Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes a case, a plurality of battery cells received in the case and each including an exhaust port, a cover coupled to the case and spaced apart from the battery cells, and a heat-resistant layer on the cover and facing the battery cells. According to the present invention, the heat resistance of the cover can be improved by the heat-resistant layer provided on the cover and disposed to face the exhaust port, and a space in which a substance discharged through the exhaust port flows can be enlarged by causing thermal deformation of the cover. Therefore, a phenomenon in which the discharged substance is trapped in a space formed between the battery cell and the cover can be reduced, thereby preventing heat transfer to an adjacent battery cell when the battery cell experiences thermal runaway.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure relate to battery packs. Background Technology

[0002] A secondary battery is a battery that can be charged and discharged, unlike a primary battery which cannot be recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries can be used in portable small electronic devices, such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for motors in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and for energy storage. These secondary batteries include electrode assemblies with positive and negative electrodes, a casing housing the electrode assemblies, and individual terminals connected to the electrode assemblies.

[0003] These secondary batteries can be used as battery packs formed by multiple cell units connected in series and / or parallel to provide high energy density. Battery packs can be formed by connecting the terminals of multiple cell units to each other to match the desired power capacity and / or to realize high-power secondary batteries, for example, for electric vehicles.

[0004] The information disclosed in the background section of this invention is provided to enhance understanding of the background of this invention and may include information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack is provided that is capable of preventing (preventing or substantially preventing) heat transfer to adjacent battery cells in the event that a battery cell experiences thermal runaway.

[0006] However, the aspects and technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other aspects and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the invention.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a battery pack includes: a housing; a plurality of battery cells housed in the housing, each battery cell including a vent; a cover coupled to the housing and spaced apart from the battery cells; and a heat-resistant layer on the cover and facing the battery cells.

[0008] The battery pack may further include an insulating component between the individual battery cells and the cover.

[0009] The thickness of the heat-resistant layer can be thinner than the thickness of the insulating component.

[0010] Insulating components can be spaced apart from the heat-resistant layer.

[0011] Insulating components can be placed on the cover and spaced apart from the battery cells.

[0012] The insulating member may include a first insulating member and a second insulating member spaced apart from the first insulating member.

[0013] The heat-resistant layer can be placed between the first insulating component and the second insulating component.

[0014] The vent can be located between the first insulating member and the second insulating member.

[0015] The heat-resistant layer can face the exhaust port and be spaced apart from it.

[0016] The battery pack may further include a guide between the cover and the vent, communicating with the vent and having a flow path through which substances emitted through the vent flow.

[0017] The guide may include: a first plate including an inlet that allows discharged material to flow into a flow path and spaced apart from the cover; a second plate extending from the first plate and connected to the cover; and a third plate extending from the first plate, connected to the cover, and spaced apart from the second plate.

[0018] At least one of the second and third plates may extend obliquely from the first plate at a certain angle (e.g., a set angle).

[0019] The guide may further include a plurality of partition walls spaced apart along the flow path and configured to allow a portion of the discharged material to flow.

[0020] The plurality of partition walls may include a first partition wall and a second partition wall spaced apart from the first partition wall.

[0021] The exhaust port can be located between the first partition wall and the second partition wall.

[0022] The first and second partition walls can be arranged alternately along the flow path.

[0023] The first partition wall can be connected to the first plate and the second plate, but can be in contact with the third plate. The second partition wall can be connected to both the first plate and the third plate, but can be in contact with the second plate.

[0024] The guide may further include a baffle plate that protrudes from the first plate and is located at the edge of the inlet to prevent the emitted material from flowing into the exhaust port.

[0025] The separation distance between each battery cell and its cover can be from 8mm to 30mm.

[0026] The thickness of the heat-resistant layer can be from 20μm to 30μm. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The above and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from further detailed description of some embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention when viewed from above;

[0029] Figure 2 When viewed from below Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the battery pack;

[0030] Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 5 It is shown schematically. Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of a single battery cell;

[0033] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention when viewed from above;

[0034] Figure 7 When viewed from below Figure 6 Exploded perspective view of the battery pack;

[0035] Figure 8 It is shown schematically. Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack;

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 10 It is shown schematically. Figure 9 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack;

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 12 It is shown schematically. Figure 11 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack;

[0040] Figure 13 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

[0041] Figure 14It is shown schematically. Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Here, some embodiments of the invention will be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but are to be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that the inventor may appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe his or her invention. Therefore, it will be understood that the embodiments described herein and the constructions shown in the drawings are merely some exemplary embodiments of the invention and do not necessarily represent all the technical spirit of the invention, and it will be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist at the time of submission.

[0043] Furthermore, when used herein, the terms “comprising” or “including” and / or “containing…” or “including…” specify the presence of the mentioned shape, number, step, operation, component, element and / or group thereof, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, numbers, operations, components, elements and / or groups thereof.

[0044] Furthermore, for ease of understanding of the invention, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Additionally, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components in different embodiments.

[0045] Statements that two objects are “equal” or “identical” for comparison mean that they are the same or substantially the same. Therefore, “equal,” “identical,” or “substantially the same” can include deviations that are considered low in the art, such as less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of parameters over a given region can mean uniformity from an average perspective.

[0046] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specifically stated, it will be understood that a first component can also be a second component.

[0047] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0048] When any construct is placed "on" (or below) a component or is placed "above" (or below) a component, it can mean not only that the arbitrary construct is positioned to contact the top (or bottom) of the component, but also that other constructs can be inserted between the component and the arbitrary construct placed on (or below) the component.

[0049] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “on”, “connected to”, or “combined to” another component, the components may be directly connected or combined with each other, but it will be understood that one or more other components may be “inserted” between the two components, or the two components may be “connected,” “combined,” or “linked” through another component.

[0050] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of “may” refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Expressions such as “one or more” and “at least one” preceding a list of elements modify the entire list of elements, but not individual elements within that list.

[0051] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated otherwise, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, unless otherwise specifically stated, it means greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D.

[0052] When phrases such as “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B or C”, “at least one of the group selected from A, B and C” or “at least one of A, B and C” are used to specify a list of elements A, B and C, the phrase can refer to any and all suitable combinations.

[0053] The term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize”. As used in this specification, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree and are intended to take into account the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0054] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be designated as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0055] For ease of description, spatial relational terms such as "below," "under," "down," "above," and "above" are used here to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, spatial relational terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, when an element or feature in the figure is inverted, an element described as "below" or "under" becomes "above" or "above." Therefore, the term "below" can encompass both above and below orientations.

[0056] The terminology used in this specification is intended to describe embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0057] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention when viewed from above; Figure 2 When viewed from below Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the battery pack; Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0058] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a cover 300, a heat-resistant layer 400, and an insulating member 500.

[0059] The housing 100 can form the general shape of the battery pack and protect the individual battery cells 200 from external impacts and foreign substances. The housing 100 can provide space for housing the individual battery cells 200 therein. In embodiments, the housing 100 can be manufactured using a metallic material, such as steel.

[0060] The housing 100 can be formed in the shape of a box, wherein the interior is hollow and one side (based on Figure 1 The upper surface of the housing 100 is open. For example, the open side of the housing 100 can be configured based on... Figure 1 Upward-oriented (based on) Figure 1 (Z-axis direction).

[0061] However, the cross-sectional shape of the housing 100 is not limited to Figure 1 The shape shown is a quadrilateral, and it can have any of the various shapes, such as polygons, circles, and ellipses.

[0062] The battery cell 200 can be used as a unit structure for storing and supplying power in a battery pack. The battery cell 200 can be disposed inside the housing 100.

[0063] The battery cell 200 can be provided as a plurality of battery cells 200. The plurality of battery cells 200 can be arranged in multiple rows inside the housing 100. For example, the plurality of battery cells 200 can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 100 (based on...). Figure 1 Arranged in multiple rows along the X-axis direction.

[0064] However, the arrangement of the multiple battery cells 200 is not limited to this, and the battery cells 200 can be arranged in the width direction of the housing 100 (based on...). Figure 1 The housing 100 can be arranged in multiple rows along the Y-axis direction, or in multiple rows along the longitudinal and width directions.

[0065] According to this embodiment, the first direction can refer to the X-axis direction, that is, based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 The longitudinal direction of the shell 100, and the second direction can refer to the Y-axis direction, that is, based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 The width direction of the shell 100, the third direction can refer to the Z-axis direction, that is, based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 The height direction of the shell 100.

[0066] Here, the battery cell 200 is described as a prismatic lithium-ion secondary battery as an example. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 200 may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0067] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 It is shown schematically. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a single battery cell.

[0068] Reference Figures 1 to 5 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell 200 may include at least one electrode assembly 10 formed by arranging and winding a separator 13, which serves as an insulator, between a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12, a housing 20 therein housing the electrode assembly 10, and a cover assembly 30 coupled to an opening in the housing 20.

[0069] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may include coated portions and uncoated portions 11a and 12a. The coated portions are areas where active material is coated onto the current collector formed of a thin metal foil, and the uncoated portions 11a and 12a are areas of the current collector where no active material is coated.

[0070] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be wound together with a diaphragm 13 serving as an insulator between them. However, the invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 10 can be formed as a structure in which multiple positive electrodes 11 and negative electrodes 12 are alternately stacked with a diaphragm 13 between them.

[0071] The casing 20 can form the appearance of the battery cell 200 (e.g., the overall appearance) and can be formed of a conductive metal (such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel). In addition, the casing 20 can provide space therein to house the electrode assembly 10.

[0072] The cover assembly 30 may include a cover plate 31 that covers the opening of the housing 20, and the housing 20 and the cover plate 31 may be made of a conductive material. In one embodiment, the individual terminal 21 electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12 may be mounted to protrude outward through the cover plate 31.

[0073] In one embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the upper post of the individual terminal 21 protruding outward from the cover plate 31 can be threaded and fixed to the cover plate 31 with a nut. However, the invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the individual terminal 21 can be formed with a rivet structure and can be riveted to the cover plate 31 or welded to the cover plate 31.

[0074] Furthermore, the cover plate 31 can be formed from a thin plate and can be combined with the opening of the housing 20, and an electrolyte inlet 32 ​​in which a sealing plug 33 can be installed can be formed in the cover plate 31, and an exhaust port 34 with a cutout can be arranged or installed.

[0075] The vent 34 can be opened and closed in response to changes in the internal pressure of the housing 20. That is, the vent 34 can remain closed during normal operation of the electrode assembly 10 to seal the housing 20.

[0076] The vent 34 can be opened when the internal pressure of the housing 20 rises to a certain level (e.g., a set level) due to overcharging, fire, etc., and can discharge substances such as high-temperature gases, flames, and debris from the inside of the housing 20 to the outside of the housing 20.

[0077] Individual terminal 21 can be electrically connected to each current collector, which includes a first current collector 40 and a second current collector 50 (here referred to as the positive electrode current collector and the negative electrode current collector) that are soldered to the uncoated portion 11a of the positive electrode or the uncoated portion 12a of the negative electrode.

[0078] For example, the individual terminal 21 can be bonded to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 by soldering. However, the invention is not limited thereto; for example, the individual terminal 21, as well as the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, can be integrally formed.

[0079] In one embodiment, an insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly 10 and the cover plate 31. In another embodiment, the insulating member may include a first lower insulating member 60 and a second lower insulating member 70, and each of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70 may be installed between the electrode assembly 10 and the cover plate 31.

[0080] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the end of a separation member that can be mounted to face the side surface of the electrode assembly 10 can be installed between the insulating member and the individual terminal 21. The separation member may include a first separation member 80 and a second separation member 90.

[0081] Therefore, the ends of the first separation member 80 and the second separation member 90, which can be mounted to face the side surface of the electrode assembly 10, can be respectively mounted between the first lower insulating member 60 and the single terminal 21 and between the second lower insulating member 70 and the single terminal 21.

[0082] As a result, the individual terminals 21 welded to each of the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 can be respectively coupled to the end of the first lower insulating member 60 and the end of the first separating member 80, and the end of the second lower insulating member 70 and the end of the second separating member 90.

[0083] Individual terminal 21 can be provided on the upper surface of battery cell 200 (based on...) Figure 4 The individual terminal 21 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the battery cell 200 in a third direction. The individual terminal 21 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the battery cell 200 in the direction where the cover 300 is located.

[0084] However, the cross-sectional shape of the single terminal 21 is not limited to Figure 4 The shape shown is a quadrilateral, and it can have any of the various shapes, such as polygons, circles, and ellipses.

[0085] The single terminal 21 can be provided as a pair of single terminals 21. The pair of single terminals 21 can be provided with different polarities. One of the single terminals 21 in the pair of single terminals 21 can have a positive (+) polarity, and the other single terminal 21 can have a negative (-) polarity.

[0086] In one embodiment, a pair of individual terminals 21 may be symmetrically arranged on both sides or opposite sides of the battery cell 200. The pair of individual terminals 21 may be spaced apart in a second direction.

[0087] According to the embodiment, multiple battery cells 200 can be electrically connected via a busbar 22. The busbar 22 can be manufactured using conductive materials such as copper, aluminum, and nickel.

[0088] The busbar 22 can connect adjacent battery cells 200 in series or in parallel. In one embodiment, the busbar 22 can be formed into a flat plate shape and can be formed into a shape that extends in a direction parallel to the first direction. However, the specific shape of the busbar 22 is not limited to this. Figure 1 The shape shown in the figure can be any of a variety of shapes that allow adjacent battery cells 200 to be electrically connected.

[0089] Busbar 22 can be configured as multiple busbars 22. For example, one busbar 22 in a pair of busbars 22 can be electrically connected to adjacent single-cell terminals 21 with positive polarity, and the other busbar 22 can be electrically connected to adjacent single-cell terminals 21 with negative polarity.

[0090] Busbar 22 can be disposed between battery cell 200 and cover 300. More specifically, busbar 22 can be disposed between cell terminal 21 and cover 300. Busbar 22 can be fixed to cell terminal 21 by any of various types of joining methods (such as welding, bolting, and mating) while being disposed on cell terminal 21.

[0091] The cover 300 can be coupled to the housing 100 and can cover the opening 100a provided in the housing 100. The cover 300 can be formed on the upper surface of the housing 100 (based on...). Figure 1 The opening 100a in the housing 100 seals the interior of the housing 100.

[0092] The cover 300 can be secured to the upper portion of the housing 100 by any of a variety of joining methods (such as welding, bolting, and mating). The cover 300 can protect the battery cell 200 from external impacts and foreign substances.

[0093] The cover 300 can be formed to have a generally flat shape. In an embodiment, the cover 300 can be manufactured by including a metallic material (such as steel).

[0094] The cover 300 can be disposed above the plurality of battery cells 200. The cover 300 can be configured to face the plurality of battery cells 200 in a third-order direction. In an embodiment, the lower surface of the cover 300 and the upper surface of the battery cells 200 can be configured to face each other parallel to each other.

[0095] According to the embodiment, the cover 300 can be configured to be spaced apart from the plurality of battery cells 200 in a third direction. Therefore, a space can be formed between the plurality of battery cells 200 and the cover 300 through which substances (such as high-temperature gases, flames, and debris) emitted through the exhaust ports 34 of the battery cells 200 flow.

[0096] In this embodiment, the separation distance D between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300 in a direction parallel to a third direction can be from 8 mm to 30 mm. For example, if the separation distance D between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300 is less than 8 mm, then in the event that the battery cell 200 experiences thermal runaway and heat can be transferred to adjacent battery cells 200, substances emitted through the vent 34 (such as high-temperature gases, flames, and debris) can remain trapped in the space between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300. Furthermore, if the separation distance D between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300 exceeds 30 mm, the integration density of the battery pack can be reduced, which can lead to a decrease in the energy density of the battery pack.

[0097] A heat-resistant layer 400 may be provided on the cover 300. The heat-resistant layer 400 may be provided on the lower surface of the cover 300 facing the upper surface of the battery cell 200. That is, the heat-resistant layer 400 may be positioned facing the battery cell 200. In an embodiment, the heat-resistant layer 400 may be formed by applying a heat-resistant coating to the lower surface of the cover 300. In other words, the lower surface of the cover 300 may be coated with a heat-resistant coating.

[0098] The heat-resistant layer 400 not only improves the heat resistance of the cover 300, but also causes thermal deformation of the cover 300 when exposed to high temperatures, that is, causes physical dimensional deformation due to heat, thereby ensuring additional space between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300. More specifically, the heat-resistant layer 400 formed on the lower surface of the cover 300 facing the upper surface of the battery cell 200 (where the vent 34 is located on the upper surface) can improve heat resistance (which protects the cover 300 from the effects of high-temperature gases and flames emitted through the vent 34 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200), and as the space between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300 expands due to the deformation of the cover 300 caused by heat conduction phenomena attributable to heat transfer to the cover 300, the phenomenon of substances emitted through the vent 34 remaining in the space between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300 is reduced. Therefore, heat transfer to adjacent battery cells 200 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200 can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0099] In this embodiment, the thickness T1 of the heat-resistant layer 400 in the direction parallel to the third direction can be 20 μm to 30 μm. For example, if the thickness T1 of the heat-resistant layer 400 is less than 20 μm, the heat resistance of the cover 300 may not be sufficiently ensured; if the thickness T1 of the heat-resistant layer 400 exceeds 30 μm, thermal deformation of the cover 300 may not be induced.

[0100] An insulating member 500 may be disposed between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300. The insulating member 500 may be formed to have a generally flat shape. According to the embodiment, the insulating member 500 may be, for example, an insulating sheet, an insulating film, an insulating panel, or the like.

[0101] The insulating member 500 may be disposed spaced apart from the heat-resistant layer 400 in a third direction. In an embodiment, the thickness T1 of the heat-resistant layer 400 in the direction parallel to the third direction may be thinner than the thickness T2 of the insulating member 500 in the direction parallel to the third direction.

[0102] The insulating member 500 according to the embodiment may include a first insulating member 510 and a second insulating member 520.

[0103] The first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520 may be disposed spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The first insulating member 510 may be disposed on one of the single terminals 21 in a pair of single terminals 21, and the second insulating member 520 may be disposed on the other single terminal 21 in a pair of single terminals 21.

[0104] The exhaust port 34 can be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520. That is, the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520 can be disposed on both sides or opposite sides of the exhaust port 34.

[0105] Substances (such as high-temperature gases, flames, and debris) emitted through the exhaust port 34 of the battery cell 200 can form between the insulating member 500 and the cover 300 through the space in which they flow.

[0106] In one embodiment, a first extension 510a may be further provided on the first insulating member 510. The first extension 510a may extend from the end portion of the first insulating member 510 facing the second insulating member 520 in a direction parallel to a third direction, and may be configured to face the outer surface of the individual terminal 21. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or substantially prevent substances discharged through the vent 34 from contacting the individual terminal 21.

[0107] A second extension 520a may be further provided on the second insulating member 520. The second extension 520a may extend from the end portion of the second insulating member 520 facing the first insulating member 510 in a direction parallel to a third direction, and may be configured to face the outer surface of the individual terminal 21. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or substantially prevent the material discharged through the vent 34 from contacting the individual terminal 21.

[0108] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention when viewed from above; Figure 7When viewed from below Figure 6 Exploded perspective view of the battery pack; Figure 8 It is shown schematically. Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0109] Reference Figures 6 to 8 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a cover 300, a heat-resistant layer 400, an insulating member 500, and a guiding unit (also referred to as a guide) 600.

[0110] In describing the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, examples of the heat-resistant layer 400, the insulating member 500, and the guiding unit 600, which were not described in the battery pack of the previously described embodiment of the present invention, will be described.

[0111] The description of the battery pack according to the previously described embodiments of the present invention can be applied to the remaining construction of the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] A heat-resistant layer 400 may be provided on the cover 300. The heat-resistant layer 400 may be provided on the lower surface of the cover 300 facing the upper surface of the battery cell 200. The heat-resistant layer 400 may be spaced apart from the vent 34 in a third-order upward direction and configured to face the vent 34.

[0113] An insulating member 500 may be disposed between the battery cell 200 and the cover 300. The insulating member 500 may be provided on the cover 300. The insulating member 500 may be provided on the lower surface of the cover 300 facing the upper surface of the battery cell 200. The insulating member 500 may be attached to the lower surface of the cover 300.

[0114] The insulating component 500 can be disposed at a distance from the battery cell 200 in a third-party orientation.

[0115] The insulating member 500 according to the embodiment may include a first insulating member 510 and a second insulating member 520.

[0116] The first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520 may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The heat-resistant layer 400 may be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520. That is, the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520 may be disposed on both sides or opposite sides of the heat-resistant layer 400, respectively.

[0117] In an embodiment, the thickness T1 of the heat-resistant layer 400 in the direction parallel to the third direction may be thinner than the thickness T2 of each of the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520 in the direction parallel to the third direction.

[0118] The first insulating member 510 may be spaced apart from one of the pair of individual terminals 21 and facing that individual terminal 21 in a third-party upward direction. The second insulating member 520 may be spaced apart from the other individual terminal 21 in the pair of individual terminals 21 and facing that other individual terminal 21 in a third-party upward direction. The vent 34 may be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the second insulating member 520.

[0119] The guide unit 600 can be disposed between the cover 300 and the vent 34. The guide unit 600 can be formed to have a shape extending in a first direction.

[0120] The guide unit 600 can be attached to the cover 300. The guide unit 600 can be fixed to the lower part of the cover 300 by any of a variety of attachment methods (such as welding, bolting, and mating).

[0121] The guide unit 600 can be connected to the exhaust port 34. The material discharged through the exhaust port 34 can be provided inside the guide unit 600 through its flow path 600a. The flow direction of the discharged material flowing through the flow path 600a can be in the longitudinal direction of the guide unit 600, that is, in a direction parallel to the first direction.

[0122] The guide unit 600 according to the embodiment may include a first plate 610, a second plate 620 and a third plate 630.

[0123] The first plate 610 can be formed into a generally flat plate shape. The first plate 610 can be mounted on or spaced apart from the battery cell 200. The first plate 610 can be disposed spaced apart from the cover 300 in a third-order orientation. The first plate 610 can be positioned facing the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0124] An inlet 611 may be provided in the first plate 610. The inlet 611 may be formed to pass through the first plate 610 in a third direction. The inlet 611 may allow discharged material to flow into the flow path 600a. More specifically, the inlet 611 may be configured to face the exhaust port 34, such that material discharged through the exhaust port 34 flows into the flow path 600a through the inlet 611.

[0125] The second plate 620 and the third plate 630 can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The first plate 610 can be arranged between the second plate 620 and the third plate 630. That is, the second plate 620 and the third plate 630 can be arranged on both sides or opposite sides of the first plate 610, respectively.

[0126] The second plate 620 can be formed to have a generally flat shape. The second plate 620 can extend from the first plate 610 and can be connected to the cover 300. The second plate 620 can extend from a first side of the first plate 610 in a third-direction upward direction and can be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the second plate 620 can be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300.

[0127] The second plate 620 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the first insulating member 510 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0128] The third plate 630 can be formed to have a generally flat shape. The third plate 630 can extend from the first plate 610 and can be connected to the cover 300. The third plate 630 can extend from a second side of the first plate 610 opposite to the first side in a third-order direction and can be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the third plate 630 can be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300.

[0129] The third plate 630 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the second insulating member 520 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the heat-resistant layer 400 and the second insulating member 520.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 It is shown schematically. Figure 9 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0131] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a cover 300, a heat-resistant layer 400, an insulating member 500, and a guiding unit 600.

[0132] In describing the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, it will be described that... Figure 6 An example of a guide unit 600 not described in the battery pack.

[0133] For the remaining construction of the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, the following can be applied: Figure 1 battery pack or Figure 6 Description of the battery pack.

[0134] The guide unit 600 according to this embodiment may include a first plate 610, a second plate 620, a third plate 630, and a partition wall 640.

[0135] The partition walls 640 can be provided as a plurality of partition walls 640 spaced apart from each other along the flow path 600a. In an embodiment, the plurality of partition walls 640 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the guide unit 600 (i.e., in the first direction). The partition walls 640 can allow a portion of the material discharged through the exhaust port 34 to flow.

[0136] According to the embodiments, the partition wall 640 may include a first partition wall 641 and a second partition wall 642.

[0137] The first partition wall 641 can be connected to the first plate 610 and the second plate 620, but may not be in contact with the third plate 630. Therefore, a portion of the material discharged through the exhaust port 34 can flow through the flow path 600a formed between the first partition wall 641 and the third plate 630.

[0138] The second partition wall 642 may be disposed spaced apart from the first partition wall 641. The second partition wall 642 may be connected to the first plate 610 and the third plate 630, but may not be in contact with the second plate 620. Therefore, a portion of the material discharged through the exhaust port 34 may flow through the flow path 600a formed between the second partition wall 642 and the second plate 620.

[0139] The first partition wall 641 and the second partition wall 642 may be alternately arranged along the flow path 600a. More specifically, the first partition wall 641 and the second partition wall 642 may be alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the guide unit 600 (that is, in the first direction). The exhaust port 34 may be arranged between the first partition wall 641 and the second partition wall 642.

[0140] The separator 640 can be used as a trap that can confine substances such as high-temperature gases and debris emitted through the vent 34 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200 between the first separator 641 and the second separator 642.

[0141] Figure 11 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 It is shown schematically. Figure 11 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0142] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a cover 300, a heat-resistant layer 400, an insulating member 500, and a guiding unit 600.

[0143] In describing the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, it will be described that... Figure 6 battery pack or Figure 9 An example of a guide unit 600 not described in the battery pack.

[0144] For the remaining construction of the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, the following can be applied: Figure 1 battery pack, Figure 6 battery pack or Figure 9 Description of the battery pack.

[0145] The guiding unit 600 according to this embodiment may include a first plate 610, a second plate 620 and a third plate 630.

[0146] The first plate 610 can be formed into a generally flat plate shape. The first plate 610 can be mounted on the battery cell 200, or it can be spaced apart from the battery cell 200. The first plate 610 can be disposed spaced apart from the cover 300 in a third-order orientation. The first plate 610 can be positioned facing the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0147] An inlet 611 may be provided in the first plate 610. The inlet 611 may be formed to pass through the first plate 610 in a third direction. The inlet 611 may allow discharged material to flow into the flow path 600a. More specifically, the inlet 611 may be configured to face the exhaust port 34, such that material discharged through the exhaust port 34 flows into the flow path 600a through the inlet 611.

[0148] The second plate 620 and the third plate 630 may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The first plate 610 may be disposed between the second plate 620 and the third plate 630. That is, the second plate 620 and the third plate 630 may be disposed on opposite sides of the first plate 610. At least one of the second plate 620 and the third plate 630 may extend obliquely from the first plate 610 at a certain angle.

[0149] The second plate 620 can be formed to have a generally flat plate shape. The second plate 620 can extend obliquely from the first plate 610 at a certain angle (e.g., a set angle) and can be connected to the cover 300.

[0150] The second plate 620 may extend obliquely from the first side of the first plate 610 at a certain angle in a third direction and may be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the second plate 620 may be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300. The interior angles of the first plate 610 and the second plate 620 may form an obtuse angle.

[0151] The second plate 620 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the first insulating member 510 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0152] The third plate 630 can be formed to have a generally flat plate shape. The third plate 630 can extend obliquely from the first plate 610 at a set angle and can be connected to the cover 300.

[0153] The third plate 630 may extend obliquely at an angle from the second side of the first plate 610 opposite to the first side in a third direction, and may be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the third plate 630 may be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300. The interior angles of the first plate 610 and the third plate 630 may form an obtuse angle.

[0154] The third plate 630 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the second insulating member 520 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the heat-resistant layer 400 and the second insulating member 520.

[0155] Figure 13 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 It is shown schematically. Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of the battery pack.

[0156] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack may include a housing 100, a battery cell 200, a cover 300, a heat-resistant layer 400, an insulating member 500, and a guiding unit 600.

[0157] In describing the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, it will be described that... Figure 6 battery pack, Figure 9 battery pack or Figure 11 An example of a guide unit 600 not described in the battery pack.

[0158] For the remaining construction of the battery pack according to this embodiment of the present invention, the following can be applied: Figure 1 battery pack, Figure 6 battery pack, Figure 9 battery pack or Figure 11 Description of the battery pack.

[0159] The guide unit 600 according to this embodiment may include a first plate 610, a second plate 620, a third plate 630, and a blocking plate 650.

[0160] The first plate 610 can be formed into a generally flat plate shape. The first plate 610 can be mounted on the battery cell 200 and can be disposed spaced apart from the cover 300 in a third-order orientation. The first plate 610 can be positioned facing the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0161] An inlet 611 may be provided in the first plate 610. The inlet 611 may be formed to pass through the first plate 610 in a third direction. The inlet 611 may allow discharged material to flow into the flow path 600a. More specifically, the inlet 611 may be configured to face the exhaust port 34, such that material discharged through the exhaust port 34 flows into the flow path 600a through the inlet 611.

[0162] The second plate 620 and the third plate 630 can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The first plate 610 can be arranged between the second plate 620 and the third plate 630. That is, the second plate 620 and the third plate 630 can be arranged on both sides or opposite sides of the first plate 610, respectively.

[0163] The second plate 620 can be formed to have a generally flat plate shape. The second plate 620 can extend obliquely from the first plate 610 at a certain angle (e.g., a set angle) and can be connected to the cover 300.

[0164] The second plate 620 may extend obliquely from the first side of the first plate 610 at a certain angle in a third direction and may be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the second plate 620 may be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300. The interior angles of the first plate 610 and the second plate 620 may form an obtuse angle.

[0165] The second plate 620 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the first insulating member 510 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the first insulating member 510 and the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0166] The third plate 630 can be formed to have a generally flat plate shape. The third plate 630 can extend obliquely from the first plate 610 at a set angle and can be connected to the cover 300.

[0167] The third plate 630 may extend obliquely at an angle from the second side of the first plate 610 opposite to the first side in a third direction, and may be connected to the cover 300. The end portion of the third plate 630 may be fixed to the lower surface of the cover 300. The interior angles of the first plate 610 and the third plate 630 may form an obtuse angle.

[0168] The third plate 630 can be disposed between the single terminal 21 facing the second insulating member 520 and the first plate 610, and the end portion fixed to the cover 300 can be disposed between the heat-resistant layer 400 and the second insulating member 520.

[0169] The baffle 650 may protrude from the first plate 610 and may be disposed at the edge of the inlet 611. The baffle 650 may extend from the first plate 610 in a third direction to a certain length (e.g., a predetermined length) and may be spaced apart from the cover 300. That is, the baffle 650 may not be in contact with the heat-resistant layer 400.

[0170] The baffle 650 can be provided as a plurality of baffles 650. For example, a pair of baffles 650 can be arranged facing each other while being spaced apart in a second direction. That is, the baffles 650 can be arranged on both sides or opposite sides of the inlet 611.

[0171] The baffle plate 650 can prevent emitted substances from flowing into the exhaust port 34. More specifically, it can prevent substances (such as flames and debris) emitted through the exhaust port 34 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 200 from flowing back into the inlet 611 along the inner inclined surfaces of the second plate 620 and the third plate 630. Therefore, emitted substances can be prevented or substantially prevented from flowing back into the exhaust port 34 through the inlet 611, thereby preventing or substantially preventing further damage to the battery cell 200.

[0172] According to one or more embodiments of the invention, the heat resistance of the cover can be improved by configuring a heat-resistant layer provided on the cover and positioned facing the vent, and the space in which the material discharged through the vent flows can be expanded by causing thermal deformation of the cover. Therefore, the phenomenon of discharged material remaining in the space formed between the battery cell and the cover can be reduced, thereby preventing or substantially preventing heat transfer to adjacent battery cells in the event of thermal runaway in a battery cell.

[0173] According to one or more embodiments of the invention, by constructing the guiding unit (which guides the flow of material discharged through the exhaust port) to prevent or substantially prevent the discharged material from remaining between the battery cell and the cover, heat transfer to adjacent battery cells can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0174] However, the aspects and effects obtained by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the present invention other aspects and technical effects not mentioned.

[0175] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to some embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these embodiments are provided by way of example, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalents are possible.

[0176] The invention has been described with reference to some embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings as examples, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and other equivalent embodiments are possible.

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: case; Multiple battery cells are housed in the housing, and each battery cell includes an exhaust port; The cover is attached to the housing and spaced apart from the battery cell; as well as A heat-resistant layer is placed on the cover and faces the battery cell.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising an insulating member between the battery cell and the cover.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The thickness of the heat-resistant layer is thinner than the thickness of the insulating component.

4. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The insulating component is spaced apart from the heat-resistant layer.

5. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The insulating component is on the cover and spaced apart from the battery cell.

6. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The insulating component includes: First insulating component; and The second insulating member is spaced apart from the first insulating member.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The heat-resistant layer is located between the first insulating member and the second insulating member.

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The exhaust port is located between the first insulating member and the second insulating member.

9. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein, The heat-resistant layer faces the exhaust port and is spaced apart from the exhaust port.

10. The battery pack of claim 1, further comprising a guide between the cover and the vent, in communication with the vent, and having a flow path through which substances discharged through the vent flow.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein, The guide includes: The first plate includes an inlet that allows the discharged material to flow into the flow path and is spaced apart from the cover; A second plate extends from the first plate and connects to the cover; and A third plate extends from the first plate, connects to the cover, and is spaced apart from the second plate.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, At least one of the second plate and the third plate extends obliquely from the first plate at a certain angle.

13. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The guide further includes a plurality of partition walls spaced apart along the flow path and configured to allow a portion of the discharged material to flow.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein, The plurality of partition walls include: The first partition wall; and The second partition wall is spaced apart from the first partition wall.

15. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The exhaust port is located between the first partition wall and the second partition wall.

16. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The first partition wall and the second partition wall are arranged alternately along the flow path.

17. The battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The first partition wall is connected to the first plate and the second plate, and does not contact the third plate. The second partition wall is connected to the first plate and the third plate, but does not contact the second plate.

18. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The guide further includes a baffle plate that protrudes from the first plate and is located at the edge of the inlet to prevent the emitted material from flowing into the exhaust port.

19. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The separation distance between each of the battery cells and the cover is 8mm to 30mm.

20. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The thickness of the heat-resistant layer is 20 μm to 30 μm.

Images