Battery assembly

Abstract

A battery assembly is disclosed. An embodiment of the battery assembly according to this disclosure may include: a housing, the housing having an interior space and including a top cover having a flow path; a plurality of battery cells housed within the housing and stacked in a left-right direction; a barrier located between the plurality of battery cells and comprising a first material; and a second material housed within the flow path and configured to expand by reacting with the first material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery assembly.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0155432, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on November 5, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] With the surge in demand for portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches, and the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, research is actively underway on batteries installed in these vehicles, especially rechargeable batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging.

[0004] Currently, commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium rechargeable batteries. Among these batteries, lithium rechargeable batteries have little or no memory effect, so they have received more attention than nickel-based rechargeable batteries because of their advantages: they can be recharged whenever convenient, have a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] Lithium-ion secondary batteries mainly comprise lithium-based oxides and carbon materials used as positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. One lithium-ion secondary battery includes an electrode assembly and a sealed package or sealed battery casing. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively, with a separator inserted between the positive and negative electrode plates. The sealed package or sealed battery casing contains the electrode assembly and an electrolyte solution.

[0006] Generally, based on the shape of the battery casing, lithium secondary batteries can be divided into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode components are included in a metal can and pouch-type secondary batteries in which the electrode components are included in a pouch made of aluminum laminate.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries have been widely used in medium and large devices (such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS) for driving and storing energy) as well as small devices (such as portable electronic devices). Multiple secondary batteries can be electrically connected and stored within a module housing to form a battery module. Each secondary battery included in a battery module can then be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple battery modules can be connected to each other to form a battery pack.

[0008] However, when a battery pack comprises multiple battery modules, and each battery module comprises multiple battery cells, it may be susceptible to thermal chain reactions between battery modules or between battery cells. For example, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, the propagation of thermal runaway to other battery modules or other battery cells must be prevented. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules or battery cells is not properly suppressed, an event occurring in a particular battery module or battery cell may lead to a chain thermal reaction in other battery modules or other battery cells, potentially causing an explosion or fire or exacerbating its scale.

[0009] Specifically, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, gas or flames may be randomly emitted to the outside. If the emission of gas or flames is not properly controlled, it may be emitted towards other battery modules, potentially leading to a thermal chain reaction in those modules. In particular, module terminals may be located on the front side of the battery module, and components such as module busbars for electrical connection to other battery modules or battery packs may be present. Therefore, if a flame is emitted to the front side of a battery module, the module terminals may be damaged, and an electrical short circuit may occur within the battery pack. Furthermore, since other battery modules may be located on the front side of the battery module, if a flame is emitted to the front of a particular battery module, the emitted flame may be directed to other battery modules, easily leading to the spread of fire between battery modules.

[0010] If heat transfer between battery modules or individual battery cells is not properly controlled, a sudden voltage drop may occur within the battery module or battery pack. This could lead to the sudden shutdown of the device housing the battery module or battery pack, resulting in unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop occurs in the battery pack while an electric vehicle is being operated, there will be no time to move the vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Furthermore, if heat transfer between battery modules or individual battery cells is not properly controlled, potentially causing a sudden fire or explosion, the risk of injury or death to users is high. For example, in the event of thermal runaway in an electric vehicle, if sufficient time is not allowed before a full-blown fire, occupants may not be able to escape safely. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Technical issues

[0013] This disclosure is designed to solve problems in the related art, and therefore relates to providing a battery assembly with an improved structure and providing a vehicle including the battery assembly in order to properly control emissions such as flames generated inside the battery assembly.

[0014] This disclosure also relates to a battery assembly capable of releasing a very large volume of material into a housing in the event of a thermal event.

[0015] This disclosure also relates to providing a battery assembly capable of preventing the propagation of a thermal event by filling the interior of the housing with a foam material in the event of a thermal event.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery assembly is provided, comprising: a housing that provides internal space and includes a top cover having flow paths; a plurality of battery cells housed within the housing and stacked in a left-right direction; a barrier located between the plurality of battery cells and comprising a first material; and a second material housed within the flow paths and configured to expand by reacting with the first material.

[0018] Furthermore, the second material can be configured to be injected into the interior of the casing in the event of a thermal event.

[0019] Furthermore, each of the plurality of battery cells may include: a housing extending in a front-rear direction and having an electrode assembly; and an electrode lead protruding forward from the housing, and the blocking member may include a first portion located between the housings of adjacent battery cells in the plurality of battery cells.

[0020] In addition, the blocking member may also include a second part that extends from the first part in a front-rear direction and is configured to cover the front side of the receiving portion of the adjacent battery cell.

[0021] Furthermore, the width of the second part in the left-right direction can be greater than the width of the first part in the left-right direction.

[0022] In addition, the battery assembly may also include a busbar frame assembly electrically connected to multiple battery cells. The busbar frame assembly may have slits through which electrode leads of the multiple battery cells pass, and the blocking member may also include a third portion extending from the second portion and inserted into the slit.

[0023] In addition, the battery assembly may also include a heat transfer component arranged between the top cover and multiple battery cells.

[0024] In addition, the top cover may include a rupture portion formed between the flow path and the obstruction and configured to rupture in the event of a thermal event.

[0025] Furthermore, the thickness of the fractured portion can be less than the thickness of the portion adjacent to the fractured portion.

[0026] In addition, the top cover may include a jetting hole and a melting member, the jetting hole being formed between the flow path and the blocking member, and the melting member being configured to cover the jetting hole.

[0027] In addition, the blocking element can extend along the length of the flow path.

[0028] In addition, the blocking element may contain fibrous material.

[0029] In addition, the blocking element may include a housing, the interior of which provides space, and the first material may be disposed inside the housing.

[0030] A vehicle according to one aspect of this disclosure may include the battery assembly disclosed herein.

[0031] Beneficial effects

[0032] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, in the event of a thermal event, flames or particles can be prevented from escaping to the outside of the casing.

[0033] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, when a thermal event occurs, the propagation of the thermal event can be prevented by filling the interior of the shell with foam material. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, are intended to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as being limited to the drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded view of a portion of the battery assembly.

[0037] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A diagram of the battery cell.

[0038] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An exploded view of a portion of the battery cell components.

[0039] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A magnified view of part C.

[0040] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 A diagram of the blocking component.

[0041] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The sectional view cut by the cutting line D-D'.

[0042] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of a variation.

[0043] Figure 9 It is along Figure 3 The sectional view taken by the cutting line B-B'.

[0044] Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view cut by the cutting line A-A'.

[0045] Figure 11 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 10 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0046] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation.

[0047] Figure 13 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 12 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0048] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation.

[0049] Figure 15 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 14 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0050] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation.

[0051] Figure 17 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 16 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0052] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general and dictionary meanings, but rather is interpreted based on the principle of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation, and based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure.

[0054] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery assembly 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2It is shown Figure 1 An exploded view of a portion of the battery assembly 1000.

[0056] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery assembly 1000 may include a housing 100. The housing 100 may include a base plate 110. The base plate 110 may have a rectangular shape. The base plate 110 may have a flat shape. The base plate 110 may form the exterior of the battery assembly 1000. The base plate 110 may provide the internal space of the battery assembly 1000.

[0057] The housing 100 may include sidewalls 120. The sidewalls 120 may be mounted, fastened, joined, secured, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. Four sidewalls 120 may be provided. The sidewalls 120 may be arranged along the periphery of the base plate 110. The sidewalls 120 may form the appearance of the battery assembly 1000. The sidewalls 120 may provide internal space.

[0058] The battery assembly 1000 may include battery cells 200. Battery cells 200 may have a cuboid shape. Multiple battery cells 200 may be provided. Multiple battery cells 200 may be located inside the housing 100. Multiple battery cells 200 may be mounted, combined, fastened, secured, or attached to the base plate 110.

[0059] The housing 100 may include a top cover 150. The top cover 150 may have a square plate shape. The top cover 150 may have a flat plate shape. The top cover 150 may form the exterior of the battery assembly 1000. The top cover 150 may cover the internal space of the battery assembly 1000. The top cover 150 may be located above the battery cell 200. The interior of the top cover 150 may have a flow path 151 (see...). Figure 10 The top cover 150 can be used as a heat sink. A second material 420 (see [reference]) can be accommodated in the flow path 151 of the top cover 150. Figure 10 The second material 420 can be used as a cooling liquid flowing through flow path 151.

[0060] The battery assembly 1000 may include a venting device 500. The venting device 500 may be mounted on the side wall 120. For example, the venting device 500 may be a valve. When the pressure inside the housing 100 increases, the venting device 500 may open to release gas. Furthermore, the venting device 500 may prevent external air from flowing into the housing 100. Multiple venting devices 500 may be provided.

[0061] The battery assembly 1000 may include a partition wall 300. The partition wall 300 may include a first partition wall 310. Multiple first partition walls 310 may be provided. The first partition walls 310 may be mounted, fastened, fixed, coupled to, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. The first partition walls 310 may divide the internal space of the battery assembly 1000. The first partition walls 310 may be respectively provided on both sides of the battery cell 200.

[0062] The partition wall 300 may include a second partition wall 320. The second partition wall 320 may be mounted, fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. The second partition wall 320 may divide the internal space of the battery assembly 1000. The second partition wall 320 may extend along a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction. The first partition wall 310 may be arranged on both sides centered on the second partition wall 320.

[0063] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 The diagram shows the battery cell 200. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An exploded view of a portion of the components of the battery cell 200. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A magnified view of part C.

[0064] Reference Figures 2 to 5 The battery cell 200 may include multiple battery cells 220. Multiple battery cells 220 may form a battery stack. In this case, the battery cell 220 may refer to a secondary battery. Specifically, the battery cell 220 may be a secondary battery with a pouch shape. However, the shape of the battery cell 220 is not limited to a pouch shape, and the battery cell 220 may have various shapes, such as cylindrical or cuboid. The battery stack may be set, mounted, joined, fastened, fixed, or attached to the base plate 110.

[0065] Each battery cell 220 can extend along the front-to-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked along the left-to-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked to form a battery stack.

[0066] The battery cell 220 may include a receiving portion 221 with electrode assemblies, a first sealing portion 222 projecting forward and rearward from the receiving portion 221, and a second sealing portion 223 projecting upward from the receiving portion 221. Furthermore, the battery cell 220 may include electrode leads 224 projecting forward and rearward from the first sealing portion 222, respectively. Each battery cell 220 may extend in a front-rear direction or an X-axis direction. The electrode leads 224 may project forward and rearward from each battery cell 220.

[0067] The front busbar frame assembly 231 can be electrically connected to the front electrode leads 224 of the battery stack. The front busbar frame assembly 231 can cover the front side of the receiving portion 221. The front busbar frame assembly 231 may include power terminals 231a. Power terminals 231a can be electrically connected to multiple battery cells 220. Power terminals 231a can be arranged in pairs. Power terminals 231a can be exposed to the outside of the battery cell 200. Power terminals 231a can be electrically connected to another battery cell 200 or a battery management system (BMS).

[0068] The rear busbar frame assembly 232 can be electrically connected to the rear electrode lead 224 of the battery stack. The rear busbar frame assembly 232 can cover the rear side of the receiving portion 221.

[0069] The front busbar frame assembly 231 may include a frame 231b. The frame 231b may form the appearance of the front busbar frame assembly 231. A busbar 231d may be provided on the front surface of the frame 231b. The busbar 231d may be electrically connected to the electrode lead 224. Multiple busbars 231d may be provided. Multiple busbars 231d may be arranged along the stacking direction of multiple battery cells 220 or along the Y-axis direction. The frame 231b may have a slit 231c. Multiple slits 231c may be provided. The electrode lead 224 may pass through the slit 231c. The electrode lead 224 may pass through the slit 231c and be electrically connected to the busbar 231d.

[0070] Battery cell 200 may include an insulating sheet 290. The insulating sheet 290 may be disposed on the outermost side of the battery stack. The insulating sheet 290 may contain a material with electrical insulating properties. The insulating sheet 290 may be disposed on both sides of the battery stack.

[0071] The front insulating cover 241 may cover the front busbar frame assembly 231. The front insulating cover 241 may be joined, fastened, secured, mounted, or attached to the front busbar frame assembly 231. The front insulating cover 241 may contain a material with electrical insulating properties. The front insulating cover 241 may expose the power supply terminals 231a.

[0072] The rear insulating cover 242 may cover the rear busbar frame assembly 232. The rear insulating cover 242 may be joined, fastened, secured, mounted, or attached to the rear busbar frame assembly 232. The rear insulating cover 242 may contain a material with electrical insulating properties.

[0073] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the 250 barrier component. (Refer to...) Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6The battery stack may include a barrier 250. The barrier 250 may be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 220. The barrier 250 may be disposed between at least a portion of the battery cells 220 and / or disposed on the periphery of the stack. For example, the barrier 250 may be configured to be disposed between every four battery cells 220 stacked in a left-right direction.

[0074] The barrier 250 may be elastic to absorb the expansion of the battery cell 220. The barrier 250 may comprise a first material 410.

[0075] The blocking member 250 may include a first portion 251. The first portion 251 may be located between the receiving portions 221 of adjacent battery cells 220. The first portion 251 may cover the receiving portions 221 of the battery cells 220.

[0076] The blocking member 250 may include a second portion 252. The second portion 252 may extend from the first portion 251. The second portion 252 may be disposed on the front side and the rear side of the first portion 251, respectively. The first portion 251 and the second portion 252 may be integrally formed. The second portion 252 may cover the front side of the receiving portion 221.

[0077] The blocking member 250 may include a third portion 253. The third portion 253 may extend from the second portion 252. The third portion 253 may be disposed on the front side of the second portion 252. The third portions 253 may be disposed in pairs on the front side of the second portion 252. The third portion 253 may be disposed on the rear side of the second portion 252. The third portions 253 may be disposed in pairs on the rear side of the second portion 252. The third portion 253 may be integrally formed with the second portion 252.

[0078] In the event of a thermal event, the top cover 150 may melt. If the top cover 150 melts, then the second material 420 (see...) Figure 11 It can leak. In the event of a thermal event, the barrier 250 can melt. If the barrier 250 melts, the first material 410 can be exposed. In the event of a thermal event, the first material 410 and the second material 420 can mix. The first material 410 and the second material 420 can react chemically with each other. The first material 410 and the second material 420 can react to form a third material 430 (see...). Figure 11 The third material 430 can be a material with a very large volume. The third material 430 can be a foam material. The third material 430 can be a porous material. The third material 430 can contain materials with low thermal conductivity. The third material 430 can contain materials with high thermal insulation properties. For example, the third material 430 can include polyurethane resin-based foam, epoxy resin-based foam, phenol resin-based foam, etc.

[0079] Depending on the type of the third material 430, the first material 410 and the second material 420 that form the third material 430 can be selected respectively.

[0080] If the third material 430 is a polyurethane resin-based foam, then the first material 410 and the second material 420 can be a polyol compound and an isocyanate compound, respectively.

[0081] The polyol compound may include, but is not limited to, polytetramethylene glycol (PTMG), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyoxytrimethylene ether glycol (PO3G), or two or more of the above materials.

[0082] The isocyanate compounds include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), naphthalene-1,5-diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate, bitoluidine diisocyanate, 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), 1-isocyanate-4-[(4-hexylisocyanate)methyl]cyclohexane (H12MDI), isophorone diisocyanate, or two or more of the above materials, but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, when the third material 430 is a polyurethane resin-based foam, in addition to the first material 410 and the second material 420, it may also include a blowing agent, and examples of blowing agents include water, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), dichloromethane, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, isopentane, dimethyl ether, acetone, carbon dioxide, or two or more of the above materials, but are not limited thereto.

[0083] If the third material 430 is an epoxy resin-based foam, then the first material 410 and the second material 420 can be epoxy resin and a hardener, respectively.

[0084] Epoxy resins may include epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from m-phenylenediamine, epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from p-phenylenediamine, epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from 1,3-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from diaminodiphenylmethane, epoxy resins having a glycidylamino group derived from p-aminophenol and / or a glycidyloxy group, epoxy resins having a glycidyloxy group derived from bisphenol A, epoxy resins having a glycidyloxy group derived from bisphenol F, epoxy resins having a glycidyloxy group derived from phenolic varnish, epoxy resins having a glycidyloxy group derived from resorcinol, or two or more of the above materials, but are not limited thereto.

[0085] The hardener may include amino hardeners and may include 1,3-phenylenediamine, ethylenediamine, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,4-diaminopropane, hexamethylenediamine, 2,5-dimethylhexamethylenediamine, trimethylhexamethylenediamine, diethylenetriamine, iminodipropylamine, bis(hexamethylene)triamine, triethylenetetramine, tetraethylenepentamine, pentaethylenehexamine, N-hydroxyethylethylenediamine, tetra(hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine, triethylene glycol diamine, tetraethylene glycol diamine, diethylene glycol bis(propylamine), polyoxypropylene diamine, polyoxypropylene triamine, isophorone diamine, methylenediamine, N-aminoethylpiperazine, bis(4-amino-3-methyldicyclohexyl)methane, bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, 3,9-bis (3-Aminopropyl)2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro(5,5)undecane, norbornenediamine, tetrachloro-p-xylenediamine, m-xylenediamine, p-xylenediamine, m-phenylenediamine, o-phenylenediamine, p-phenylenediamine, 2,4-diaminoanisole, 2,4-toluenediamine, 2,4-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4′-diamino1,2-diphenylethane, 2,4-diaminodiphenylsulfone, m-aminophenol, m-aminobenzylamine, benzyldimethylamine, 2-(dimethylaminomethyl)phenol, triethanolamine, methylbenzylamine, α-(m-aminophenyl)ethylamine, α-(p-aminophenyl)ethylamine, diaminodiethyldimethyldiphenylmethane, α,α′-bis(4-aminophenyl)p-diisopropylbenzene, or two or more of the above materials, but not limited thereto.

[0086] If the third material 430 is a phenolic resin-based foam, then the first material 410 and the second material 420 can be phenolic compounds and aldehyde compounds, respectively.

[0087] Phenolic compounds may include phenol, cresol, xylenol, p-alkylphenol, p-phenylphenol, resorcinol, or two or more of the above materials, but are not limited thereto.

[0088] Examples of aldehyde compounds may include, but are not limited to, formaldehyde, formalin, paraformaldehyde, furfural, acetaldehyde, or two or more of the above materials.

[0089] In the event of a thermal event, the third material 430 can fill the interior of the casing 100. The third material 430 can expand to surround the battery cell 220. The third material 430 can block the propagation of exhaust gases or particles (such as flammable particles). The third material 430 can prevent the propagation of a thermal event.

[0090] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line D-D'. (Refer to...) Figure 7 The blocking member 250 may include a housing 250a. The interior of the housing 250a may provide space. The first material 410 may be contained within the housing 250a. The housing 250a may contain a material with a low melting point. In the event of a thermal event, the housing 250a may melt, and the first material 410 may be expelled.

[0091] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of a variant example. (Refer to...) Figure 8 The barrier 250 may include a fiber member 250b. For example, the barrier 250 may be a felt made of the fiber member 250b. The fiber member 250b may contain, have, or retain a first material 410. The first material 410 may be absorbed into the fiber member 250b. The first material 410 may be exposed to the outside of the barrier 250.

[0092] Figure 9 It is along Figure 3 The sectional view taken by the cutting line B-B'. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The first portion 251 may be located between adjacent receptacles 221. In the event of a thermal event, the first material 410 included in the first portion 251 may react with the second material 420 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 may physically block the adjacent receptacles 221 relative to each other, thereby blocking the movement of exhaust gases or particles (such as combustible particles).

[0093] The second portion 252 may be located between adjacent first sealing portions 222. The second portion 252 may cover the front side of the adjacent receiving portion 221. In the event of a thermal event, the first material 410 included in the second portion 252 may react with the second material 420 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 may physically block the adjacent first sealing portions 222 relative to each other, thereby blocking the movement of exhaust gases or particles (such as combustible particles).

[0094] The second part 252 may have a wider width than the first part 251. The width of the second part 252 in the left-right direction may be greater than the width of the first part 251 in the left-right direction. The width of the second part 252 in the Y-axis direction may be greater than the width of the first part 251 in the Y-axis direction.

[0095] The third part 253 can be inserted into the slit 231c. The third part 253 and the electrode lead 224 can be inserted into the slit 231c. In the event of a thermal event, the first material 410 included in the third part 253 can react with the second material 420 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 can seal the slit 231c. By sealing the slit 231c, the third material 430 can prevent exhaust gases or particles (such as combustible particles) from passing through the front busbar frame assembly 231.

[0096] Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view cut by the cutting line A-A'. Figure 11 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 10 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0097] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The top cover 150 can be located above the battery cell 220. A heat transfer member 260 can be arranged between the top cover 150 and the battery cell 220. The heat transfer member 260 can contain a material with high thermal conductivity. The heat transfer member 260 can be resin. The heat transfer member 260 can be bonded, fixed, or attached to multiple battery cells 220 and the top cover 150.

[0098] The top cover 150 may have a flow path 151 inside. The flow path 151 may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple flow paths 151 may be configured. Multiple flow paths 151 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0099] The blocking member 250 can extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The blocking member 250 can extend along the length of the flow path 151.

[0100] The second material 420 can be in a liquid state. The second material 420 can flow along the flow path 151. In this case, the second material 420 can be used as a cooling liquid.

[0101] The top cover 150 may include a rupture portion 152. The rupture portion 152 may face the upper end of the block 250. A gap may be formed between the rupture portion 152 and the block 250. The heat transfer member 260 may not be provided between the rupture portion 152 and the block 250. Multiple rupture portions 152 may be provided. Multiple rupture portions 152 may be provided along the length direction of the block 250. Multiple rupture portions 152 may be provided along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple rupture portions 152 may be provided along the length direction of the flow path 151. The rupture portion 152 may be formed to be thinner than the thickness of the adjacent portion. The rupture portion 152 may be formed to be thinner than the thickness of the portion surrounding the rupture portion 152. Because the rupture portion 152 is formed to be thin, the rupture portion 152 may easily rupture. In the event of a thermal event, the rupture portion 152 may easily melt or be damaged. When the rupture portion 152 is damaged, a second material 420 may be injected into the housing 100. The second material 420 may flow toward the block 250. The second material 420 can react with the first material 410 of the blocking member 250 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 can expand rapidly to fill the empty space of the outer shell 100.

[0102] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation. Figure 13 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 12 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0103] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The top cover 150 may have injection holes 153. The injection holes 153 may face the upper end of the barrier 250. A gap may be formed between the injection holes 153 and the barrier 250. The heat transfer member 260 may not be provided between the injection holes 153 and the barrier 250. Multiple injection holes 153 may be provided. Multiple injection holes 153 may be arranged along the length direction of the barrier 250. Multiple injection holes 153 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple injection holes 153 may be arranged along the length direction of the flow path 151.

[0104] The top cover 150 may include a melting member 154. The melting member 154 may cover orifice 153. The melting member 154 may fill orifice 153. The melting member 154 may contain a material with a low melting point. The melting member 154 may readily melt in the event of a thermal event. When the melting member 154 melts, the orifice 153 may be opened. When the orifice 153 is opened, a second material 420 may be injected into the housing 100. The second material 420 may flow toward the barrier 250. The second material 420 may react with a first material 410 of the barrier 250 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 may rapidly expand to fill empty spaces in the housing 100.

[0105] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation. Figure 15 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 14 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0106] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The top cover 150 may include an upper plate 150a. The upper plate 150a may form the appearance of the battery assembly 1000. The upper plate 150a may have a flat plate shape. The top cover 150 may include a lower plate 150b. The lower plate 150b may be joined, fastened, fixed, or attached to the lower surface of the upper plate 150a. The lower plate 150b may include a flat portion 150b2. The flat portion 150b2 may contact the lower surface of the upper plate 150a. The lower plate 150b may include a protrusion 150b1. The protrusion 150b1 may protrude downward or in the Z-axis direction. The protrusion 150b1 may extend in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. There may be multiple protrusions 150b1. Multiple protrusions 150b1 may be arranged in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. There may be multiple flat portions 150b2. Multiple protrusions 150b1 and multiple flat portions 150b2 may be arranged alternately.

[0107] A flow path 151 can be formed between the protrusion 150b1 and the upper plate 150a. The second material 420 can flow between the protrusion 150b1 and the upper plate 150a.

[0108] The lower plate 150b may include a rupture 152 at the lower end of the protrusion 150b1. Multiple ruptures 152 may be provided. These multiple ruptures 152 may be arranged along the length of the protrusion 150b1. The ruptures 152 may face the upper end of the stop member 250.

[0109] The heat transfer member 260 can be disposed between the flat plate portion 150b2 and the battery cell 220. The heat transfer member 260 can be combined with or attached to the lower plate 150b and the battery cell 220. A gap can be formed between the rupture portion 152 and the blocking member 250. The heat transfer member 260 may not be disposed between the rupture portion 152 and the blocking member 250.

[0110] The fracture portion 152 can be formed to be thinner than the thickness of the protrusion 150b1 adjacent to it. Because the fracture portion 152 is thin, it can easily fracture. In the event of a thermal event, the fracture portion 152 can easily melt or break. When the fracture portion 152 breaks, the second material 420 can be ejected into the housing 100. The second material 420 can flow toward the barrier 250. The second material 420 can react with the first material 410 of the barrier 250 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 can rapidly expand to fill the empty space of the housing 100.

[0111] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variation. Figure 17 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 16 A graph showing the changes in [the data / process].

[0112] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 The lower plate 150b may have a spray hole 153 at the lower end of the protrusion 150b1. Multiple spray holes 153 may be provided. These multiple spray holes 153 may be arranged along the length of the protrusion 150b1. The spray holes 153 may face the upper end of the stop member 250.

[0113] A gap may be formed between the injection hole 153 and the blocking member 250. The heat transfer member 260 may not be arranged between the injection hole 153 and the blocking member 250.

[0114] The lower plate 150b may include a melting member 154. The melting member 154 may cover orifice 153. The melting member 154 may fill orifice 153. The melting member 154 may contain a material with a low melting point. The melting member 154 may readily melt in the event of a thermal event. When the melting member 154 melts, the orifice 153 may be opened. When the orifice 153 is opened, a second material 420 may be injected into the housing 100. The second material 420 may flow toward the barrier 250. The second material 420 may react with a first material 410 of the barrier 250 to generate a third material 430. The third material 430 may rapidly expand to fill empty spaces in the housing 100.

[0115] Figure 18This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle V according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 18 A vehicle V according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the battery assembly 1000 of the present disclosure. The battery assembly 1000 of the present disclosure can be applied to a vehicle V (such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle). That is, a vehicle V according to the present disclosure may include the battery assembly 1000 of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in addition to the battery assembly 1000, a vehicle V according to the present disclosure may also include various other components included in the vehicle. For example, a vehicle V according to the present disclosure may also include a body, a motor, control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0116] This disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples illustrating preferred embodiments of this disclosure are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description.

Claims

1. A battery assembly, comprising: An outer casing, the interior of which provides space and includes a top cover having a flow path; Multiple battery cells, which are housed within the housing and stacked along the left-right direction; A blocking element, the blocking element being located between the plurality of battery cells and comprising a first material; as well as A second material is contained within the flow path and configured to expand by reacting with the first material.

2. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The second material is configured to be sprayed into the interior of the housing in the event of a thermal event.

3. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of battery cells includes: A receiving portion, the receiving portion extending in a front-rear direction and having an electrode assembly; and Electrode leads, the electrode leads protruding forward from the receiving portion. The blocking member includes a first part, which is located between the receiving portions of adjacent battery cells in the plurality of battery cells.

4. The battery assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The blocking member further includes a second portion that extends from the first portion in a front-rear direction and is configured to cover the front side of the receiving portion of the adjacent battery cell.

5. The battery assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The width of the second part in the left-right direction is greater than the width of the first part in the left-right direction.

6. The battery assembly according to claim 4, further comprising: A busbar frame assembly, which is electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells. The busbar frame assembly has a slit through which the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells pass, and The blocking member further includes a third part that extends from the second part and is inserted into the slit.

7. The battery assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: A heat transfer component is arranged between the top cover and the plurality of battery cells.

8. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The top cover includes a rupture portion formed between the flow path and the barrier and configured to rupture in the event of a thermal event.

9. The battery assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The thickness of the fractured portion is less than the thickness of the portion adjacent to the fractured portion.

10. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The top cover includes: Injection orifice, the injection orifice being formed between the flow path and the obstruction; and A melting member configured to cover the injection hole.

11. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The blocking element extends along the length of the flow path.

12. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The blocking element comprises a fibrous material.

13. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The blocking member includes a housing, the interior of which provides space, and The first material is disposed inside the shell.

14. A vehicle comprising the battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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