Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present application can include a substrate, a frame disposed on the substrate and providing a space in the frame, the frame including a top plate having an exhaust hole, a plurality of battery cells accommodated in the frame, a reinforcing bar at least partially covering the exhaust hole and coupled to the frame, and a battery pack cover covering the top plate and the reinforcing bar.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery packs.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0013340, filed on February 3, 2025, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0109825, filed on August 8, 2025, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] With the significant increase in demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet PCs and smartwatches, and the growing prevalence of electric vehicles, there is active research into batteries installed in these vehicles, particularly rechargeable batteries that allow for repeated charging and discharging.

[0004] Currently, commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium rechargeable batteries. Among these batteries, lithium rechargeable batteries have almost no or no memory effect. Therefore, they are more popular than nickel-based rechargeable batteries because they can be conveniently charged at any time, have a very low self-discharge rate, and have high energy density.

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

[0006] Generally, based on the shape of the battery casing, lithium secondary batteries can be divided into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is contained in a metal can and bag-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is contained in a bag of aluminum laminates.

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

[0008] However, when a battery pack comprises multiple battery modules, and each battery module comprises multiple battery cells, it may be susceptible to thermal cascading effects between battery modules or battery cells. For example, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, it is necessary to prevent the propagation of thermal runaway to other battery modules or other battery cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules or battery cells is not properly suppressed, an event occurring in a particular battery module or battery cell may cause a cascading thermal reaction in other battery modules or other battery cells, potentially leading to an explosion or fire or escalating its scale.

[0009] Specifically, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in any battery module, gas or flame can be randomly vented to the outside. If the venting of gas or flame is not properly controlled, it can be vented towards other battery modules, leading to a thermal cascade effect. In particular, module terminals may be present on the front side of the battery module, and components for electrical connection to other battery modules or battery packs, such as module busbars, may be provided. Therefore, when flame is vented towards the front side of a battery module, the module terminals may be damaged, and a short circuit may occur in the battery pack. Furthermore, since another battery module may be present on the front side of a particular battery module, when flame is vented towards the front side of a particular battery module, the vented flame is directed towards another battery module, making fire propagation between battery modules easily possible.

[0010] If heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled, voltage drops in the battery modules or battery packs can occur rapidly. This can lead to the sudden shutdown of devices housing the battery modules or battery packs, resulting in unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop in the battery pack occurs during the operation of an electric vehicle, it may not be possible to ensure sufficient time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Furthermore, if heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled and a sudden fire or explosion occurs, it could potentially lead to injury to users. For example, in the event of thermal runaway in an electric vehicle, occupants may not be able to evacuate safely if sufficient time is not allowed before it develops into a full-blown fire.

[0012] Therefore, a structure is needed that can suppress the occurrence of thermal events and prevent their propagation. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] This disclosure aims to address the problems of the related technology, and therefore aims to provide a battery pack capable of suppressing the occurrence of thermal events and preventing the propagation of thermal events, and a vehicle including the battery pack.

[0015] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can easily discharge exhaust gases.

[0016] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can suppress the deformation of battery cells or battery packs due to heat.

[0017] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can suppress the deformation of battery cells even when expansion occurs in the battery cell.

[0018] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can improve the electrical safety of battery packs.

[0019] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can improve the thermal safety of the battery pack.

[0020] However, the technical problems sought to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other problems not mentioned herein.

[0021] Technical solution

[0022] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a substrate; a frame disposed on the substrate and providing an internal space, the frame including a top plate having vents; a plurality of battery cells housed within the frame; a reinforcing rod configured to cover at least a portion of the vents and connected to the frame; and a battery pack cover configured to cover the top plate and the reinforcing rod.

[0023] In addition, multiple vents can be provided, and reinforcing rods can cover multiple vents.

[0024] Additionally, the reinforcing bar may include: a top portion disposed on the top plate; and a side portion extending downward from the top portion and fastened to the frame.

[0025] Additionally, the battery pack may include a separator disposed within the frame and configured to separate multiple battery cells and support the top plate.

[0026] Additionally, the battery pack may include a first fastening member configured to pass through the top plate and fasten to the separator.

[0027] In addition, the first fastening member can pass through the reinforcing rod.

[0028] Additionally, the frame may include a base plate disposed between multiple battery cells and a substrate, with spacers connected to the base plate.

[0029] Additionally, the battery pack may include a second fastening member configured to pass through the base plate and fasten to the separator.

[0030] In addition, multiple reinforcing bars can be provided.

[0031] Additionally, the reinforcing bar can be connected to the top plate.

[0032] Additionally, the reinforcing bar may include upward-protruding spacers.

[0033] In addition, multiple spacers can be provided, and multiple spacers can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing bar.

[0034] In addition, the reinforcing rod can be coated with a material that has electrical insulating properties.

[0035] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery pack according to this disclosure is also provided.

[0036] Beneficial effects

[0037] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal stability of the battery pack can be improved.

[0038] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the propagation of thermal events can be prevented by easily venting the exhaust gases.

[0039] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, even when a thermal event occurs, deformation of the battery cell or battery pack is suppressed, thereby providing a structure capable of stably discharging exhaust gases.

[0040] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, thermal events can be suppressed by suppressing the expansion of the battery cell.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the propagation of thermal events can be prevented by preventing the flow of exhaust gases inside the battery cell. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded view of some components of the battery pack.

[0045] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 An exploded view of some components of the battery pack.

[0046] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A diagram of the battery cell.

[0047] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows some components of the battery cell separated.

[0048] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the reinforcing rod.

[0049] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 4 A diagram of the separator.

[0050] Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken by line D-D'.

[0051] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line A-A'.

[0052] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 4 A magnified view of part C.

[0053] Figure 11 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0054] Figure 12 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0055] Figure 13 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 12 A graph showing the changes.

[0056] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 11 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0057] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0058] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 11 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0059] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] In some portions of the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to corresponding parts. Those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings illustrate elements in a simplified and clear manner and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments, the dimensions of some elements shown in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements. Furthermore, elements of known technology that are useful or necessary in commercially practical embodiments may not be shown to avoid obscuring the gist of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general or dictionary meaning, but rather is interpreted according to the meaning and concept corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, based on the principle that inventors are allowed to appropriately define terms for the best interpretation.

[0062] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0063] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a battery pack 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Exploded view of some components of the 1000 battery pack. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 Exploded view of some components of the 1000 battery pack.

[0064] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The battery pack 1000 may include a battery pack housing 100. The battery pack housing 100 may include a substrate 110. The substrate 110 may have a square shape. The substrate 110 may have a flat shape. The substrate 110 may form the exterior of the battery pack 1000. The substrate 110 may provide the internal space of the battery pack 1000.

[0065] The battery pack housing 100 may include a first sidewall 120a. The first sidewall 120a may be mounted, fastened, coupled, secured, or attached to the substrate 110. The first sidewall 120a may provide internal space. The first sidewall 120a may form the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The first sidewall 120a may extend along a front-rear direction or an X-axis direction.

[0066] The battery pack housing 100 may include a second sidewall 120b. The second sidewall 120b may be mounted, fastened, coupled, secured, or attached to the substrate 110. The second sidewall 120b may provide internal space. The second sidewall 120b may form the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The second sidewall 120b may extend along a front-rear direction or an X-axis direction. The first sidewall 120a and the second sidewall 120b may face each other.

[0067] The battery pack housing 100 may include a third sidewall 120c. The third sidewall 120c may be mounted, fastened, connected, secured, or attached to the substrate 110. The third sidewall 120c provides internal space. The third sidewall 120c shapes the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The third sidewall 120c may extend along a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction. The third sidewalls 120c may be arranged in a pair. The pair of third sidewalls 120c may face each other.

[0068] The battery pack housing 100 may include a battery pack cover 150. The battery pack cover 150 may have a square plate shape. The battery pack cover 150 may have a flat plate shape. The battery pack cover 150 may form the exterior of the battery pack 1000. The battery pack cover 150 may cover the internal space of the battery pack 1000. The battery pack cover 150 may be mounted, fastened, secured, coupled, or attached to at least one of the first sidewall 120a, the second sidewall 120b, and the third sidewall 120c.

[0069] The battery pack 1000 may include partition walls 300. Multiple partition walls 300 may be provided. The partition walls 300 may be mounted, fastened, fixed, connected, or attached to the upper surface of the substrate 110. The partition walls 300 may divide the internal space of the battery pack 1000.

[0070] The partition wall 300 may include a first partition wall 310 and a second partition wall 320. The first partition wall 310 may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple first partition walls 310 may be provided. Multiple first partition walls 310 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The second partition wall 320 may extend along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0071] The battery pack 1000 may include battery cells 200. Battery cells 200 or battery cells 220 may be located in a space separated by partition walls 300. Battery cells 200 may be mounted, fastened, coupled, secured, or attached to a substrate 110. Battery cells 200 may contact the upper surface of the substrate 110. A battery pack cover 150 may cover the battery cells 200 or the battery cells 220 of the battery cells 200.

[0072] The substrate 110 may include a flow path 113. The substrate 110 may include an upper plate 111 and a lower plate 112. The lower plate 112 may be fastened, coupled, assembled, attached, or fixed to the lower surface of the upper plate 111. The upper plate 111 and the lower plate 112 may form the flow path 113. A cooling medium CM may flow through the flow path 113. For example, the cooling medium CM may be water. The substrate 110 may serve as a heat sink or cooling plate. The substrate 110 may exchange heat with the battery cell 220 or battery unit 200.

[0073] The upper plate 111 may include an inlet port 115 communicating with the flow path 113. Cooling medium CM can be supplied to the flow path 113 through the inlet port 115. The upper plate 111 may include an outlet port 114 communicating with the flow path 113. Cooling medium CM can be discharged from the flow path 113 through the outlet port 114.

[0074] The battery pack 1000 may include a venting device 500. The venting device 500 may be mounted on the first sidewall 120a. For example, the venting device 500 may be a valve. When the pressure inside the battery pack housing 100 increases, the venting device 500 may open to release gas. Furthermore, the venting device 500 may prevent outside air from flowing into the battery pack housing 100. Multiple venting devices 500 may be provided.

[0075] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 The diagram shows the battery cell 200. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows some components of the battery cell 200 separated.

[0076] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The frame 210 may have a right-angled parallelepiped shape. The frame 210 may form the appearance of the battery cell 200. The frame 210 may provide internal space. The frame 210 may include an upper frame 211 and a lower frame 212.

[0077] The upper frame 211 may include a top plate 211a. The upper frame 211 may include a first side plate 211c. The first side plates 211c may be arranged in pairs. The first side plates 211c may be respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the top plate 211a. The first side plates 211c may extend downward from the top plate 211a.

[0078] The upper frame 211 may include vents 211b. Vents 211b may be formed in the top plate 211a. Vents 211b may be disposed above multiple battery cells 220. Multiple vents 211b may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple vents 211b may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Exhaust gas G generated inside the battery cell 200 can be discharged through the vents 211b.

[0079] The upper frame 211 may include a first fastening hole 211e. The first fastening hole 211e may be formed in the top plate 211a. A plurality of first fastening holes 211e may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. A plurality of first fastening holes 211e may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0080] The lower frame 212 may include a base plate 212a. The base plate 212a may include second fastening holes 212b. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be provided. The multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The base plate 212a may be disposed between multiple battery cells 220 and the substrate 110.

[0081] The lower frame 212 may include a second side plate 212c. The second side plates 212c may be arranged in pairs. The second side plates 212c may be respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the base plate 212a. The second side plates 212c may extend upward from the base plate 212a.

[0082] The upper frame 211 and the lower frame 212 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled. The first side plate 211c can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled with the second side plate 212c.

[0083] Battery cell 200 may include battery cell 220. Battery cell 220 may be housed within frame 210. Battery cell 220 may refer to a rechargeable battery. For example, battery cell 220 may be a pouch-type rechargeable battery. However, the shape of battery cell 220 is not limited to a pouch shape, and battery cell 220 may have various shapes, such as cylindrical or rectangular parallelepiped.

[0084] The battery cell 220 may extend along a front-to-back direction or an X-axis direction. The battery cell 220 may include a cell housing 220a providing internal space. The cell housing 220a may include a receiving portion 221 for accommodating electrode assemblies, a first sealing portion 222 projecting toward the front and rear sides of the receiving portion 221, respectively, and a second sealing portion 223 projecting upward from the receiving portion 221. The first sealing portion 222 and the second sealing portion 223 may be formed by coupling or attaching to the cell housing 220a. The lower end of the receiving portion 221 may be referred to as a fold portion 226. The fold portion 226 may be formed by folding the cell housing 220a. Furthermore, the battery cell 220 may include electrode leads 224, which project toward the front and rear sides of the first sealing portion 222, respectively. The electrode leads 224 may project toward the front and rear sides of each battery cell 220. The battery cell 220 may include an adhesive member 225 for folding and securing the second sealing portion 223 to the receiving portion 221. The adhesive member 225 can bring the second sealing part 223 into close contact with the receiving part 221. Multiple adhesive members 225 can be provided. These multiple adhesive members 225 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0085] Multiple battery cells 220 can be configured. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Multiple battery cells 220 can form a stack. Multiple battery cells 220 can be disposed between the top plate 211a and the bottom plate 212a.

[0086] The battery cell 200 may include a separator 240. The separator 240 may be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 220. The separator 240 may be disposed between at least some of the battery cells 220 and / or on the outside of the stack. For example, the separator 240 may be configured to be disposed for every ten battery cells 220 stacked in a left-right direction. The separator 240 may separate or divide a plurality of battery cells 220. The separator 240 may be disposed between a top plate 211a and a bottom plate 212a.

[0087] The battery cell 200 may include a blocking member 250. The blocking member 250 may be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 220. The blocking member 250 may be disposed between a top plate 211a and a bottom plate 212a. The blocking member 250 may be disposed between at least some of the battery cells 220 and / or on the outside of the stack. For example, the blocking member 250 may be configured to be disposed between every two battery cells 220 stacked along a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction.

[0088] The blocking member 250 can be disposed on both sides of the separator 240. For example, the separator 240 can be disposed between a pair of blocking members 250.

[0089] The barrier 250 may include an elastic material capable of absorbing the expansion of the battery cell 220. For example, the barrier 250 may be made of a foam material such as polyurethane.

[0090] The barrier 250 may include a material capable of blocking heat or flame. For example, the barrier 250 may be made of a heat-insulating or flame-retardant material such as silicone or mica.

[0091] The battery cell 200 may include a busbar frame assembly 230. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be disposed on the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 220. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to the front electrode leads 224 of the plurality of battery cells 220. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to the rear electrode leads 224 of the plurality of battery cells 220. The front busbar frame assembly 230 may include power terminals.

[0092] The battery cell 200 may include an insulating cover 260. The insulating cover 260 may be disposed on the outside of the busbar frame assembly 230. The insulating cover 260 may be disposed on the rear busbar frame assembly 230 and the front busbar frame assembly 230, respectively. The insulating cover 260 may include a material with electrical insulating properties.

[0093] The battery cell 200 may include a first end cap 271. The first end cap 271 may be disposed outside the front insulating cover 260. The front insulating cover 260 may electrically insulate the first end cap 271 and the front busbar frame assembly 230 from each other.

[0094] The battery cell 200 may include a second end cap 272. The second end cap 272 may be disposed outside the rear insulating cover 260. The rear insulating cover 260 provides electrical insulation between the second end cap 272 and the rear busbar frame assembly 230.

[0095] Battery cell 200 may include reinforcing rods 280. Reinforcing rods 280 may be connected, secured, attached, or assembled to frame 210. Reinforcing rods 280 may be connected, secured, attached, or assembled to upper frame 211. Reinforcing rods 280 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Multiple reinforcing rods 280 may be provided. Multiple reinforcing rods 280 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0096] Battery cell 200 may include connecting rod 290. Reinforcing rod 280, upper frame 211, lower frame 212 and connecting rod 290 may be connected, fastened, attached or assembled.

[0097] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the 280 reinforcement rod.

[0098] Reference Figures 4 to 6The reinforcing rod 280 may include a top 281. The top 281 may extend along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The top 281 may be disposed on the top plate 211a. The top 281 may cover the top plate 211a. The top 281 may cover the upper surface of the top plate 211a.

[0099] The reinforcing rod 280 may include a side portion 282. The side portion 282 may be formed at one end of the top 281. The side portions 282 may be provided in pairs. The pair of side portions 282 may be formed at both ends of the top 281. The pair of side portions 282 may be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the top 281. The side portions 282 may extend downward from the top 281. The side portions 282 may cover the first side plate 211c. The side portions 282 may cover the outer surface of the first side plate 211c. The top 281 and the side portions 282 may be integrally formed.

[0100] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram of the separator 240. Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken by line D-D'.

[0101] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The separator 240 may include a third fastening hole 242. The third fastening hole 242 may be formed in the upper surface of the separator 240. Multiple third fastening holes 242 may be provided. Multiple third fastening holes 242 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0102] The separator 240 may include a fourth fastening hole 243. The fourth fastening hole 243 may be formed in the lower surface of the separator 240. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be provided. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0103] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line A-A'.

[0104] Reference Figure 9 The top plate 211a can contact the upper end of the partition 240. The partition 240 can support the top plate 211a.

[0105] The first fastening member S1 can pass through the top plate 211a. The first fastening member S1 can pass through the first fastening hole 211e. The first fastening member S1 can be fastened, connected, fixed, or assembled to the third fastening hole 242. Multiple first fastening members S1 can be provided. Multiple first fastening members S1 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The first fastening member S1 can fasten, connect, fix, or assemble the top plate 211a and the partition 240.

[0106] The second fastening member S2 can pass through the base plate 212a. The second fastening member S2 can pass through the second fastening hole 212b. The second fastening member S2 can be fastened, connected, fixed, or assembled to the fourth fastening hole 243. Multiple second fastening members S2 can be provided. Multiple second fastening members S2 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The second fastening member S2 can fasten, connect, fix, or assemble the base plate 212a and the separator 240.

[0107] The battery pack cover 150 can be mounted on the top plate 211a. The battery pack cover 150 can be mounted on the reinforcing rod 280. An venting space VS can be formed between the battery cell 200 and the battery pack cover 150. The venting space VS can be formed between the top plate 211a and the battery pack cover 150. The venting space VS can be formed between the upper frame 211 and the battery pack cover 150. The venting space VS can be formed between the reinforcing rod 280 and the battery pack cover 150.

[0108] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 4 A magnified view of part C.

[0109] Reference Figure 10 The reinforcing rod 280 may cover at least a portion of the vent hole 211b. The top 281 may cover multiple vent holes 211b. The portion between adjacent vent holes 211b of the top plate 211a may be referred to as the weak portion 211a1. The weak portion 211a1 may have a small width in the Y-axis direction. The weak portion 211a1 may be prone to thermal deformation when exposed to high temperatures. For example, the top 281 may cover the central portion of the weak portion 211a1.

[0110] In the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G can be discharged through the vent 211b. At this time, the top plate 211a can be exposed to the high-temperature exhaust gas G. The reinforcing rod 280 prevents deformation of the weak portion 211a1. The top 281 supports the weak portion 211a1. The top 281 prevents the weak portion 211a1 from deforming upwards or in the +Z axis direction due to thermal deformation. Because of the top 281, the distance between the top plate 211a and the battery pack cover 150 can remain constant, and the exhaust space VS can be stably ensured.

[0111] Figure 11 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0112] Reference Figure 11The connecting rod 290 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled to the first side plate 211c, the second side plate 212c, and the side portion 282. The third fastening member S3 can fasten the reinforcing rod 280, the lower frame 212, the upper frame 211, and the connecting rod 290. When the upper frame 211 or the lower frame 212 is formed to have a smaller thickness, the connecting rod 290 can provide an appropriate thickness for fastening the third fastening member S3. The side portion 282 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled to the frame 210. The side portion 282 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled to the first side plate 211c. The side portion 282 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled to the second side plate 212c.

[0113] Battery cell 200 can be coupled, secured, attached, or assembled to first partition wall 310. Frame 210 can be coupled, secured, attached, or assembled to first partition wall 310. Fourth fastening member S4 can couple, secure, attach, or assemble frame 210 to first partition wall 310. Fourth fastening member S4 can pass through upper frame 211 and lower frame 212.

[0114] Figure 12 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'. Figure 13 This shows what happens when a thermal event occurs. Figure 12 A graph showing the changes.

[0115] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The separator 240 can be securely connected to the frame 210, thereby suppressing the expansion of the battery cell 220. Therefore, the occurrence of thermal events can be suppressed.

[0116] When expansion occurs within the battery cell 220, the separator 240 can be subjected to pressure in the lateral direction or the Y-axis direction. The separator 240 is connected to the top plate 211a via a first fastening member S1, thereby suppressing deformation caused by expansion. The separator 240 is connected to the bottom plate 212a via a second fastening member S2, thereby suppressing deformation caused by expansion. Therefore, the structure of the battery cell 200 can be stably maintained, and the occurrence of thermal events can be suppressed. Furthermore, the thermal safety of the battery cell 200 can be improved.

[0117] In the event of a thermal event, exhaust gas G can be released from battery cell 220. Exhaust gas G can be released to the outside of battery cell 200 through vent 211b. Exhaust gas G can also be released into exhaust space VS.

[0118] The separator 240 and the top plate 211a can be in close contact with each other. In the event of a thermal event, the separator 240 and the top plate 211a can prevent the exhaust gas G from flowing inside the battery cell 200 in the left-right or Y-axis direction. Therefore, the propagation of the thermal event can be prevented.

[0119] The top 281 of the reinforcing rod 280 can prevent thermal deformation of the weak part 211a1. Therefore, the exhaust space VS can be stably ensured. Since the exhaust space VS is stably ensured, the exhaust gas G can easily diffuse or be discharged. Therefore, the thermal safety of the battery cell 200 or battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0120] The reinforcing bar 280 may include a metallic material. For example, the reinforcing bar 280 may include the same material as the frame 210. For example, the reinforcing bar 280 may include aluminum or steel.

[0121] The reinforcing bar 280 may include a material with high thermal insulation properties. For example, the reinforcing bar 280 may be coated with a material with high thermal insulation properties. Therefore, even when exposed to high-temperature exhaust gas G, the reinforcing bar 280 can stably support the top plate 211a.

[0122] The reinforcing bar 280 may include a material with high flame retardancy or heat resistance. For example, the reinforcing bar 280 may be coated with a material with high flame retardancy or heat resistance. Therefore, even when exposed to high-temperature exhaust gas G or flame, the reinforcing bar 280 can stably support the top plate 211a.

[0123] The reinforcing rod 280 may include a material with electrical insulating properties. For example, the reinforcing rod 280 may be coated with a material with electrical insulating properties. Therefore, the reinforcing rod 280 can electrically insulate the battery pack cover 150 from the battery cell 200.

[0124] For example, the reinforcing bar 280 may include at least one of mica material, silicone material and polycarbonate (PC) material.

[0125] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 11 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0126] Reference Figure 14 The reinforcing rod 280 can be connected, fastened, attached, assembled, or fixed to the top plate 211a. The top 281 can be connected, fastened, attached, assembled, or fixed to the top plate 211a.

[0127] The first fastening member S1 can pass through the reinforcing rod 280. The first fastening member S1 can pass through the top 281. The first fastening member S1 can fasten the reinforcing rod 280 and the top plate 211a. The first fastening member S1 can fasten the top 281 and the top plate 211a.

[0128] Thanks to the first fastening member S1, the reinforcing rod 280, the top plate 211a, and the partition 240 can be more securely connected. Therefore, the rigidity of the top plate 211a, the reinforcing rod 280, or the partition 240 can be further improved.

[0129] Because the reinforcing rod 280, top plate 211a, and separator 240 are secured, the expansion of the battery cell 220 can be more effectively suppressed. Furthermore, because the reinforcing rod 280, top plate 211a, and separator 240 are secured, the weak point 211a1 can be more firmly supported. Therefore, the overall rigidity of the battery cell 200 can be improved, and the thermal safety of the battery cell 200 or battery pack 1000 can be enhanced.

[0130] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of a variant implementation. Figure 16 It is shown Figure 11 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0131] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 The reinforcing rod 280 may include a spacer 283. The spacer 283 may project upward from the top 281. The spacer 283 may be integrally formed with the top 281. Multiple spacers 283 may be provided. Multiple spacers 283 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the top 281. Multiple spacers 283 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0132] Spacer 283 supports battery pack cover 150. In the event of a thermal event, battery pack cover 150 can deform due to the high-temperature exhaust gas G. Spacer 283 is positioned between top plate 211a and battery pack cover 150 to ensure exhaust space VS even when battery pack cover 150 deforms due to heat. Therefore, the exhaust gas G can be facilitated. The distance between top plate 211a and battery pack cover 150 can be ensured at least by the height H1 of spacer 283.

[0133] The battery pack 1000 according to this disclosure may also include various components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of this application, such as a battery management system (BMS), relays, and current sensors.

[0134] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle V according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] Reference Figure 17The battery pack 1000 according to this disclosure can be applied to vehicles such as electric vehicles or hybrid electric vehicles. That is, a vehicle V according to this disclosure may include the battery pack 1000. Furthermore, in addition to the battery pack 1000, the vehicle V according to this disclosure may also include various other components included in the vehicle. For example, the vehicle V according to this disclosure may also include a body, a motor, control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0136] This disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that although preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been pointed out, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: substrate; A frame disposed on the substrate and providing an internal space, the frame including a top plate having vent holes; Multiple battery cells are housed within the frame; A reinforcing rod, configured to cover at least a portion of the vent hole and connected to the frame; as well as A battery pack cover, configured to cover the top plate and the reinforcing bar.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The exhaust ports are configured in multiple ways, and The reinforcing rod covers multiple of the exhaust holes.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The reinforcing rod includes: Top, the top being disposed on the top plate; and The side extends downward from the top and is fastened to the frame.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: A separator is disposed inside the frame and configured to separate the plurality of battery cells and support the top plate.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, further comprising: A first fastening member is configured to pass through the top plate and fasten to the partition.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, in, The first fastening member passes through the reinforcing rod.

7. The battery pack according to claim 4, in, The frame also includes a base plate disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the substrate, and The separator is connected to the base plate.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, further comprising: A second fastening member is configured to pass through the base plate and be fastened to the separator.

9. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The reinforcing rods are configured in multiple ways.

10. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The reinforcing rod is connected to the top plate.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The reinforcing rod includes an upwardly projecting spacer.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, in, The spacers are configured in multiple ways, and The spacers are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing rod.

13. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The reinforcing rod is coated with a material that has electrical insulating properties.

14. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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