 and third region Z3. Coolant CL flowing through first region Z1 and third region Z3 can move to the cavity inside the separation frame 800 through the separation frame hole 800H corresponding to first region Z1 and third region Z3. Subsequently, coolant CL can move to second region Z2 and fourth region Z4 through the separation frame hole 800H corresponding to second region Z2 and fourth region Z4. Coolant CL flowing through second region Z2 and fourth region Z4 can pass through outlet cooling hole 220H2, outlet cavity 220C2, and outlet port 920, and is discharged to the outside of battery pack 100.

[0124] In other words, the coolant CL can circulate along the inflow cavity 220C1 of the first side frame 221, the first region Z1, the cavity inside the separation frame 800, the second region Z2, and the outlet cavity 220C2 of the first side frame 221. Another coolant CL can circulate along the inflow cavity 220C1 of the first side frame 221, the third region Z3, the cavity inside the separation frame 800, the fourth region Z4, and the outlet cavity 220C2 of the first side frame 221. This coolant CL circulation structure allows for direct cooling of the battery cells 110. Specifically, the existing cavities 220C of the side frame 220 and the separation frame 800 are used as the structure for coolant circulation, and the vertical beam 700 is appropriately arranged so that the coolant CL can flow uniformly in each region. Uniform flow of the coolant CL in each region can reduce the cooling deviation between the individual battery cells 110, which can improve the performance of the battery pack 100.

[0125] The circulation pattern of coolant CL according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail.

[0126] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing a first side frame according to certain other embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 24 It shows along Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line G-G'. Figure 25 It shows along Figure 23A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line H-H'. Figure 26 This is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the bottom frame according to certain other embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 27 It shows along Figure 26 A partial cross-sectional view of the cross section cut by the cutting line I-I'. Figure 28 This is a plan view illustrating the bottom frame and battery cells according to certain other embodiments of this disclosure. Specifically, Figure 28 The bottom frame and battery cells are shown as viewed along the -z axis in the xy plane.

[0127] Reference Figures 23 to 28 According to certain other embodiments of this disclosure, the battery pack 100 may include a bottom frame 210 and a side frame 220; the side frame 220 may include a first side frame 221, a second side frame 222, a third side frame 223, and a fourth side frame 224; and both an inlet port 910 and an outlet port 920 may be formed in the first side frame 221. Furthermore, the inlet port 910, the outlet port 920, the inflow cavity 220C1, the discharge cavity 220C2, the inflow cooling hole 220H1, and the discharge cooling hole 220H2 may be formed in the first side frame 221. The battery pack 100 may include a vertical beam 700 dividing the accommodating space SS into multiple regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4, and a separating frame 800 located between the battery cell 110 and the second side frame 222. Details of each of the above components are omitted as they are repetitive with the previously described content.

[0128] In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, coolant CL can sequentially pass through the inlet port 910, the inflow cavity 220C1, and the inflow cooling hole 220H1, and flow into the housing space SS where the battery cell 110 is placed. At this time, a channel 700P can be formed inside the vertical beam 700 that divides the housing space SS into a first region Z1 and a second region Z2. The coolant CL flowing through the first region Z1 and the coolant CL flowing through the second region Z2 can flow in the same direction. Furthermore, the coolant CL flowing through the first region to the fourth regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4 can flow in the same direction from the first side frame 221 to the second side frame 222.

[0129] Specifically, in the cooling holes 220H formed in the side frame 220, the inflow cooling hole 220H1 can communicate with the first region Z1, the second region Z2, the third region Z3, and the fourth region Z4, and the outflow cooling hole 220H2 can communicate with the channel 700P inside the vertical beam 700. Furthermore, the vertical beam hole 700H can be formed on the outer surface of the vertical beam 700, and the vertical beam hole 700H can be connected to the channel 700P inside the vertical beam 700.

[0130] Coolant CL can sequentially pass through inlet port 910, inflow cavity 220C1, and inflow cooling hole 220H1, and flow into the first to fourth regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4. Coolant CL flowing through each of the first to fourth regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4 can move through vertical beam hole 700H to channel 700P inside vertical beam 700. Subsequently, coolant CL can again move along channel 700P towards the location of the first side frame 221. Coolant CL flowing along channel 700P can be discharged to the outside of battery pack 100 through discharge cooling hole 220H2, discharge cavity 220C2, and outlet port 920.

[0131] In other words, the coolant CL can circulate along the inflow cavity 220C1 of the first side frame 221, the first region Z1 and the second region Z2, the channel 700P inside the vertical beam 700, and the outlet cavity 220C2 of the first side frame 221. More specifically, the coolant CL can circulate along the inflow cavity 220C1 of the first side frame 221, the first to fourth regions Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4, the channel 700P inside the vertical beam 700, and the outlet cavity 220C2 of the first side frame 221. This circulation structure of the coolant CL allows for direct cooling of the battery cells 110. Specifically, the existing cavity 220C of the side frame 220 and the channel 700P of the vertical beam 700 serve as the structure for coolant circulation, and the vertical beam 700 is appropriately arranged so that the coolant CL can flow uniformly in each region. Uniform flow of the coolant CL in each region can reduce the cooling deviation between the individual battery cells 110, thereby improving the performance of the battery pack 100.

[0132] Next, the directional venting structure of the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0133] Refer again Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figures 8 to 10According to this embodiment, the vent portion 110V of the battery cell 110 can face the spacer 300. More specifically, the vent portion 110V of the battery cell 110 can face the mounting portion 310 of the spacer 300. The spacer 300 according to this embodiment may include: a spacer vent portion 320a, which is the portion facing the vent portion 110V; and an outer peripheral portion 320b, which surrounds the spacer vent portion 320a. The spacer vent portion 320a may have a thickness less than that of the outer peripheral portion 320b, or may have a groove with a cutout. Due to a thermal event or thermal runaway of the battery cell 110, high-temperature exhaust gases and particles are discharged from the vent portion 110V of the battery cell 110, and due to the pressure of the exhaust gases, the spacer vent portion 320a may separate from the outer peripheral portion 320b and the spacer vent portion 320a may open. That is, high-temperature exhaust gases and particles can be discharged downward through the vent portion 110V and the opened spacer vent portion 320a. Subsequently, the high-temperature exhaust gas and particles can move along a preset path through the exhaust passage VC disposed in the bottom frame 210. The specific structure of the bottom frame 210 and the exhaust passage VC will be described below.

[0134] According to certain embodiments of this disclosure, the bottom frame 210 may have an exhaust channel VC that guides high-temperature exhaust gases and particles discharged from the exhaust portion 110V of the battery cell 110. Specifically, the bottom frame 210 may include a first frame 211 and a second frame 212 located below the first frame 211, and the exhaust channel VC may be formed between the first frame 211 and the second frame 212.

[0135] The first frame 211 may have through holes 211H. When viewed along the height direction, the through holes 211H may be positioned to at least partially overlap with the venting portion 110V of the battery cell 110. The through holes 211H may be configured to correspond one-to-one with the venting portions 110V. Similarly, the through holes 211H may be configured to correspond one-to-one with the venting portions 320a of the spacers.

[0136] High-temperature exhaust gases and particles passing through the exhaust section 110V and the open spacer exhaust section 320a can flow into the exhaust channel VC inside the bottom frame 210 through the through hole 211H. The high-temperature exhaust gases and particles flowing into the exhaust channel VC are discharged to the outside of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 according to this embodiment has a so-called "bottom exhaust" structure that uses the bottom frame 210 to discharge high-temperature exhaust gases and particles to the outside. The HV connection described above is a connection used as a power source to supply power requiring high voltage, and represents the connection between battery cells, etc. If high-temperature exhaust gases or particles, etc., caused by a thermal event of the battery cell 110 come into contact with a high-voltage path such as the HV connection, a short circuit or arc discharge may occur, which may lead to additional explosions and flames. On the other hand, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment has a "bottom exhaust" structure as described above, so that high-temperature exhaust gases or particles caused by a thermal event are discharged downward (i.e., discharged to the bottom frame 210). Therefore, there is no risk of high-temperature exhaust gases or particles coming into contact with a high-voltage path such as the HV connection, and ultimately safety against thermal runaway can be enhanced.

[0137] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the retaining frame 400 also covers the area where the electrode terminals 111 and 112 of the battery cell 110 and the busbar 130 are located, it can completely block high-temperature exhaust gases or particles from reaching the area where the electrode terminals 111 and 112 of the battery cell 110 and the busbar 130 are located.

[0138] Furthermore, since the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment has a "bottom exhaust" structure, the impact of high-temperature exhaust gases or particles on the coolant CL flowing in the space between the spacer 300 and the retaining frame 400 can be minimized.

[0139] In addition, the spacer 300 and the second waterproof adhesive 500b can prevent coolant CL from leaking into the lower area of ​​the spacer 300, and prevent high-temperature exhaust gases or particles from leaking upwards instead of downwards along the bottom frame 210.

[0140] Meanwhile, as described above, the vertical beams 700 that divide the accommodating space SS into multiple regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4 can be located on the bottom frame 210. The exhaust passage VC corresponding to a particular region can have an independent exhaust path that is not shared with exhaust passages VC corresponding to other regions. In one example, four second frames 212 can be provided, each corresponding to one of the four regions Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4. The exhaust passage VC in one second frame 212 can have an independent exhaust flow path that is not connected to the exhaust passage VC in another second frame 212.

[0141] Furthermore, the second frame 212 may have at least one partition wall 212W, and due to the presence of the partition wall 212W, the second frame 212 may be divided into multiple exhaust channels VC.

[0142] In this way, some exhaust channels VC can not share space with each other and can have independent exhaust paths. Therefore, high-temperature exhaust gases and particles passing through one exhaust channel VC will not propagate to other exhaust channels VC. Thus, the propagation of thermal events occurring in a particular battery cell 110 to other battery cells 110 can be minimized. Therefore, high-temperature exhaust gases or particles will not flow back to other battery cells 110 connected to other exhaust channels VC, and ultimately, thermal events will not propagate to or trigger other battery cells 110. In this embodiment, by implementing unique exhaust paths between exhaust channels VC, the transmission of thermal runaway between battery cells 110 is minimized, and battery pack explosions and structural collapses can be prevented.

[0143] High-temperature exhaust gas and particles flowing along the exhaust passage VC of the bottom frame 210 can move to the exhaust space VS between the separation frame 800 and the second side frame 222, and then finally be discharged to the outside through an exhaust device formed in the second side frame 222. The specific form of the exhaust device is not particularly limited, and the exhaust device can be a valve structure that opens or bursts when the internal pressure exceeds a certain level.

[0144] In the above embodiments, directional terms (such as "front", "back", "left", "right", "up", "down") have been used. These terms are used only for ease of description and may vary, for example, depending on the position of the target object or the observer.

[0145] The battery packs described above according to certain embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to various devices, including, for example, vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, as well as energy storage systems (ESS). However, the applications of the battery packs are not limited to these, and the battery packs can be applied to various devices that use secondary batteries.

[0146] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described above with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, but also includes various modifications and variations that can be made by those skilled in the art using the concepts defined in the appended claims.

[0147] Description of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0148] 100: Battery pack

[0149] 110: Battery Cells

[0150] 110V: Exhaust section

[0151] 200: Battery pack frame

[0152] 210: Bottom Frame

[0153] 220: Side frame

[0154] 220C: Cavity

[0155] 300: Spacer

[0156] 400: Maintain the frame

[0157] 610: Battery pack top cover

[0158] 620: Battery pack bottom cover

[0159] 910: Entry Port

[0160] 920: Export Port

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: Multiple battery cells; A battery pack frame, comprising a bottom frame and a side frame, wherein the bottom frame and the side frame form a receiving space for accommodating the battery cells; as well as A coolant flows while directly cooling the battery cells within the housing space. The side frame is provided with an inlet port for the coolant to flow in and an outlet port for the coolant to discharge. The side frame has cavities inside, and each cavity is connected to the inlet port and the outlet port.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The side frame has a square tube structure with the cavity formed inside.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The inlet port and the outlet port are located on the surfaces opposite to the surface of the side frame facing the battery cell.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, in, Cooling holes communicating with the cavity are formed on the surface of the side frame facing the battery cell.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The coolant flows through the cavity and either into or out of the containment space.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The cavity includes an inflow cavity connected to the inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to the outlet port, and The inflow chamber and the outflow chamber are separate from each other.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, The coolant flows into the receiving space through the inlet port and the inflow chamber, and The coolant that directly cools the battery cell is discharged to the outside through the discharge chamber and the outlet port.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The side frame includes a first side frame and a second side frame positioned opposite to each other, and the battery cell is located between the first side frame and the second side frame. The inlet port and the outlet port are both formed in the first side frame.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, in, The cavity includes an inflow cavity connected to the inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to the outlet port. Vertical beams dividing the accommodating space into a first region and a second region are located on the bottom frame, and The coolant flows sequentially through the first region and the second region.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The separation frame is located between the battery cell and the second side frame, and The coolant circulates along the inflow cavity of the first side frame, the first region, the cavity inside the separation frame, the second region, and the discharge cavity of the first side frame.

11. The battery pack according to claim 8, in, The cavity includes an inflow cavity connected to the inlet port and an outlet cavity connected to the outlet port. The accommodating space is divided into a first region and a second region, and vertical beams forming passageways are located on the bottom frame. The coolant flowing through the first region and the coolant flowing through the second region flow in the same direction.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, in, The coolant circulates along the inflow cavity of the first side frame, the first region and the second region, the channel inside the vertical beam, and the discharge cavity of the first side frame.

13. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery cell includes an exhaust section, and The bottom frame has an exhaust channel that guides the exhaust gas or particles discharged from the exhaust section of the battery cell.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, in, Vertical beams dividing the accommodating space into multiple zones are located on the bottom frame, and The exhaust passage corresponding to any one of the regions has an independent exhaust flow path that is not shared with the exhaust passages corresponding to other regions.

15. An apparatus comprising a battery pack according to claim 1.

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