Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack is disclosed. The battery pack includes: a battery pack housing; a barrier installed to divide the interior of the battery pack housing into a plurality of receiving spaces; battery modules respectively disposed in the plurality of receiving spaces; a first thermal insulation member disposed in the receiving spaces to support the lower part of the battery modules and to block the transfer of heat through the lower part of the battery pack housing to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the battery modules; and a plurality of second thermal insulation members respectively disposed below the first thermal insulation member and having thermal insulation spaces for blocking the transfer of heat through the lower part of the battery pack housing to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the battery modules.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0182402, filed on December 14, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This invention relates to a battery pack capable of: blocking the transfer of heat generated during thermal runaway of a battery module to adjacent battery modules via the lower plate of the battery pack housing where the battery modules are housed; and protecting adjacent battery modules even when gases and flames flow back to them. The battery pack can prevent a cascading effect of thermal runaway in adjacent battery modules. 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-shaped secondary batteries that can be used in products such as mobile phones due to their thinness. In terms of materials, there is an increasing demand for lithium-ion and lithium-ion polymer batteries, which offer 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. These rechargeable batteries operate at voltages ranging from approximately 2.5 V to 4.2 V. When higher output voltages are required, multiple rechargeable batteries are connected in series to form battery modules, and multiple battery modules are connected in series to form battery packs. Additionally, battery packs are constructed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel according to the required charge / discharge capacity. Therefore, the number of battery cells, the number of battery modules, and the electrical connection structure of a battery pack can be selected in various ways based on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] A battery cell embedded in a battery module is formed by stacking a resin separator between the negative and positive electrodes. However, polyethylene separators decompose at approximately 130°C, while polypropylene separators begin to decompose at approximately 170°C. The electrolyte decomposes at approximately 200°C, releasing heat.

[0007] In a battery module containing multiple battery cells, external impacts may cause a single battery cell to explode, but internal factors such as rising temperatures may also cause a single battery cell to explode.

[0008] During the charging and discharging process of a battery pack, the heat generated within the battery modules may not be effectively dissipated. In this situation, heat accumulates in some battery modules, leading to cell degradation, and with rapid degradation, thermal runaway may occur. When thermal runaway occurs, the structure of the negative electrode material collapses, generating oxygen that further accelerates heat production. As a result, the temperature rise of the battery cells becomes uncontrollable.

[0009] In such a thermal runaway scenario, the gases and flames from the explosion of a single battery cell cannot be rapidly expelled. Therefore, heat propagation, flames, or high-temperature, high-pressure gases can affect nearby battery cells, leading to more serious problems such as a chain reaction of explosions. In other words, when one battery cell explodes within a battery module, other cells within the module may explode in a chain reaction. This could lead to thermal runaway of the battery module. Therefore, a technology is needed to prevent thermal runaway chain reactions before the battery cells within the module reach the thermal runaway initiation temperature.

[0010] Conventionally, thermally conductive resin is arranged between the lower surface of each battery module and the lower plate of the battery pack housing to dissipate heat generated within the battery module through the resin and the lower plate, thereby promoting heat dissipation. Heat sinks are additionally installed on the inner or outer side of the lower plate to improve the heat dissipation performance of the battery pack.

[0011] Conventionally, to prevent thermal runaway, technology development focuses on dissipating heat more quickly in the event of a battery module fire or thermal runaway.

[0012] However, when thermal runaway occurs in some of the multiple battery modules, the heat can be accelerated to neighboring modules via the thermally conductive resin and the lower plate of the battery pack casing, thus accelerating the chain reaction of thermal runaway. Therefore, the risk of fire and explosion within the battery pack increases.

[0013] In addition, barriers are installed inside the battery pack housing. These barriers divide the internal space of the battery pack housing into multiple accommodating spaces for accommodating multiple battery modules. The barriers enhance the rigidity of the battery pack and act as firewalls between multiple battery modules, preventing flames from spreading to adjacent modules. However, simple, conventional barrier structures have limitations in preventing the spread of flames to adjacent battery modules and cannot block heat propagation.

[0014] Therefore, in the case of thermal runaway, it is necessary to study methods to prevent the heat generated in one battery module from being transferred to neighboring battery modules.

[0015] The background technology of this invention is disclosed in Korean Patent Application Publication No. 2022-0035770 (published on March 22, 2022, entitled: Battery Pack with Heat Propagation Prevention Structure between Battery Modules). Summary of the Invention

[0016] Technical issues

[0017] This invention is designed to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0018] This invention is designed with a focus on the path of heat transfer from thermal runaway of one battery module to other battery modules in a battery pack.

[0019] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery pack that can prevent heat propagation to adjacent battery modules through the lower plate of the battery pack housing in the event of thermal runaway of a battery module.

[0020] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery pack that can prevent thermal runaway chain reactions in adjacent battery modules.

[0021] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery pack that can protect adjacent battery modules even when gas and flame flow back to them.

[0022] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is not limited to the above-described objectives. Other objectives and advantages of this invention not described herein will 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 can be achieved by the means shown in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0023] Technical solution

[0024] The heat dissipation structure, which is typically used in the lower plate of the battery pack housing of a battery module to prevent the degradation of the battery cells in the battery module, may actually promote heat propagation during thermal runaway of the battery module.

[0025] This invention can be applied to battery packs that include a battery pack housing and multiple battery modules arranged in the battery pack housing.

[0026] The battery pack includes barriers mounted within its housing. These barriers divide the internal volume of the battery pack housing into multiple receiving spaces. Multiple battery modules are arranged within these receiving spaces.

[0027] To address the aforementioned problems, the battery pack of the present invention includes a plurality of first thermal insulation members that block heat propagation through the lower portion of the battery pack housing to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the plurality of battery modules. The plurality of first thermal insulation members are respectively disposed in a plurality of receiving spaces. The plurality of first thermal insulation members are respectively disposed below the plurality of battery modules to support the lower portion of the plurality of battery modules.

[0028] In addition, to address the aforementioned problems, the battery pack of the present invention includes a plurality of second heat-insulating members, which are respectively disposed below a plurality of first heat-insulating members. Each of the plurality of second heat-insulating members is provided with a heat-insulating space to block heat propagation through the lower part of the battery pack housing to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the plurality of battery modules.

[0029] Multiple second insulation components can be stacked under multiple first insulation components.

[0030] The upper surface of each of the plurality of first thermal insulation components may be configured to be higher than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing.

[0031] The upper surfaces of the plurality of first heat-insulating members may face the lower surfaces of the plurality of battery modules. Preferably, the upper surfaces of the plurality of first heat-insulating members may be in contact with the lower surfaces of the plurality of battery modules.

[0032] The upper surface of each of the multiple battery modules can be set to be higher than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing.

[0033] The lower surfaces of multiple battery modules may not be in direct contact with the bottom surface of the battery pack housing.

[0034] Preferably, each of the plurality of first heat-insulating members may be formed to be wider than the lower surface of each of the plurality of battery modules.

[0035] Multiple first thermal insulation components may be included in the heat conduction path from the lower surface of the multiple battery modules to the bottom surface of the battery pack housing.

[0036] Preferably, the bottom surface of each of the plurality of receiving spaces may be wider than each of the plurality of first insulating members. Therefore, at least a portion of the bottom surface of each of the plurality of receiving spaces may be exposed toward the plurality of receiving spaces.

[0037] At least a portion of the plurality of second thermal insulation components may be embedded in the bottom of the battery pack housing.

[0038] The insulation space of each of the multiple second insulation components can be set lower than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing.

[0039] Multiple second insulation members can be installed spaced laterally from each other. Barriers can be positioned between laterally adjacent second insulation members.

[0040] The heat insulation space can be wider than the lower surface of each of the multiple battery modules.

[0041] Preferably, the width of each of the plurality of second thermal insulation members can substantially correspond to the width of each of the plurality of first thermal insulation members.

[0042] Each of the plurality of second insulation members may include one or more partition walls that divide the insulation space into multiple spaces.

[0043] In some implementations, the partition wall can laterally divide the insulated space.

[0044] In some implementations, the partition wall can separate the thermal insulation space in a first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0045] In some implementations, the partition wall can separate the insulated space laterally and vertically.

[0046] The partition wall can be erected vertically in the insulated space to support multiple secondary insulation components.

[0047] In some implementations, the partition wall can divide the insulated space in the vertical direction.

[0048] The battery pack may also include a heat-resistant cover that is mounted around the upper and sidewall surfaces of each of the multiple battery modules to protect the multiple battery modules from the effects of transmitted flames.

[0049] Preferably, the barrier may contain a barrier insulation space. Therefore, the barrier can not only shield the flame during thermal runaway, but also inhibit heat propagation.

[0050] The first and second heat-insulating components only prevent heat transfer between battery modules and do not impede heat dissipation within the battery modules. The heat dissipation-enhancing structure of the battery modules can be implemented without overlapping with the aforementioned structure preventing heat transfer between battery modules.

[0051] The heat dissipation enhancement structure of the battery module can be achieved through the bottom surface of the battery pack housing exposed to the housing space.

[0052] Beneficial effects

[0053] According to the present invention, when a particular battery module experiences thermal runaway, heat propagation to the lower plate of the battery pack housing is blocked by a first thermal insulation member and / or a thermal insulation space, thereby preventing heat propagation to the lower plate. As a result, a thermal runaway chain reaction can be prevented.

[0054] According to the present invention, by arranging the first heat insulation member and the second heat insulation member in a stacked manner, the first heat insulation member can be thinner while achieving the same heat insulation effect compared to using only the first heat insulation member, thereby further ensuring the rigidity of the laminate of the first heat insulation member and the second heat insulation member.

[0055] According to the present invention, since at least a portion of the second heat insulation member is embedded in the lower plate of the battery pack housing, the second heat insulation member can help improve the rigidity of the lower plate.

[0056] According to the present invention, since multiple separate second thermal insulation members are respectively installed in multiple receiving spaces, the multiple second thermal insulation members can be physically and thermally isolated from each other, and the heat dissipation structure of the battery module can be constructed by the lower plate of the battery pack housing being disposed between at least a portion of adjacent second thermal insulation members. Therefore, heat dissipation of the battery module under normal conditions can be promoted, and heat propagation between battery modules under thermal runaway conditions can be suppressed.

[0057] According to the present invention, since the heat-resistant cover is installed to surround the battery module, the battery module is protected from the effects of gas or flames flowing back through the top hole in the event of thermal runaway.

[0058] According to the present invention, since the partition wall divides the heat insulation space into multiple spaces, the rigidity of the second heat insulation member can be improved and the gas convection in the heat insulation space can be suppressed, thereby enhancing the heat propagation suppression effect.

[0059] 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

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Front cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0062] Figure 3 It is embedded in Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the battery modules in the battery pack, as well as the heat insulation components and heat-resistant covers arranged around the battery modules.

[0063] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of part 4.

[0064] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the heat insulation component of the battery pack according to the second embodiment.

[0065] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line 6-6.

[0066] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery pack according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of part 8.

[0068] Figure 9 This is a partially exploded three-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the structure of the second thermal insulation member according to the fourth embodiment.

[0069] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the heat propagation path when a battery module in a battery pack experiences thermal runaway.

[0070] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0071] 100: Battery pack; 110: Battery pack housing; 111: Lower plate; 112: Battery pack cover; 113: Receiving space; 118: Side plate; 120: Barrier; 122: Barrier heat insulation space; 130: Battery module; 140: First heat insulation component; 150: Second heat insulation component; 151: Heat insulation space; 153, 155: Partition wall; 160: Cooling path; 170: Heat-resistant cover. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

[0073] This invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and various variations can be applied and it can be implemented in many different forms. The embodiments provided herein are merely for the purpose of completing the disclosure of the invention and fully informing those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and it should be understood that the invention includes all variations and equivalents contained within the technical spirit and scope of the invention, as well as substitutions or additions between the configurations of one embodiment and those of another.

[0074] The accompanying drawings are provided merely to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and it should be understood that the technical concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the drawings, but rather encompass all variations, equivalents, and alternatives to the spirit and scope of the invention. In the drawings, although components may be exaggerated in size or thickness for ease of understanding, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention.

[0075] 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.

[0076] While ordinal terms such as "first" and "second" can 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.

[0077] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected to" or "in contact with" another component, the component may be directly connected to or in contact with the other component, or there may be an intervening component in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly in contact with" another component, it should be understood that there is no intervening component in between.

[0078] When one element is referred to as being "above" or "below" another element, it should be understood that intercalation elements may exist in between, as well as directly above or below another element.

[0079] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical or scientific terms) 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 should 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 should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning.

[0080] The battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0081] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack 100 includes: a battery pack housing 110; a barrier heat insulation space 122; a battery module 130; a plurality of first heat insulation members 140; and a plurality of second heat insulation members 150.

[0082] The battery pack housing 110 includes: a lower plate 111; a side plate 118 extending vertically and connected to the periphery of the lower plate 111; and a battery pack cover 112 connected to the upper part of the side plate 118 and covering the internal space defined by the lower plate 111 and the side plate 118. The lower plate 111 and the battery pack cover 112 have rectangular shapes, and the side plate 118 has a rectangular frame shape and surrounds the periphery of the lower plate 111 and the battery pack cover 112. To dissipate the heat energy of the battery module 130, the battery pack housing 110 is formed using a material with excellent thermal conductivity, such as aluminum.

[0083] Inside the battery pack housing 110, one or more partition wall-shaped barriers 120 are installed to divide the interior space into multiple receiving spaces 113, each accommodating a plurality of battery modules 130. The barriers 120 are installed to extend across the interior of the battery pack housing 110 in a first direction and / or a second direction intersecting the first direction, thereby forming a plurality of receiving spaces 113 arranged in a grid pattern. In one embodiment, three barriers extending along the first direction and one barrier extending along the second direction are exemplified.

[0084] The upper and lower ends of the barrier 120 may have a straight beam shape to support the lower plate 111 and the upper plate 112. Additionally, the extended ends of the barrier 120 support the side plate 112. In other words, the barrier 120 divides the internal space into multiple receiving spaces 113 and also enhances the rigidity of the battery pack housing 110. Therefore, even when external impacts or vibrations are transmitted to the battery pack housing 110, the rigidity of the battery pack housing 110 and the barrier 120 prevents deformation or collapse of the battery pack 100.

[0085] A hollow barrier insulation space 122 is provided inside the barrier 120. The barrier insulation space 122 enhances the insulation performance of the barrier 120. Therefore, the barrier 120 can block the spread of flame and gas from one containment space 113 to an adjacent containment space 113, and suppress heat transfer from one containment space 113 to an adjacent containment space 113. In other words, the barrier 120 not only enhances the rigidity of the battery pack casing 110, but also blocks heat transfer between adjacent containment spaces 113.

[0086] Multiple battery modules 130 are respectively housed in multiple receiving spaces 113 disposed in the battery pack housing 110. Each battery module 130 includes multiple battery cells. In some embodiments, the battery module 130 may be implemented as a housing accommodating multiple battery cells. In some embodiments, the battery module 130 may be implemented as a battery cell assembly in which multiple battery cells are fixed to each other.

[0087] The plurality of battery cells constituting the battery module 130 may include at least one type of cylindrical battery cell, prismatic battery cell, or pouch battery cell. Furthermore, even within a single type of battery cell, the battery cells may have different specifications, different types of electrodes, different types of electrode assemblies, and / or different types of electrolytes. In some embodiments, the battery cell may have electrode assemblies impregnated with electrolyte. In some embodiments, the electrode assemblies may have stacked or wound positive electrodes, negative electrodes, and a separator.

[0088] Terminals of different polarities (see Figure 3 The terminals are installed at battery module 130. The location of the terminals can vary. Although not shown, the terminals of battery module 130 can be engaged and electrically connected to multiple busbars arranged in a busbar frame. The multiple busbars can be connected in series and / or in parallel with multiple battery modules 130 to achieve the required capacity and output voltage of battery pack 100.

[0089] Multiple first thermal insulation members 140 are mounted in the battery pack 100. The multiple first thermal insulation members 140 are respectively arranged in multiple receiving spaces 113 to support the lower portions of multiple battery modules 130. The first thermal insulation members 140 form at least a portion of the heat conduction path between the lower surface of the battery module 130 and the lower plate 111, thereby blocking heat transfer through the lower plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110 to another adjacent battery module 130 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery module 130. The first thermal insulation members 140 may be in the form of plates to stably support the lower surface of the battery module 130.

[0090] The first heat insulation component 140 can be made of a heat insulation material that maintains a constant temperature over a long period of time and blocks heat inflow. For example, the first heat insulation component 140 can be made of a vitreous heat insulation material, a mineral heat insulation material, a metallic heat insulation material, or a carbonaceous heat insulation material. For example, glass wool can be used as a vitreous heat insulation material, and asbestos, rock wool, and perlite can be used as mineral heat insulation materials. The metallic heat insulation material can be a silicate material, alumina, or magnesium oxide material that can be used as a high-temperature refractory heat insulation material. The carbonaceous heat insulation material can be carbon fiber, carbon powder, etc. Therefore, the first heat insulation component 140 can be made of various heat insulation materials, as long as it effectively blocks the heat generated from the battery module 130 from being transferred to the lower plate 111.

[0091] The first thermal insulation component 140 may include at least one of mineral wool, glass wool, ceramic fiber, silica and perlite, which have a porous fiber structure and excellent thermal insulation properties.

[0092] In addition, the battery pack 100 includes a plurality of second heat insulation members 150. The plurality of second heat insulation members 150 are respectively disposed below a plurality of first heat insulation members 140. The first heat insulation members 140 and the second heat insulation members 150 may be arranged in a stacked configuration.

[0093] The second thermal insulation member 150 includes a thermal insulation space 151, which blocks heat transmission through the lower plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110 to adjacent battery modules 130 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery module 130. The thermal insulation space 151 separates the first thermal insulation member 140 from the lower plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110 by a predetermined distance.

[0094] The second heat insulation member 150 is disposed between the first heat insulation member 140 and the lower plate 111. Therefore, the second heat insulation member 150 forms at least a portion of the heat conduction path between the first heat insulation member 140 and the lower plate 111, thereby preventing heat propagation through the lower plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110 to another adjacent battery module 130 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery module 130.

[0095] The material constituting the second thermal insulation member 150 can be a material corresponding to the material of the first thermal insulation member 140 described above, or it can be a different material. The second thermal insulation member 150 can be made of a material with higher strength than the first thermal insulation member 140. Therefore, the rigidity that may be weakened by the thermal insulation space 151 can be enhanced. For example, the second thermal insulation member 150 can be made of a high-strength synthetic resin material, a metal material, a ceramic material, or a composite material thereof.

[0096] The insulated space 151 can hold air. The thermal conductivity of air is approximately 0.025 W / (m²). K). Although air has very high thermal insulation properties, it is a fluid, which means that air only acts as an insulating material when confined within the insulating space 151.

[0097] Due to degradation caused by charging and discharging of the battery cells or external impacts, some battery cells in battery module 130 may catch fire or experience thermal runaway. Therefore, heat propagation may occur within the same battery module 130 to adjacent battery cells, causing battery module 130 to experience thermal runaway or catch fire. In other words, battery cells or the battery module including battery cells may experience thermal runaway or catch fire due to internal factors (e.g., temperature rise) or external factors (e.g., external impacts) of battery module 130.

[0098] When some battery modules 130 within the battery pack 100 experience thermal runaway, the heat generated can be transferred to the outside via the following paths: a heat propagation path toward the lower plate 111 where the battery modules 130 are placed in the battery pack 100; and a convective heat propagation path that generates a high-temperature and high-pressure environment by heating the gas in the housing space 113 containing the battery modules 130 within the internal space of the battery pack 100.

[0099] Here, the heat from the battery module 130 that has experienced thermal runaway is first blocked by the first heat insulation member 140, and then blocked by the heat insulation space 151 of the second heat insulation member 150.

[0100] Furthermore, even when heat is transferred to the lower plate 111 via the heat insulation members 140 and 150, the heat propagation to the adjacent battery module 130 is blocked. That is, in the path of heat transfer from the lower plate 111 to the adjacent battery module 130, heat propagation is first blocked by the heat insulation space 151 of the second heat insulation member 150 supporting the lower part of the adjacent battery module 130, and then blocked by the first heat insulation member 140.

[0101] In addition, when heat propagation is blocked, heat is released to the outside through the lower plate 111, side plate and battery cover 112 of the battery pack housing 110, which have excellent thermal conductivity.

[0102] As a result, the high temperature generated from the battery module 130 that is undergoing thermal runaway or catching fire is blocked from being transmitted to the adjacent battery module 130 through the lower plate 111, thereby preventing a thermal runaway chain reaction.

[0103] In this way, by mounting multiple second thermal insulation members 150 laterally spaced apart from each other, heat from a battery module 130 experiencing thermal runaway can be prevented from being transferred to adjacent battery modules 130, while allowing heat to be quickly dissipated to the outside. That is, the second thermal insulation members 150 are mounted separately and individually in each receiving space 113.

[0104] Preferably, the upper surface of the first heat-insulating member 140 can be configured to be higher than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing 110, that is, higher than the upper surface of the lower plate 111. Therefore, the lower surface of the battery module 130 can be configured to be spaced apart from the upper surface of the lower plate 111 by a height equal to that of the upper surface of the first heat-insulating member 140. Thus, the lower plate 111 can be protected from the thermal effects of the battery module 130.

[0105] Preferably, the heat-insulating space 151 can be configured to be lower than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing 110, i.e., the upper surface of the lower plate 111. Therefore, the heat-insulating space 151 is prevented from facing the receiving space 113, and the material portion of the second heat-insulating member 150 is located between them. Thus, heat transfer between the battery module 130 and the second heat-insulating member 150 via any path other than the first heat-insulating member 140 is prevented. Furthermore, as the height of the heat-insulating space 151 decreases, the volume of the receiving space 113 increases, thereby preventing a reduction in the space utilization of the battery pack 100 due to the heat-insulating space 151.

[0106] More preferably, the upper surface of the second heat insulation member 150 can be positioned at a height corresponding to the upper surface of the lower plate 111. Therefore, the second heat insulation member 150 can contribute to the rigidity of the lower plate 111.

[0107] The first heat insulation member 140 and the heat insulation space 151 can be wider than the lower surface of the battery module 130. Therefore, the thermal separation distance between the side surface of the battery module 130 and the lower plate 111 can be further increased.

[0108] Furthermore, the battery pack 100 may include a heat-resistant cover 170 surrounding the upper and side surfaces of the battery module 130 to protect the battery module 130 from the effects of high-temperature, high-pressure gases and flames transmitted due to thermal runaway from adjacent battery modules 130. For example, mica sheets with excellent thermal insulation properties can be used as the heat-resistant cover 170. Obviously, the material of the heat-resistant cover 170 can be at least one of the materials of the first thermal insulation member 140 described above.

[0109] In the event of thermal runaway of the adjacent battery module 130, the heat-resistant cover 170 can protect the battery module 130 from the effects of gas or flames flowing back through the top hole of the battery pack cover 112.

[0110] Next, a battery pack according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the structure of the second heat insulation member, the same reference numerals will be given to the same elements as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0111] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second thermal insulation member 150 may include one or more partition walls 153 that divide the thermal insulation space 151 into multiple spaces. The partition walls 153 may extend along a first direction or a second direction and be vertically erected to divide the thermal insulation space 151 within the second thermal insulation member 150. For example... Figure 6As shown, in the embodiment, five partition walls 153 extending in a first direction and spaced apart in a second direction, and seven partition walls 153 extending in the second direction and spaced apart in the first direction are exemplified.

[0112] According to the embodiment, since the heat insulation space 151 is divided into multiple spaces by the partition wall 153, the convection area of ​​the gas within the heat insulation space 151 can be further restricted, thereby further enhancing the heat insulation performance. Furthermore, since the partition wall extends vertically, the rigidity of the second heat insulation member 150 can be further enhanced to resist external impacts and support the weight of the battery module 130. In other words, the partition wall 153 restricts airflow and increases the rigidity of the second heat insulation member 150.

[0113] The partition wall 153 can be vertically installed in the insulation space 151 to support the second insulation member 150. The partition wall 153 can be arranged parallel to the width or length direction of the second insulation member 150. Alternatively, multiple partition walls 153 can be arranged at equal intervals. The partition wall 153 can reduce the possibility of the second insulation member 150 collapsing due to the load of the battery module 130 or external impact. In addition, even when the partition wall 153 is installed in the insulation space 151, the height of the insulation space 151 does not change, so the insulation performance of the insulation space 151 hardly deteriorates.

[0114] Next, a battery pack according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the structure of the second heat insulation member, the same reference numerals will be given to the same elements as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0115] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The second thermal insulation member 150 may include a partition wall 155 dividing the thermal insulation space 151 into an upper and a lower portion. Here, the partition wall 155 divides the thermal insulation space 151 into an upper space and a lower space. The number of partition walls 155 can vary depending on the height of the thermal insulation space 151. Because the thermal insulation space 151 is divided along a vertical direction, in the event of thermal runaway of the battery pack 100, heat transfer from the battery module 130 to the lower plate 111 can be blocked in stages.

[0116] In addition, refer to Figure 7Although the heat propagation prevention structures (120, 140, 150, and 170) are located between the battery modules as described above, a heat dissipation structure 160 for the battery module 130 can also be applied. The heat dissipation structure can be implemented without overlapping with the heat propagation prevention structures. The cooling path 160 for promoting heat dissipation of the battery module 130 can be connected to the side or lower surface of the battery module 130 and extends outward through the lower plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110 exposed to the receiving space.

[0117] For example, the heat dissipation structure 160 can be made of a material whose thermal conductivity drops sharply or melts and breaks when the temperature rises above a predetermined temperature. Therefore, when the battery module 130 experiences thermal runaway, the cooling path 160 can be eliminated.

[0118] Next, a battery pack according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the structure of the second heat insulation member, the same reference numerals will be given to the same elements as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0119] Reference Figure 9 The second heat insulation member 150 may include both a partition wall 153 extending along a first or second direction and vertically erected to divide the heat insulation space 151 within the second heat insulation member 150, and a partition wall 155 dividing the heat insulation space 151 into an upper space and a lower space. That is, the second heat insulation member 150 may include both a vertical partition wall 153 and a horizontal partition wall 155. The effects of adding such partition walls 153 and 155 have been described in the second and third embodiments.

[0120] Reference Figure 10 The operational effects of the battery pack 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. When a battery module 130 placed in the housing space 113 inside the battery pack 100 experiences thermal runaway, the path for heat conduction from the lower surface of the battery module 130 to the lower plate 111 is blocked in stages by the first heat insulation member 140 and the second heat insulation member 150. In addition, the path for heat convection generated by the battery module 130 is blocked by the barrier 120. Furthermore, since the barrier 120 has a hollow barrier heat insulation space 122, heat conduction through the barrier 120 is also blocked.

[0121] Furthermore, heat from high-temperature gas or flame that is transferred to the adjacent containment space 113 through the space within the battery pack cover 112 or the space between the battery pack cover 112 and the barrier 120 is blocked by the heat-resistant cover 170 surrounding the upper and side surfaces of the adjacent battery module 130, thereby preventing heat propagation to the upper and side surfaces of the adjacent battery module 130.

[0122] Furthermore, even when some heat is conducted through the lower plate 111, the presence of the second heat insulation member 150 and the first heat insulation member 140 in the heat conduction path between the adjacent battery module 130 and the lower plate 111 also prevents heat propagation to the lower surface of the adjacent battery module 130.

[0123] Although the invention has been described with reference to the 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 pack, the battery pack comprising: Battery pack housing (110); A barrier (120) is installed in the battery pack housing (110) to form a plurality of receiving spaces (113). Multiple battery modules (130) are respectively disposed in the multiple receiving spaces (113); A plurality of first thermal insulation members (140) are respectively disposed in the plurality of receiving spaces to support the lower part of the battery module (130) and to block heat transmission through the lower part of the battery pack housing (110) to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the battery module (130). as well as A plurality of second thermal insulation members (150) are respectively disposed below the first thermal insulation member (140) and are provided with thermal insulation space (151) to block heat transmission through the lower part of the battery pack housing (110) to adjacent battery modules during thermal runaway of the battery module (130).

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of second thermal insulation members (150) are installed laterally spaced apart from each other with the barrier (120) inserted between the plurality of second thermal insulation members (150).

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The upper surface of the first heat insulation member (140) is configured to be higher than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing (110).

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The heat insulation space (150) is configured to be lower than the bottom surface of the battery pack housing (110).

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The first heat insulation member (140) and the heat insulation space (151) are formed to be wider than the lower surface of the battery module (130).

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The second thermal insulation member (150) includes one or more partition walls (153, 155) that divide the thermal insulation space (151) into a plurality of spaces.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The partition wall (153) is erected vertically in the insulated space (151) to support the second insulation member (150).

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The partition wall (155) divides the heat-insulating space (151) in the vertical direction.

9. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a heat-resistant cover (170) mounted around the upper surface and sidewall surfaces of the battery modules (130) to protect the plurality of battery modules (130) from the effects of transmitted flame.

10. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, A barrier insulation space (122) is provided in the barrier (120).

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