Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

A battery pack and a vehicle including the same are disclosed. The battery pack includes: a plurality of cell stacks each including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, the battery cells each including a vent unit on a top surface thereof; a housing frame having an open top and accommodating the cell stack; a cover frame covering the open top of the housing frame; and at least one horizontal frame interposed between the cell stack and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, where each of the at least one horizontal frame has a recess formed to be recessed downward and elongated in the first direction, and the recess has a plurality of first through holes arranged in the first direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a battery pack. BACKGROUND

[0002] Unlike primary batteries that are not designed to be recharged, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are batteries designed to be discharged and recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used for portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, notebook computers, digital cameras, and camcorders, and high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving electric motors in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles and for storing electric power (e.g., home and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery generally includes an electrode assembly composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a case that accommodates the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] When a thermal runaway or a thermal event occurs in a particular secondary battery cell, the internal pressure of the cell can exceed a threshold range, causing materials such as flames and gases to be discharged through an exhaust unit. In this case, the high-temperature discharged materials rapidly spread to the surrounding environment, causing heat to spread to adjacent cells. Thus, there is a problem that thermal runaway or a thermal event can also occur in adjacent cells.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this Background section is for enhancement of understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and therefore, it can contain information that does not constitute the related (or prior) art. SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a battery pack including a horizontal frame that adds rigidity to the battery pack and forms an exhaust path.

[0006] These and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will be described in or be apparent from the following description of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] To solve the above technical problem, a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can include: a plurality of cell stacks each including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, the battery cells respectively including an exhaust unit on a top surface thereof; a housing frame having an open top and accommodating the cell stacks; a cover frame covering the open top of the housing frame; and at least one horizontal frame interposed between the cell stacks and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame has a recess formed to be concave downward and elongated in the first direction, and the recess has a plurality of first through-holes arranged in the first direction.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the first through holes can be located above the exhaust units.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a shape of each of the first through holes can correspond to a shape of each of the exhaust units.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction can be formed in a space formed by the elongated recess of each of the at least one horizontal frame being concave downward.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction can be formed in a space surrounded by the recess of each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, each of the at least one horizontal frame can have a protrusion formed to be convex upward and extending in the first direction, at least a portion of a top surface of the protrusion can contact the cover frame, and opposite lateral sides of the first exhaust path can be sealed by the contact of the cover frame with the at least a portion of the top surface of the protrusion.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the protrusion of each of the at least one horizontal frame can have a groove concave downward from the top surface of the protrusion, and the groove can receive an adhesive for bonding the corresponding horizontal frame to the cover frame.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the battery pack can further include an exhaust cover elongated in the first direction and between each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame, and the first exhaust path can be formed in a space surrounded by the recess of the corresponding horizontal frame and the exhaust cover.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the first through holes can be respectively closed by the exhaust units to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, each of the at least one horizontal frame can include one or more ribs formed to be convex upward between the first through holes.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the battery pack can further include: a busbar support between the cell stack and the at least one horizontal frame to support a plurality of busbars. The busbar support can have a plurality of second through-holes arranged in the first direction. The second through-holes can be respectively located above the exhaust units, and the first through-holes can be respectively located above the second through-holes.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction can be formed in a space formed by the recesses concave downward, and the first through-holes and the second through-holes can be respectively closed by the exhaust units to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the cell stack can be arranged in the first direction, the housing frame can include a cross beam between the cell stacks, and the cross beam can have a second exhaust path formed therein, and a side beam can be located opposite the cell stacks and have a third exhaust path formed therein.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, an opening can be formed at a top surface of the cross beam, at least one of the first through-holes can be located above the opening to communicate with the opening, and the opening can be connected to the second exhaust path.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a first coupling hole can be formed at each of the at least one of the first through-holes communicating with the opening opposite the opening, a second coupling groove can be formed at the opening opposite the opening, and the corresponding horizontal frame can be fastened to the cross beam by coupling the first coupling hole and the second coupling groove with a fastener.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a first exhaust path extending in the first direction can be formed in a space formed by the recesses concave downward, and the first exhaust path and the second exhaust path can be connected to each other through the opening of the cross beam.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, an opening communicating with the third exhaust path can be formed at a coupling portion of the side beam at which the side beam is coupled to the cross beam, and the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path can communicate with each other through the opening in the side beam.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the side beam can include an outlet port communicating with the third exhaust path and opening outward in response to detecting that pressure exceeds a threshold pressure.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the cover frame can include an outlet port that communicates with the first gas discharge path and that is opened outward in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure.

[0026] A vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the disclosure is provided.

[0027] However, the technical problems to be solved by the disclosure are not limited to the above problems, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other problems not mentioned herein and aspects and features of the disclosure that will solve the problems through the following description of the disclosure.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the gas discharge material released through the gas discharge unit of the battery cell can be discharged to the outside through a space formed in the frame that enhances the rigidity of the battery pack, without diffusing to the terminal, bus bar, or adjacent battery cell.

[0029] However, aspects and features of the disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects and features not mentioned through the detailed description described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] The following accompanying drawings attached to the present specification illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and further describe aspects and features of the disclosure together with the detailed description of the specific embodiments. Accordingly, the disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery cell according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of a battery pack.

[0034] Figure 4A is a perspective view illustrating each horizontal frame according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line IVB-IVB' of Figure 4A

[0036] Figure 4C is a magnified view of portion B of Figure 4A

[0037] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a horizontal frame applied to a battery pack according to one embodiment of the disclosure. ​​

[0038] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A magnified view of part C.

[0039] Figure 6A This is a perspective view illustrating an exhaust cover between a horizontal frame and a cover frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 6B It is along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken from line VIB-VIB'.

[0041] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating a busbar support between a battery cell and a horizontal frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of the housing frame according to the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 9A This is a perspective view illustrating a crossbeam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 9B This is a side view illustrating a crossbeam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 9C yes Figure 9A A magnified view of part E.

[0046] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a horizontal frame connected to a beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 11A This is a perspective view illustrating a side beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 11B This is a front view illustrating a side beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 11C This is a side view illustrating a side beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 11D This is a partial perspective view illustrating the other side of the side beam.

[0051] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between a crossbeam and a side beam according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figures 13A-13C These are diagrams illustrating the travel path of exhaust substances according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figures 14A-14Care each a diagram illustrating a travel path of exhaust matter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in the present specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to commonly used or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted as having a concept meeting the principles of the inventor's invention based on an appropriate dictionary meaning in conjunction with the concept of the present disclosure.

[0055] The embodiments described in the present specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely some embodiments of the present disclosure, and do not represent all technical ideas, aspects and features of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that, at the time of filing this application, various equivalents and modifications which can substitute or modify the embodiments described herein can exist.

[0056] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on the other element or layer, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers can also be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. By the term "and / or", unless otherwise specified, it is intended to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, when a first element is described as "coupled to" or "connected to" a second element, the first element can be directly coupled or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly coupled or connected to the second element via one or more intervening elements.

[0057] In the figures, the size of various elements, layers, etc., can be exaggerated for clarity. Like reference numbers signify like elements in all figures. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Moreover, use of the “to” as in “comprising to” or “including to” throughout this detailed description and in the claims that follow is used generically to represent inclusion two or more integers, elements, articles, components, steps, or groups thereof, and any combination of two or more of the integers, elements, articles, components, steps, or groups thereof. The term “consisting essentially of,” as used herein, is used to define a composition that includes an integer, element, article, component, step, or group thereof, and any additional integer, element, article, component, step, or group thereof that does not materially affect the essential characteristics of the composition. The term “consisting of,” as used herein, is used to define a composition that includes an integer, element, article, component, step, or group thereof, and any additional integer, element, article, component, step, or group thereof that does not materially affect the essential characteristics of the composition. The term “substantially” as used herein is used to describe an attribute, property, characteristic or the like that can deviate from an exact or nominal value by a reasonable amount, or that can deviate from a true value by a reasonable amount. The reasonable amount can vary depending on the context of use of the term.

[0058] It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, “a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0059] Spatially relative terms such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” or “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Well-known functions or constructions can not be described in detail for brevity.

[0060] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0061] Further, any numerical ranges herein are intended to include all sub-ranges of the same whole number precision used in the same range. For example, a range from 1.0 to 10.0 should be read to include the sub-ranges from 1.0 to 2.4, 2.4 to 4.8, 4.8 to 7.2, 7.2 to 9.6, and 9.6 to 10.0, as well as 1.0, 2.4, 4.8, 7.2, and 9.6, and 10.0. Any maximum numerical limitation

[0062] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as "the same" can mean that they are "substantially the same." Thus, the phrase "substantially the same" can include having deviations that are considered low in the art, for example, 5% or less. Further, when a certain parameter is referred to as uniform in a given region, this can mean that it is uniform in terms of average value.

[0063] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise indicated, each element can be single or multiple.

[0064] When any element referred to as being "on" (or positioned on or located on) a component is intended to mean that the element is placed in contact with an upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, and also can mean that another component can be interposed between the component and any element referred to as being "on" (or positioned on or located on) the component.

[0065] Furthermore, when an element is referred to as being "coupled", "linked", or "connected" to another element, it can be directly coupled, linked, or connected to the other element or intervening elements can be present. In addition, the coupling, linking, or connecting can be mechanical, electrical, or magnetic, or it can be any combination of coupling, linking, or connecting. Furthermore, when a component is referred to as being "electrically coupled" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or intervening components can be present such that the component and the other component are indirectly connected to each other.

[0066] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise indicated, when stating "A and / or B", it means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any or all combinations of the listed items. Unless otherwise stated, when stating "C~D", it means C or more and D or less.

[0067] A battery pack according to one or more embodiments includes at least one battery module and a pack case having an accommodation space in which the at least one battery module is accommodated.

[0068] The battery module can include a plurality of battery cells and a module case. The battery cells can be accommodated in the inside of the module case in a stacked form (or stacked arrangement or configuration). Each battery cell can have a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal, and can be a round type, a prismatic type, or a pouch type according to the shape of the battery. As used herein, the battery cell can also be referred to as a secondary battery, a battery, or a cell.

[0069] In the battery pack, one cell stack can constitute one stacked module instead of the battery module. The cell stack can be accommodated in the accommodation space of the pack case, or can be accommodated in an accommodation space partitioned by a frame, a partition wall, or the like.

[0070] The battery cell can generate a large amount of heat during charging / discharging. The generated heat can accumulate in the battery cell, thereby accelerating deterioration of the battery cell. Accordingly, the battery pack can further include a cooling member to remove the generated heat, thereby suppressing deterioration of the battery cell. The cooling member can be provided at the bottom of the accommodation space in which the battery cell is provided, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cooling member can be provided at the top or the side according to the battery pack.

[0071] The battery cell can be configured such that exhaust gas generated inside the battery cell is discharged to the outside of the battery cell under an abnormal operating condition (also referred to as thermal runaway or a thermal event). The battery pack or the battery module can include an exhaust port for discharging the exhaust gas to prevent or reduce damage of the battery pack or the battery module by the exhaust gas.

[0072] A battery pack can include a battery and a battery management system (BMS) for managing the battery. The battery management system can include a detection device, a balancing device, and a control device. The battery module can include a plurality of cells connected in series and / or in parallel to each other. The battery modules can be connected in series and / or in parallel to each other.

[0073] The detection device can detect a state (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.) of the battery to output state information indicating the state of the battery. The detection device can detect a voltage of each cell of the battery or each battery module. The detection device can detect a current flowing through the battery module or each battery module of the battery pack. The detection device can also detect a temperature of the battery and / or module at at least one point of the battery and / or an ambient temperature.

[0074] The balancing device can perform a balancing operation of the battery module and / or the cells of the battery module. The control device can receive state information (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.) of the battery module from the detection device. The control device can monitor and calculate a state (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, state of charge (SOC), life (state of health (SOH), etc.) of the battery module based on the state information received from the detection device. In addition, based on the monitored state information, the control device can perform a control function (e.g., temperature control, balancing control, charge / discharge control, etc.) and a protection function (e.g., over-discharge, over-charge, over-current protection, short circuit, fire extinguishing function, etc.). In addition, the control device can perform a wired or wireless communication function with an external device (e.g., a higher-level controller or a vehicle, a charger, a power conversion system, etc.) of the battery pack.

[0075] The control device can control a charge / discharge operation and a protection operation of the battery. The control device can include a charge / discharge control unit, a balancing control unit, and / or a protection unit.

[0076] The battery management system is a system that monitors a state of the battery and performs a diagnosis and control, communication, and protection function, and can calculate a charge / discharge state, calculate a battery life or state of health (SOH), cut off a battery power supply if necessary (e.g., relay control), control thermal management (e.g., cooling, heating, etc.), perform a high voltage interlock function, and / or can detect and / or calculate an insulation and short circuit condition.

[0077] The relay can be a mechanical contactor turned on and off by a magnetic force of a coil or a semiconductor switch such as a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET).

[0078] The relay control has a function of cutting off a power supply of the battery if (or when) a problem occurs in the vehicle and the battery system, and can include one or more relays and a pre-charge relay at the positive and negative terminals, respectively.

[0079] In the pre-charge control, there is a risk of a surge current occurring in the high-voltage capacitor at the input side of the inverter when a battery load is connected. To prevent a surge current when starting the vehicle, a pre-charge relay can be operated before the main relay is connected, and a pre-charge resistor can be connected.

[0080] High-voltage interlock is a circuit that uses a small signal to detect whether all high-voltage components of the entire vehicle system are connected, and can have a function of forcibly opening a relay if (or when) an opening occurs at at least one location on the entire loop.

[0081] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a battery cell 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to Figure 1 , the battery cell 100 can include at least one electrode assembly having a structure in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode are wound together with a separator that is an insulator interposed (between) the positive electrode and the negative electrode, a case 110 that accommodates the electrode assembly, and a cover plate 120 coupled to an opening of the case 110 that is open at one end of the case 110. Figure 1 The battery cell 100 illustrated in

[0082] Each of the positive electrode and the negative electrode can include a current collector made of a thin metal foil having a coated portion on which an active material is coated and an uncoated portion on which the active material is not coated.

[0083] After the separator that is an insulator is interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, the positive electrode and the negative electrode are wound. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly can have a structure in which the positive electrode and the negative electrode each made of a plurality of pieces are alternately stacked with the separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0084] The case 110 can form the overall appearance of the battery cell 100, and can be made of an electrically conductive metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the case 110 can provide a space to accommodate the electrode assembly.

[0085] In Figure 1 , the case 110 is illustrated as a prismatic case, and the battery cell 100 is a prismatic battery cell. However, the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 100 can be a battery cell formed, for example, in a prismatic, cylindrical, or pouch shape.

[0086] The cover plate 120 can be coupled to the opening of the case 110 to seal and cover the opening of the case 110. The case 110 and the cover plate 120 can be made of an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the case 110 can have an opening at its top side (open top), and the cover plate 120 can seal and cover the opening at the top side of the case 110.

[0087] The positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 electrically connected to the positive electrode and the negative electrode, respectively, can be coupled to the cover plate 120. For example, the positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 can pass through the cover plate 120 and protrude to the outside of the case 110.

[0088] In one embodiment, the exhaust unit 140 can be formed at at least one surface of the battery cell 100 (e.g., the top surface of the battery cell 100, i.e., the cover plate 120 in the illustrated example). The exhaust unit 140 can be configured to open in response to an event in which the internal pressure in the battery cell 100 is detected to be higher than a predetermined threshold pressure. Figure 1

[0089] The threshold pressure can be set differently according to the application, material, use, etc. of the battery. For example, for a battery that is subjected to a short charge-discharge cycle in use, a relatively high threshold pressure can be set so that the internal pressure of the case 110 is maintained at a higher pressure on average compared to other applications. In other embodiments, for a battery manufactured with a material and / or design having a relatively high heat resistance and / or pressure resistance, a relatively high threshold pressure can be set. Conversely, for a battery manufactured with a material and / or design having a relatively low heat resistance and / or pressure resistance, a relatively low threshold pressure can be set. Additionally or alternatively, the exhaust unit 140 can be configured to open in response to an event in which the internal temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature. With this configuration, the exhaust unit 140 can prevent explosion of the battery cell 100 and / or prevent a cascading exothermic reaction of other battery cells arranged around the battery cell 100.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cover plate 120 can include an electrolyte inlet port 150. In one or more embodiments, the electrolyte inlet port 150 can be a through-hole formed in the cover plate 120 through which an electrolyte solution is injected into the case 110 after the cover plate 120 coupled to the opening of the case 110 seals the opening of the case 110. After the electrolyte is injected, the electrolyte inlet port 150 can be sealed with a sealing member.

[0091] ​The battery cell 100 can include a lithium battery cell, a sodium battery cell, etc. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 100 includes any battery capable of repeatedly providing electric power through charging and discharging. In one embodiment in which the battery cell 100 is a lithium battery cell, the lithium battery cell can be used in an electric vehicle (EV) due to the relatively long life cycle and high rate performance of the lithium battery cell. In one or more embodiments, the lithium battery cell can be used in a hybrid electric vehicle such as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Further, the lithium battery cell can be used in applications requiring a large amount of electric power storage. In one or more embodiments, the lithium battery cell can be used in an electric bicycle, a power tool, etc.

[0092] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of the battery pack 10.

[0093] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the battery pack 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can include a plurality of cell stacks S, a case frame 200 in which the cell stacks S are accommodated, a cover frame 300 covering a top opening (open top) of the case frame 200, a horizontal frame 400 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S and the cover frame 300, and a busbar support 500 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S and the horizontal frame 400 to support a plurality of busbars.

[0094] Each of the plurality of cell stacks S can include a plurality of battery cells 100. In the cell stack S, the plurality of battery cells 100 can be arranged in one direction (e.g., along the Y-axis direction) such that their wide surfaces face each other. In one embodiment, each of the battery cells 100 can include an exhaust unit on a top surface thereof. In one or more embodiments, Figure 1 The battery cell illustrated in FIG. 1A can be used as the battery cell 100, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and arrangement of the cell stacks S and the battery cells 100 are not limited to Figure 2 and Figure 3 the configurations shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, and can be appropriately modified as needed.

[0095] A plurality of single stack S can be accommodated in the housing frame 200. In one or more embodiments, the housing frame 200 can have an opening at a top side (open top) thereof and include a receiving space for accommodating the plurality of single stacks S. The housing frame 200 can be constructed of a rigid material to maintain the rigidity of the battery pack 10. In one or more embodiments, the housing frame 200 can be, but is not limited to, an aluminum extrusion, and the housing frame 200 can be constructed of any material suitable for maintaining the rigidity of the battery pack 10.

[0096] In one embodiment, the housing frame 200 can include a cross beam and a side beam. The cross beam intervenes between (is located between) the single stacks S arranged in one direction (the Y-axis direction in the example of Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), and the side beam is located at opposite sides of the plurality of single stacks S. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figures 8-12

[0097] The top opening of the housing frame 200 can be covered by a cover frame 300. In one embodiment, the cover frame 300 can include an outlet port that is opened to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figures 14A-14C

[0098] A horizontal frame 400 can intervene between (be located between) the single stacks S and the cover frame 300. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 can be disposed above (be located above) the single stacks S and below the cover frame 300. Each horizontal frame 400 can provide additional rigidity to the battery pack 10 and have an exhaust path formed therein. In one or more embodiments, each horizontal frame 400 can include a recess formed to be concave downward and elongated in one direction (for example, the Y-axis direction shown in the example of Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). Further, the recess can have a plurality of first through-holes arranged in one direction (for example, the Y-axis direction shown in the example of Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). The first through-holes formed in the horizontal frame 400 can be respectively located above the exhaust units of the battery cells 100. Accordingly, the exhaust material discharged from the exhaust units of the battery cells 100 can pass through the first through-holes of the horizontal frame 400. Further, a first exhaust path extending in one direction is formed in a space surrounded by the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300, so that the exhaust material that has passed through the first through-holes can travel along the first exhaust path. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the exhaust material from diffusing to adjacent cells. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figures 4A-5B

[0099] ​​​The plurality of battery cells 100 can be electrically connected by bus bars. The plurality of battery cells 100 can be electrically connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel with each other by bus bars to obtain a desired electrical output. The bus bars can be electrically connected with a protection circuit module. In one or more embodiments, the protection circuit module can be a battery management system (BMS). The protection circuit module can include electronic components and protection circuits.

[0100] In one embodiment, the battery pack 10 can further include bus bar supports 500 interposed (located) between the cell stack S and the horizontal frame 400 to support the plurality of bus bars. For example, the bus bar supports 500 can be provided at the top portion of the cell stack S and the bottom portion of the horizontal frame 400. In one embodiment, the bus bar supports 500 can include a plurality of through-holes formed in correspondence with a plurality of first through-holes of the horizontal frame 400. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figure 7

[0101] The battery pack 10 can be included in a vehicle. In one embodiment, the battery pack 10 can be installed in a vehicle such that the top surface of the plurality of battery cells 100 and the top surface of the cover frame 300 are arranged to face downward. That is, the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 is arranged to face downward. In such an embodiment, at least some of the terms such as "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", and the like used in the specification can be changed to "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", and the like. However, in the present specification, for convenience of explanation, the direction toward the top surface of the battery cell 100 including the exhaust unit will be regarded as the "top side".

[0102] Figure 4A is a perspective view illustrating each horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IVB-IVB' of Figure 4A , and Figure 4C is an enlarged view of a portion B of Figure 4A .

[0103] Referring to Figures 4A-4C , the horizontal frame 400 can be a frame elongated in substantially one direction (e.g., the arrangement direction of the battery cells, i.e., the Y-axis direction in the example of Figures 4A-4C . The horizontal frame 400 can have a recess 410 formed to be concave downward and elongated in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction shown in the embodiment of Figures 4A-4C . A first exhaust path extending in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) can be formed in a space formed by the downwardly concave elongated recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400.

[0104] ​According to one embodiment, in the battery pack 10, the top portion of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 can be covered by a cover frame. Accordingly, a first exhaust path extending in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) can be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame. Additionally or alternatively, an exhaust cover can be interposed between (located between) the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame in the battery pack 10. In such an embodiment, the first exhaust path can be formed in a space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figure 6A and Figure 6B .

[0105] The recess 410 can have a plurality of first through-holes 412 arranged in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in the example of the arrangement direction of the battery cells, i.e., the arrangement direction of the battery pack 10). Figures 4A-4C Each of at least some of the first through-holes 412 formed in the horizontal frame 400 can be located above at least one of the exhaust units of the battery cells. Further, each of at least some of the first through-holes 412 can have a shape corresponding to the shape of each of the exhaust units of the battery cells. In one or more embodiments, the exhaust units of the battery cells and at least some of the first through-holes 412 can all have the same or similar shapes, such as an oblong shape (e.g., an elliptical shape or a rounded rectangular shape).

[0106] Under normal operating conditions, the bottom side of the first exhaust path formed in the space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame can be sealed by being closed by the exhaust units of the battery cells. Further, during a thermal event, exhaust substances (e.g., gas, flame, etc.) discharged when the exhaust units of the battery cells open can pass through at least some of the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400.

[0107] The horizontal frame 400 can have a protrusion 420 formed to protrude upward while extending in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). For example, the horizontal frame 400 can have a protrusion 420 protruding upward to surround the recess 410. The protrusion 420 can enhance the rigidity of the battery pack.

[0108] In the battery pack 10, a portion of the protrusion 420 of the horizontal frame 400 can be in contact with a cover frame located above the protrusion 420 to seal opposite lateral sides of the first exhaust path. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the top surface of the protrusion 420 can be in contact with the cover frame. Accordingly, during a thermal event, exhaust substances discharged through the exhaust unit of each battery cell can travel along the first exhaust path without diffusing to the terminal, busbar, or adjacent battery cell of the battery cell. In one embodiment, the protrusion 420 can have a groove 422 recessed downward from the top surface of the protrusion 420. The groove 422 can receive (accommodate) an adhesive agent for bonding the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame.

[0109] In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 can further include one or more ribs 414 formed to protrude upward between at least some of the first through-holes 412. In one or more embodiments, each of the ribs 414 can be formed between two adjacent first through-holes 412_1 and 412_2, and the rib 414 can be elongated in the X-axis direction and protrude upward in the Z-axis direction. The rib 414 supplements the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400, thereby preventing (or at least mitigating) deformation (e.g., bending) of the horizontal frame 400 caused by high-temperature heat generated instantaneously (or almost instantaneously) during a thermal event. In addition, by providing the rib 414, exhaust debris can be sequentially filtered out during a thermal event.

[0110] Because the horizontal frame 400 enhances the rigidity of the battery pack and forms a path through which exhaust substances are discharged, the horizontal frame 400 can be made of a rigid material sufficient to withstand high temperatures and high pressures. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 can include a steel material or an aluminum material. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the material of the horizontal frame 400 can be appropriately modified according to design requirements. In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 can be coated with an insulating material for insulation.

[0111] At least one of the first through-holes 416 formed in the first through-holes 412 in the horizontal frame 400 can not be located above the corresponding exhaust unit of the battery cell, but instead, the at least one first through-hole 416 can be located above the opening of the cross beam to communicate with the opening of the cross beam. In addition, the first coupling hole 418 can be formed on the opposite side of the first through-hole 416 communicating with the opening of the cross beam. By fitting a fastener into the first coupling hole 418, the horizontal frame 400 can be more firmly fastened to the cross beam to prevent separation or bulging under high pressure. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figure 10 FIG. 4B.

[0112] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration in which the horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied to a battery pack, and Figure 5Bis Figure 5A an enlarged view of portion C of FIG. 1.

[0113] In one embodiment in which the battery pack 10 is installed in a vehicle, the top surface of the battery cell 100 (the surface having the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100) and the top surface of the cover frame 300 can be arranged facing downward. In such an embodiment, at least some of the terms used in the specification such as "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", and the like can be changed to "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", and the like. Similarly, at least some of the terms used in the specification such as "bottom (lower) side", "bottom (lower)", "bottom surface (lower surface)", and the like can be changed to "top (upper) side", "top (upper)", "top surface (upper surface)", and the like. However, in the following description with reference to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the direction toward the top surface of the battery cell 100 will be considered as the "top side" for ease of illustration.

[0114] With reference to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the horizontal frame 400 can be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the cover frame 300. In other words, the horizontal frame 400 can be placed at the top of the battery cell 100 and the bottom of the cover frame 300.

[0115] The top portion of the battery cell 100 and the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 can be covered by the cover frame 300. Accordingly, a first exhaust path extending in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in Figure 5A and Figure 5B , can be formed in the space enclosed by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300. Further, portions of the protrusion 420 of the horizontal frame 400 can be in contact with the cover frame 300 located above the protrusion 420 to seal the opposite lateral sides of the first exhaust path. As a result, during a thermal event, exhaust matter discharged through the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 can travel along the first exhaust path without spreading to the terminals, bus bars, or adjacent cells of the battery cell 100.

[0116] Further, the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400 can be supplemented by the upwardly protruding ribs 414 formed in the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400, thereby preventing (or at least mitigating) deformation (e.g., bending) of the horizontal frame 400 caused by high-temperature heat generated instantaneously (or almost instantaneously) during a thermal event. Further, by providing the upwardly protruding ribs 414, exhaust debris can be sequentially filtered out during a thermal event.

[0117] Further, in an embodiment in which the height of the ribs 414 is excessively high, exhaust debris can clog the first exhaust path, thereby hindering the discharge of the exhaust gas. Accordingly, the height of the ribs 414 can be appropriately designed to supplement the rigidity of the horizontal frame 400 while not hindering the discharge of the exhaust gas and filtering out the exhaust debris. In one or more embodiments, the height h l of the ribs 414 can be more than about 10% but less than about 50% of the height h t of the first exhaust path. t

[0118] Further, in an embodiment in which the cross-sectional area of the first exhaust path is excessively narrow, the first exhaust path can be clogged by the exhaust debris. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of the first exhaust path can be appropriately designed such that the exhaust path is not blocked by the filtered exhaust debris. In one or more embodiments, the cross-sectional area (e.g., the cross-sectional area obtained by cutting the first exhaust path in the X-Z plane) of the first exhaust path can be more than about 50% of the cross-sectional area of the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100.

[0119] The horizontal frame 400 can be made of a rigid material capable of sufficiently withstanding high temperatures and high pressures to smoothly discharge the high-temperature exhaust gas and the exhaust debris. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal frame 400 can be constructed of a steel material having a thickness t s of at least about 1 mm or an aluminum material having a thickness t s of at least about 2 mm (e.g., about 2 mm to about 3 mm). However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the material of the horizontal frame 400 can be appropriately modified according to design requirements. In one embodiment, the horizontal frame 400 can be coated with an insulating material for insulation.

[0120] In one embodiment, the busbar support 500 can be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. Details of such a configuration will be described with reference to Figure 7 FIGS. 10A and 10B.

[0121] Figure 6A is a perspective view illustrating an exhaust cover 600 interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIB-VIB' of Figure 6A FIG. 11A.

[0122] The description provided for the horizontal frame 400 shown in Figures 4A-5B may be equally and similarly applied to the horizontal frames 400 shown in Figure 6A and Figure 6B . Accordingly, in the following description of Figure 6A and Figure 6B , the previous reference to​Figures 4A-5B Details of the described configurations, and will primarily describe different configurations.

[0123] Referring to Figure 6A and Figure 6B , the exhaust cover 600 can be on the top of the horizontal frame 400. That is, the exhaust cover 600 can be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 in the battery pack 10 and the cover frame 300. The exhaust cover 600 can have a shape elongated in one direction (e.g., in the longitudinal direction of the horizontal frame 400, i.e., Figure 6A and Figure 6B Y-axis direction in the example) substantially. The exhaust cover 600 can cover the top portion of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400. Accordingly, the first exhaust path can be formed in the space surrounded by the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600. For example, the exhaust cover 600 can be in contact with a portion of the periphery of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400, thereby sealing the top surface and / or the opposite lateral side of the first exhaust path. In one embodiment, an insulator and a thermal insulation member 610 (e.g., MICA, etc.) can be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600.

[0124] The horizontal frame 400 and the exhaust cover 600 can be joined in various ways. In one or more embodiments, the exhaust cover 600 can be attached to a portion of the periphery of the recess 410 of the horizontal frame 400 by an adhesive, welding (e.g., laser welding, brazing, etc.), fastening with a bolt, and / or other methods.

[0125] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the busbar holder 500 interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400 according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0126] Referring to Figure 7 , the busbar holder 500 can be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. The busbar holder 500 can have a plurality of second through-holes 512 formed (e.g., positioned and sized) to correspond to the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 and the first through-hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, the busbar holder 500 can have a plurality of busbars 520 (e.g., copper bars, etc.) interposed (located) between the second through-holes 512. The busbar 520 can be in contact with the exhaust unit of the battery cell 100 and the first through-hole 412 of the horizontal frame 400. Figure 7The second through-holes 512 of the busbar bracket 500 can be respectively located above (e.g., aligned with) the vent units of the battery cells 100, and the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 can be respectively located above (e.g., aligned with) the second through-holes 512 of the busbar bracket 500. In one embodiment, each of the second through-holes 512 can have a shape similar to or the same as a shape of the vent units of the battery cells 100 and a shape of each of the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400.

[0127] In one embodiment, the adhesive 710 can be interposed (located) between the busbar bracket 500 and the battery cells 100. In one or more embodiments, a peripheral portion of each of the second through-holes 512 on the bottom surface of the busbar bracket 500 can be bonded to a top surface of a corresponding one of the battery cells 100 by the adhesive 710. In addition, the adhesive 720 can be interposed (located) between the horizontal frame 400 and the busbar bracket 500. In one or more embodiments, a peripheral portion of each of the first through-holes 412 on the bottom surface of the horizontal frame 400 can be bonded to a top surface of the busbar bracket 500 by the adhesive 720.

[0128] Accordingly, under normal operating conditions, the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second through-holes 512 of the busbar bracket 500 can be closed by the vent units of the battery cells 100, thereby sealing a bottom side of the first venting path in the space surrounded by the recesses 410 of the horizontal frame 400 and the cover frame 300. In addition, during a thermal event, when the venting substances (e.g., gas, flame, etc.) released as the vent units of the battery cells 100 open can pass through the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second through-holes 512 of the busbar bracket 500. In addition, a peripheral portion of each of the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 is tightly bonded to the busbar bracket 500 located below the horizontal frame 400, and a peripheral portion of each of the second through-holes 512 of the busbar bracket 500 is tightly bonded to the top surface of the battery cells 100 located below the busbar bracket 500. Accordingly, a portion of the bottom side of the first venting path other than the first through-holes 412 and the second through-holes 512 can be sealed. Accordingly, the venting substances do not backflow, and the spread of the venting substances to adjacent cells can be prevented.

[0129] In one embodiment, the busbar bracket 500 can not be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, an adhesive can be interposed (located) between the top surface of the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400. Accordingly, the top surface of the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400 can be bonded (e.g., directly bonded), thereby sealing the bottom side of the first exhaust path.

[0130] In one embodiment, an insulating member 730 (e.g., MICA, aerogel, etc.) can be interposed (located) between the battery cell 100 and the busbar bracket 500 or between the battery cell 100 and the horizontal frame 400 for insulation.

[0131] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0132] The housing frame 200 can include a receiving space for accommodating a plurality of cell stacks S, and can have an opening at a top side (open top) thereof. The top opening of the housing frame 200 can be covered by a cover frame 300.

[0133] The housing frame 200 can be made of a rigid material to maintain the rigidity of the battery pack 10. For example, the housing frame 200 can be, but is not limited to, an aluminum extrusion. However, the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the housing frame 200 can be made of any material suitable for maintaining the rigidity of the battery pack 10.

[0134] In one embodiment, the housing frame 200 can include a cross beam 210 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S arranged in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1) and elongated in another direction (e.g., the X-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1). The cross beam 210 can enhance the rigidity of the battery pack 10 while having a second exhaust path formed therein to communicate with the first exhaust path. Figure 8 Figure 8 In one embodiment, the housing frame 200 can include a cross beam 210 interposed (located) between the cell stacks S arranged in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1) and elongated in another direction (e.g., the X-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1). The cross beam 210 can enhance the rigidity of the battery pack 10 while having a second exhaust path formed therein to communicate with the first exhaust path.

[0135] In addition, the housing frame 200 can include a side beam 220 located at opposite sides of the plurality of cell stacks S (e.g., the side beams 220 can be formed at opposite lateral sides of the housing frame 200) and elongated in substantially one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in the example of FIG. 1). The side beam 220 can support the opposite lateral sides of the plurality of cell stacks S while having a third exhaust path formed therein to communicate with the second exhaust path. Figure 8

[0136] Figure 9A Figure 9B are perspective and side views, respectively, illustrating the cross beam 210 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and​​​Figure 9C is Figure 9A an enlarged view of the portion E of

[0137] Referring to Figures 9A-9C , the cross beam 210 can be elongated in one direction (e.g., the X-axis direction in the example of FIG. 10), and can have a second air discharge path formed therein. Figures 9A-9C

[0138] In one or more embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, a cavity or an opening can be formed inside the cross beam 210. In one or more embodiments, an elongated cavity extending from one end to the other end of the cross beam 210 can be formed inside the cross beam 210, and the elongated cavity can form the second air discharge path. In one embodiment, the cavity can be divided into a first cavity 212 and a second cavity 213 by an inner wall 211. Also, one or more through-holes can be formed in the inner wall 211, and the first cavity 212 and the second cavity 213 can communicate with each other through the through-holes formed in the inner wall 211. Figure 9B

[0139] In one embodiment, the first cavity 212 and / or the second cavity 213 can form the second air discharge path.

[0140] In one embodiment, one or more openings 214 can be formed at the top surface of the cross beam 210. The openings 214 of the cross beam 210 can communicate with the second air discharge path. In one or more embodiments, the openings 214 of the cross beam 210 can communicate with the second cavity 213, and the second cavity 213 can communicate with the first cavity 212 through the through-holes in the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210.

[0141] One of the openings 214 of the cross beam 210 can communicate with one of the first through-holes 412 of the horizontal frame 400 located above the cross beam 210, thereby allowing the first air discharge path and the second air discharge path to be connected. Also, the peripheral portion of the opening 214 at the top surface of the cross beam 210 can be coupled to the horizontal frame 400. In one or more embodiments, a groove 215 can be formed around the opening 214 at the top surface of the cross beam 210, and the groove 215 can receive an adhesive for bonding the cross beam 210 to the horizontal frame 400. Additionally or alternatively, a second coupling groove 216 can be formed at opposite sides of the opening 214 of the cross beam 210. By coupling the first coupling hole 418 of the horizontal frame 400 and the second coupling groove 216 of the cross beam 210 with a fastener, the horizontal frame 400 can be more firmly fastened to the cross beam 210. Details of this configuration will be described with reference to Figure 10

[0142] ​​​The crossbeam 210 can be designed to be rigid, thus making it less susceptible to deformation due to high temperature and high pressure. In one or more embodiments, the crossbeam 210 can have a thickness of approximately 2 mm or more. c .

[0143] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a horizontal frame 400 connected to a beam 210 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] In one embodiment, an adhesive is provided in a groove 215 formed around an opening 214 on the top surface of the crossbeam 210. Thus, the bottom surface of the periphery of the first through-hole 416 of the horizontal frame 400 and the top surface of the periphery of the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210 can be bonded by the adhesive. Alternatively, a first connecting hole 418 is formed on the opposite side of the first through-hole 416 of the horizontal frame 400 communicating with the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210, and a second connecting groove 216 is formed on the opposite side of the opening 214 of the crossbeam 210. The first connecting hole 418 and the second connecting groove 216 are connected by a fastener 1000. In one or more embodiments, the fastener 1000 may be a bolt (e.g., at least an M6 bolt). Accordingly, the horizontal frame 400 can be more securely fastened to the crossbeam 210 to prevent separation or bulging under high pressure.

[0145] Due to the connection between the crossbeam 210 and the horizontal frame 400, at least one of the first through holes in the horizontal frame 400 communicating with the first exhaust path can be aligned with an opening on the top surface of the crossbeam 210 communicating with the second exhaust path. Therefore, the first and second exhaust paths can be connected (e.g., communicate with each other), thereby allowing exhaust material traveling through the first exhaust path to flow into the second exhaust path.

[0146] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11C These are perspective views, front views, and side views illustrating a side beam 220 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and... Figure 11D This is a partial perspective view illustrating the other side of side beam 220.

[0147] refer to Figures 11A-11D The side beam 220 can be in one direction (e.g., Figures 11A-11D In the example, the Y-axis direction is elongated and may have a third exhaust path formed therein.

[0148] In one or more embodiments, such as Figure 11B As shown, a cavity or opening 222 can be formed inside the side beam 220. The cavity 222 extends from one end of the side beam 220 to the other end. The cavity 222 can form a third exhaust path.

[0149] At least one surface (e.g., an outer side surface) of the side beam 220 can include an outlet port 224 that communicates with the third exhaust path. The outlet port 224 can be opened outward in response to an event in which a pressure is detected to exceed a predetermined threshold pressure. Accordingly, exhaust substances traveling through the third exhaust path can be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 224.

[0150] The third exhaust path can communicate with the second exhaust path. In one or more embodiments, an opening 226 that communicates with the third exhaust path can be formed at a coupling portion 228 of the side beam 220 at which the side beam 220 is coupled with the cross beam 210. In one or more embodiments, the opening 226 that communicates with the third exhaust path can be formed at one surface (e.g., an inner side surface) of the side beam 220, and the second exhaust path (at least one of the cavities) and the third exhaust path can communicate with each other through the opening 226 when the cross beam 210 is coupled with the side beam at the coupling portion 228 around the opening 226. Reference is made to FIGS. 2A and 2B below. Figure 12 A specific embodiment of the coupling of the cross beam 210 with the side beam 220 is described.

[0151] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the coupling of the cross beam 210 with the side beam 220 according to one embodiment of the disclosure. In one embodiment, at an end portion of the cross beam 210, the inner wall 211 that surrounds the first cavity 212 (the second exhaust path) can extend to protrude in a longitudinal direction of the cross beam 210. Further, the opening 226 that communicates with the third exhaust path can be formed at one surface (e.g., an inner side surface) of the side beam 220. In one or more embodiments, the protruding portion of the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210 can extend into (be accommodated in) the opening 226 in the side beam 220. When the protruding portion of the inner wall 211 of the cross beam 210 is coupled (e.g., by welding, specifically, by CMT welding or MIG / MAG welding) to the coupling portion around the opening 226 of the side beam 220, the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path can communicate with each other through the opening 226. Accordingly, by making a turn of about 90° at the connection portion of the second exhaust path with the third exhaust path, exhaust substances traveling through the second exhaust path can travel to the third exhaust path.

[0152] Figures 13A-13C is a diagram each illustrating a travel path of exhaust substances according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Reference is made to FIGS. 2A and 2B below. Figures 13A-13C, in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure in a specific battery cell, the exhaust unit can open, and exhaust material inside the battery cell can be discharged through the exhaust unit. The discharged exhaust material can travel to the first exhaust path P1 through a through-hole formed at a recess of the horizontal frame 400 located above the battery cell. Then, the exhaust material can continue to travel along the first exhaust path P1 toward the cross beam 210. The exhaust material moving to the cross beam 210 can continue to travel to the second exhaust path P2 inside the cross beam 210 through the opening of the cross beam 210. Then, the exhaust material can continue to travel along the second exhaust path P2 toward the side beam 220. The exhaust material moving to the side beam 220 can continue to travel to the third exhaust path P3 inside the side beam 220 through the opening of the side beam 220. The exhaust material moving along the third exhaust path P3 can be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 224 of the side beam 220 that opens to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure. Referring to Figure 13B , the outlet port 224 can include a first outlet port 224_1 and a second outlet port 224_2.

[0153] Figures 14A-14C are each a diagram illustrating a travel path of exhaust material according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to Figures 14A-14C , in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure in a specific battery cell, the exhaust unit can open, and exhaust material inside the battery cell can be discharged through the exhaust unit. The discharged exhaust material can travel to the first exhaust path Q1 through a through-hole formed at a recess of the horizontal frame 400 located above the battery cell.

[0154] In one embodiment, the cover frame 300 can include an outlet port 310 that opens to the outside in response to detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure. The outlet port 310 of the cover frame 300 can communicate with the first exhaust path Q1. Exhaust material traveling along the first exhaust path Q1 can be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 310 of the cover frame 300 that opens to the outside when detecting that the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure.

[0155] Although the disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments and drawings illustrating aspects of the disclosure, the disclosure is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art to which the disclosure belongs can make various modifications and variations within the technical spirit of the disclosure and the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack characterized by comprising: Comprising: a plurality of cell stacks each including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, each of the plurality of battery cells including an exhaust unit on a top surface thereof; a housing frame including an open top and accommodating the plurality of cell stacks; a cover frame covering the open top of the housing frame; and at least one horizontal frame between the plurality of cell stacks and the cover frame, each of the at least one horizontal frame being elongated in the first direction, wherein each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a recessed portion downwardly recessed and elongated in the first direction, and wherein the recessed portion includes a plurality of first through-holes arranged in the first direction. The plurality of first through-holes are located above the exhaust units.

2. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, A shape of each of the plurality of first through-holes corresponds to a shape of each of the exhaust units.

3. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, A first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the recessed portion of each of the at least one horizontal frame.

4. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, A first exhaust path extending in the first direction is formed in a space surrounded by the recessed portion of each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame.

5. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a protruded portion upwardly protruded and extending in the first direction, 6. The battery pack of claim 5, wherein, wherein at least a portion of a top surface of the protruded portion contacts the cover frame, and wherein opposite lateral sides of the first exhaust path are sealed by the contact of the at least a portion of the top surface of the protruded portion with the cover frame. The protruded portion of each of the at least one horizontal frame includes a groove downwardly recessed from the top surface of the protruded portion, and 7. The battery pack of claim 6, wherein, The groove is for accommodating an adhesive for bonding the at least one horizontal frame to the cover frame. Further comprising:

8. The battery pack of claim 4, wherein, an exhaust cover elongated in the first direction and located between each of the at least one horizontal frame and the cover frame, wherein the first exhaust path is formed in a space surrounded by the recessed portion of the at least one horizontal frame and the exhaust cover. The plurality of first through-holes are closed by the exhaust units to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path.

9. The battery pack of claim 4, wherein, Each of the at least one horizontal frame includes one or more ribs upwardly protruded between adjacent first through-holes of the plurality of first through-holes.

10. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, Further comprising:

11. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, a busbar support between the plurality of cell stacks and the at least one horizontal frame, the busbar support configured to support a plurality of busbars, wherein the busbar support includes a plurality of second through-holes arranged in the first direction, wherein the plurality of second through-holes are located above the exhaust units, and wherein the plurality of first through-holes are located above the plurality of second through-holes. A first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the recessed portion downwardly recessed, and 12. The battery pack of claim 11, wherein, wherein the plurality of first through-holes and the plurality of second through-holes are closed by the exhaust units to seal a bottom side of the first exhaust path. The plurality of cell stacks are arranged in the first direction, 13. The battery pack of claim 1, wherein, ​ wherein the housing frame includes a cross beam between the plurality of monomer stacks and side beams on opposite sides of the plurality of monomer stacks, the cross beam including a second exhaust path, and wherein the side beams each include a third exhaust path.

14. The battery pack of claim 13, wherein, the cross beam further includes an opening at a top surface thereof, wherein at least one of the plurality of first through holes is located above the opening to communicate with the opening, and wherein the opening is connected to the second exhaust path.

15. The battery pack of claim 14, wherein, each of the at least one horizontal frame further includes a first coupling hole on an opposite side of each of the at least one of the plurality of first through holes that communicates with the opening, wherein the cross beam further includes a second coupling groove on opposite sides of the opening, and wherein the at least one horizontal frame is fastened to the cross beam with a fastener that extends through the first coupling hole and the second coupling groove.

16. The battery pack of claim 14, wherein, the first exhaust path extending in the first direction is in a space formed by the downwardly concave recess, and wherein the first exhaust path and the second exhaust path communicate with each other through the opening of the cross beam.

17. The battery pack of claim 16, wherein, an opening communicating with the third exhaust path is at a coupling portion of each of the side beams that couples with the cross beam at the coupling portion, and wherein the second exhaust path and the third exhaust path communicate with each other through the opening in the each of the side beams.

18. The battery pack of claim 13, wherein, at least one of the side beams includes an outlet port that communicates with the third exhaust path and is configured to open outwardly in response to pressure exceeding a threshold pressure.

19. The battery pack of claim 4, wherein, the cover frame includes an outlet port that communicates with the first exhaust path and is configured to open outwardly in response to pressure exceeding a threshold pressure.

20. A vehicle characterized by a battery pack including the battery pack according to any one of claims 1-19. a battery pack including the battery pack according to any one of claims 1-19.

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