Battery module, battery pack, and vehicle including the battery pack

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present application includes: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a lower case accommodating the cell assembly in an inner space thereof; and a top plate installed at an upper portion of the lower case and including at least one exhaust hole and at least one outwardly protruding step guide.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery modules, battery packs, and vehicles including battery packs. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries are rechargeable and dischargeable batteries, which are different from non-rechargeable primary batteries. They 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 rechargeable battery types include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these single-cell rechargeable batteries (i.e., individual battery cells) is approximately 2.5 V to 4.6 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to configure the battery pack according to the required charge / discharge capacity. Therefore, the number of battery 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, a battery module is typically configured first, comprising at least one battery cell (preferably multiple battery cells), 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] Note that with the increase in electric vehicles, the safety of battery modules / packs becomes more important, and the need to suppress heat propagation at the module level is also increasing. Therefore, it is important to smoothly vent internal exhaust gases and / or flames to the outside when a thermal event occurs within the battery module. On the other hand, a problem with existing technologies is that flames, debris particles, etc., emitted to the outside of the battery module may flow back into the battery module, and this backflow of flames needs to be controlled. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to smoothly release exhaust gases to the outside of the battery module in the event of a thermal event within the battery module.

[0008] Another objective of this disclosure is to prevent high-temperature exhaust gases and / or particulate matter emitted upwards from the battery module from flowing back into the battery module.

[0009] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other problems not explicitly mentioned will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the following description of this disclosure.

[0010] Technical solution

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a cell assembly comprising a plurality of cells; a lower housing housing the cell assembly within an interior space of the lower housing; and a top plate mounted on the upper portion of the lower housing and including at least one vent and at least one outwardly projecting step guide.

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, the plurality of battery cells can discharge exhaust gases through the upper sealing portion.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the top plate may include a plurality of the vent holes.

[0014] In another aspect of this disclosure, the top plate may include a mesh in the upper or lower portion of the vent.

[0015] In one aspect of this disclosure, the stepped guide may protrude from the edge of the vent toward the outside of the battery module.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, the end portion of the step guide may have a curved shape.

[0017] In another aspect of this disclosure, the step guide may be integrally formed with the top plate.

[0018] In one aspect of this disclosure, the battery module may further include at least one blocking member disposed within the lower housing and configured to support the top plate upwards.

[0019] Preferably, the blocking element can be configured to block the flame.

[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, the top plate may include a plurality of the vent holes, and the blocking member may be disposed between the plurality of vent holes.

[0021] Note that this disclosure provides a battery pack including at least one battery module according to the above exemplary embodiments.

[0022] Preferably, the protrusion height of the step guide can be configured to be 40% to 60% of the distance from the top plate to the upper cover of the battery pack.

[0023] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a vehicle that includes at least one battery pack according to the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0024] Beneficial effects

[0025] According to this disclosure, when a thermal event occurs within the battery module, the exhaust gases can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module.

[0026] In addition, according to this disclosure, when the exhaust gas is discharged upward from the battery module, the discharged high-temperature exhaust gas and / or particulate matter can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module.

[0027] 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 based on the following description of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred exemplary 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, and therefore the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 It is shown that it includes Figure 1 A diagram of the battery cells in the battery module.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a step guide according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a step guide according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a step guide according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 9This is a diagram illustrating a battery pack including a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the step guide and the upper cover of the battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the direction of gas movement when a thermal event occurs within a prior art battery module.

[0040] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the direction of movement of the emitted gas when a thermal event occurs in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle including a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for achieving such advantages and features, will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. The exemplary embodiments provided are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are intended to allow those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure is limited only by the category of the claims. Therefore, in some exemplary embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device 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.

[0043] 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 an intermediate element may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly on another element," it may mean that no intermediate element is present. Furthermore, 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 an intermediate element may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly below another element," it may mean that no intermediate element is present.

[0044] The fact that two comparison targets are identical in expression means that they are 'substantially identical'. Therefore, 'substantially identical' can include, for example, a deviation of up to 5%, which is considered low in the art. Additionally, parameter uniformity within a predetermined region can refer to uniformity from an average perspective.

[0045] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be interpreted as either singular or plural.

[0046] When a component is described as being arranged "above (or below)" or "on top of (or under)" another component, it should be understood that the component may be arranged to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the other component, or an additional component may be inserted between the two components.

[0047] Additionally, when a component is described as “connected,” “joined,” or “engaged” to another component, it should be understood that components may be directly connected or joined to each other, but components may be indirectly “connected,” “joined,” or “engaged” via additional components inserted therebetween.

[0048] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, the description of “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B, and unless otherwise stated, the description of “C to D” means C or greater and D or less.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 includes a cell assembly 100, a lower housing 200, and a top plate 300. The battery module 10 may also include a blocking member 400.

[0051] The battery cell assembly 100 may include a plurality of battery cells 110. The plurality of battery cells 110 may be stacked in at least one direction. More specifically, the plurality of battery cells 110 may be arranged at least in the horizontal direction. The plurality of battery cells 110 may be configured to be aligned side-by-side in the left-right direction while standing upright in the vertical direction. Each of the battery cells 110 will now be described in more detail.

[0052] Figure 2 It is shown that it includes Figure 1 A diagram of the battery cell 110 in the battery module 10.

[0053] Reference Figure 2 The battery cell 110 can be a rechargeable battery, and can be, for example, a pouch cell 110. However, the type of battery cell 110 is not limited to this. For example, other types of battery cells 110, such as cylindrical or prismatic battery cells, can also be used in the battery module 10 of this disclosure.

[0054] The following will describe an example of battery cell 110 being a pouch cell, such as... Figure 2 As shown. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly 111, a receiving portion 113 for accommodating the electrode assembly 111, a sealing portion 115 formed around the receiving portion 113, and a pair of electrode leads 117 connected to the electrode assembly 111 and extending outward from the sealing portion 115.

[0055] The pair of electrode leads 117 can be connected to electrode plates (not shown) disposed on the electrode assembly 111, and are pulled out to the outside of the sealing portion 115 through the sealing portion 115. Each of the pair of electrode leads 117 may have a shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110. The pair of electrode leads 117 may be pulled out in the same direction or in opposite directions.

[0056] Reference Figure 2 The battery cell 110 can be configured to discharge exhaust gases through the upper sealing portion 115. The sealing portion 115 may be provided with an exhaust portion to prevent an increase in internal pressure due to gases generated within the battery cell 110. The exhaust portion corresponds to a region formed on a portion of the sealing portion 115 and is structurally weaker than the surrounding region, making it more susceptible to rupture under internal pressure. The exhaust portion may, for example, be formed to seal a region weaker than the surrounding region. In this case, the exhaust portion may be formed on one of the two side edges of the sealing portion 115. Specifically, the exhaust portion may be formed on the upper edge of the two side edges of the sealing portion 115.

[0057] According to this structure, the gas generated inside the battery cell 110 can be discharged to the outside of the battery cell 110 through the vent formed at the upper end of the battery cell 110. Therefore, the gas can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the vent 320 of the top plate 300 located on the upper end side of the battery cell 110. That is, according to this structure, high-temperature gas and flame inside the module can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10.

[0058] In one aspect of the invention, the lower housing 200 can accommodate the battery cell assembly 100 within its internal space.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 The lower housing 200 has an internal empty space formed therein, and the cell assembly 100 can be accommodated in the internal space. For example, the lower housing 200 may include a U-shaped frame and an end frame formed in a U-shape, the U-shaped frame surrounding the lower, left and right sides of the cell assembly 100, and the end frame sealing the front and rear openings of the U-shaped frame.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate 300 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] In another aspect of this disclosure, the battery module 10 includes a top plate 300. The top plate 300 may include a main body 310, an exhaust port 320, and a step guide 330.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3 The top plate 300 can be configured to be mounted on the upper part of the lower housing 200. That is, the top plate 300 can be configured to have the shape of a plate extending generally in the horizontal direction. That is, the main body 310 can be configured to have the shape of a plate extending generally in the horizontal direction. In this case, at least a portion of the edge of the top plate 300 can be connected to the upper end of the U-shaped frame of the lower housing 200.

[0063] The top plate 300 may include at least one vent 320. The vent 320 may be formed to penetrate the lower housing 200 in the thickness direction to connect the internal space and the external space of the lower housing 200. The vent 320 may be formed on the upper side of the lower housing 200. Preferably, the top plate 300 may include multiple vents 320. The vents 320 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery module 10 or along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 in the form of elongated holes.

[0064] The sealing portion 115 (i.e., the venting portion) of the battery cell 110 can be positioned below the venting port 320. For example, when the battery cell 110 is a pouch cell, the sealing portion 115 has an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, when gas is generated in the battery cell 110 and discharged from the sealing portion 115, the gas is discharged to the outside along the longitudinally extending sealing portion 115. Therefore, in this case, the venting port 320 can also be configured to have a shape that extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0065] According to this structure, the gas discharged through the upper sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110 can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the vent 320 formed on the upper side of the lower housing 200. In other words, with this structure, high-temperature gases and flames inside the module can be smoothly discharged.

[0066] Furthermore, this structure allows the gas to be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 even when a large amount of gas is generated in the battery module 10, through multiple vent holes 320. Moreover, since the vent holes 320 are formed along the sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110, the gas discharged from the sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110 can be directly discharged to the outside through the vent holes 320. In other words, the time that the emitted gas remains in the lower housing 200 can be minimized.

[0067] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a top plate 300 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] In another aspect of this disclosure, see [link to other disclosures]. Figure 4 The vent 320 may include a mesh 321. For example, the mesh 321 may be disposed in the upper or lower part of the vent 320. The mesh 321 may include a metallic material. The mesh 321 may be made of a refractory material (such as mica) capable of withstanding high temperatures or flames, or may partially include such a material.

[0069] With this structure, mesh 321 can prevent sparks generated from the cell assembly 100 from splashing to the outside of the cell assembly 100. In addition, it can prevent the fire from spreading to other areas near the area where a thermal event has already occurred within the battery module 10.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a step guide 330 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Reference Figure 5 In one aspect of this disclosure, the top plate 300 may include at least one outwardly projecting step guide 330. For example, the step guide 330 may be configured to project upward from the battery module 10.

[0072] More specifically, the top plate 300 may include a step guide 330 at a location corresponding to the vent 320. The step guide 330 may be configured to project outward from the edge of the vent 320 toward the outside of the battery module 10. More specifically, the step guide 330 may be configured to project upward from the edge of the vent 320. That is, the step guide 330 may project vertically from the top plate 300. The step guide 330 may be formed along the entire edge of the vent 320.

[0073] The shape of the step guide 330 can be configured to match (e.g., correspond to) the vent 320 in terms of position, size, and shape. Therefore, the step guide 330 can be configured to have an elongated tubular shape in the longitudinal direction. That is, since the vent 320 has a structure extending in the longitudinal direction (with predetermined radii of curvature at both ends in the longitudinal direction), the step guide 330, protruding upward from the edge of the vent 320, can also be configured to have a tubular shape extending in the longitudinal direction (with predetermined radii of curvature at both ends in the longitudinal direction).

[0074] According to this structure, the outwardly protruding step guide 330 serves as a guide for the exhaust gas. Therefore, it can effectively prevent the gas discharged through the upper end sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110 from flowing back into the exhaust port 320 or the adjacent exhaust port 320 after being discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the exhaust portion.

[0075] Furthermore, the strong circulating flow of high-temperature exhaust gases and particles generated in some battery cells 110 can be interrupted by the protruding shape of the stepped guide 330. That is, according to the invention, the protruding shape of the stepped guide 330 can prevent backfire toward adjacent exhaust holes 320. In addition, the arrangement of the stepped guide 330 around each exhaust hole 320 can minimize the impact on adjacent battery cells 110 by isolating each exhaust hole 320. Therefore, the heat applied to the top plate 300 by the high-temperature exhaust gases and particles discharged through the stepped guide 330 can be minimized, and thus the shape of the exhaust holes 320 can be stably maintained.

[0076] Furthermore, according to the above configuration, a stepped guide 330 is provided on the top plate 300 to allow smooth venting, thereby delaying thermal runaway. That is, according to this disclosure, heat propagation within the battery module 10 can be delayed.

[0077] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a step guide 330 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] See Figure 6 The end portion of the stepped guide 330 may have a curved shape. The end portion of the stepped guide 330 may have a chamfered shape. For example, a chamfered shape may also be formed on the outer edge 331 of the end portion of the stepped guide 330. That is, the outer edge 331 of the end portion of the stepped guide 330 may be configured to have a rounded shape. The outer edge 331 of the end portion of the stepped guide 330 may be configured to have a curved shape. In this case, the outer edge 331 of the end portion of the stepped guide 330 may be configured to have a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0079] For example, if the outer edge 331 of the end portion of the stepped guide 330 has a chamfered shape, then when the exhaust gas discharged from the stepped guide 330 to the outside comes into contact with the adjacent exhaust port 320, it contacts the chamfered shape. Therefore, the exhaust gas can swirl around the chamfered edge and flow into the interior of the exhaust port 320.

[0080] On the other hand, according to the above-described structure of the present invention, when the exhaust gas discharged from the step guide 330 to the outside comes into contact with the adjacent exhaust port 320, as described above, the exhaust gas comes into contact with the curved shape of the outer edge 331. Therefore, the possibility of the exhaust gas advancing horizontally along the curved shape is increased. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to effectively prevent the exhaust gas discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 from flowing back into the battery module 10.

[0081] Figure 7 This is a figure illustrating a step guide 330 according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] See Figure 7 The end portion of the step guide 330 may have a curved shape. The end portion of the step guide 330 may have a chamfered shape. For example, a chamfered shape may also be formed on the inner edge 332 of the end portion of the step guide 330. That is, the inner edge 332 of the end portion of the step guide 330 may be configured to have a rounded shape. The inner edge 332 of the end portion of the step guide 330 may be configured to have a curved shape. In this case, the inner edge 332 of the end portion of the step guide 330 may be configured to have a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0083] For example, if the inner edge 332 of the end portion of the step guide 330 has a chamfered shape, then when the exhaust gas is discharged from the step guide 330, the exhaust gas and / or debris particles are guided upward. In this case, if the exhaust gas and / or particles come into contact with the upper cover 52 of the battery pack 3 located above the battery module 10, the exhaust gas and / or particles can flow back into the exhaust port 320.

[0084] On the other hand, according to the structure described above in this disclosure, when the exhaust gas is discharged from the step guide 330 to the outside, the exhaust gas comes into contact with the curved shape as described above. Therefore, the likelihood of the exhaust gas advancing horizontally along the curved shape of the inner edge 332 increases. That is, according to the above configuration, when the exhaust gas is discharged, it is possible to guide the exhaust gas to flow horizontally rather than vertically. Therefore, according to this disclosure, it is possible to effectively prevent exhaust gas discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 from flowing back into the battery module 10.

[0085] In one aspect of this disclosure, the step guide 330 may be integrally formed with the top plate 300.

[0086] For example, the top plate 300 may include a plastic material, and the step guide 330 may also include a plastic material by being integrally formed. For example, the step guide 330 may be formed by injection molding during the manufacture of the top plate 300.

[0087] Alternatively, as another exemplary embodiment, the step guide 330 may be attached to the top plate 300. For example, the step guide 330 may be attached to the top plate 300 by thermal fusion.

[0088] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] See Figure 8 The battery module 10 may also include at least one blocking element 400.

[0090] A blocking member 400 may be disposed within the lower housing 200. The blocking member 400 may be configured to support the top plate 300 upwards. The blocking member 400 may be aligned in a direction parallel to the battery cell 110. When the battery cell 110 is a pouch-type battery cell, the pouch-type battery cell may be mounted such that the receiving portion having a generally planar shape is oriented vertically from the ground. In this case, the blocking member 400 may also be mounted in a direction parallel to the receiving portion of the pouch-type battery. For example, multiple blocking members 400 may be disposed within the lower housing 200, and in this case, the multiple blocking members 400 may be disposed parallel to each other at a predetermined interval. That is, the blocking member 400 may be inserted between adjacent battery cells 110. For example, the blocking member 400 may be inserted between at least some of the multiple battery cells 110 stacked in a left-right direction. Furthermore, multiple blocking members 400 may be disposed, and the blocking members may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. The blocking member 400 can be inserted between different battery cells 110. As a more specific example, one blocking member 400 can be arranged for every three or four battery cells 110. In this case, it can be said that three or four battery cells 110 are located between two blocking members 400 that are adjacent to each other but spaced apart from each other. That is, the blocking member 400 can be used to divide the internal space of the lower housing 200 into multiple regions.

[0091] Note that the barrier 400 can be configured to block flames. For example, the barrier 400 can be made of a flame-retardant material or a heat-resistant material with high flame retardancy to prevent or reduce flame propagation between adjacent battery cells 110. For example, the barrier 400 can be made of a metallic material such as SUS (stainless steel). Alternatively, the barrier 400 can include at least one material selected from GFRP (glass fiber reinforced plastic) and CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic). Additionally, the barrier 400 can be formed of a metallic material, such as aluminum or an alloy comprising such a metallic material.

[0092] This configuration enables effective flame-blocking performance. Specifically, the barrier 400 separates the internal space of the lower housing 200 in such a way that even if a thermal event occurs in some of the battery cells 110, the barrier 400 can effectively prevent the spread of flame or heat to other battery cells 11. Furthermore, this configuration can improve the structural strength of the barrier and may be advantageous in reducing the manufacturing cost or weight of the battery module 10. Moreover, various flame-blocking materials known at the time of application of this disclosure, such as ceramic materials, can be used for the barrier 400.

[0093] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, when a thermal event such as thermal runaway intensifies and generates a flame, the propagation of flame between batteries can be prevented. Therefore, the spread of flame to the entire battery module 10 caused by the propagation of flame between battery cells 110 can be suppressed, or the rate of such propagation can be delayed.

[0094] See you again Figure 8 In one aspect of this disclosure, the top plate 300 may include a plurality of vent holes 320, and the blocking member 400 may be positioned among the plurality of vent holes 320.

[0095] That is, the blocking member 400 divides the internal space of the lower housing 200 into multiple regions, and in this case, at least one vent 320 can be provided in each region. In this case, the spaces within the lower housing 200 divided by the blocking member 400 are referred to as the first space, the second space, the third space, ... and the nth space. In this case, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 included in the first space, exhaust gas is generated in the first space. The exhaust gas can be discharged to the outside through the vent 320 located above the first space. That is, by quickly discharging the exhaust gas to the outside through the vent 320, heat propagation from the first space to the second space, the third space, etc., can be effectively prevented. The vent 320 can be arranged to correspond one-to-one with the spaces divided by the blocking member 400.

[0096] Additionally, an outwardly protruding step guide 330 can be provided on the edge of the exhaust port 320. Therefore, exhaust gas discharged to the outside through the exhaust port 320 located above the first space is guided upward by the step guide 330, thereby significantly reducing the possibility of exhaust gas flowing into adjacent exhaust ports 320.

[0097] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing a battery pack 3 including a battery module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] Reference Figure 9 The battery pack 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one battery module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure as described above. Furthermore, the battery pack 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a battery pack housing 50 capable of accommodating at least one battery module 10. In this case, the battery pack housing 50 may include a lower housing 51 and an upper cover 52. The upper cover 52 may be configured to be spaced a predetermined distance from the top plate 300 of the battery module 10 housed within the battery pack 3 to ensure smooth movement of exhaust gases.

[0099] In addition to the battery module 10, various other components may be included, such as components of the battery pack 3 known when this disclosure is applied, such as the BMS, battery pack housing, relays, and current sensors.

[0100] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the step guide 330 and the upper cover 52 of the battery pack 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Reference Figure 10 The protrusion height H1 of the step guide 330 can be configured to be approximately 40% to 60% of the distance H2 from the top plate 300 to the upper cover 52 of the battery pack 3. Preferably, the protrusion height H1 of the step guide 330 can be configured to be approximately 50% of the distance H2 from the top plate 300 to the upper cover 52 of the battery pack 3.

[0102] With this structure, the distance between the upper cover 52 of the battery pack 3 and the top plate 300 of the battery module 10 is appropriately fixed, allowing the flame inside the battery module 10 to be released smoothly. Furthermore, it effectively prevents the flame from flowing back into the adjacent vent 320. That is, according to this disclosure, heat propagation within the battery module 10 can be delayed. Additionally, according to the above structure, the safety of the battery module 10 can be improved by preventing the back flame from flowing in. Moreover, according to the above configuration, the shape of the vent 320 provided in the top plate 300 can be stably maintained. Therefore, sequential ignition events of the battery cells 110 can be caused rather than simultaneous ignition events, and smooth venting can be achieved.

[0103] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the direction of gas movement when a thermal event occurs within a prior art battery module 10.

[0104] Reference Figure 11 In the prior art battery module 10, an exhaust port 320 for upward venting is provided in a top plate 300 having a generally planar shape, allowing flames, gases, and / or particles generated in the battery cell 110 where a thermal event has occurred to be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the exhaust port 320. However, since no separate step guide 330 is provided, the flames and / or gases flow horizontally along the extended plane of the main body 310 of the top plate 300. Therefore, there is a problem that the shape of the exhaust port 320 collapses due to high-temperature gases and particles sweeping across the upper surface of the top plate 300.

[0105] In this situation, when flame circulation occurs at the inlet of the vent 320 of the top plate 300, backfire may occur as the upward-discharged flame stream returns to the adjacent vent 320, thereby exposing the adjacent battery cell 110 to the flame. That is, the flame flows along the main body 310 of the top plate 300 and circulates due to the inlet structure of the vent 320, causing backfire as the flame stream discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 returns to the adjacent vent 320. Due to backfire, simultaneous ignition occurs instead of sequential ignition, and as a result, the heat propagation delay effect in the prior art battery module 10 is insufficient. Furthermore, there is an increased possibility of simultaneous ignition when there is no separation between multiple areas within the battery module 10.

[0106] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the direction of movement of the emitted gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] Reference Figure 12 When a thermal event occurs in some of the multiple regions separated within the battery module 10 by the blocking member 400, flames, gases, and / or particles generated in the battery cell 110 where the thermal event has occurred are discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the vent 320. In this case, according to the present disclosure, a stepped guide 330 is disposed around the vent 320 of the top plate 300, and the flames and / or gases are guided by the inner surface of the upwardly projecting stepped guide 330 and can therefore be discharged upwards. That is, the flames and / or gases are discharged to the outside at a predetermined distance from the main body 310 of the top plate 300.

[0108] Therefore, according to the above structure, the flame and / or gas flow in a generally horizontal direction while being spaced apart from the extended plane of the main body 310 of the top plate 300. As a result, high-temperature gas and particles do not directly contact the upper surface of the top plate 300, thereby relatively reducing the heat applied to the top plate 300 and preventing the shape of the exhaust port 320 from collapsing.

[0109] Furthermore, according to the above structure, since the flame and / or gas flow in a generally horizontal direction while being spaced apart from the extending plane of the main body 310 of the top plate 300, smooth upward exhaust can be maintained while suppressing backfire towards the adjacent exhaust port 320. That is, according to the above structure, when exhaust gas and flame are discharged from certain areas of the multiple areas separated by the barrier 400 within the battery module 10, the backflow of gas and flame to other adjacent areas can be suppressed. Therefore, by causing sequential ignition of the battery cells 110 rather than simultaneous ignition, the heat propagation delay effect in the battery module 10 can be maximized. In other words, within the areas separated by the barrier 400 within the battery module 10, the area adjacent to the area where a thermal runaway event has occurred is protected by the step guide 330, so that the high-temperature gas and flame generated from the area where a thermal runaway event has occurred will not flow back to the adjacent area. As a result, chain reaction events can be controlled, and the safety of the battery module 10 can be ensured. The step guide 330 serves as a path for the discharge of internal gases and flames in the area including the battery cell 110, where a thermal runaway event has occurred, but can isolate the flow of flames and gases transferred from the area where the thermal runaway event has occurred back to the area adjacent to the area where the thermal runaway event has occurred.

[0110] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, the explosion, rupture, or collapse of the lower housing 200 due to increased internal pressure of the battery module 10 can be effectively prevented. Therefore, the structure of the lower housing 200 can be stably maintained, preventing the explosion or structural collapse of the battery module 10 during an event-driven thermal runaway.

[0111] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a vehicle 5 including a battery pack 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] See Figure 13 The vehicle 5 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one battery pack 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] The battery module 10 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to a vehicle 5, such as an electric vehicle 5 or a hybrid electric vehicle 5. That is, the vehicle 5 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may include the battery module 10 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure or the battery pack 3 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. In addition to the battery module 10 or the battery pack 3, the vehicle 5 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may also include various other components included in the vehicle 5. For example, in addition to the battery module 10 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the vehicle 5 according to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may also include a body, an electric motor, control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0114] According to the various exemplary embodiments described above, the safety of the battery module 10 can be improved. Specifically, according to one aspect of this disclosure, in the event of a thermal event, high-temperature gases and flames within the module's area where the thermal event occurs can be smoothly expelled, while preventing structural collapse of the lower housing 200. Furthermore, the flow of high-temperature gases and flames generated from the thermal event area back into the module's adjacent area can be prevented. Therefore, the chain reaction of thermal events in the battery module 10 can be controlled, and thus the safety of the battery module 10 can be improved. Therefore, according to the various exemplary embodiments described above, a battery module 10 with improved stability, as well as a battery pack 3 and a vehicle 5 including the battery module 10, can be provided.

[0115] Note that although directional terms such as up and down are used here, these terms are used for descriptive 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.

[0116] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can make various modifications and variations within the technical spirit of this disclosure and the equivalents of the claims described below.

[0117] Industrial application

[0118] This disclosure may provide a battery module that can smoothly discharge exhaust gases to the outside of the battery module in the event of a thermal event.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: The battery cell assembly includes a plurality of battery cells; The lower housing houses the battery cell assembly within its internal space. as well as A top plate, which is mounted on the upper part of the lower housing and includes at least one vent and at least one outwardly projecting step guide.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple battery cells release exhaust gases through the upper sealing section.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The top plate includes a plurality of the aforementioned vent holes.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The top plate includes a mesh in the upper or lower part of the vent.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The stepped guide protrudes from the edge of the vent toward the outside of the battery module.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The end of the step guide has a curved shape.

7. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The step guide is integrally formed with the top plate.

8. The battery module of claim 1, further comprising at least one blocking member disposed within the lower housing and configured to support the top plate upwards.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein, The blocking element is configured to block the flame.

10. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein, The top plate includes a plurality of the aforementioned vent holes, and The blocking element is disposed between the plurality of the exhaust holes.

11. A battery pack comprising at least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The protrusion height of the stepped guide is configured to be 40% to 60% of the distance from the top plate to the upper cover of the battery pack.

13. A vehicle comprising at least one battery pack according to claim 11.

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