Battery pack and battery pack housing

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present application includes a bottom cover assembly having a communication hole formed in an upper surface thereof and a discharge flow path and a first cooling flow path communicating with the communication hole, a battery cell disposed on the bottom cover assembly, a top cover assembly disposed on the battery cell and having a lower surface formed with an injection hole and a second cooling flow path communicating with the injection hole, and a hole cover coupled to the lower surface of the top cover assembly and sealing the injection hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and a battery pack housing.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0022942 filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on February 21, 2025, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2026-0024623 filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on February 6, 2026, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0003] With the significant increase in demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, and the growing popularity of electric vehicles, research is actively being conducted on batteries used in these products, including electric vehicles, especially rechargeable and dischargeable batteries.

[0004] Currently available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are virtually unaffected by the memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, and therefore have attracted widespread attention due to their advantages such as free charging / discharging, extremely low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] Lithium-ion secondary batteries primarily use lithium oxide and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. A lithium-ion secondary battery includes an electrode assembly and an outer casing, i.e., the battery housing, that seals and contains the electrode assembly and electrolyte. Within the electrode assembly, positive and negative electrode plates, coated with the positive and negative active materials respectively, are arranged with a separator inserted between them.

[0006] Generally, based on the shape of the outer packaging material, lithium secondary batteries can be divided into can-type secondary batteries where the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can and bag-type secondary batteries where the electrode assembly is housed in a bag of aluminum laminated sheets.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries have been widely used not only for powering or storing energy in small devices such as portable electronic devices, but also for powering or storing energy in medium and large-sized devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS). Multiple such secondary batteries can be housed together in a module housing while electrically connected to each other, thus forming a single battery module. Here, each secondary battery included in a single battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Subsequently, multiple such battery modules can be connected to each other to form a battery pack.

[0008] However, when multiple battery modules are included within a battery pack in this manner, and each battery module includes multiple battery cells, thermal cascading reactions may easily occur between battery modules or battery cells. For example, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs within one battery module, it is necessary to prevent this thermal runaway from propagating to other battery modules or other battery cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules or battery cells is not properly suppressed, there is a risk that an event occurring in a particular battery module or battery cell may trigger a cascading thermal reaction in other battery modules or other battery cells, thereby causing an explosion or fire, or escalating the scale of the cascading thermal reaction.

[0009] Specifically, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, gases, flames, etc., may be randomly released to the outside. If the release of gases or flames is not properly controlled, there is a risk that gases or flames may be released towards other battery modules, thereby causing a thermal cascade reaction in those modules. In particular, there are module terminals on the front side of the battery module, and therefore, there may also be structures for electrical connection to another battery module or another battery pack, i.e., module busbars. Therefore, when flames are released towards the front side of such a battery module, the module terminals in the battery pack may be damaged and may cause an electrical short circuit. Furthermore, since there may be another battery module on the front side of the battery module, when flames are released towards the front side of a particular battery module, the released flames may be directed towards another battery module, thereby easily causing the fire to spread between battery modules.

[0010] When heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled, a rapid voltage drop can occur within the battery module or battery pack. This can cause equipment containing the battery module or battery pack to suddenly shut down, resulting in accidental damage. For example, if the battery pack voltage suddenly drops while an electric vehicle is in operation, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Furthermore, the risk of injury or death to users is high when a sudden fire or explosion occurs due to inadequate control of heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells. For example, in the event of thermal runaway in an electric vehicle, occupants may not be able to escape safely if sufficient time is not allowed before the fire fully develops. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Technical issues

[0013] This disclosure provides a battery pack, a battery pack housing, and a vehicle including the battery pack and the battery pack housing, wherein the structure of the battery pack is improved so as to enable, for example, appropriate control of the emission of flames generated within the battery module.

[0014] This disclosure provides a structure that enables rapid injection of coolant into a battery module in the event of a thermal event.

[0015] This disclosure provides a structure capable of suppressing heat propagation between battery cells or between battery modules.

[0016] This disclosure provides a structure capable of draining coolant injected into a battery module to the outside of the battery module.

[0017] This disclosure provides a structure that can maintain cooling function even in the event of a thermal event.

[0018] Furthermore, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will be able to clearly understand other unmentioned problems based on the invention description below.

[0019] Technical solution

[0020] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a bottom cover assembly including a communicating hole formed on its upper surface, a discharge channel communicating with the communicating hole, and a first cooling channel; a battery cell located above the bottom cover assembly; a top cover assembly located above the battery cell and including an injection hole formed on its lower surface and a second cooling channel communicating with the injection hole; and a hole cover connected to the lower surface of the top cover assembly and sealing the injection hole.

[0021] The battery pack may also include a first coolant disposed in the first cooling channel.

[0022] The battery pack may further include: a sidewall disposed in the bottom cover assembly; and an exhaust device disposed in the sidewall. The exhaust channel may communicate with the exhaust device.

[0023] The battery pack may also include a second coolant disposed in the second cooling channel.

[0024] The connecting hole can face the battery cell.

[0025] The injection port may be located above the battery cell.

[0026] The discharge channel and the first cooling channel can be constructed independently of each other.

[0027] The battery pack may further include a module housing located between the bottom cover assembly and the top cover assembly, and providing space therein. The battery cells may be housed inside the module housing.

[0028] The module housing may have an inflow hole formed in its upper surface and facing the orifice cover.

[0029] The module housing may have an exhaust port formed in its lower surface and communicating with the communication hole.

[0030] The vent can face the battery cell.

[0031] The battery cell may include: a housing portion including an electrode assembly; a sealing portion extending from the housing portion; and an electrode lead protruding from the sealing portion. The vent may be located below the sealing portion.

[0032] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a battery pack housing is capable of housing a battery pack therein. The battery pack housing includes a bottom cover assembly and a top cover assembly connected to the bottom cover assembly above the bottom cover assembly. The bottom cover assembly includes: a communicating hole formed on its upper surface; a drain channel communicating with the communicating hole; and a first cooling channel configured to allow a first coolant to flow through. The top cover assembly includes: an injection hole formed on its lower surface and configured to allow the injection of a second coolant into the battery pack housed below; and a second cooling channel communicating with the injection hole. Furthermore, the top cover assembly includes a cap connected to its lower surface and sealing the injection hole.

[0033] The orifice cover comprises a material with a melting point below a predetermined temperature.

[0034] The orifice cap comprises polylactic acid (PLA).

[0035] The discharge passage provided in the bottom cover assembly is connected to the outside via an exhaust device and allows the exhaust gas (G) flowing into the discharge passage to be discharged to the outside.

[0036] Vehicles according to one aspect of this disclosure include the battery pack disclosed herein.

[0037] Beneficial effects

[0038] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, coolant can be rapidly injected into the battery module in the event of a thermal event.

[0039] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the thermal stability of the battery pack can be improved.

[0040] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the electrical safety of the battery pack can be improved.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, heat propagation between battery modules can be suppressed when a thermal event occurs.

[0042] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the cooling function can be maintained even in the event of a thermal event. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to further understand the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the matters shown in the drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a view showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 1 A view of the battery pack.

[0046] Figure 3 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 2 A view of the battery pack.

[0047] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 The view of the top cover component.

[0048] Figure 5 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 4 The view of the top cover component.

[0049] Figure 6 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 5 The view of part D.

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional image viewed from below.

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A bottom-view perspective of the top cover assembly.

[0052] Figure 9 It shows along Figure 4 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line B-B'.

[0053] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 4 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line C-C'.

[0054] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 3 A view of the supporting components.

[0055] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 3 A view of the battery module.

[0056] Figure 13Some parts were disassembled. Figure 12 A view of the battery module.

[0057] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 3 A view of some components of the battery pack.

[0058] Figure 15 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 3 A view of the battery pack.

[0059] Figure 16 This is a bottom view of the first upper panel.

[0060] Figure 17 It shows along Figure 14 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line E-E'.

[0061] Figure 18 It shows along Figure 1 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line A-A'.

[0062] Figure 19 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of section F.

[0063] Figure 20 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of section F.

[0064] Figure 21 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of section G.

[0065] Figure 22 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of section G.

[0066] Figure 23 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of the H section.

[0067] Figure 24 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of the H section.

[0068] Figure 25 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of part I.

[0069] Figure 26 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of part I.

[0070] Figure 27This is a view showing the flow in the discharge channel and the first cooling channel.

[0071] Figure 28 This is a view showing a vehicle according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0072] In the various views of the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding parts. The drawings are presented for the sake of brevity and clarity, and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in a better understanding of the various embodiments. Additionally, for easier observation of these different embodiments, common but well-known elements that are useful or necessary in commercially viable embodiments are generally not shown. Detailed Implementation

[0073] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, the terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical concept of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the terms and concepts in order to best illustrate his own invention.

[0074] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely examples of this disclosure and do not represent the entirety of the technical concept of this disclosure. Thus, it should be understood that various equivalent solutions and variations capable of replacing these embodiments and structures may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0075] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a battery pack and a battery pack housing are provided, wherein, in the event of a thermal event, coolant can be rapidly injected into the battery module, thereby improving the thermal and electrical stability of the battery pack.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a view showing a battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 1 A view of the 1000 battery pack. Figure 3 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 2 A view of the 1000 battery pack.

[0077] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The battery pack housing 100 may provide internal space. The battery pack housing 100 may include a bottom cover assembly 110. The bottom cover assembly 110 may have a rectangular shape. The bottom cover assembly 110 may have a flat shape. The bottom cover assembly 110 may form the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The bottom cover assembly 110 provides internal space for the battery pack 1000.

[0078] The battery pack housing 100 may include sidewalls 120. The sidewalls 120 may be mounted, fastened, secured, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of the bottom cover assembly 110. The sidewalls 120 may be provided along the periphery of the bottom cover assembly 110. For example, the sidewalls 120 may be configured as four walls. The sidewalls 120 provide internal space for the battery pack 1000.

[0079] The battery pack housing 100 may include a top cover assembly 150. The top cover assembly 150 may have a rectangular plate shape. The top cover assembly 150 may have a flat plate shape. The top cover assembly 150 may form the exterior of the battery pack 1000. The top cover assembly 150 may cover the internal space of the battery pack 1000. The top cover assembly 150 may be mounted, fastened, secured, coupled, or attached to the sidewall 120.

[0080] A battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure 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 bottom cover assembly 110. The partition walls 300 may divide the internal space of the battery pack 1000. The partition walls 300 may extend in a front-rear direction or an X-axis direction. Multiple partition walls 300 may be arranged in a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery pack 1000 may include mounting beams 400. Multiple mounting beams 400 may be provided. The mounting beams 400 may be mounted, fastened, fixed, connected to, or attached to the upper surface of the bottom cover assembly 110. The mounting beams 400 may partition the internal space of the battery pack 1000. The mounting beams 400 may extend in a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction. Multiple mounting beams 400 may be arranged in a front-back direction or an X-axis direction.

[0082] Battery module 200 may be disposed inside battery pack housing 100. Battery module 200 may be mounted, secured, fixed, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of bottom cover assembly 110. Battery module 200 may be mounted, secured, fixed, coupled, or attached to mounting beam 400. Multiple battery modules 200 may be provided. For example, four battery modules 200 may be provided. Battery module 200 may be located in the space defined by partition wall 300.

[0083] The venting device 500 can be mounted on the side wall 120. For example, the venting device 500 can be mounted on the left side wall 120. For example, the venting device 500 can be a gas valve. When the pressure inside the battery pack housing 100 increases, the venting device 500 can open to release gas. In addition, the venting device 500 can prevent outside air from flowing into the battery pack housing 100. Multiple venting devices 500 can be provided.

[0084] A third heat transfer component 800 may be disposed between the top cover assembly 150 and the battery module 200. A third heat transfer component 800 may be provided for each battery module 200. For example, the third heat transfer component 800 may include a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the third heat transfer component 800 may include resin.

[0085] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A view of the top cover component 150. Figure 5 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 4 A view of the top cover component 150. Figure 6 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 5 The view of part D. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional image viewed from below. Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A bottom-view perspective of the top cover assembly 150. Figure 9 It shows along Figure 4 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line B-B'. Figure 10 It shows along Figure 4 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line C-C'.

[0086] Reference Figures 4 to 10 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a top cover assembly 150 may include a second upper plate 151 and a second lower plate 152. The second upper plate 151 may have a rectangular shape. The second upper plate 151 may form the appearance of a battery pack 1000. The second lower plate 152 may have a rectangular shape. The second lower plate 152 may form the appearance of a battery pack 1000. The second upper plate 151 may be disposed on the second lower plate 152. The top cover assembly 150 may include a second cooling channel 153 therein. The second cooling channel 153 may be disposed between the second upper plate 151 and the second lower plate 152. The top cover assembly 150 may have an injection hole 154. The injection hole 154 may be formed in the second lower plate 152. The injection hole 154 may communicate with the second cooling channel 153. The injection hole 154 may have a rectangular shape. The injection hole 154 may extend in a front-back direction or an X-axis direction. A plurality of injection holes 154 may be provided. The plurality of injection holes 154 may be arranged in a left-right direction or a Y-axis direction.

[0087] Second coolant CL2 (for example, see Figure 18 The second coolant CL2 can flow through the second cooling channel 153. As it flows through the second cooling channel 153, the second coolant CL2 can cool the heat generated by the battery module 200. For example, the second coolant CL2 can be water.

[0088] The top cover assembly 150 may include a port cover 155. The port cover 155 may be attached, coupled, fastened, or fixed to the lower surface of the second lower plate 152. For example, the port cover 155 may be welded to the lower surface of the second lower plate 152. The port cover 155 may seal injection holes 154. The port cover 155 may seal multiple injection holes 154. The port cover 155 may have a rectangular shape. The port cover 155 may have a sheet shape. Multiple port covers 155 may be provided. Multiple port covers 155 may be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple battery modules 200. For example, in... Figure 5 and Figure 7 In this case, four cover plates 155 are provided corresponding to the four battery modules 200.

[0089] The cap 155 may include a polymer material. For example, the cap 155 may include a material with a melting point below 170°C. For example, the cap 155 may include polylactic acid (PLA) material.

[0090] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 3 View of the support member 600.

[0091] Reference Figure 11 The support member 600 may include a first portion 610. The first portion 610 may have a rectangular shape. The connecting hole 611 may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple connecting holes 611 may be provided. The multiple connecting holes 611 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0092] The second portion 620 may extend from the first portion 610. The second portion 620 may extend along the periphery of the upper surface of the battery module 200. The second portion 620 may extend along the periphery of the top plate 211. The support member 600 may have a pair of openings 601. Each opening 601 may be surrounded by the second portion 620 and the first portion 610. The first portion 610 may be located between the pair of openings 601. Each opening 601 may have a rectangular shape.

[0093] The support member 600 may be integrally formed. The first portion 610 and the second portion 620 may be integrally formed. The support member 600 may include an elastic material. For example, the support member 600 may include a silicone material. Alternatively, the support member 600 may include a metallic material. For example, the support member 600 may include an aluminum material.

[0094] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 3 A view of the battery module 200. Figure 13 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 12 A view of the battery module 200.

[0095] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13The module housing 210 may have a cuboid shape. The module housing 210 may form the appearance of the battery module 200. The module housing 210 may provide space inside. The module housing 210 may include a top plate 211 and a lower frame 212.

[0096] The top plate 211 may have an inflow hole 211a. The inflow hole 211a may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple inflow holes 211a may be provided. The multiple inflow holes 211a may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0097] The battery cell 220 can be housed within the module housing 210. Multiple battery cells 220 can be provided. The battery cell 220 can refer to a secondary battery. For example, the battery cell 220 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, the shape of the battery cell 220 is not limited to a pouch shape, and can be various shapes such as cylindrical or cuboid.

[0098] The battery cell 220 may extend in a front-to-back direction or an X-axis direction. The battery cell 220 may include a cell housing 220a providing space within it. The cell housing 220a may include: a receiving portion 221 including an electrode assembly; a first sealing portion 222 protruding towards the front and rear sides of the receiving portion 221, respectively; and a second sealing portion 223 protruding downward from the receiving portion 221. The first sealing portion 222 and the second sealing portion 223 may be formed by joining or attaching the cell housing 220a. The upper end of the receiving portion 221 of the battery cell 220 may be referred to as a fold portion 226. The fold portion 226 may be formed by folding the cell housing 220a. Additionally, the battery cell 220 may include electrode leads 224 protruding towards the front and rear sides of the first sealing portion 222, respectively. The electrode leads 224 may protrude towards the front and rear sides of each battery cell 220. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Each battery cell 220 may include an adhesive member 225, through which a second sealing portion 223 is folded and secured to a receiving portion 221. The adhesive member 225 ensures tight contact between the second sealing portion 223 and the receiving portion 221. Multiple adhesive members 225 may be provided. These multiple adhesive members 225 may be arranged in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0099] The barrier 250 may be disposed between the battery cells 220. The barrier 250 may be disposed between at least some of the battery cells 220 and / or on the outside of the stack. For example, in a configuration of the barrier 250, the barrier 250 may be disposed between every two battery cells 220 stacked in the left-right direction.

[0100] Such a barrier 250 may include an elastic material to absorb the expansion of the battery cell 220. For example, the barrier 250 may be made of a foam material such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the barrier 250 may include a material capable of blocking heat, flames, etc. For example, the barrier 250 may include an insulating material or a fire-retardant material such as silicone or mica.

[0101] The front busbar frame assembly 230 can be disposed in front of a plurality of battery cells 220. The front busbar frame assembly 230 can be electrically connected to the electrode leads 224 on the front side of the battery cells 220.

[0102] The rear busbar frame assembly 230 may be disposed behind a plurality of battery cells 220. The rear busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to electrode leads 224 on the rear side of the battery cells 220. The rear busbar frame assembly 230 may include power terminals 231.

[0103] The lower frame 212 may include a base plate 212a. The battery cell 220 may be disposed between the base plate 212a and the top plate 211 of the lower frame 212. For example, the battery cell 220 may be disposed above the base plate 212a and below the top plate 211 of the lower frame 212.

[0104] The base plate 212a may have a first vent 212b1. The first vent 212b1 may be located on the front side of the base plate 212a. Multiple first vents 212b1 may be provided. The multiple first vents 212b1 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The first vent 212b1 may face the first sealing part 222. The first vent 212b1 may face the electrode lead 224.

[0105] The base plate 212a may have a second vent 212b2. The second vent 212b2 may be located at the center of the base plate 212a. The second vent 212b2 may be located between the first vent 212b1 and the third vent 212b3, which will be described below. Multiple second vents 212b2 may be provided. The multiple second vents 212b2 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The second vent 212b2 may face the receiving portion 221.

[0106] The base plate 212a may have a third vent 212b3. The third vent 212b3 may be located on the rear side of the base plate 212a. Multiple third vents 212b3 may be provided. The multiple third vents 212b3 may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The third vent 212b3 may face the first sealing part 222. The third vent 212b3 may face the electrode lead 224.

[0107] When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 220, the exhaust gas G can be discharged through the first exhaust port 212b1, the second exhaust port 212b2 and the third exhaust port 212b3 of the lower frame 212.

[0108] The lower frame 212 may include side panels 212c. A pair of side panels 212c may be provided. The pair of side panels 212c may be provided on the left and right sides of the base plate 212a, respectively. The side panels 212c may extend upward from the base plate 212a.

[0109] The top plate 211 and the lower frame 212 can be connected, fastened, attached or assembled to each other. The top plate 211 can be connected, fastened, attached or assembled to a pair of side plates 212c of the lower frame 212.

[0110] The first heat transfer member 261 may be disposed between the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212 and the battery cell 220. The first heat transfer member 261 may also be disposed between the receiving portion 221 of the battery cell 220 and the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212. The first heat transfer member 261 may also be disposed between the second sealing portion 223 of the battery cell 220 and the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212. The first heat transfer member 261 may be disposed between the first vent 212b1 and the second vent 212b2 of the base plate 212a. For example, the first heat transfer member 261 may comprise a resin with high thermal conductivity. The first heat transfer member 261 may enable the base plate 212a and the battery cell 220 to be connected or attached to each other.

[0111] The second heat transfer member 262 may be disposed between the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212 and the battery cell 220. The second heat transfer member 262 may be disposed between the receiving portion 221 of the battery cell 220 and the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212. The second heat transfer member 262 may be disposed between the second sealing portion 223 of the battery cell 220 and the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212. The second heat transfer member 262 may be disposed between the third vent 212b3 and the second vent 212b2 of the base plate 212a. For example, the second heat transfer member 262 may comprise a resin with high thermal conductivity. The second heat transfer member 262 may connect or attach the base plate 212a of the lower frame 212 and the battery cell 220 to each other.

[0112] A pair of end caps 270 can be respectively attached, fastened, attached, or assembled to the front and rear sides of the module housing 210. The pair of end caps 270 can cover the front and rear sides of the module housing 210. The end caps 270 can be attached, fastened, attached, or assembled to the top plate 211. The end caps 270 can be attached, fastened, attached, or assembled to a pair of side plates 212c of the lower frame 212. The end caps 270 can have a rectangular shape. The end caps 270 can form the appearance of the battery module 200.

[0113] An insulating cover 240 may be located between the end cap 270 and the busbar frame assembly 230. A pair of insulating covers 240 may be provided. A front insulating cover 240 may be located between the front end cap 270 and the front busbar frame assembly 230. A rear insulating cover 240 may be located between the rear end cap 270 and the rear busbar frame assembly 230. The insulating covers 240 provide electrical insulation between the busbar frame assembly 230 and the end cap 270.

[0114] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 3 A view of some components of the 1000 battery pack. Figure 15 Some parts were disassembled. Figure 3 A view of the 1000 battery pack. Figure 16 This is a bottom view of the first upper panel 111. Figure 17 It shows along Figure 14 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line E-E'.

[0115] Reference Figures 14 to 17 The bottom cover assembly 110 may include a first upper plate 111 and a first lower plate 118. The first upper plate 111 may have a rectangular shape. The first upper plate 111 may form the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The first lower plate 118 may have a rectangular shape. The first lower plate 118 may form the appearance of the battery pack 1000. The first upper plate 111 may be disposed on the first lower plate 118.

[0116] The bottom cover assembly 110 may include a first cooling channel 113 therein. The first cooling channel 113 may be disposed between a first upper plate 111 and a first lower plate 118. The first upper plate 111 may include an inlet 116 and an outlet 117. Each of the inlet 116 and the outlet 117 may communicate with the first cooling channel 113.

[0117] The bottom cover assembly 110 may include a discharge channel 112 inside. The discharge channel 112 may be disposed between the first upper plate 111 and the first lower plate 118. The first upper plate 111 may have a first connecting hole 114a. The first connecting hole 114a may communicate with the discharge channel 112. Multiple first connecting holes 114a may be provided. The multiple first connecting holes 114a may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The multiple first connecting holes 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 may be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple first vent holes 212b1 of the lower frame 212. The multiple first connecting holes 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 may communicate with the multiple first vent holes 212b1 of the lower frame 212.

[0118] The first upper plate 111 of the bottom cover assembly 110 may have a second connecting hole 114b. The second connecting hole 114b may communicate with the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110. Multiple second connecting holes 114b may be provided. The multiple second connecting holes 114b may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The multiple second connecting holes 114b may be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple second vent holes 212b2 of the lower frame 212. The multiple second connecting holes 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110 may communicate with the multiple second vent holes 212b2 of the lower frame 212.

[0119] The first upper plate 111 of the bottom cover assembly 110 may have a third connecting hole 114c. The third connecting hole 114c may communicate with the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110. Multiple third connecting holes 114c may be provided. The multiple third connecting holes 114c may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The multiple third connecting holes 114c may be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple third vent holes 212b3 of the lower frame 212. The multiple third connecting holes 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110 may communicate with the multiple third vent holes 212b3 of the lower frame 212. The third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110 may be located between the first connecting hole 114a and the second connecting hole 114b.

[0120] The first cooling channel 113 and the exhaust channel 112 can be configured independently of each other. For example, the first cooling channel 113 and the exhaust channel 112 may not be connected to each other.

[0121] A first coolant CL1 may flow through a first cooling channel 113. As the first coolant CL1 flows through the first cooling channel 113, it cools the heat generated by the battery module 200. For example, the first coolant CL1 may be water.

[0122] The exhaust gas G discharged through the first exhaust port 212b1, the second exhaust port 212b2 and the third exhaust port 212b3 formed in the bottom plate 212a which is part of the lower frame 212 can flow through the exhaust channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110.

[0123] The flow of the first coolant CL1 and the flow of the exhaust gas G can be formed independently of each other.

[0124] The first upper plate 111 of the bottom cover assembly 110 may have a fourth connecting hole 115. The fourth connecting hole 115 may communicate with a discharge passage 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110. The fourth connecting hole 115 may communicate with a side wall 120. The fourth connecting hole 115 may communicate with an exhaust device 500 disposed in the side wall 120. The exhaust gas G that has flowed into the discharge passage 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 may be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 via the fourth connecting hole 115, the side wall 120 and the exhaust device 500.

[0125] Figure 18 It shows along Figure 1 The view is constructed by the section cut by the section line A-A'.

[0126] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 18 The battery module 200 can be mounted, connected, fastened, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the bottom cover assembly 110. The battery module 200, formed by multiple battery cells 220, can be mounted, connected, fastened, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the first upper plate 111. The battery module 200 can be cooled by a first coolant CL1 flowing through the first cooling channel 113.

[0127] The battery module 200 may be cooled by a second coolant CL2 flowing through the second cooling channel 153. A third heat transfer member 800 may be disposed between the battery module 200 and the top cover assembly 150. The third heat transfer member 800 may contact, connect, or attach to the battery module 200. The third heat transfer member 800 may contact, connect, or attach to the top cover assembly 150. The third heat transfer member 800 may be disposed between the top plate 211 and the second lower plate 152. The third heat transfer member 800 may contact, connect, or attach to the top plate 211. The third heat transfer member 800 may contact, connect, or attach to the second lower plate 152. The third heat transfer member 800 may be disposed in the opening 601. For example, the third heat transfer member 800 may include resin. A first portion 610 and a second portion 620 may limit the filling range of the third heat transfer member 800. The third heat transfer member 800 may be surrounded by the first portion 610 and the second portion 620. The heat generated by the battery module 200 can be transferred to the top cover assembly 150 via the third heat transfer member 800.

[0128] In the event of a thermal event, the structure of the battery pack 1000 may be damaged. However, according to embodiments of this disclosure, even if either the bottom cover assembly 110 or the top cover assembly 150 is damaged, the battery module 200 can continue to be cooled. Therefore, the thermal safety of the battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0129] Figure 19 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of section F. Figure 20 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of section F.

[0130] Reference Figures 18 to 20 The support member 600 can be attached to the upper surface of the battery module 200, such as the upper surface of the top plate 211. The support member 600 can also be attached to the lower surface of the top cover assembly 150, such as the lower surface of the second lower plate 152.

[0131] When the support member 600 is made of metal, it can be brazed to the upper surface of the battery module 200, such as the upper surface of the top plate 211. When the support member 600 is made of metal, it can be brazed to the lower surface of the top cover assembly 150, such as the lower surface of the second lower plate 152.

[0132] According to one embodiment, when the support member 600 includes a metallic material, the support member 600 may be integrally formed with the battery module 200.

[0133] The cap 155 seals the injection port 154. The interior of the second cooling channel 153 can be filled with a second coolant CL2. The second coolant CL2 can flow along the second cooling channel 153. The cap 155 seals the injection port 154 to prevent the second coolant CL2 from leaking through the injection port 154.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the injection port 154 may be located above the battery cell 220. The injection port 154 may face the connection port 611. A cover 155 may be disposed between the injection port 154 and the connection port 611. A support member 600 may be disposed on the lower surface of the cover 155.

[0135] The support member 600 can be fixed between the top cover assembly 150 and the battery module 200. For example, the support member 600 can be fixed between the second lower plate 152 and the top plate 211 of the top cover assembly 150. The first portion 610 can be fixed between the hole cover 155 of the top cover assembly 150 and the top plate 211. The first portion 610 can be compressed between the hole cover 155 and the top plate 211. The support member 600 can support the hole cover 155. The first portion 610 can support the hole cover 155.

[0136] The orifice cap 155 is subject to pressure P from the second coolant CL2 flowing through the second cooling passage 153. A first portion 610 supports the orifice cap 155. The first portion 610 provides a supporting force S to the orifice cap 155. The first portion 610 supports the orifice cap 155 to prevent it from sagging or deforming due to the pressure P of the second coolant CL2. With the aid of the first portion 610, the orifice cap 155 stably seals the inlet port 154.

[0137] The injection hole 154 may face the connection hole 611. The hole cover 155 may be disposed between the injection hole 154 and the connection hole 611. The support member 600 may be disposed on the lower surface of the hole cover 155.

[0138] The connecting hole 611 may face the inflow hole 211a. The connecting hole 611 may communicate with the inflow hole 211a. The connecting hole 611 may have approximately the same dimensions as the inflow hole 211a. The diameter of the connecting hole 611 may be approximately the same as the diameter of the inflow hole 211a. The inflow hole 211a may face the hole cover 155.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the connection hole 611 may have approximately the same size as the injection hole 154. The diameter of the connection hole 611 may be approximately the same as the diameter of the injection hole 154. Therefore, in the event of a thermal event, the hole cap 155 may easily melt or be damaged. As the seals 222 and 223 melt or are damaged, the injection hole 154, the connection hole 611, and the inflow hole 211a become interconnected. The second coolant CL2 can flow into the battery module 200 through the injection hole 154, the connection hole 611, and the inflow hole 211a. Therefore, it is possible to quickly cool the battery cell 220 in the event of a thermal event such as a fire and extinguish the fire.

[0140] Figure 21 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of section G. Figure 22 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of section G.

[0141] Reference Figure 18 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 The first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the first vent 212b1 of the lower frame 212. With this structure, the first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the battery cell 220. The first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the first sealing portion 222 of the battery cell 220. Additionally, the first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the electrode leads 224 of the battery cell 220.

[0142] In the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G generated by the battery cell 220 can flow into the exhaust channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the first exhaust port 212b1 of the lower frame 212 and the first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110. The exhaust gas G flowing into the exhaust channel 112 can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 through the fourth connecting hole 115, the side wall 120 and the exhaust device 500.

[0143] In the event of a thermal event, the second coolant CL2 that has already flowed into the battery module 200 can flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the first vent 212b1 of the lower frame 212 and the first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110. If the second coolant CL2 remains inside the battery module 200, it may cause faults such as electrical short circuits. However, with the help of the first vent 212b1 of the lower frame 212 and the first connecting hole 114a of the bottom cover assembly 110, the second coolant CL2 can quickly cool the battery cells 220 of the battery module 200 and flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110, thus preventing electrical faults. Therefore, the thermal and electrical stability of the battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0144] Figure 23 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of the H section. Figure 24 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of the H section.

[0145] Reference Figure 18 , Figure 23 and Figure 24 The second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the second vent 212b2 of the lower frame 212. With this structure, the second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the battery cell 220. The second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the receiving portion 221 and the second sealing portion 223 of the battery cell 220.

[0146] In the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G can flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the second vent 212b2 of the lower frame 212 and the second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110. The exhaust gas G flowing into the discharge channel 112 can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 through the fourth connecting hole 115, the side wall 120 and the exhaust device 500.

[0147] In the event of a thermal event, the second coolant CL2 that has already flowed into the battery module 200 can flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the second vent 212b2 of the lower frame 212 and the second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110. When the second coolant CL2 remains inside the battery module 200, it may cause faults such as electrical short circuits. However, with the help of the second vent 212b2 of the lower frame 212 and the second connecting hole 114b of the bottom cover assembly 110, the second coolant CL2 can quickly cool the battery cell 220 and flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110, thus preventing electrical faults. Therefore, the thermal and electrical stability of the battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0148] Figure 25 It is shown at an enlarged scale. Figure 18 The view of part I. Figure 26 This is a magnified view showing the occurrence of a thermal event. Figure 18 The view of part I.

[0149] Reference Figure 18 , Figure 25 and Figure 26 The third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the third vent hole 212b3 of the lower frame 212. With this structure, the third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the battery cell 220. For example, the third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110 can face the first sealing portion 222 and the electrode lead 224 of the battery cell 220.

[0150] In the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G can flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the third vent 212b3 of the lower frame 212 and the third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110. The exhaust gas G flowing into the discharge channel 112 can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 1000 through the fourth connecting hole 115, the side wall 120 and the exhaust device 500.

[0151] In the event of a thermal event, the second coolant CL2 that has already flowed into the battery module 200 can flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110 through the third vent 212b3 of the lower frame 212 and the third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110. When the second coolant CL2 remains inside the battery module 200, it may cause faults such as electrical short circuits. However, with the help of the third vent 212b3 of the lower frame 212 and the third connecting hole 114c of the bottom cover assembly 110, the second coolant CL2 can quickly cool the battery cells 220 and flow into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110, thus preventing electrical faults. Therefore, the thermal and electrical stability of the battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0152] Figure 27 This is a view showing the flow in the discharge channel 112 and the first cooling channel 113.

[0153] Reference Figure 27 When a thermal event occurs, the exhaust gas G and the second coolant CL2 discharged through the first exhaust port 212b1, the second exhaust port 212b2 and the third exhaust port 212b3 of the lower frame 212 can flow through the exhaust channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110.

[0154] The flow of the first coolant CL1 and the flow of the exhaust gas G can be formed independently of each other, and therefore these flows can be separated from each other. Furthermore, the flow of the first coolant CL1 and the flow of the second coolant CL2 can be formed independently of each other, and therefore these flows can be separated from each other.

[0155] When a thermal event occurs, the second coolant CL2 is injected into the battery module 200 and flows into the discharge channel 112 formed in the bottom cover assembly 110, thereby reducing the cooling function of the top cover assembly 150. Even with the reduced cooling function of the top cover assembly 150, the first coolant CL1 can still flow through the first cooling channel 113, simultaneously cooling the heat generated by the battery module 200. Therefore, the thermal and electrical stability of the battery pack 1000 can be improved.

[0156] Figure 28 This is a view showing a vehicle V according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0157] Reference Figure 28 The battery pack 1000 according to this disclosure can be applied to a vehicle V such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The vehicle V according to this disclosure may include the battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. In addition to such a 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, an electronic control unit (ECU), and other control devices.

[0158] At the same time, although terms indicating direction, such as up, down, left, right, front, and back, are used in this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that these terms are merely for ease of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the target object, the position of the observer, etc.

[0159] As described above, although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and accompanying drawings, it is not limited thereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure and within the equivalents of the claims described below.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: A bottom cover assembly, the bottom cover assembly including a connecting hole formed in its upper surface, a discharge channel communicating with the connecting hole, and a first cooling channel; A battery cell, located above the bottom cover assembly; A top cover assembly, located above the battery cell, includes an injection hole formed in its lower surface and a second cooling channel communicating with the injection hole; as well as A cap is attached to the lower surface of the top cover assembly and configured to seal the injection port.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: The first coolant is placed in the first cooling channel.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: Sidewall, the sidewall being disposed on the bottom cover assembly; as well as An exhaust device is disposed in the side wall. The discharge channel is connected to the exhaust device.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: The second coolant is disposed in the second cooling channel.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting hole faces the battery cell.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The injection hole is located above the battery cell.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The discharge channel and the first cooling channel are configured independently of each other.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: A module housing, located between the bottom cover assembly and the top cover assembly, and defining a space within the module housing. The battery cell is housed inside the module housing.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein, The module housing has an inflow hole formed in its upper surface and facing the hole cover.

10. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein, The module housing has an exhaust port formed in its lower surface and communicating with the communication hole.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein, The vent faces the battery cell.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The battery cell includes: The receiving portion includes an electrode assembly; A sealing portion, the sealing portion extending from the receiving portion; and Electrode leads, the electrode leads protruding from the sealing portion. The vent is located below the sealing part.

13. A battery pack housing for accommodating a battery pack therein, the battery pack housing comprising: A bottom cover assembly and a top cover assembly, wherein the top cover assembly is connected to the bottom cover assembly above the bottom cover assembly. The bottom cover assembly includes: a communicating hole formed in its upper surface; a discharge channel communicating with the communicating hole; and a first cooling channel designed to allow the flow of a first coolant. The top cover assembly includes: an injection port formed in its lower surface and configured to allow injection of a second coolant into the battery pack housed below; and a second cooling channel communicating with the injection port. The top cover assembly includes a cap that is attached to the lower surface of the top cover assembly and seals the injection port.

14. The battery pack housing according to claim 13, wherein, The orifice cover comprises a material with a melting point below a predetermined temperature.

15. The battery pack housing according to claim 14, wherein, The orifice cap comprises polylactic acid (PLA).

16. The battery pack housing according to claim 13, wherein, The discharge passage provided in the bottom cover assembly is connected to the outside via an exhaust device and allows the exhaust gas (G) flowing into the discharge passage to be discharged to the outside.

17. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to claim 1.

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