Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present application can include a substrate, a plurality of battery cells disposed on the substrate and stacked along a first direction, each battery cell extending along a second direction, separators separating the plurality of battery cells, each separator extending along the second direction and formed with a top recess on a top surface thereof, a top plate disposed on the plurality of battery cells and the separators, top ribs each protruding downward from the top plate and accommodated in a corresponding top recess, and a battery pack cover covering the top plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0013337, filed on February 3, 2025, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0109822, filed on August 8, 2025, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] With the significant increase in demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, and the growing popularity of electric vehicles, research is actively underway on batteries installed in these vehicles, especially rechargeable batteries that allow for repeated charging and discharging.

[0004] Currently, commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Among them, lithium-ion batteries have almost no or no memory effect, and therefore receive more attention compared to nickel-based batteries because they have the advantages of being able to be charged at any time when convenient, having an extremely low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

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

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

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

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

[0009] Specifically, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in any battery module, gases or flames may be randomly emitted to the outside. If this emission is not properly controlled, the gases or flames may be emitted towards other battery modules, potentially triggering a thermal chain reaction in those modules. In particular, the front side of a battery module may have module terminals and components such as module busbars for electrical connection to other battery modules or battery packs. Therefore, when a flame is emitted towards the front side of a battery module, the module terminals may be damaged, and a short circuit may occur in the battery pack. Furthermore, since another battery module may be located in front of a particular battery module, when a flame is emitted towards the front side of a specific battery module, the emitted flame may be directed towards another battery module, easily leading to fire propagation between battery modules.

[0010] If heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled, the voltage of the battery module or battery pack may drop rapidly. This could cause the device equipped with the battery module or battery pack to shut down suddenly, resulting in unexpected damage. For example, if the battery pack voltage suddenly drops during the operation of an electric vehicle, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

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

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

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] This disclosure is designed to address the problems of the prior art. Therefore, this disclosure aims to provide a battery pack capable of suppressing the occurrence of thermal events and blocking the propagation of thermal events, as well as a vehicle including the battery pack.

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

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

[0017] Furthermore, this disclosure aims to provide a structure that can suppress battery cell deformation even when expansion occurs within the battery cell.

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

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

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

[0021] Technical solution

[0022] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a substrate; a plurality of battery cells disposed on the substrate and stacked along a first direction, each battery cell extending along a second direction; a spacer configured to separate the plurality of battery cells, extending along the second direction, and including a top recess formed on its upper surface; a top plate disposed on the plurality of battery cells and the spacer; a top rib configured to project downward from the top plate and be received in the top recess; and a battery pack cover configured to cover the top plate.

[0023] Furthermore, the top groove and the top rib may extend along the second direction.

[0024] Furthermore, the top plate and the top rib can be integrally formed.

[0025] In addition, the battery pack may also include an upper fastening member configured to pass through the top plate and the top rib and fasten to the separator.

[0026] Furthermore, the upper fastening member may be provided in multiple forms, and the multiple upper fastening members may be arranged along the second direction.

[0027] Furthermore, the top ribs may be configured as multiple, and the multiple top ribs may be arranged along the first direction.

[0028] In addition, the top plate may include a plurality of vent holes disposed above the plurality of battery cells.

[0029] In addition, the battery pack may also include: a base plate disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the substrate; and a lower fastening member configured to pass through the base plate and fasten to the separator.

[0030] Furthermore, the lower fastening members may be provided in multiple forms, and the multiple lower fastening members may be arranged along the second direction.

[0031] In addition, the battery pack may also include a bottom rib configured to project upward from the base plate, and the separator may also include a bottom groove formed on its lower surface and receiving the bottom rib.

[0032] Furthermore, the lower fastening member can pass through the bottom rib.

[0033] Furthermore, the bottom groove and the bottom rib may extend along the second direction.

[0034] Furthermore, the base plate and the bottom rib can be integrally formed.

[0035] Furthermore, the bottom ribs may be configured as a plurality of ribs, and the plurality of bottom ribs may be arranged along the first direction.

[0036] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle including a battery pack according to this disclosure is also provided.

[0037] Beneficial effects

[0038] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the thermal stability of the battery pack can be improved.

[0039] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the propagation of thermal events can be prevented by easily venting exhaust gases.

[0040] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, even in the event of a thermal event, deformation of the battery cell is suppressed, thereby providing a structure capable of stably discharging exhaust gases.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, thermal events can be suppressed by inhibiting the expansion of the battery cell.

[0042] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the propagation of thermal events can be blocked by preventing the flow of exhaust gases into the battery cell. Attached Figure Description

[0043] 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 should not be construed as being limited to the drawings.

[0044] Figure 1This is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded view of some components of the battery pack.

[0046] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 An exploded view of some components of the battery pack.

[0047] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A diagram of the battery cells in the diagram.

[0048] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The image shows some components of the battery cell after they have been separated.

[0049] Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram of the upper frame in the middle.

[0050] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 4 A diagram of the isolation component.

[0051] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The sectional view taken by line C-C' in the figure.

[0052] Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view taken by line A-A' in the middle.

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

[0054] Figure 12 This indicates when a thermal event occurs. Figure 11 A graph showing the changes.

[0055] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 4 A diagram showing a variant implementation of the lower frame in the diagram.

[0056] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 9 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0057] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variant implementation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0075] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A diagram of battery cell 200. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The image shows some components of the battery cell 200 after they have been separated.

[0076] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The frame 210 may have a cuboid shape. The frame 210 may form the appearance of the battery cell 200. The frame 210 may provide internal space. The frame 210 may include an upper frame 211 and a lower frame 212.

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

[0078] The upper frame 211 may include vents 211b. Vents 211b may be formed in the top plate 211a. Vents 211b may be disposed above multiple battery cells 220. Multiple vents 211b may be arranged. Multiple vents 211b may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple vents 211b may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0079] The lower frame 212 may include a base plate 212a. The base plate 212a may include second fastening holes 212b. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be provided. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0080] The lower frame 212 may include a second side plate 212c. The second side plates 212c may be a pair. The second side plates 212c may be respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the base plate 212a. The second side plates 212c may extend upward from the base plate 212a.

[0081] The upper frame 211 and the lower frame 212 can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled. The first side plate 211c can be connected, fastened, attached, or assembled with the second side plate 212c.

[0082] Battery cell 200 may include battery cell 220. Battery cell 220 may be housed within frame 210. Battery cell 220 may refer to a rechargeable battery. For example, battery cell 220 may be a pouch-type rechargeable battery. However, the shape of battery cell 220 is not limited to pouch shape; battery cell 220 may have various shapes such as cylindrical or cuboid.

[0083] The battery cell 220 can extend in a front-to-back direction or an X-axis direction. The direction in which the battery cell 220 extends can be referred to as the second direction. The battery cell 220 can include a cell housing 220a that provides internal space. The cell housing 220a can include a receiving portion 221 for accommodating electrode assemblies, a first sealing portion 222 protruding toward the front and rear sides of the receiving portion 221, and a second sealing portion 223 protruding upward from the receiving portion 221. The first sealing portion 222 and the second sealing portion 223 can be formed by coupling or attaching to the cell housing 220a. The lower end of the receiving portion 221 can be referred to as a folding portion 226. The folding portion 226 can be formed by folding the cell housing 220a. In addition, the battery cell 220 can include electrode leads 224 protruding toward the front and rear sides of the first sealing portion 222, respectively. The electrode leads 224 can protrude toward the front and rear sides of each battery cell 220. The battery cell 220 may include an adhesive member 225 for folding and securing the second seal 223 to the receiving portion 221. The adhesive member 225 allows the second seal 223 to be in close contact with the receiving portion 221. Multiple adhesive members 225 may be provided. The multiple adhesive members 225 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0084] Multiple battery cells 220 can be configured. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The stacking direction of the multiple battery cells 220 can be referred to as the first direction. The multiple battery cells 220 can form a stack. The multiple battery cells 220 can be disposed between the top plate 211a and the bottom plate 212a.

[0085] The battery cell 200 may include a spacer 240. The spacer 240 may be disposed between multiple battery cells 220. The spacer 240 may be disposed between at least some of the battery cells 220 and / or on the outside of the stack. For example, the spacer 240 may be configured to be one spacer for every ten battery cells 220 stacked in a left-right direction. The spacer 240 may separate or divide multiple battery cells 220. The spacer 240 may be disposed between a top plate 211a and a bottom plate 212a.

[0086] The battery cell 200 may include a barrier 250. The barrier 250 may be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 220. The barrier 250 may be disposed between a top plate 211a and a bottom plate 212a. 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, the barrier 250 may be configured to be disposed between every two battery cells 220 stacked in the left-right or Y-axis direction.

[0087] Barrier 250 can be disposed on both sides of spacer 240. For example, spacer 240 can be disposed between a pair of barriers 250.

[0088] The barrier 250 may include an elastic material capable of absorbing the expansion of the battery cell 220. For example, the barrier 250 may be made of a foam material such as polyurethane.

[0089] Barrier 250 may include materials capable of blocking heat or flame. For example, barrier 250 may be made of heat-insulating or flame-retardant materials such as silicone or mica.

[0090] The battery cell 200 may include a busbar frame assembly 230. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be disposed on the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 220. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to the front electrode leads 224 of the plurality of battery cells 220. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to the rear electrode leads 224 of the plurality of battery cells 220. The front busbar frame assembly 230 may include power terminals.

[0091] The battery cell 200 may include an insulating cover 260. The insulating cover 260 may be disposed on the outside of the busbar frame assembly 230. The insulating cover 260 may be disposed at the rear and front of the busbar frame assembly 230, respectively. The insulating cover 260 may include a material with electrical insulating properties.

[0092] The battery cell 200 may include a first end cap 271. The first end cap 271 may be disposed outside a front insulating cover 260. The front insulating cover 260 may electrically insulate the first end cap 271 from the front busbar frame assembly 230.

[0093] The battery cell 200 may include a second end cap 272. The second end cap 272 may be disposed outside a rear insulating cover 260. The rear insulating cover 260 may electrically insulate the second end cap 272 from the rear busbar frame assembly 230.

[0094] Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is shown Figure 4 The upper frame 211 of the diagram.

[0095] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The upper frame 211 may include a top rib 211d. The top rib 211d may project downward from the top plate 211a. The top rib 211d may be integrally formed with the top plate 211a. The top rib 211d may extend in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. There may be multiple top ribs 211d. Multiple top ribs 211d may be arranged in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0096] The upper frame 211 may include a first fastening hole 211e. The first fastening hole 211e may be formed in the top plate 211a. The first fastening hole 211e may pass through the top plate 211a and the top rib 211d. The first fastening hole 211e may extend in the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. Multiple first fastening holes 211e may be provided. Multiple first fastening holes 211e may be arranged in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple first fastening holes 211e may be arranged in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0097] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 4 Diagram of the middle isolation component 240. Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The sectional view taken by line C-C' in the figure.

[0098] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The separator 240 may include a top recess 241. The top recess 241 may be formed on the upper surface of the separator 240. The top recess 241 may be formed in a downward direction or a Z-axis direction. The top recess 241 may extend in a front-back direction or an X-axis direction. The top recess 241 may extend along the length of the separator 240. The top recess 241 may extend along the length of the top rib 211d. The top recess 241 may extend along the length of the battery cell 220.

[0099] The spacer 240 may include a third fastening hole 242. The third fastening hole 242 may be formed at the lower end of the top recess 241. Multiple third fastening holes 242 may be provided. Multiple third fastening holes 242 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0100] The spacer 240 may include a fourth fastening hole 243. The fourth fastening hole 243 may be formed in the lower surface of the spacer 240. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be provided. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0101] Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view taken by line A-A' in the middle.

[0102] refer to Figure 10 The top rib 211d can be received in the top recess 241. Each top rib 211d can be received in each top recess 241. The top plate 211a can contact the upper end of the spacer 240. The spacer 240 can support the top plate 211a.

[0103] The upper fastening member S1 can pass through the top plate 211a. The upper fastening member S1 can pass through the top rib 211d. The upper fastening member S1 can pass through the first fastening hole 211e. The upper fastening member S1 can be fastened, connected, fixed, or assembled to the third fastening hole 242. Multiple upper fastening members S1 can be provided. Multiple upper fastening members S1 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The upper fastening member S1 can fasten, connect, fix, or assemble the top plate 211a and the spacer 240.

[0104] The lower fastening member S2 can pass through the base plate 212a. The lower fastening member S2 can pass through the second fastening hole 212b. The lower fastening member S2 can be fastened, connected, fixed, or assembled to the fourth fastening hole 243. Multiple lower fastening members S2 can be provided. Multiple lower fastening members S2 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The lower fastening member S2 can fasten, connect, fix, or assemble the base plate 212a and the spacer 240.

[0105] The venting space VS can be formed between the battery cell 200 and the battery pack cover 150. The venting space VS can be formed between the top plate 211a and the battery pack cover 150. The venting space VS can be formed between the upper frame 211 and the battery pack cover 150.

[0106] Figure 11 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view taken by line B-B' in the figure. Figure 12 This indicates when a thermal event occurs. Figure 11 A graph showing the changes.

[0107] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The separator 240 can be securely attached to the frame 210, thereby suppressing the expansion of the battery cell 220. Therefore, thermal events can be suppressed.

[0108] When the battery cell 220 expands, the separator 240 may be subjected to lateral or Y-axis pressure. The separator 240 is connected to the top plate 211a or top rib 211d via the upper fastening member S1, thereby suppressing deformation caused by expansion. The separator 240 is connected to the bottom plate 212a via the lower fastening member S2, thereby suppressing deformation caused by expansion. Therefore, the structure of the battery cell 200 can be stably maintained, and thermal events can be suppressed. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the battery cell 200 can be improved.

[0109] In the event of a thermal event, exhaust gas G can be released from battery cell 220. Exhaust gas G can be released to the outside of battery cell 200 through vent 211b. Exhaust gas G can also be released into exhaust space VS.

[0110] When a thermal event occurs, a gap may form between the top plate 211a and the spacer 240. The top rib 211d inserted into the spacer 240 can block the gap between the top plate 211a and the spacer 240. Therefore, the flow of high-temperature exhaust gas G along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction inside the battery cell 200 can be blocked. The top rib 211d can block the flow of exhaust gas G. Therefore, the propagation of the thermal event can be blocked.

[0111] The top plate 211a can be exposed to high temperatures. The top plate 211a can have increased rigidity by including a top rib 211d. The top plate 211a, by including the top rib 211d, can suppress thermal deformation even when exposed to high temperatures. With deformation of the top plate 211a suppressed, the exhaust space VS can be stably ensured. Therefore, even in the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G can diffuse rapidly through the exhaust space VS.

[0112] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 4 A diagram of a variant implementation of the lower frame 212.

[0113] refer to Figure 13 The lower frame 212 may include a bottom rib 212d. The bottom rib 212d may project upward from the base plate 212a. The bottom rib 212d may be integrally formed with the base plate 212a. The bottom rib 212d may extend in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple bottom ribs 212d may be provided. Multiple bottom ribs 212d may be arranged in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0114] The lower frame 212 may include a second fastening hole 212b. The second fastening hole 212b may be formed in the base plate 212a. The second fastening hole 212b may pass through the base plate 212a and the bottom rib 212d. The second fastening hole 212b may extend in the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be provided. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple second fastening holes 212b may be arranged in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0115] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 9 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0116] refer to Figure 14 The separator 240 may include a bottom recess 244. The bottom recess 244 may be formed on the lower surface of the separator 240. The bottom recess 244 may be recessed upward from the base plate 212a. The bottom recess 244 may be formed in the upward direction or the +Z axis direction. The bottom recess 244 may extend in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The bottom recess 244 may extend along the length of the separator 240. The bottom recess 244 may extend along the length of the bottom rib 212d. The bottom recess 244 may extend along the length of the battery cell 220.

[0117] The spacer 240 may include a fourth fastening hole 243. The fourth fastening hole 243 may be formed at the upper end of the bottom recess 244. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be provided. Multiple fourth fastening holes 243 may be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction.

[0118] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 10 A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0119] refer to Figure 15 The bottom rib 212d can be accommodated in the bottom groove 244. Each bottom rib 212d can be accommodated in each bottom groove 244. The base plate 212a can contact the lower end of the spacer 240. The spacer 240 can support the base plate 212a.

[0120] The lower fastening member S2 can pass through the base plate 212a. The lower fastening member S2 can pass through the bottom rib 212d. The lower fastening member S2 can pass through the second fastening hole 212b. The lower fastening member S2 can be fastened, connected, fixed, or assembled to the fourth fastening hole 243. Multiple lower fastening members S2 can be provided. Multiple lower fastening members S2 can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The lower fastening member S2 can fasten, connect, fix, or assemble the base plate 212a and the spacer 240.

[0121] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 11A diagram of a variant implementation.

[0122] refer to Figure 16 Due to the bottom rib 212d, the spacer 240 can be more securely connected to the lower frame 212.

[0123] When the battery cell 220 expands, the separator 240 may be subjected to lateral or Y-axis pressure. The separator 240 is additionally connected to the base plate 212a or bottom rib 212d via the lower fastening member S2, thereby further suppressing deformation caused by expansion. Therefore, the structure of the battery cell 200 can be stably maintained, and thermal events can be suppressed. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the battery cell 200 can be improved.

[0124] In the event of a thermal event, a gap may form between the base plate 212a and the spacer 240. The bottom rib 212d inserted into the spacer 240 can block the gap between the base plate 212a and the spacer 240. Therefore, the flow of high-temperature exhaust gas G along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction within the battery cell 200 can be blocked. The bottom rib 212d can also block the flow of exhaust gas G. Therefore, the propagation of a thermal event can be prevented.

[0125] The base plate 212a can be exposed to high temperatures. The base plate 212a can have increased rigidity by including bottom ribs 212d. The base plate 212a, by including bottom ribs 212d, can suppress thermal deformation even when exposed to high temperatures. With deformation of the base plate 212a suppressed, the structure of the battery cell 200 can be maintained, and the exhaust space VS can be stably ensured. Therefore, even in the event of a thermal event, the exhaust gas G can diffuse rapidly through the exhaust space VS.

[0126] The battery pack 1000 according to this disclosure may also include various components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of this application, such as a battery management system (BMS), relays, and current sensors.

[0127] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle V according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] refer to Figure 17 The battery pack 1000 according to this disclosure can be applied to vehicles, such as electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles. That is, a vehicle V according to this disclosure may include the battery pack 1000. Furthermore, in addition to the battery pack 1000, the vehicle V according to this disclosure may also include various other components included in the vehicle. For example, the vehicle V according to this disclosure may also include a body, a motor, control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0129] This disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples point to preferred embodiments of this disclosure, they are given by way of illustration only, as various variations and modifications within the scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description.

Claims

1. A battery pack, the battery pack comprising: substrate; A plurality of battery cells are disposed on the substrate and stacked along a first direction, each of the battery cells extending along a second direction; A separator configured to separate the plurality of battery cells, the separator extending along the second direction and including a top recess formed on the upper surface of the separator; A top plate is disposed on the plurality of battery cells and the separator; A top rib, configured to project downward from the top plate and be received in the top recess; as well as A battery pack cover, configured to cover the top plate.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The top groove and the top rib extend along the second direction.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The top plate and the top rib are integrally formed.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: An upper fastening member is configured to pass through the top plate and the top rib and fasten to the spacer.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, in, The upper fastening member is configured as a plurality of upper fastening members, and The plurality of upper fastening members are arranged along the second direction.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The top rib is configured as multiple top ribs, and The plurality of top ribs are arranged along the first direction.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The top plate includes multiple vent holes disposed above the plurality of battery cells.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising: A base plate is disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the substrate; as well as A lower fastening member is configured to pass through the base plate and be fastened to the spacer.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, in, The lower fastening member is configured as a plurality of lower fastening members, and The plurality of lower fastening members are arranged along the second direction.

10. The battery pack according to claim 8, further comprising: Bottom ribs, which are configured to project upwards from the base plate. The spacer also includes a bottom groove formed on the lower surface of the spacer and accommodating the bottom rib.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The lower fastening member passes through the bottom rib.

12. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The bottom groove and the bottom rib extend along the second direction.

13. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The base plate and the bottom rib are integrally formed.

14. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, The bottom ribs are configured as multiple bottom ribs, and The plurality of bottom ribs are arranged along the first direction.

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

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