Battery module, battery pack including the same, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present application includes: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the cell assembly in an internal space; a frame cover covering the cell assembly at an upper portion of the module case and provided with at least one exhaust hole; and a support plate configured to form a predetermined space between the frame cover and the support plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the battery module, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are non-rechargeable, secondary batteries are batteries that can be charged and discharged. They are used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

[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 can be connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the charge / discharge capacity requirements, multiple cells can be connected in parallel to configure a battery pack. Thus, the number of cells incorporated into a battery pack can be varied according to the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When multiple battery cells are connected in series and / or parallel to form a battery pack, the common practice is to first configure a battery module comprising at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then construct the battery pack by combining at least one such battery module with other components. Here, a battery module refers to a unit comprising multiple battery cells connected in series and / or parallel, while a battery pack refers to a structure in which multiple battery modules are interconnected in series and / or parallel to improve capacity and output.

[0005] Furthermore, in conventional battery packs, when a thermal event occurs in some battery modules, flames released from the frame cover of the affected battery module may impact a fire-resistant cover set on the inner surface of the battery pack cover. In this case, the flame temperature can rise to approximately 1000°C, which may cause the adhesive applied between the fire-resistant cover and the battery pack cover to melt, potentially causing the fire-resistant cover to separate from the battery pack cover and fall downwards.

[0006] In other words, traditional battery packs are flawed in their structural design to prevent the fire-resistant cover from detaching. In such cases, when the fire-resistant cover and / or debris caused by thermal degradation fall onto the battery module, they can block the vents within the module, adversely affecting the module's heat propagation suppression function. For example, when the fire-resistant cover is removed or debris falls, it can block the vents formed in the frame cover of the battery module, thereby hindering gas escape and accelerating heat propagation within the module. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] One object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack having a structure that prevents the fire-resistant cover fixed to the inner surface of the battery pack top cover from detaching even in the event of a thermal event occurring within the battery pack.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a structure that prevents debris from falling onto the battery module even in the event of a thermal event within the battery pack.

[0010] However, the technical objectives to be addressed by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other objectives not explicitly mentioned through the following description of the present invention.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention designed to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module housing configured to house the cell assembly in an internal space; a frame cover disposed on an upper portion of the module housing to cover the cell assembly, the frame cover having at least one vent hole; and a support plate configured to form a predetermined space between the frame cover and the cell assembly.

[0013] Preferably, the support plate can be configured to form an empty space in the peripheral area around the vent hole located on the upper portion of the battery module.

[0014] For example, the support plate is configured to project upward from the frame cover.

[0015] In one aspect of the invention, the support plate may include: a main body portion extending in a horizontal direction; and at least one leg portion extending from the main body portion in a vertical direction.

[0016] Preferably, the main body portion can be configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover of the battery module by a predetermined distance.

[0017] In this case, the main body portion may include a mesh and a flange portion formed along the edge of the mesh.

[0018] In another aspect of the invention, the leg portion may include a horizontally extending portion and a vertically extending portion, the horizontally extending portion extending in a horizontal direction and the vertically extending portion being curved and extending vertically from the end of the horizontally extending portion.

[0019] In another aspect of the invention, the battery module may further include end plates connected to two longitudinal sides of the module housing, and the end plates are configured to cover two longitudinal ends of the cell assembly.

[0020] In one aspect, the end plate may include at least one recess formed inward from its surface, and the leg portion may be mounted on the recess formed in the end plate of the battery module.

[0021] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: at least one battery module according to the foregoing embodiments; a lower housing configured to accommodate the at least one battery module; a battery pack cover disposed on the upper portion of the lower housing to cover the upper portion of the at least one battery module; and a fire-resistant cover disposed on the inner surface of the battery pack cover.

[0022] Preferably, the fire-resistant cover may include mica material.

[0023] In one aspect of the invention, the support plate may be disposed in the space between the fire-resistant cover and the battery module, and the support plate may be configured to support the fire-resistant cover in a direction facing the battery pack cover.

[0024] Preferably, the support plate can be configured to directly contact at least a portion of the surface of the fire-resistant cover.

[0025] Furthermore, the present invention provides a vehicle comprising at least one battery pack according to the foregoing embodiments.

[0026] Beneficial effects

[0027] According to the present invention, even when heat propagation occurs in the battery module contained in the battery pack, the fire-resistant cover provided on the inner surface of the top cover of the battery pack is prevented from separating and falling toward the battery module.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the present invention, even when a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack, debris is prevented from falling onto the battery module.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the present invention, even when heat propagation occurs in the battery module, the fireproof cover is prevented from blocking the vent of the battery module, thereby ensuring smooth gas discharge.

[0030] However, the advantages of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other technical effects not explicitly mentioned. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, and together with the detailed description set forth below, serve to further elucidate the technical concept of the invention. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the contents shown in these drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The image shows an exploded perspective view of the battery module.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a support plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly structure of a support plate and a front end plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of the part.

[0038] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The structure shown is a plan view when viewed from above.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly structure of a support plate and a rear end plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of the part.

[0041] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the structure taken from a vertical plane.

[0042] Figure 11 It shows including Figure 1 A diagram of a battery pack containing at least one battery module.

[0043] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the structure of a conventional battery pack.

[0044] Figure 13 It is shown in Figure 12 A diagram showing the thermal events that occur within a traditional battery pack.

[0045] Figure 14This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 15 It is shown in Figure 14 A diagram showing the thermal events occurring within the battery pack.

[0047] Figure 16 It shows including Figure 11 A picture of a vehicle with a battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods of implementing them, will become apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but can be implemented in various forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. The present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Therefore, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, device structures, and techniques may not be described in detail to avoid obscuring the invention. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0049] In the accompanying drawings, the thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated to clearly show multiple layers and regions. Throughout the specification, similar parts are indicated by the same reference numerals. When an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is referred to as being "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 being "directly on another element," it should be understood that no intermediate elements exist. Similarly, when an element is referred to as being "under another element," it may be directly under the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly under another element," it should be understood that no intermediate elements exist.

[0050] The statement that two objects being compared are identical means that they are "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" can include variations within tolerances that are acceptable to a person skilled in the art, such as a deviation of 5% or less. Furthermore, a parameter described as "uniform" within a predetermined region can refer to its average uniformity.

[0051] Throughout this specification, unless the context otherwise requires, each part may be singular or plural.

[0052] The arrangement of a component "on (or below) another component" or "above (or below) another component" should be understood to include not only the case where the component is in direct contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the other component, but also the case where the other component can be inserted between them.

[0053] Furthermore, when a component is described as “connected,” “joined,” or “engaged” to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected, joined, or engaged to each other, or may be connected, joined, or engaged via another component with the other component inserted between them.

[0054] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, “A and / or B” shall mean A, B or both A and B, and “C to D” shall mean the range of C to D including the end values.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0056] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery module 10 according to the present invention includes a cell assembly 100, a module housing 200, a frame cover 300, and a support plate 400. Additionally, the battery module 10 may also include an end plate 500.

[0057] 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 in at least a horizontal direction. The plurality of battery cells 110 may be configured to be arranged side-by-side in the horizontal direction, while in a vertical orientation, for example, see... Figure 2 Multiple battery cells 110 can be configured to be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, while in the vertical orientation.

[0058] Each of the multiple battery cells 110 will be described in more detail below.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a battery cell 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 The battery cell 110 can be a secondary battery, such as a pouch battery cell 110. However, the present invention is not limited to this type of battery cell 110; other types of battery cells 110 (such as cylindrical or prismatic battery cells) can also be used in the battery module 10.

[0061] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 3 This describes an exemplary case where battery cell 110 is a pouch cell. (See reference...) Figure 3 The battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly 111, a receiving portion 113 configured to receive the electrode assembly 111, a sealing portion 115 formed along the periphery of 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.

[0062] Pairs of electrode leads 117 are connected to electrode tabs (not shown) disposed in the electrode assembly 111 and can be pulled outward through the sealing portion 115. The pairs of electrode leads 117 can be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110. The pairs of electrode leads 117 can be pulled outward in the same direction or in opposite directions.

[0063] Reference Figure 3 The battery cell 110 can be configured to discharge exhaust gases through the upper sealing portion 115. The sealing portion 115 may be equipped with a venting region configured to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by gases generated inside the battery cell 110. The venting region is formed in a portion of the sealing portion 115 and corresponds to a structurally weaker region than the surrounding region, so that it can easily rupture when internal pressure is applied. For example, the venting region may be a region in the sealing portion that is weaker than the surrounding region. In this case, the venting region may be formed on either side edge of the sealing portion 115. Specifically, the venting region may be formed on the upper portion of either side edge of the sealing portion 115.

[0064] 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 exhaust area 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 frame cover 300 provided on the upper side of the battery cell 110. In other words, with this structure, high-temperature gases and flames inside the module can be smoothly discharged.

[0065] See you again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The module housing 200 can be configured to house the battery cell assembly 100 within its internal space. That is, the module housing 200 defines an internal space and can house the battery cell assembly 100 therein. The module housing 200 can be configured to house the battery cell assembly 100. The module housing 200 can have one longitudinal side opening and another longitudinal side opening.

[0066] The module housing 200 may include a horizontally extending base plate and side plates extending upward from the base plate. In this case, the base plate may be configured to have a plate shape extending substantially in the horizontal direction. The side plates may be configured to have a plate shape extending in a substantially vertical direction. The base plate and the side plates may be configured to be perpendicular to each other. That is, the module housing 200 may also be configured as a U-shaped frame.

[0067] Additionally, the side plates can be disposed in the width direction of the battery module 10. That is, the module housing 200 can have a structure in which side plates are disposed in the width direction, and the housing is open at its longitudinal end. In another aspect of the invention, the substrate and the side plates can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the substrate and the side plates can be configured to be detachable.

[0068] See you again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The frame cover 300 can be positioned on at least one side of the module housing 200. Preferably, the frame cover 300 can be mounted on the upper part of the module housing 200. That is, the frame cover 300 can cover the cell assembly 100 on the upper part of the module housing 200.

[0069] In addition, since the battery cell 110 has an exhaust area formed on the upper part of either side edge of the sealing portion 115, the exhaust gas through the upper sealing portion 115 can be smoothly discharged to the outside through the frame cover 300.

[0070] In one aspect of the invention, the frame cover 300 may be configured to be detachably coupled to the module housing 200. For example, the frame cover 300 may be coupled to and / or detached from the end plate 500, as will be described in detail later. This will be described in detail below.

[0071] In another aspect of the invention, the frame cover 300 may be configured to discharge exhaust gases. Preferably, the frame cover 300 may be configured to control the direction of exhaust gas discharge.

[0072] See you again Figure 2 The frame cover 300 may be equipped with at least one vent 310. The frame cover 300 may be configured to cover the upper portion of the cell assembly 100. For example, the frame cover 300 may be configured to have a plate-like shape extending in a generally horizontal direction.

[0073] The vent 310 can be configured to discharge exhaust gases. Specifically, the vent 310 can be configured to penetrate a through-hole in the frame cover 300 in the vertical direction. The vent 310 can be elongated along the sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110. This structure allows for the smooth discharge of high-temperature gases and flames generated inside the module.

[0074] Multiple vents 310 may be formed on the frame cover 300. For example, multiple vents 310 may be provided along the sealing portion 115 of the battery cell 110.

[0075] According to this structure, even if a large amount of gas is generated inside the battery module 10, the gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through multiple exhaust ports 310. That is, the residence time of the emitted gas inside the module housing 200 can be minimized.

[0076] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a support plate 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] See Figure 1 and Figure 4 The support plate 400 can be configured to form a predetermined space with the frame cover 300. The support plate 400 can be positioned on the upper side of the frame cover 300. That is, the support plate 400 can be disposed on the frame cover 300. The support plate 400 can be arranged to be spaced upward from the frame cover 300.

[0078] Preferably, the support plate 400 can be configured to define an empty space in the peripheral region surrounding the vent 310 disposed on the upper portion of the battery module 10. For example, the support plate 400 can be configured to have a structure that projects upward from the frame cover 300.

[0079] According to this structure, when a thermal event occurs in one of the battery modules 10 within the battery pack, even if the adhesive bond is weakened due to heat, the fire-resistant cover 60 provided on the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52 can be prevented from falling onto the battery module 10. Furthermore, according to this structure, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be prevented from blocking the vent 310 of the battery module 10, thereby ensuring smooth gas discharge.

[0080] Refer again Figure 4 The support plate 400 may include a main body portion 410 and a leg portion 430.

[0081] The main body portion 410 can be configured to extend in the horizontal direction. The main body portion 410 can have a substantially planar shape extending in the horizontal direction.

[0082] The main body 410 may include a mesh 411 and flange portions 413 disposed along the edges of the mesh 411. According to this structure, the mesh 411 can prevent sparks generated in the cell assembly 100 from being emitted outwards from the cell assembly 100. Furthermore, it can effectively prevent the spread of fire to other battery modules 10 adjacent to the battery module 10 where a thermal event has occurred. Additionally, according to this structure, it can effectively prevent fragments from thermally fractured batteries from falling onto the battery module 10, while preventing blockage of the vent 310, thereby allowing for the smooth discharge of exhaust gases.

[0083] In addition, the leg portion 430 can be formed to extend vertically from the main body portion 410.

[0084] Therefore, the main body portion 410 can be configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 by a predetermined distance. That is, the main body portion 410 can be disposed above the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 at a predetermined distance from the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10.

[0085] Figure 5 An assembly structure of a support plate 400 and a front end plate 510 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged image, Figure 7 This is its top plan view.

[0086] Reference Figures 5 to 7 In one embodiment of the invention, the leg portion 430 may include a horizontally extending portion 431 and a vertically extending portion 433.

[0087] The horizontal extension portion 431 can be formed to extend horizontally from the flange portion 413. The vertical extension portion 433 can be formed to bend from the end of the horizontal extension portion 431 and extend vertically. The horizontal extension portion 431 can be variably set according to the distance to the recess 500R formed in the end plate 500.

[0088] As one embodiment of the present invention, refer to Figure 6 The leg portion 430 can be configured as a cable secured to the flange portion 413. That is, the leg portion 430 can be configured to form a closed loop together with the flange portion 413. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, the leg portion 430 may include a rod structure projecting from the flange portion 413. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, the leg portion 430 may include a plate structure that bends and extends from the flange portion 413. The shape of the leg portion 430 is not limited to... Figures 5 to 7 The structure shown allows the leg portion 430 to be inserted into or secured to the end plate 500; any structure that does so falls within the scope of this invention. However, since the leg portion 430 is a structure that must ensure clearance in the vertical direction, it is preferable that the leg portion 430 includes a vertically extending portion 433.

[0089] See you again Figures 5 to 7 The battery module 10 may include an end plate 500. The end plate 500 may be coupled to one longitudinal side and another longitudinal side of the module housing 200. The end plate 500 may be configured to cover the two longitudinal ends of the cell assembly 100.

[0090] More specifically, end plate 500 may include front end plate 510 and rear end plate 530.

[0091] The front end plate 510 can be configured to be attached to a longitudinal side of the module housing 200 to cover a longitudinal end of the cell assembly 100. The rear end plate 530 can be configured to be attached to the opposite longitudinal side of the module housing 200 to cover the other longitudinal end of the cell assembly 100.

[0092] In this configuration, the support plate 400 can be configured to be connected to at least one of the front end plate 510 and the rear end plate 530. Preferably, the support plate 400 can be configured to be connected to each of the front end plate 510 and the rear end plate 530.

[0093] For example, see Figure 2 The front panel 510 may include at least one recess 500R. The recess 500R has a structure that can be coupled to the support plate 400. Specifically, the front panel 510 may include at least one recess 500R formed inward from its surface. In this case, the leg portion 430 may be mounted on the recess 500R disposed in the front panel 510 of the battery module 10. That is, the leg portion 430 may be configured to be confined by the recess 500R.

[0094] Reference Figure 7 The recess 500R can be formed as an inwardly recessed groove or hole in the end plate 500, and the vertically projecting vertical extension 433 of the leg portion 430 can be inserted into the recess 500R, thereby allowing the support plate 400 to be fixed in a predetermined position. Specifically, the horizontal movement of the support plate 400 can be limited by the connection between the recess 500R and the leg portion 430. In other words, the support plate 400 can be limited in the horizontal direction by the connection structure between the recess 500R and the leg portion 430. That is, through the connection structure between the recess 500R and the leg portion 430, the support plate 400 can be limited in the forward, backward, left, and right directions.

[0095] In another embodiment of the invention, the recess 500R can be formed with a structure other than a simple groove. For example, the recess 500R can be configured to provide a snap-fit ​​engagement with the leg portion 430 of the support plate 400. The shape of the recess 500R is not particularly limited, and any structure that allows attachment to and detachment from the leg portion 430 falls within the scope of the invention.

[0096] Figure 8 An assembly structure of a support plate 400 and a rear end plate 530 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged image, Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken along a vertical plane.

[0097] Similarly, see Figures 8 to 10 The rear end plate 530 may include at least one recess 500R. The recess 500R has a structure that can be coupled to the support plate 400. Specifically, the rear end plate 530 may include at least one recess 500R that is recessed inward from the surface. In this case, the leg portion 430 may be mounted on the recess 500R provided in the rear end plate 530 of the battery module 10. That is, the leg portion 430 may be configured to be limited by the recess 500R.

[0098] Reference Figure 10 The vertically extending portion 433 of the leg portion 430 can be formed to have a height greater than the depth of the recess 500R. According to this structure, the main body portion 410 of the support plate 400 can be maintained at a predetermined distance from the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10. That is, according to this structure, a predetermined space can be defined between the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 and the main body portion 410 of the support plate 400. Therefore, when a thermal event occurs in one of the battery modules 10 within the battery pack, the fire-resistant cover 60 provided on the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52 can be prevented from falling onto the battery module 10, even if its adhesion is weakened due to heat. Furthermore, according to this structure, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be prevented from blocking the vent 310 of the battery module 10, thereby maintaining smooth gas discharge.

[0099] In one aspect of the invention, the support plate 400 may also be configured to be detachable from the module housing 200.

[0100] For example, the support plate 400 may be attached to and / or detached from the front end plate 510 and / or the rear end plate 530, as will be described later. Alternatively, the support plate 400 may be configured to be detachable from the module housing 200.

[0101] In one aspect of the invention, a plurality of leg portions 430 may be provided.

[0102] For example, refer to Figure 5 The two leg portions 430 may be disposed on the side of the front end plate 510, spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. See also... Figure 8 Two leg portions 430 may be disposed on the side of the rear end plate 530, spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. However, the number of leg portions 430 is not limited to this. Multiple leg portions 430 may be disposed to a degree that does not interfere with other structures disposed on the end plate 500.

[0103] Figure 11 It shows including Figure 1 A diagram of a battery pack with at least one battery module 10.

[0104] Reference Figure 11The battery pack 3 according to the invention may include at least one battery module 10 as described above. Furthermore, the battery pack 3 according to the invention may include a battery pack housing 50 configured to house the at least one battery module 10. In this case, the battery pack housing 50 may include a lower housing 51 and a battery pack cover 52. The battery pack cover 52 may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery module 10 on top of the lower housing. For example, the battery pack cover 52 may be configured to cover a generally plate-shaped structure of the upper portion of the battery pack. For example, the generally plate-shaped battery pack cover 52 may have a structure in which at least a portion of it protrudes upwards.

[0105] In one aspect of the invention, the battery pack cover 52 may be configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 housed within the battery pack 3 by a predetermined distance, thereby ensuring smooth movement of exhaust gases.

[0106] In addition to battery module 10, various other components may be included, such as components of battery pack 3 known at the time of filing of this invention, such as BMS, battery pack housing, relays and current sensors.

[0107] In addition to battery module 10, various other components may be included, such as components of battery pack 3 known at the time of filing of this invention, such as BMS, battery pack housing, relays and current sensors.

[0108] Figure 12 The structure of a conventional battery pack is shown. Figure 13 It shows in Figure 12 This refers to the occurrence of thermal events within traditional battery packs.

[0109] Reference Figure 12 and 13 Conventional battery packs do not include a support plate 400. That is, although there is a predetermined space between the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 and the battery pack cover 52 of the battery pack, conventional battery packs do not include a support plate 400 for maintaining said predetermined space. At the same time, a fire-resistant cover 60 is attached or applied to prevent the battery pack cover 52 of the battery pack from being damaged by flames during the heat transfer (TP) of the battery module 10.

[0110] However, as Figure 13As shown, when a thermal event occurs in some battery modules 10, the flame released from the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 can propagate toward the fire-resistant cover 60 disposed on the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52. In this case, during the heat propagation of the battery module 10, the flame temperature can reach approximately 1000°C, thereby melting the adhesive applied between the fire-resistant cover 60 and the battery pack cover 52, causing the fire-resistant cover 60 to separate from the battery pack cover 52 and fall. That is to say, a problem with conventional battery packs is that they lack a structure to prevent the fire-resistant cover 60 from detaching. Thus, when the fire-resistant cover 60 falls onto the battery module 10, it can block the vent 310 of the battery module 10, thereby adversely affecting the heat propagation protection performance of the battery module 10. For example, when the fire-resistant cover 60 separates or its fragments fall, the vent 310 of the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 may be blocked, thereby preventing gas from escaping and accelerating heat propagation within the battery module 10.

[0111] Considering these issues, the object of the present invention is to prevent the fire-resistant cover 60 from separating. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is also to prevent thermal cracking fragments, etc., from falling onto the battery module 10. The following will refer to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 Describe the structure used to achieve these purposes.

[0112] Figure 14 The structure of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 15 It shows in Figure 14 The occurrence of thermal events within the battery pack.

[0113] Reference Figure 14 The battery pack may further include a fire-resistant cover 60. The fire-resistant cover 60 may be disposed on the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52. The fire-resistant cover 60 may include a fire-resistant material capable of withstanding high temperatures or flames. The fire-resistant cover 60 may be made of, for example, a mica material, or may partially include such a material.

[0114] A fire-resistant cover 60 can be inserted between the battery pack cover 52 and the support plate 400. Specifically, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be located within the internal space of the battery pack cover 52. Preferably, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be provided in the form of being attached to the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52. For example, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be attached to the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52 by an adhesive.

[0115] This structure prevents flames generated in the battery module 10 from spreading to the battery pack cover 52. Additionally, it prevents the fire from spreading to other adjacent areas within the battery module 10 where the thermal event occurred.

[0116] See you again Figure 14 and Figure 15The support plate 400 can be disposed in the space between the fire-resistant cover 60 and the battery module 10. Preferably, the support plate 400 can be configured to support the fire-resistant cover 60 in the direction toward the battery pack cover 52. More specifically, the main body portion 410 of the support plate 400 can support the fire-resistant cover 60 in the direction toward the battery pack cover 52. That is, the main body portion 410 can support the fire-resistant cover 60 upward. In other words, the vertical movement of the support plate 400 can be limited by the end plate 500 and the battery pack cover 52. In other words, the support plate 400 can be constrained in the vertical direction by the end plate 500 and the battery pack cover 52. More specifically, the support plate 400 can be limited in the vertical direction by the bottom surface of the recess 500R and the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52. The support plate 400 can maintain a predetermined space between the frame cover 300 of the battery module 10 and the battery pack cover 52 of the battery pack.

[0117] In this configuration, the support plate 400 can be configured to contact at least a portion of the surface of the fire-resistant cover 60. That is, the main body portion 410 can be configured to contact the surface of the fire-resistant cover 60.

[0118] According to this construction, such as Figure 15 As shown, even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery module 10 and the adhesion of the fire-resistant cover 60 on the inner surface of the battery pack cover 52 is weakened by heat, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be effectively prevented from falling onto the battery module 10. That is, because the main body portion 410 is in contact with the surface of the fire-resistant cover 60, the fire-resistant cover 60 can be prevented from separating even when the adhesive bonding the fire-resistant cover 60 melts.

[0119] Furthermore, this structure prevents the fire-resistant cover 60 from blocking the vent 310 of the battery module 10, thus ensuring the smooth discharge of gas or flame. Additionally, this structure prevents the fire-resistant cover 60 from detaching because the main body 410 supports the fire-resistant cover 60 in an upward direction, while the mesh structure 411 of the main body 410 does not obstruct the flow of discharged gas.

[0120] Figure 16 It shows including Figure 11 The image shows the battery pack 3 of vehicle 5.

[0121] See Figure 16The vehicle 5 according to the invention may include at least one battery pack 3 according to the invention. The vehicle 5 according to one embodiment of the invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and may include a battery pack 3 according to one embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 5 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. According to one embodiment of the invention, the vehicle 5 operates by receiving power from the battery pack 3. Furthermore, in addition to the battery cell 110 or the battery pack 3, the vehicle 5 according to the invention may also include various other components included in the vehicle. For example, in addition to the battery cell 110 according to the invention, the vehicle 5 according to the invention may also include a body, a motor, and control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit).

[0122] Furthermore, although terms such as up and down indicating direction are used in this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms are for ease of interpretation only and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the observer's position.

[0123] Although the invention has been described with reference to limited embodiments and accompanying drawings, the invention is not limited thereto, and it should be understood that various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0124] Industrial applicability

[0125] The present invention provides a battery module and battery pack that prevent the fire-resistant cap disposed on the inner surface of the top cover of the battery pack from separating toward the battery module even when heat propagation occurs in the battery module included in the battery pack.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: The battery cell assembly includes a plurality of battery cells; A module housing configured to house the battery cell assembly within an internal space; A frame cover, located on the upper portion of the module housing to cover the cell assembly, the frame cover having at least one vent; and A support plate, which is configured to form a predetermined space with the frame cover.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The support plate is configured to form an empty space in the area surrounding the vent holes located on the upper portion of the battery module.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The support plate is configured to have a structure that protrudes upward from the frame cover.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The support plate includes: The main body portion extends in the horizontal direction; and At least one leg portion, which extends vertically from the body portion.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, in, The main body is configured to be spaced a predetermined distance from the frame cover of the battery module.

6. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The main body includes a mesh and a flange portion disposed along the edge of the mesh.

7. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The leg portion includes a horizontally extending portion and a vertically extending portion, the horizontally extending portion extending in a horizontal direction, and the vertically extending portion bending to extend vertically from the end of the horizontally extending portion.

8. The battery module according to claim 4, The battery module also includes end plates connected to one longitudinal side and another longitudinal side of the module housing, and the end plates are configured to cover the two longitudinal ends of the cell assembly.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein, The end plate includes at least one recess formed inward from its surface, and The leg portion is mounted on the recess in the end plate of the battery module.

10. A battery pack comprising: At least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 9; A lower housing configured to accommodate at least one of the battery modules; A battery pack cover, the battery pack cover being configured to cover at least one upper portion of the battery module on the top of the lower housing; and A fire-resistant cover is disposed on the inner surface of the battery pack cover.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The fire-resistant cover includes mica material.

12. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The support plate is disposed in the space between the fire-resistant cover and the battery module, and the support plate is configured to support the fire-resistant cover in the direction toward the battery pack cover.

13. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein, The support plate is configured to contact at least a portion of the surface of the fire-resistant cover.

14. A vehicle comprising at least one battery pack according to claim 10.

Images