Battery cell block, and battery pack and vehicle comprising the same

Abstract

A battery cell block according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells and having a corrosion protection layer on a surface, a lower case having an inner portion with a space to accommodate the battery cell assembly, a cooling liquid accommodated within the lower case, an upper case located on top of the lower case and including at least one discharge hole, and a sealing bracket located between the lower case and the upper case and configured to seal between an outer surface of the battery cell assembly and an inner surface of the lower case.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery cell block, a battery pack including the battery cell block, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike non-rechargeable primary batteries, secondary batteries are rechargeable and dischargeable batteries, which are used not only in portable devices, but also in electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and other vehicles powered by electric drive sources.

[0003] Currently widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of a single rechargeable battery cell (i.e., a single cell) is approximately 2.5V to 4.6V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple cells are connected in series to configure a battery pack. Alternatively, multiple cells can be connected in parallel to configure the battery pack according to the required charge / discharge capacity. Thus, the number of cells included in a battery pack can be set differently depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, typically, a battery module comprising at least one battery cell (preferably multiple battery cells) is first configured, and then the battery pack is configured by adding other components while using at least one battery module. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity, output, etc.

[0005] It should be noted that there is an increasing demand to meet high-speed charging requirements and ensure the thermal safety of battery packs. However, in the case of existing battery modules or packs, the generated heat is mainly controlled through indirect cooling, such as edge cooling, which leads to a reduction in high-speed charging performance.

[0006] On the other hand, to improve high-speed charging performance using direct cooling methods, the sealing structure must be reliable. However, a problem with this sealing structure is that safety is difficult to ensure during a thermal event due to heat propagation. In other words, in a direct cooling structure using coolant immersion, the entire battery cell needs to be sealed to retain the insulating coolant inside. However, sealing the entire battery cell in this way significantly increases the risk of explosion, as there is no space for hot gases to escape during a thermal event.

[0007] In addition, the problem with using the direct cooling method described above is that the direct contact between the battery cells and the coolant may accelerate the corrosion of the battery cells. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to effectively prevent corrosion of battery cells using direct cooling methods.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to improve the high-speed charging performance of individual battery cells.

[0010] Another objective of this disclosure is to improve cooling performance by applying a direct cooling structure.

[0011] Another objective of this disclosure is to ensure safety by smoothly venting exhaust gases to the outside of the battery cell block in the event of a thermal event.

[0012] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned technical problems, and other problems not explicitly mentioned will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of this disclosure.

[0013] Technical solution To address the aforementioned problems, a battery cell block according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes: a battery cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells and having a corrosion protection layer on its surface; a lower housing having an interior space for accommodating the battery cell assembly; a coolant contained within the lower housing; an upper housing mounted on top of the lower housing and including at least one drain hole; and a sealing bracket located between the lower housing and the upper housing and configured to seal between the outer surface of the battery cell assembly and the inner surface of the lower housing.

[0014] In one aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer may be located on the surface of the battery cell.

[0015] For example, the corrosion protection layer can be configured as a film, attached to the surface of the battery cell.

[0016] For example, a corrosion protection layer can be configured to be coated on the surface of a battery cell.

[0017] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer can be configured to cover all side surfaces of the battery cell.

[0018] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer can be configured to surround each individual battery cell.

[0019] In one aspect of this disclosure, the lower housing may include a first space and a second space, the first space containing coolant and the second space not containing coolant, and the first space and the second space may be separated by a sealing bracket.

[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, the sealing bracket may be located in an area above the surface of the coolant.

[0021] In another aspect of this disclosure, the sealing support may include a base and a sealing portion, the base having a receiving portion configured to allow a battery cell assembly to pass through therethrough, and the sealing portion contacting the inner surface of the lower housing and sealing the first space.

[0022] Preferably, the corrosion protection layer may be located only in the first space.

[0023] In one aspect of this disclosure, the accommodating part can be configured as a sealed first space.

[0024] In another aspect of this disclosure, the edge of the sealing bracket may have a structure that bends toward the second space.

[0025] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer can be configured to surround the side surfaces of a battery cell assembly that is an assembly of multiple battery cells.

[0026] It should be noted that this disclosure provides a battery pack, which includes at least one battery cell according to the above embodiments.

[0027] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a vehicle that includes at least one battery pack according to the above embodiments.

[0028] Beneficial effects According to this disclosure, corrosion of battery cells can be effectively prevented even when using direct cooling methods.

[0029] In addition, according to this disclosure, the high-speed charging performance of individual battery cells can be improved.

[0030] In addition, according to this disclosure, cooling performance can be improved by applying a direct cooling structure.

[0031] In addition, according to this disclosure, when a thermal event occurs, safety can be ensured by smoothly discharging the exhaust gases to the outside of the battery cell block.

[0032] However, the effects achieved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other technical effects not explicitly mentioned will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the following description of the present disclosure, are intended to provide a better understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell block according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell included in a battery cell assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a battery cell assembly with a corrosion protection layer applied according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 7 This shows the application to Figure 6 A diagram of the sealed support for a battery cell assembly.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a battery cell assembly with a corrosion protection layer applied according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 9 This shows the application to Figure 8 A diagram of the sealed support for a battery cell assembly.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the application structure of the sealing bracket according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a battery cell block taken along line AA′.

[0045] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a battery cell block taken along line BB′.

[0046] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 14 It shows including Figure 1A diagram of a battery pack consisting of individual battery cells.

[0048] Figure 15 It shows including Figure 14 A picture of a vehicle with a battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The advantages and features of this disclosure and its implementation methods will become apparent from the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. The embodiments are provided only to complete this disclosure and to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand its scope. This disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Therefore, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known technologies are not specifically described to avoid obscuring the interpretation of this disclosure. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0050] In the accompanying drawings, the thickness of layers and regions is exaggerated for clarity. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements. When an element such as a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is referred to as "on" another element, it may be "directly on" the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly on" another element, this may mean that no intermediate elements are present. Additionally, when an element such as a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is referred to as "below" another element, it may be "directly below" the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly below" another element, this may mean that no intermediate elements are present.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell block 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery cell block 10 includes a battery cell assembly 100, a lower housing 200, a coolant C, an upper housing 230, and a sealing bracket 300.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell 110 included in a battery cell assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] The battery cell assembly 100 includes multiple battery cells 110. (See reference...) Figure 3The battery cell 110 can be a secondary battery, and can be, for example, a cylindrical battery cell 110. However, the type of battery cell 110 is not limited to this. For example, other types of battery cells 110, such as pouch cells or prismatic cells, can also be used in the battery cell block 10 of this disclosure. The battery cell 110 of this disclosure can be used without being limited by the form factor of the battery cell.

[0055] In the following text, such as Figure 3 As shown, an example in which the battery cell 110 is a cylindrical battery cell will be described. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The battery cell 110 includes an electrode assembly, a battery casing 20, and a top cover 30.

[0056] The electrode assembly includes a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal. Specifically, the electrode assembly includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator inserted between the first and second electrodes. The electrode assembly has a structure in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the separator inserted between the first and second electrodes are wound around a winding axis, thereby defining a core and an outer peripheral surface. That is, the electrode assembly used in this disclosure can be a wound electrode assembly. In this case, an additional separator can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly for insulation from the battery casing 20. The electrode assembly can have, but is not limited to, wound structures known in the art. It should be noted that in this disclosure, positive electrode active materials coated on the positive electrode plate and negative electrode active materials coated on the negative electrode plate can be used without limitation, as long as these materials are active materials known in the art.

[0057] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery housing 20 is generally a cylindrical container with an opening formed on one side and is made of a conductive metallic material. The side surface and the lower surface opposite the opening of the battery housing 20 are typically integrally formed. That is, the battery housing 20 generally has an open upper end and a closed lower end in the height direction. The lower surface of the battery housing 20 may be generally flat. The battery housing 20 accommodates electrode assemblies through the opening formed on one side in the height direction. The battery housing 20 may also accommodate an electrolyte through the opening.

[0058] The battery housing 20 may have a beading portion 21 formed at an end adjacent to an opening at the upper end of the battery housing 20. The battery housing 20 may also include a crimping portion 22 formed on the beading portion 21. The beading portion 21 has a shape in which the outer peripheral surface of the battery housing 20 is recessed to a predetermined depth. More specifically, the beading portion 21 may have a shape that is recessed inward in the region between the opening formed on one side of the battery housing 20 and the receiving portion 310H that receives the electrode assembly. The beading portion 21 is formed above the electrode assembly. The inner diameter of the battery housing 20 in the region where the beading portion 21 is formed is smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly.

[0059] The flange 21 provides a support surface on which the top cover 30 can be mounted. Additionally, the flange 21 provides a support surface on which at least a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the current collector (not shown) can be mounted and joined. That is, at least a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the current collector (not shown) and / or the outer peripheral edge of the top cover 30 can be mounted on the upper surface of the flange 21. To stably support at least a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the current collector (not shown) and / or the outer peripheral edge of the top cover 30, the upper surface of the flange 21 may have a shape extending in a direction substantially parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing 20 (that is, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls of the battery housing 20).

[0060] The flange 21 prevents the electrode assembly, which has a size substantially corresponding to the inner diameter of the battery housing 20, from detaching through the opening formed at the upper end of the battery housing 20, and can also be used as a support for mounting the top cover 30 thereon. The upper flange 21 can be used as a support portion not only for fixing the top cover 30, but also for fixing the current collector (not shown), sealing gasket, etc.

[0061] A crimping portion 22 is formed on the upper part of the flange portion 21. The crimping portion 22 has an extending and bent shape and surrounds the outer peripheral edge of the top cover 30 arranged on the upper part of the flange portion 21. Through this shape of the crimping portion 22, the top cover 30 is fixed to the flange portion 21.

[0062] Reference Figure 3 The top cover 30 may have a vent 31, which is formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure due to gas generated inside the battery housing 20. The vent 31 may be configured to rupture when the internal pressure of the battery housing 20 exceeds a predetermined level. For example, the vent 31 may be a region formed on a portion of the top cover 30 and structurally weaker than the surrounding region so as to facilitate rupture when internal pressure is applied. For example, the vent 31 may be a region with a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding region.

[0063] In other words, under certain conditions, a thermal event may occur inside the battery cell 110, resulting in the generation of exhaust gas, which may in turn increase the pressure inside the battery casing 20. In this case, since the exhaust section 31 is a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area, making it prone to rupture when the internal pressure of the battery cell 110 increases, the exhaust section 31 may rupture when exhaust gas is generated.

[0064] Reference Figure 3 The top cover 30 covers the opening formed on one side of the battery housing 20. The top cover 30 can be fixed by a crimping portion 22 formed at the upper end of the battery housing 20. In this case, a sealing gasket can be inserted between the battery housing 20 and the top cover 30, and between the current collector (not shown) and the top cover 30, to enhance the fixing force and sealing performance of the battery housing 20. In this case, a contact portion (not shown) can be inserted between the flange portion 21 of the battery housing 20 and the sealing gasket. The contact portion (not shown) inserted in this way between the flange portion 21 and the sealing gasket can be fixed by a bend in the crimping portion 22 extending upward from the flange portion 21.

[0065] Reference Figure 3 The exhaust portion 31 can be configured to form a generally circular closed ring. Therefore, when exhaust gas is discharged from the interior of the battery cell 110 and the upward internal pressure is applied to the top cover 30, the exhaust portion 31 can rupture, causing the inner region of the circular closed ring of the top cover 30 to be torn. Thus, smooth exhaust can be achieved.

[0066] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer 115 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] As an embodiment of this disclosure, the battery cell assembly 100 may have a corrosion protection layer 115 on its surface. For example, see reference... Figure 4 The battery cell 110 may have a corrosion protection layer 115 on its surface. The corrosion protection layer 115 may be provided on the surface that is in direct contact with the coolant C.

[0068] For example, the coolant C can be composed of components such as insulating oil. In this case, the corrosion protection layer 115 prevents the battery cell 110 from direct contact with the coolant C. The corrosion protection layer 115 can contain any material that prevents corrosion upon contact with the coolant C. The corrosion protection layer 115 can contain a stable material configured not to chemically react with the coolant C. For example, the corrosion protection layer 115 can contain polymer resin materials, ceramic materials, metallic materials, glass materials, carbon fiber materials, etc. In particular, the polymer resin material of the corrosion protection layer 15 can contain epoxy resin (epoxy powder coating, etc.), fluoropolymers (PTFE, PFA, FEP), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), etc. However, such limitations are not intended. With this configuration, corrosion of the battery cell assembly 100 can be effectively prevented.

[0069] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer 115 may be configured as a film and attached to the surface of the battery cell 110. Alternatively, the corrosion protection layer 115 may be configured as a coating on the surface of the battery cell 110. In this way, the corrosion protection layer 115 falls within the scope of this disclosure as long as it has a structure and / or material capable of preventing the battery cell 110 from direct contact with the coolant C.

[0070] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be configured to cover the entire side surface of the battery cell 110. That is, as Figure 4 As shown, the corrosion protection layer 115 can cover the cylindrical portion of the side surface of the battery cell 110, as well as the side surfaces of the flange portion 21 and the crimp portion 22.

[0071] In another aspect of this disclosure, the corrosion protection layer 115 may cover either the upper or lower surface of the battery cell 110. For example, the corrosion protection layer 115 may be provided on a surface opposite to the surface of the top cover 30 of the battery cell 110 where the discharge portion 31 is located. That is, the corrosion protection layer 115 will not obstruct the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110.

[0072] This structure effectively prevents the battery cell 110 from coming into contact with the coolant C. Furthermore, since the corrosion protection layer 115 does not obstruct the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110, even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery cell 110 and gas is generated as a result, the generated gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell 110.

[0073] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 5The corrosion protection layer 115 can be configured to cover a portion of the side surface of the battery cell 110. For example, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be provided only in the portion corresponding to the upper or lower region of the sealing bracket 300 described below. That is, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be provided only in the first space A1 or the second space A2. This will be described in detail below with reference to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0074] In another aspect of this disclosure, Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a battery cell assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a corrosion protection layer 115 applied.

[0075] Reference Figure 6 The corrosion protection layer 115 can be configured to surround each individual battery cell 110. That is, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be coated on the constituent cells. Figure 6 On the surface of each battery cell 110 of the battery cell assembly 100.

[0076] With this configuration, the coolant C can also flow in the space between the battery cells 110. Therefore, the cooling efficiency can be further improved.

[0077] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lower housing 200 has an empty internal space formed therein, and can accommodate the battery cell assembly 100 within the internal space. The lower housing 200 can be configured to accommodate the battery cell assembly 100. That is, the lower housing 200 can have an internal space for accommodating the battery cell assembly 100.

[0078] The lower housing 200 may include a horizontally extending base plate 210 and a side plate 220 extending upward from the base plate 210. In this configuration, the base plate 210 may be configured to have a plate-like shape extending generally in the horizontal direction. The side plate 220 may be configured to have a plate-like shape extending generally in the vertical direction. The base plate 210 and the side plate 220 may be configured to be perpendicular to each other.

[0079] In another aspect of this disclosure, the base plate 210 and the side plate 220 can be configured integrally. Alternatively, the base plate 210 and the side plate 220 can be configured to be detachable.

[0080] Coolant C can be contained within the lower housing 200. Coolant C can have insulating properties. That is, after the battery cell assembly 100 is housed within the internal space of the lower housing 200, coolant C can be contained within the space between the lower housing 200 and the battery cell assembly 100. With this structure, the contact area with the battery cell assembly 100 is maximized, thus improving cooling efficiency.

[0081] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lower housing 200 may include a coolant C inlet 200I and a coolant C outlet 200U.

[0082] A coolant C inlet 200I and a coolant C outlet 200U can be formed in the side plate 220 of the lower housing 200, through which coolant C can be introduced and discharged. Because the coolant C passes through the interior of the lower housing, the lower housing 200 can also be in an airtight state except for the coolant C inlet 200I and the coolant C outlet 200U. Therefore, the coolant C introduced through the coolant C inlet 200I will not leak to the outside of the lower housing 200. On the other hand, the coolant C introduced through the coolant C inlet 200I of the lower housing 200 can cool the battery cell assembly 100 housed in the lower housing 200, and then the coolant C flows out through the coolant C outlet 200U.

[0083] Therefore, the coolant C can perform cooling by directly contacting the battery cell assembly 100 housed in the lower housing 200, thus improving cooling efficiency. In other words, with this configuration, effective cooling can be achieved when heat is generated due to high-speed charging, etc. Therefore, the high-speed charging performance of the battery cell block 10 can be ensured.

[0084] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the upper housing 230 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Reference Figure 3 The upper housing 230 may be located on at least one side of the lower housing 200. Preferably, the upper housing 230 may be mounted on top of the lower housing 200. The upper housing 230 may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery cell assembly 100. For example, the upper housing 230 may be configured as a plate having a generally horizontally extending shape. In one aspect of this disclosure, the upper housing 230 may be configured to be detachably connected to the lower housing 200.

[0086] In another aspect of this disclosure, the upper housing 230 may be configured to discharge exhaust gas. For example, the upper housing 230 may include at least one discharge port 230H.

[0087] The discharge port 230H can be configured to discharge exhaust gas. That is, the discharge port 230H can be configured to have a hole shape that penetrates the upper housing 230 in the vertical direction. For example, the discharge port 230H can have an elongated shape. However, the shape of the discharge port 230H is not limited to this. It should be noted that the discharge port 230H can be provided in the region adjacent to the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110. For example, in a structure in which the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110 is mounted facing upwards, the discharge port 230H can be provided in the region above the discharge portion 31.

[0088] This structure allows for the smooth discharge of high-temperature gases and flames from inside the module. Multiple discharge ports 230H can be formed within the upper housing 230. For example, multiple discharge ports 230H can be arranged along the structure where the battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0089] Using this structure, even when a large amount of gas is generated in the battery cell block 10, the gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell block 10 through multiple discharge holes 230H. In other words, the time that the discharged gas remains in the lower housing 200 can be minimized.

[0090] In another aspect of this disclosure, the discharge hole 230H may include a mesh structure.

[0091] This structure, with its mesh-like structure, prevents sparks generated from the battery cell assembly 100 from splashing to the outside of the battery cell assembly 100. Additionally, it prevents the fire from spreading to other battery cell blocks 10 adjacent to the one where the thermal event occurred.

[0092] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sealing bracket 300 can be inserted between the lower housing 200 and the upper housing 230. Preferably, the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to seal the space between the outer surface of the discharge portion 31 and the inner surface of the lower housing 200. That is, the sealing bracket 300 can be used to divide the internal space of the lower housing 200 into two spaces.

[0093] In one aspect of this disclosure, the lower housing 200 may include a first space A1 in which coolant C is contained and a second space A2 in which coolant C is not contained. In this case, the first space A1 and the second space A2 may be separated by a sealing bracket 300.

[0094] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The coolant C can be contained in the area below the sealing bracket 300. Therefore, in this case, the area below the sealing bracket 300 can be a first space A1, and the area above the sealing bracket 300 can be a second space A2. The first space A1 and the second space A2 are separated by the sealing bracket 300. Therefore, the first space A1 and the second space A2 can be in a state where gas and / or liquid cannot move between them. That is, the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to make the area below the sealing bracket 300 airtight.

[0095] In this case, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be provided only in the first space A1. That is, since the coolant C is only contained in the first space A1, corrosion of the battery cell 110 can be effectively prevented even when the corrosion protection layer 115 is only provided in the first space A1. For example, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the corrosion protection layer 115 may be provided only in the area below the sealing bracket 300.

[0096] In one aspect of this disclosure, the sealing support 300 may be located in the region above the surface of the coolant C. In other words, the coolant C may be contained only in the first space A1, which is the region below the sealing support 300. That is, the coolant C is not contained in the second space A2, which is the region above the sealing support 300. Therefore, the coolant C can cool the battery cell assembly 100 only in the first space A1. That is, the first space A1 may correspond to the cooling zone.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the coolant C inlet 200I and coolant C outlet 200U can be located in the region below the sealing bracket 300. That is, since coolant C exists only in the region below the sealing bracket 300, coolant C inlet 200I and coolant C outlet 200U are also located in the region below the sealing bracket 300.

[0098] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exhaust gas can be configured to exit from the area above the sealing bracket 300. Specifically, the exhaust gas can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust section 31 of the battery cell 110.

[0099] According to the above structure, while ensuring the sealing force of the battery cell block 10 through the sealing bracket 300, smooth venting can be achieved even when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell block 10. In other words, according to this disclosure, both sealing force and venting performance can be satisfied simultaneously.

[0100] Specifically, as mentioned above, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2In this embodiment, coolant C does not flow into the second space A2, which is the area above the sealing support 300. Therefore, coolant C can be effectively prevented from flowing into the discharge section 31 used for discharging exhaust gas. Furthermore, since the sealing support 300 seals the first space A1, coolant C can be effectively prevented from leaking to the outside through the discharge hole 230H of the upper housing 230. In other words, according to the above configuration, the sealing force of the battery cell block 10 can be ensured. Simultaneously, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell block 10 and a large amount of gas is generated as a result, the gas can be discharged through the discharge section 31 of the battery cell 110 into the second space A2, which is the area above the sealing support 300. Thereafter, the exhaust gas in the second space A2 can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell block 10 through the discharge hole 230H provided in the upper housing 230. That is, the second space A2 can correspond to the discharge area.

[0101] Figure 7 This shows the application to Figure 6 The diagram shows the sealing bracket 300 of the battery cell assembly 100.

[0102] Reference Figure 7 The sealing bracket 300 includes a base 310 and a sealing portion 320. The sealing bracket 300 may also include an inclined portion 330.

[0103] The sealing bracket 300 may contain an elastic material. For example, the sealing bracket 300 may contain a rubber material. As an embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing portion 320 and the receiving portion 310H of the sealing bracket 300 may be made of an elastic material.

[0104] The base 310 can be configured as a generally horizontally extending plate-like structure. The base 310 can have a receiving portion 310H configured to allow the battery cell assembly 100 to pass through it. For example, the receiving portion 310H can be located in the central region of the base 310.

[0105] In one aspect of this disclosure, the receiving portion 310H can be configured to enclose the first space A1. For example, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the receiving portion 310H can be configured to seal the area below the support 300. That is, when the battery cell assembly 100 is inserted into the receiving portion 310H, no gap is formed between the battery cell assembly 100 and the receiving portion 310H. In other words, the receiving portion 310H contacts the battery cell assembly 100 without gap, clearly separating the first space A1 and the second space A2. Therefore, the airtightness of the first space A1 can be ensured.

[0106] For example, in Figure 6In one embodiment, the corrosion protection layer 115 is configured to surround each individual battery cell 110, and the respective battery cells 110 can be arranged spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval. In this case, a coating with... Figure 7 The sealing bracket 300 is shown in the diagram. That is, referring to... Figure 7 The sealing support 300 may have a plurality of receiving portions 310H spaced apart at predetermined intervals. Each receiving portion 310H may accommodate a single battery cell 110 covered with a corrosion protective layer 115. The receiving portions 310H may be configured to seal the space between the single battery cell 110 and the base 310. That is, when the battery cell 110 is cylindrical, a plurality of substantially circular, perforated receiving portions 310H may be provided.

[0107] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 7 The area not covered by the sealing portion 320 at the edge of the base 310 can also be configured to maintain the airtightness of the first space A1 by being in close contact with the lower housing 200. In this case, an elastic material can be applied to the area not covered by the sealing portion 320 at the edge of the base 310 of the sealing bracket 300.

[0108] In another aspect of this disclosure, the sealing portion 320 may contact the inner surface of the lower housing 200. The sealing portion 320 may be configured to seal the first space A1. For example, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the sealing portion 320 can be configured to seal the area below the sealing bracket 300. The sealing bracket 300 can seal and isolate the area below the sealing bracket 300 from the area above the sealing bracket 300. Therefore, the coolant C can be sealed in the area below the sealing bracket 300. That is, the sealing portion 320 prevents the coolant C from moving into the second space A2.

[0109] As another embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing portion 320 can be configured to have a structure extending in all directions from the edge of the receiving portion 310H. For example, when the receiving portion 310H is substantially a plate-shaped rectangular structure, a sealing portion 320 extending from each of the four corners of the rectangle can be provided. In this embodiment, the sealing portion 320 can contact and seal all the side plates 220 constituting the lower housing 200. According to the above configuration, the sealing force of the sealing bracket 300 can be further enhanced.

[0110] Preferably, the edge of the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to have a bent structure facing the second space A2. For example, in Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the edge of the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to have an upwardly bent structure. More preferably, the sealing portion 320 can be configured to have an upwardly bent structure. For example, see reference to... Figure 7 The sealing portion 320 can be configured parallel to the side surface of the lower housing 200. That is, the sealing portion 320 can be configured to contact the surface of the lower housing 200. With this configuration, the sealing force of the sealing bracket 300 can be enhanced through the surface contact between the sealing portion 320 and the lower housing 200.

[0111] In another aspect of this disclosure, the sealing bracket 300 may further include an inclined portion 330 located between the base 310 and the sealing portion 320.

[0112] Reference Figure 7 The base 310 may extend in a generally horizontal direction, and the sealing portion 320 may extend in a generally vertical direction. Therefore, the region connecting the base 310 and the sealing portion 320 may have a substantially inclined structure. That is, the inclined portion 330 may have a structure that extends from the edge of the base 310 toward the sealing portion 320.

[0113] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a battery cell assembly 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with an applied corrosion protection layer 115, and Figure 9 This shows the application to Figure 8 The diagram shows the sealing bracket 300 of the battery cell assembly 100.

[0114] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The corrosion protection layer 115 can be configured to integrally surround the side surface of the battery cell assembly 100, which is an assembly of multiple battery cells 110. That is, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be used as a configuration for bonding the battery cell assembly 100, which is an assembly of multiple battery cells 110, together. Therefore, there may be areas on the surface of individual battery cells 110 that are not covered by the corrosion protection layer 115. However, since the battery cell assembly 100 is enclosed by the corrosion protection layer 115, and the corrosion protection layer 115 contains a material impermeable to the coolant C, the coolant C cannot penetrate into the internal space of the battery cell assembly 100 surrounded by the corrosion protection layer 115. Therefore, areas on the surface of individual battery cells 110 not covered by the corrosion protection layer 115 can be prevented from contacting the coolant C.

[0115] According to the above configuration, productivity can be improved compared to the case where each battery cell 110 is covered by a corrosion protection layer 115. Furthermore, the gaps between battery cells 110 can be further reduced, which can be advantageous in terms of energy density.

[0116] Reference Figure 9 For accommodating such Figure 8 The receiving portion 310H of the battery cell assembly 100 with the illustrated structure can be configured as an opening. In this case, the shape of the receiving portion 310H is configured to have a shape that matches the side surface shape of the battery cell assembly 100 including a plurality of battery cells 110. For example, in Figure 9 In one embodiment, the receiving portion 310H can be configured as a hole with a scalloped edge. Therefore, a sealing force between the battery cell assembly 100 and the receiving portion 310H can be ensured.

[0117] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the application structure of the sealing bracket 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the battery cell block 10 taken along line A-A', and Figure 12 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the battery cell block 10 taken along line B-B'.

[0118] Reference Figures 10 to 12 The battery cell assembly 100 can be housed within the lower housing 200, and the coolant C can be contained in the space between the battery cell assembly 100 and the lower housing 200. That is, the coolant C can be contained in a first space A1. In this case, the first space A1 can be the area above or below the sealing bracket 300. With this structure, the contact area with the battery cell assembly 100 is maximized, thus improving cooling efficiency.

[0119] A sealing bracket 300 can be inserted between the lower housing 200 and the upper housing 230. The sealing bracket 300 can be configured to seal the space between the outer surface of the battery cell assembly 100 and the inner surface of the lower housing 200. Preferably, the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to seal the space between the outer surface of the discharge portion 31 and the inner surface of the lower housing 200. The first space A1 and the second space A2 are separated by the sealing bracket 300. The sealing bracket 300 maintains an airtight seal in the area below it. In other words, according to this disclosure, an airtight condition can be achieved as a condition for applying the direct cooling method. Therefore, the improved cooling efficiency resulting from direct cooling can be achieved.

[0120] It should be noted that when a thermal event occurs inside the battery cell 10 and gas is generated as a result, the gas can be discharged in the area above the sealing bracket 300. Specifically, the gas can be discharged to the outside through at least one discharge hole 230H provided on the upper part of the discharge section 31.

[0121] In this configuration, since the sealing bracket 300 seals the first space A1, the coolant C can be effectively prevented from leaking to the outside through the drain hole 230H of the upper housing 230. In other words, according to the above configuration, the sealing force of the battery cell block 10 can be ensured. Simultaneously, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell block 10 and a large amount of gas is generated as a result, the gas can be discharged through the drain portion 31 of the battery cell 110 into the second space A2, which is the area above the sealing bracket 300. Thereafter, the discharged gas in the second space A2 can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery cell block 10 through the drain hole 230H provided in the upper housing 230.

[0122] According to the above structure, while ensuring the sealing force of the battery cell block 10 through the sealing bracket 300, smooth venting can be achieved even if a thermal event occurs in the battery cell block 10. In other words, according to this disclosure, both sealing force and venting performance can be simultaneously satisfied. That is, according to the sealing structure of this disclosure, safety can be ensured even if heat propagation occurs.

[0123] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a corrosion protection layer according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] Reference Figure 13 The corrosion protection layer 115 can be configured to extend upward from the first space A1 below the sealing bracket 300 to the upper surface of the sealing bracket 300. For example, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the corrosion protection layer 115 may be configured to extend upward from the first space A1 below the sealing bracket 300 to the upper surface of the sealing bracket 300.

[0125] With this construction, the corrosion protection layer 115 can be reliably applied to the entire first space A1 where the coolant C is located. Therefore, corrosion of the battery cell assembly 100 can be reliably prevented.

[0126] It should be noted that the application structure of the sealing bracket 300 disclosed herein can be applied not only to top exhaust structures but also to bottom exhaust structures.

[0127] For example, the sealing bracket 300 of this disclosure can be applied to a structure in which the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110 is disposed toward the bottom of the battery cell block 10, rather than in a structure in which the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell 110 is disposed toward the top. In this case, since venting is performed in the lower region of the battery cell block 10, the discharge portion 31 of the battery cell assembly 100 is also disposed toward the lower part of the battery cell block 10. Alternatively, the sealing bracket 300 can also be disposed in a region adjacent to the region where the discharge portion 31 is located. In this case, the sealing portion 320 of the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to extend toward the lower part of the battery cell block 10. Alternatively, as another embodiment, the sealing portion 320 of the sealing bracket 300 can be configured to extend toward the upper part of the battery cell block 10. It should be noted that in the bottom venting structure, the discharge hole 230H of the battery cell block 10 can be disposed in the bottom plate 210 of the battery cell block 10. In this structure, the coolant C can be contained in the second space A2, which is the region above the sealing bracket 300.

[0128] In other words, this disclosure is not limited to Figures 1 to 13 The top exhaust structure shown can also be applied to a bottom exhaust structure that performs exhaust towards the bottom.

[0129] Figure 14 It shows including Figure 1 The diagram shows the battery pack 3 consisting of 10 individual battery cells.

[0130] Reference Figure 14 The battery pack 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery cell block 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above. Additionally, the battery pack 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a battery pack housing 50 capable of accommodating at least one battery cell block 10. Furthermore, in addition to the battery cell block 10, it may include various other components, such as components of the battery pack 3 known when applying the present disclosure, such as a BMS, battery pack housing, relays, and current sensors.

[0131] Figure 15 It shows including Figure 14 The image shows the battery pack 3 of vehicle 5.

[0132] Reference Figure 15 The vehicle 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one battery pack 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] The battery cell block 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to a vehicle 5, such as an electric vehicle 5 or a hybrid electric vehicle 5. That is, a vehicle 5 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include the battery cell block 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure or the battery pack 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition to the battery cell block 10 or the battery pack 3, a vehicle 5 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may also include various other components included in the vehicle 5. For example, in addition to the battery cell block 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, a vehicle 5 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may also include a body, an electric motor, control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0134] It should be noted that although this document uses terms such as up and down to indicate direction, these terms are for convenience only, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms may vary depending on the location of the target object or the observer's position.

[0135] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and accompanying drawings, it is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical spirit of this disclosure and the equivalents of the claims described below.

Claims

1. A battery cell block, comprising: A battery cell assembly, the battery cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells and having a corrosion protection layer on its surface; The lower housing has an interior space to accommodate the battery cell assembly; Coolant, which is located within the lower housing; An upper housing, located on top of the lower housing, includes at least one discharge port; as well as A sealing bracket is located between the lower housing and the upper housing and is configured to seal between the outer surface of the battery cell assembly and the inner surface of the lower housing.

2. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is located on the surface of the battery cell.

3. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is configured as a film and is attached to the surface of the battery cell.

4. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is configured to be coated on the surface of the battery cell.

5. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is configured to cover all side surfaces of the battery cell.

6. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is configured to surround each of the battery cells.

7. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The lower housing includes a first space and a second space, wherein the first space contains coolant and the second space does not contain coolant. The first space and the second space are separated by the sealing bracket.

8. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The sealing bracket is located in an area above the surface of the coolant.

9. The battery cell block according to claim 7, wherein, The sealing bracket includes: A base having a receiving portion configured to allow the battery cell assembly to pass through it, and A sealing part that contacts the inner surface of the lower housing and seals the first space.

10. The battery cell block according to claim 7, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is located only in the first space.

11. The battery cell block according to claim 9, wherein, The accommodating part is configured to seal the first space.

12. The battery cell block according to claim 7, wherein, The edge of the sealing bracket has a structure that bends toward the second space.

13. The battery cell block according to claim 1, wherein, The corrosion protection layer is configured to surround the side surfaces of the battery cell assembly, which is an aggregate of the plurality of battery cells.

14. A battery pack comprising at least one battery cell block as claimed in claim 1.

15. A vehicle comprising at least one battery pack as claimed in claim 14.

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