Battery pack and vehicle comprising the same

Abstract

A battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells, a battery pack case having a plurality of frames in each of which a cavity is formed, thereby accommodating the plurality of battery cells, and a heat absorbing material inserted in an inner cavity of at least one of the respective frames, absorbing heat and undergoing a phase change when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, and then being able to move toward the battery cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0194502, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 23, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Secondary batteries are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric power sources. These secondary batteries are highly adaptable in terms of product variety and possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density. Such secondary batteries are gaining attention as a new energy source for enhancing environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, not only because of their major advantage of significantly reducing fossil fuel use but also because they do not produce byproducts from energy use.

[0004] Currently widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells can be connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charging / discharging capacity, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to configure a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or battery pack can be configured differently depending on the required output voltage or charging / discharging capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, because battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade when used in environments exceeding suitable temperatures. Furthermore, if thermal control is not properly maintained at the appropriate temperature, there remains a potential risk of accidental fire or explosion. In particular, when a thermal event such as thermal runaway occurs within a battery pack comprising multiple battery modules, high-temperature gases or flames emanating from the battery cells may spread to adjacent battery modules, potentially causing a chain reaction that could lead to module explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0006] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a structure that can prevent heat from spreading to adjacent battery modules in the event of thermal runaway within a battery module. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] This disclosure is designed to address problems in the related art, and therefore aims to provide a battery pack that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules by minimizing the thermal energy transferred to adjacent battery modules in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module, thereby improving safety and reliability.

[0009] Furthermore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a vehicle that includes such a battery pack.

[0010] 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 of the invention that are not mentioned above.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, the battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a battery pack housing including a plurality of frames having hollow spaces formed therein and configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells; and a heat-absorbing material disposed within the hollow space of at least one of the plurality of frames and configured to absorb heat and undergo a phase change in the event of a thermal event in the battery cells, and then move toward the battery cells.

[0013] At least one of the plurality of frames may have through holes formed in its inner surface and is configured to allow the phase-change endothermic material to move inward.

[0014] The battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a module housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells grouped together, and a plurality of vent holes are formed on one surface of the module housing.

[0015] The heat-absorbing material undergoing phase change can be configured to flow into the interior of the module housing through the vent.

[0016] The battery pack housing may include a first frame, the first frame being configured such that the battery cells are mounted on the first frame and the heat-absorbing material is disposed within its hollow space.

[0017] The battery pack housing may include a second frame configured to surround the side of the battery cell and to provide the heat-absorbing material within its hollow space.

[0018] The battery pack housing may include a third frame configured to separate the battery cells and to provide the heat-absorbing material within its hollow space.

[0019] The battery pack housing may include a fourth frame disposed above the battery cell, and the fourth frame has a channel formed in its hollow space that allows heat-absorbing material undergoing phase change to move through.

[0020] The battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include an insertion member configured to be at least partially inserted into the through-hole and spaced from the through-hole by the phase-change heat-absorbing material.

[0021] The battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a refractory sheet configured to cover the inner surface of the battery pack housing.

[0022] The refractory sheet may be provided by adhering it to the inner surface of the battery pack housing using an adhesive member.

[0023] The fire-resistant sheet can be configured to cover the battery cell by being separated from the inner surface of the battery pack housing by the insertion member when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell.

[0024] The battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include: an inner side plate, the inner side plate being disposed inwardly spaced from the inner surface of the battery pack housing; and a fire extinguishing material disposed between the inner surface of the battery pack housing and the inner side plate.

[0025] An inlet may be formed in the inner side plate to allow the fire extinguishing material to flow into the battery cell.

[0026] The inner panel may include a cover member configured to cover the inlet and rupture due to pressure from the extinguishing material.

[0027] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a vehicle that includes a battery pack according to this disclosure.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] According to one aspect of this disclosure, in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module, a heat-absorbing material disposed within the battery pack housing can absorb heat generated from the battery cells or battery module, while undergoing a phase change. This allows for a reduction in the temperature of the battery module without a separate power supply or control device.

[0030] Therefore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module, the thermal energy received by adjacent battery modules can be minimized. This prevents or suppresses the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0031] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, in the event of thermal runaway in the battery module, a fire-resistant sheet is configured to cover the battery module, thereby extinguishing any flames generated within the battery module.

[0032] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, in the event of thermal runaway in the battery module, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gases or flames emitted from the battery module from entering other battery modules.

[0033] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, events such as fires or explosions caused by thermal runaway of the battery pack or a device equipped with the battery pack can be prevented or delayed.

[0034] In addition, this disclosure may have various other effects, and these effects will be described in various embodiments, or descriptions of effects that can be readily deduced by those skilled in the art will be omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0035] 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.

[0036] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I' in the diagram.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 5 It is a schematic perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack as viewed from above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 7 This is a bottom perspective view of the fourth frame included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0047] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0049] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] 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 based on the principle of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation, and on the meaning and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure.

[0051] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and does not represent the full 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.

[0052] Furthermore, this disclosure may include various embodiments. Additionally, in each embodiment, repeated descriptions of substantially the same or similar structures are omitted, and descriptions are based on their differences.

[0053] At the same time, although terms indicating directions 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 the convenience of interpretation with reference to the accompanying drawings and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the observer's position.

[0054] For example, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure can represent the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can represent the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction can represent the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0055] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be, for example, along... Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram. Furthermore, Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0056] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack 1 includes a battery cell 100, a battery pack housing 200, and a heat-absorbing material M.

[0057] refer to Figure 2 The system may include multiple battery cells 100. Furthermore, although not shown in the figures, the multiple battery cells 100 may include electrode assemblies, a cell housing housing the electrode assemblies, and electrode leads connected to the electrode assemblies and extending outward from the cell housing to serve as electrode terminals. In this configuration, the multiple battery cells 100 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0058] The battery cell 100 can be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell casing of the pouch-type secondary battery can be configured in the form of a pouch, wherein aluminum metal layers are inserted between polymer layers.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 100 can be arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) and upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0060] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to a specific type or shape of the battery cell 100, and various battery cells 100 known at the time of submission of this disclosure can be used to form the battery pack 1 of this disclosure. Although this embodiment will be described based on a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking, it should be understood, as shown in the accompanying drawings, that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries can also be used as battery cells 100.

[0061] The battery pack housing 200 can be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells 100. The battery pack housing 200 can be configured in the shape of a box including a plurality of beams or frames. The battery pack housing 200 can have a receiving space formed to accommodate the plurality of battery cells 100. The receiving space is an empty space and can be configured to accommodate the battery cells 100 therein.

[0062] The battery pack housing 200 may be made of or include materials that ensure mechanical rigidity (such as metals like steel or SUS, or plastics) to securely protect the battery cells 100 housed therein.

[0063] Reference Figure 3 At least one of the multiple frames of the battery pack housing 200 may have a hollow space formed therein. A heat-absorbing material M may be disposed within the hollow space of at least one of the multiple frames. The heat-absorbing material M may be configured to absorb heat. The heat-absorbing material M may be configured to change its material phase by absorbing heat. For example, the heat-absorbing material M may comprise a material that undergoes a phase change (e.g., vaporization, transformation, or sublimation) or chemical reaction at room temperature or in an environment above a certain temperature, or may be made of a material that undergoes a phase change (e.g., vaporization, transformation, or sublimation) at room temperature or in an environment above a certain temperature, thereby producing a fire-extinguishing material.

[0064] For example, the heat-absorbing material M can be a solid at room temperature, and when the temperature exceeds a certain level, the heat-absorbing material M can absorb heat and transform into a gas. For example, the heat-absorbing material M can include solid carbon dioxide.

[0065] As another example, the heat-absorbing material M can be a liquid at room temperature. For example, the heat-absorbing material M can include water or a phase change material (PCM).

[0066] Specifically, refer to Figure 4 The heat-absorbing material M can be configured to absorb heat and undergo a phase change when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, and then move towards the battery cell 100. The heat-absorbing material M' after the phase change can be a gas. Therefore, the phase-change heat-absorbing material M' can move towards the battery cell 100 to absorb heat from the battery cell 100 and reduce its temperature.

[0067] According to the configuration implemented in this disclosure, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 100, the heat of the battery cell 100 can be absorbed through an endothermic reaction such as evaporation or sublimation. Furthermore, according to the configuration implemented in this disclosure, the heat-absorbing material M can convert and absorb heat from exhaust gases, flames, etc., thereby reducing the temperature of the high-temperature exhaust gases or active material particles. Therefore, the temperature of the battery cell 100 can be reduced without a separate power supply or control device.

[0068] Therefore, according to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in battery cell 100, the thermal energy received by adjacent battery cells 100 can be minimized. Thus, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack 1 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0069] See Figure 3 and Figure 4 A through-hole TH can be formed in the battery pack housing 200. The through-hole TH can be formed in at least one of the multiple frames. The through-hole TH can be formed in the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200. The through-hole TH can be configured to allow the heat-absorbing material M' undergoing phase change to move inward. That is, the through-hole TH can be configured to connect the housing space of the battery cell 100 with the hollow space of the frame.

[0070] Multiple through holes (TH) can be set. Multiple through holes (TH) can be set at regular intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis direction).

[0071] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, the phase-change heat-absorbing material M' can move towards the battery cell 100 through the through-hole TH, thereby directly reducing the temperature of the battery cell 100. Furthermore, according to the configuration implemented above in this invention, when the phase-change heat-absorbing material M' moves inward, the pressure exerted by the exhaust gas or flame that is easily moved to the outside can be reduced. Therefore, heat propagation to other battery cells 100 can be minimized, thereby suppressing or preventing the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack 1.

[0072] Figure 5 It is a schematic perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] refer to Figure 5 Multiple battery cells 100 can be modularized into one or more battery modules 10. That is, the battery pack 1 according to this disclosure may include one or more battery modules 10. Furthermore, the multiple battery cells 100 may be included as components of one or more battery modules 10. In this case, the multiple battery cells 100 included in the battery module 10 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0074] Furthermore, multiple battery modules 10 can be disposed within the battery pack housing 200. That is, the battery pack 1 according to this disclosure includes multiple battery modules 10, and multiple battery cells 100 included in the battery pack 1 can be divided and included in the multiple battery modules 10.

[0075] Multiple battery modules 10 can be arranged within the battery pack housing 200 along at least one direction. For example, as Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, a total of six battery modules 10 can be arranged in three rows along the front-back direction of the battery pack housing 200 and in two columns along the left-right direction of the battery pack housing 200.

[0076] Specifically, the battery pack 1 according to this disclosure may include a module housing 11. The module housing 11 may be configured to form an internal hollow space to accommodate at least some of the plurality of battery cells 100 within the internal space. Specifically, the module housing 11 may be included in each battery module 10, thereby grouping the plurality of battery cells 100 into a plurality of battery modules 10, and serving as a boundary to physically define the internal space of each battery module 10.

[0077] In addition, although not shown in the figure, the battery module 10 may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals that are electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 100 housed in the battery module 10.

[0078] An exhaust port VH may be formed in the module housing 11. The exhaust port VH may be configured to allow exhaust gases generated from the battery cell 100 housed within the module housing 11 to be discharged to the outside of the module housing 11.

[0079] Specifically, the exhaust port VH can achieve directional exhaust in a specific direction. For example, it can also be like... Figure 5 As shown, an exhaust port VH can be formed in the upper surface of the module housing 11, through which directional exhaust towards the top of the battery module 10 can be achieved. Multiple exhaust ports VH can be arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction).

[0080] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, in the event that one of the battery cells 100 experiences thermal runaway and generates gas, the gas can be rapidly discharged from the module housing 11 in a specific direction.

[0081] As described above, the vent VH located on the upper surface of the module housing 11 can be configured to discharge gas or flame generated within the battery module 10 to the outside of the battery module 10 in the event of thermal runaway. The remaining portion of the module housing 11, except for the vent VH, can be sealed, and the gas or flame can be discharged in a straight line toward the vent VH.

[0082] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, regardless of the location of the thermal event in the battery cell 100, the gas or flame generated in the battery cell 100 can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through a specific vent VH provided above the battery cell 100, thereby facilitating venting.

[0083] Refer to Figure 4The heat-absorbing material M' after phase change can be configured to flow into the interior of the module housing 11 through the vent VH. When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the heat-absorbing material M absorbs heat, turns into gas, and then flows into the interior of the module housing 11 through the vent VH.

[0084] In this configuration, the frame of the battery pack housing 200 with through-holes TH can be configured to face a surface of the module housing 11 with vent holes VH. That is, the through-holes TH can be configured to face the vent holes VH. The number and location of the through-holes TH can correspond to the number and location of the vent holes VH.

[0085] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, the heat-absorbing material M after phase change can move through the through-hole TH into the housing space of the battery cell 100, and then directly into the module housing 11 through the vent hole VH. Therefore, the temperature of the battery cell 100 can be reduced more quickly.

[0086] Furthermore, according to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, when the phase-change heat-absorbing material M' moves into the module housing 11, the pressure exerted by exhaust gas or flame that easily escapes to the outside through the vent hole VH can be reduced. Therefore, thermal runaway between the battery modules 10 can be suppressed or prevented.

[0087] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from above, and Figure 7 This is a bottom perspective view of the fourth frame included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 Together with Figures 1 to 4 As described above, the battery pack housing 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a plurality of frames. More specifically, the battery pack housing 200 may include a first frame 210 and a second frame 220.

[0089] The first frame 210 can form the lower surface of the battery pack housing 200 and can be formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The first frame 210 can be configured to allow multiple battery cells 100 to be disposed on its upper surface. In addition, the first frame 210 can have a flat upper surface on which multiple battery modules 10 can be stably disposed.

[0090] Reference Figure 3 A hollow space can be formed within the first frame 210. That is, a hollow space can be formed within the first frame 210, and a heat-absorbing material M can be provided within this hollow space.

[0091] With the configuration described above, more heat can be applied to the heat-absorbing material M that directly faces the battery cell 100. Therefore, the heat-absorbing material M can absorb heat and undergo a rapid phase change, thus moving towards the battery cell 100.

[0092] The second frame 220 may extend upward from a corresponding edge of the first frame 210. The second frame 220 may have multiple unit walls to surround multiple battery cells 100. More specifically, the multiple second frames 220 may each include a right wall disposed at the -Y direction end of the first frame 210, a rear wall disposed at the +X direction end, a left wall disposed at the +Y direction end, and a front wall disposed at the -X direction end to form the side surface of the battery pack housing 200.

[0093] Reference Figure 6 A hollow space can be formed within the second frame 220. That is, a hollow space can be formed within the second frame 220, and a heat-absorbing material M can be placed in this hollow space.

[0094] With the configuration described above, more heat can be applied to the heat-absorbing material M that directly faces the battery cell 100. Therefore, the heat-absorbing material M can absorb heat and undergo a rapid phase change, thus moving towards the battery cell 100.

[0095] The battery pack housing 200 may be provided with a vent. The vent may be configured to discharge substances released from the battery cell 100 to the outside of the battery pack housing 200. The vent may be provided, for example, on the second frame 220.

[0096] The vent can be provided in the form of a hole extending between the inner and outer sides of the battery pack housing 200. Alternatively, the vent can be provided in the form of a venting device configured to be installed into the battery pack housing 200 and activated when release substances are generated within the battery pack housing 200.

[0097] At the same time, based on Figure 2 The number and location of the exhaust sections described in the implementation are merely examples and can be changed to other numbers and locations.

[0098] The battery pack housing 200 may include a third frame 230. The third frame 230 may be provided to separate a plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the third frame 230 may be configured as a partition wall extending in the front-rear direction and may be inserted between battery modules 10 arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the third frame 230 may be configured as a partition wall extending in the left-right direction and may be inserted between battery modules 10 arranged adjacent to each other in the front-rear direction.

[0099] The third frame 230 can be configured to protrude further upward than the battery cell 100. This configuration prevents heat or flame from flowing directly between the battery cells 100, which are separated into different storage spaces by the third frame 230.

[0100] Reference Figure 6 A hollow space can be formed within the third frame 230. That is, a hollow space can be formed within the third frame 230, thereby providing heat-absorbing material M within the hollow space.

[0101] With the configuration described above, more heat can be applied to the heat-absorbing material M that directly faces the battery cell 100. Therefore, the heat-absorbing material M can absorb heat and undergo a rapid phase change, thus moving towards the battery cell 100.

[0102] The fourth frame 240 can be configured to cover the top of the plurality of battery cells 100. The fourth frame 240 can be configured to cover the upper opening of the battery pack housing 200. The fourth frame 240 can be coupled to the second frame 220. The fourth frame 240 can protect components (e.g., battery cells 100) housed within the battery pack housing 200 and prevent substances released from the battery cells 100 from being discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 200, particularly upwards.

[0103] Reference Figure 7 The fourth frame 240 can have a hollow space formed within it. The fourth frame 240 can have channels formed within the hollow space (in... Figure 4 The path represented by P in the diagram allows the heat-absorbing material M' after phase change to move through this channel. The hollow space of the fourth frame 240 can be configured to communicate with the hollow space of at least one of the first frames 210 to the third frames 230.

[0104] In this configuration, the fourth frame 240 can be configured to face the vent VH. Furthermore, the fourth frame 240 can have a through-hole TH formed in the inner surface 240a.

[0105] Specifically, refer to Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the heat-absorbing material M disposed in at least one of the first frame 210 to the third frame 230 can absorb heat and undergo a phase change. The phase-changed heat-absorbing material M' can then move into the hollow space of the fourth frame 240. Furthermore, the heat-absorbing material can move towards the battery cell 100 through the through-hole TH of the fourth frame 240.

[0106] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, the space where the heat-absorbing material M is disposed before heat absorption can be separated from the movable space of the heat-absorbing material M' after phase change. This provides sufficient time for the heat-absorbing material M to absorb heat and undergo phase change.

[0107] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The battery pack housing 200 may include a partition wall W. The partition wall W may be disposed in at least one of the third frame 230 and the fourth frame 240. The partition wall W may be configured to divide the hollow space within the frame into multiple spaces. The partition wall W may be disposed within the third frame 230, which is disposed between multiple battery modules 10.

[0108] The partition wall W can be configured to individually separate the battery module 10. Within the first frame 210, the second frame 220, and the third frame 230, a single battery module 10 can be configured to be surrounded by a heat-absorbing material M enclosed by the partition wall W.

[0109] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, partition walls W can be provided in the hollow space of the frame to separate multiple battery modules 10. Therefore, when a thermal event occurs in a battery module 10, only the heat-absorbing material M surrounding each battery module 10 can absorb heat and undergo a phase change. Therefore, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module 10, an endothermic reaction may rapidly occur around the battery module 10 where the event occurred, thereby absorbing heat from that battery module 10.

[0110] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, heat propagation to other battery modules 10 can be minimized, thereby preventing any impact on other battery modules 10. Therefore, thermal runaway propagation within the battery pack 1 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0111] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack during a thermal event according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0112] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The battery pack 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an insertion member 300. The insertion member 300 may be configured to cover the through-hole TH. The insertion member 300 may be configured to be at least partially inserted into the through-hole TH. The insertion member 300 may be configured as a plug that closes the through-hole TH.

[0113] Multiple insertion members 300 can be provided, with one insertion member for each through hole TH. The insertion member 300 can be provided on the inner surface 240a of the fourth frame 240 where the through hole TH is formed.

[0114] When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100, the insertion member 300 can be configured to separate from the through-hole TH. That is, the insertion member 300 can be configured to open the through-hole TH when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100.

[0115] For example, as in Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the insertion member 300 can be configured to be completely separated from the through-hole TH by the phase-change endothermic material M'. Specifically, the insertion member 300 can be configured to move inward due to the vapor pressure of the phase-change endothermic material M' and separate from the through-hole TH.

[0116] Alternatively, the insert member 300 may be configured to melt due to heat from the exhaust gas or the like.

[0117] See Figure 9 Among the multiple insertion members 300, only the insertion member 300 disposed in the battery module 10 where a thermal event has occurred can be separated from the through hole TH. When the insertion member 300 disposed above the battery module 10 where a thermal event has occurred is separated from the through hole TH, the phase change heat-absorbing material M' can move toward the battery module 10 through the through hole TH.

[0118] In addition, the remaining insertion members 300 provided in the adjacent battery modules 10 are not separated from the through hole TH, thereby preventing exhaust gas or flame from flowing into other battery modules 10.

[0119] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell 100, the temperature of each battery module 10 can be reduced individually, thereby minimizing heat propagation to battery cells 100 disposed in other battery modules 10. In other words, according to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, even if a thermal event occurs in one battery module 10, it can prevent it from affecting other battery modules 10. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack 1 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0120] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack during a thermal event according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0121] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11The battery pack 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a refractory sheet. The refractory sheet 400 may be disposed on the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200. The refractory sheet 400 may be configured to cover the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200. For example, the refractory sheet 400 may be disposed on the inner surface 240a of the fourth frame 240. The refractory sheet 400 may be configured to cover the through-hole TH from the inside.

[0122] Fire-resistant sheet 400 can be configured as a sheet. Fire-resistant sheet 400 can be made of materials with excellent fire resistance. For example, fire-resistant sheet 400 can be made of flame-retardant sheet. Flame-retardant sheet can be made of special fiber materials designed to suppress fire damage or prevent the spread of flames. For example, fire-resistant sheet 400 can be made of quartz fiber, glass fiber, Kevlar (aramid), or specially coated fabric.

[0123] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, by providing the fire-resistant sheet 400, even when a thermal event occurs in one battery module 10, the diffusion of exhaust gases, flames, heat, etc., to other battery modules 10 can be further suppressed.

[0124] Reference Figure 10 The refractory sheet 400 can be attached to the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 via the adhesive member 500. The adhesive member 500 can be formed using an adhesive. The refractory sheet 400 can also be attached to the inner surface 240a of the fourth frame 240 via the adhesive member 500. Furthermore, the refractory sheet 400 can also be attached to the insertion member 300.

[0125] Reference Figure 11 The refractory sheet 400 can be configured to separate from the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 in the event of a thermal event in the battery cell 100. Specifically, the refractory sheet 400 can separate from the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 when the insertion member 300 moves inward due to the vapor pressure of the phase-change endothermic material M. Furthermore, the adhesive member 500 can be melted by heating, thereby allowing the refractory sheet 400 to separate from the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 more quickly.

[0126] The separate refractory sheet 400 can be configured to cover the battery cell 100 or the battery module 10. The refractory sheet 400 can be configured to cover the upper surface of the module housing 11. The refractory sheet 400 can be configured to cover the vent hole VH.

[0127] According to the configuration implemented in this disclosure, when the refractory sheet 400 separates from the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 and covers the battery cell 100 or battery module 10, the oxygen supply is cut off, resulting in oxygen deficiency and extinguishing. Therefore, the flame can be suppressed or extinguished.

[0128] Furthermore, according to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, since the separate fire-resistant sheet 400 covers the vent hole VH, flames and the like can be suppressed from being emitted to the outside of the module housing 11 through the vent hole VH. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery modules 10 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0129] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs, according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0130] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The battery pack 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an inner side plate 600. The inner side plate 600 may be disposed inside the battery pack housing 200. The inner side plate 600 may be configured to be spaced inwardly from the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200. For example, the inner side plate 600 may be configured to be spaced inwardly from the inner surface 240a of the fourth frame 240.

[0131] Furthermore, the battery pack 1 according to embodiments of this disclosure may also include fire extinguishing material E. The fire extinguishing material E may be inserted between the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 and the inner side plate 600. For example, the fire extinguishing material E may fill the space between the inner surface 240a of the fourth frame 240 and the inner side plate 600.

[0132] Extinguishing material E can be configured to suppress or extinguish flames. Extinguishing material E can be configured as a liquid at room temperature. For example, extinguishing material E may include water.

[0133] An inlet 610 may be formed in the inner side plate 600. The inlet 610 may be provided in the form of a hole penetrating a portion of the inner side plate 600. Multiple inlets 610 may be provided. The multiple inlets 610 may be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction.

[0134] Inlet 610 can be configured to connect the space between the inner side plate 600 and the battery pack housing 200 to the receiving space. Therefore, inlet 610 can be configured to allow the extinguishing material E to flow toward the battery cell 100. The extinguishing material E disposed between the inner side plate 600 and the inner surface of the battery pack housing 200 can be configured to be sprayed toward the battery cell 100 through inlet 610.

[0135] The inner side panel 600 may include a cover member 620. The cover member 620 may be configured to cover the inlet 610. The cover member 620 may be disposed on the inner surface of the inner side panel 600.

[0136] See Figure 13The cover member 620 can be configured to open the inlet 610 when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100. For example, the cover member 620 can be configured to melt due to heat. Alternatively, the cover member 620 can be configured to rupture due to pressure of the extinguishing material E. Thus, the extinguishing material E can be sprayed toward the battery cell 100 through the open inlet 610.

[0137] More specifically, when the insertion member 300 moves inward due to the vapor pressure of the phase-change endothermic material M', the pressure in the space between the inner side plate 600 and the battery pack housing 200 decreases, thereby generating a force that causes the extinguishing material E to move inward. Therefore, the cover member 620 covering the inlet 610 may rupture due to the pressure of the extinguishing material E.

[0138] Reference Figure 13 Of the multiple cover members 620, only the cover member 620 located on the battery module 10 where a thermal event has occurred can be configured to break. When the cover member 620 located above the battery module 10 where a thermal event has occurred breaks, extinguishing material E can be sprayed toward the battery module 10 through the open inlet 610.

[0139] Furthermore, since the remaining cover member 620 located above the adjacent battery module 10 does not break, exhaust or flame can be prevented from flowing into other battery modules 10.

[0140] According to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell 100, the temperature of each battery module 10 can be reduced individually, thereby minimizing heat propagation to the battery cells 100 included in other battery modules 10. In other words, according to the configuration implemented above in this disclosure, even when a thermal event occurs in one battery module 10, other battery modules 10 can be prevented from being affected. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack 1 can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0141] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] See Figure 14 The vehicle 3 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle 3 according to the present disclosure may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 3 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle 3 can be driven by receiving electricity from the battery packs 1.

[0143] As described above, although this disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the technical spirit of this disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: Multiple battery cells; A battery pack housing, the battery pack housing comprising a plurality of frames having hollow spaces formed inside, and configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells; as well as A heat-absorbing material is disposed within the hollow space of at least one of the plurality of frames and is configured to absorb heat and undergo a phase change when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, and then move toward the battery cell.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, At least one of the plurality of frames has a through-hole formed in its inner surface and is configured to allow the phase-change endothermic material to move inward.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, the battery pack further comprising a module housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells grouped together, and a plurality of vent holes formed on one surface of the module housing.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, in, The heat-absorbing material undergoing phase change is configured to flow into the interior of the module housing through the vent.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery pack housing includes: A first frame is configured such that the battery cell is placed on the first frame, and the heat-absorbing material is disposed within the hollow space of the first frame.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery pack housing includes: A second frame is configured to surround the side of the battery cell, and the heat-absorbing material is disposed within the hollow space of the second frame.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery pack housing includes: A third frame is configured to separate the battery cells, and the heat-absorbing material is disposed within the hollow space of the third frame.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The battery pack housing includes: A fourth frame is disposed above the battery cell and has a channel formed in the hollow space that allows heat-absorbing material undergoing phase change to move through.

9. The battery pack of claim 2, further comprising an insertion member configured to be at least partially inserted into the through-hole and spaced from the through-hole by the phase-change heat-absorbing material.

10. The battery pack of claim 9, further comprising a refractory sheet configured to cover the inner surface of the battery pack housing.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The refractory sheet is attached to the inner surface of the battery pack housing by means of an adhesive member.

12. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The fire-resistant sheet is configured to cover the battery cell by being separated from the inner surface of the battery pack housing by the insertion member when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell.

13. The battery pack according to claim 9, further comprising: Inner side plate, the inner side plate being configured to be spaced inwardly from the inner surface of the battery pack housing; as well as Fire extinguishing material, wherein the fire extinguishing material is disposed between the inner surface of the battery pack housing and the inner side plate.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, in, An inlet is formed in the inner side plate to allow the fire extinguishing material to flow into the battery cell.

15. The battery pack according to claim 14, in, The inner side panel includes a cover member configured to cover the inlet and rupture due to pressure from the fire extinguishing material.

16. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

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