Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is provided. The battery module includes a case that houses a plurality of battery cells in an internal space. A flow path extends along a first direction and is configured to distribute fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the case. One or more partition walls extend along a second direction different from the first direction and divide the internal space of the case into two or more sub-internal spaces. The battery module according to the present application can improve cooling efficiency and reduce the amount of fire extinguishing agent.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0119304, filed on September 3, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a battery module including a flow path for spraying fire extinguishing agent. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be both charged and discharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in small, portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as motor drive power sources and energy storage batteries in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and the like. Such secondary batteries include electrode assemblies containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing (or canister) that contains the electrode assemblies, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assemblies.

[0004] Secondary batteries can be used as battery modules formed by connecting multiple secondary batteries in series and / or parallel to provide high energy density. Battery modules can be formed by connecting secondary batteries to each other.

[0005] The information disclosed in this Background section is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of this disclosure and may therefore include information that does not constitute related technology. Utility Model Content

[0006] This disclosure aims to provide a battery module including a flow path for spraying fire extinguishing agent.

[0007] This disclosure also aims to provide a battery module in which the internal space of the housing is divided.

[0008] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand from the following description other problems not mentioned.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a housing containing a plurality of battery cells in an interior space of the housing; a flow path extending along a first direction and configured to distribute a fire extinguishing agent into the interior space of the housing; and at least one partition wall extending along a second direction different from the first direction and dividing the interior space of the housing into two or more sub-internal spaces.

[0010] The battery module disclosed herein can improve cooling efficiency and reduce the amount of fire extinguishing agent. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, aspects and features of the present disclosure are further described. The present disclosure is not limited to the drawings: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 The interior of the battery module's casing is shown; Figure 5 The interior of the battery module is shown; Figure 6 The interior of the housing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 The interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8 According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6 An enlarged view of part V shown in the diagram; Figure 9 According to another embodiment of this disclosure Figure 6 An enlarged view of part V shown in the diagram; Figure 10 This is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 11 The interior of the housing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and Figure 12 The interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0012] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical ideas of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe his or her utility model. Therefore, it will be understood that the constructions shown in the embodiments described herein and the accompanying drawings are merely some of the most typical embodiments of the disclosure and do not represent all the technical ideas disclosed, and various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of submission. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used herein, it indicates the presence of the mentioned shapes, quantities, steps, operations, components, elements, and / or groups thereof, and is not intended to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or groups thereof. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, “may” or “may be” can include “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.”

[0013] Furthermore, to aid in understanding the disclosure, the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Additionally, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components in different embodiments.

[0014] Describing two objects as "equal" means "substantially identical." Therefore, substantially identical can include what is considered a low deviation in the art, for example, less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of parameters over a given region can mean uniformity from an average perspective.

[0015] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specifically stated, it will be understood that a first component can also be a second component.

[0016] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0017] When any component is set "on" (or "below") or "above" (or "below") a component, it can mean not only that any component is set to be in contact with said component, but also that another component can be placed between said component and any component set on (or below) said component.

[0018] Furthermore, when a component is described as "linked," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it will be understood that the components can be directly connected or combined with each other, but the other component can be "placed" between the components, or the individual components can be "linked," "combined," or "connected" through another component. Additionally, when a component is electrically connected to another component, this includes not only direct connections but also connections with another element present between them.

[0019] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, unless otherwise specifically stated, it means greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D.

[0020] When phrases such as “at least one of A, B and C (species / beings)”, “at least one of A, B or C (species / beings)”, “at least one of the group selected from A, B and C (species / beings)” or “at least one of A, B and C (species / beings)” are used to describe a list of elements A, B and C, the phrase can refer to any suitable combination.

[0021] The term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilization”. As used herein, the terms “basic,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0022] While terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions are not intended to be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be designated as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0023] To describe the relationship between one element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings and another element(s), spatial relative terms such as "below," "under," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used herein for ease of description. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative positions are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as "below" or "under" another element is understood as "above" or "on" another element. Therefore, the term "below" can encompass both above and below directions.

[0024] The terminology used herein is intended to describe embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] The battery module 1000 includes multiple battery cells 1100. The housing 1200 accommodates the multiple battery cells 1100. The battery cells 1100 can be used as unit structures for storing and supplying power in the battery module 1000.

[0027] Each of the battery cells 1100 includes, for example, a battery cell in which the casing 20 of the battery cell 1100 is formed in a prismatic shape. However, the shape of the battery cells 1100 applicable to the battery module 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited. For example, the battery cells 1100 can be formed in various shapes, such as pouch shapes, cylindrical shapes, coin shapes, etc. Hereinafter, a case in which the battery cells 1100 of the battery module 1000 are formed in a prismatic shape will be described as an example.

[0028] Multiple battery cells 1100 are disposed inside the housing 1200. In this case, the housing 1200 forms the appearance of the battery module 1000. The housing 1200 can be used as a component to support the multiple battery cells 1100 as a whole.

[0029] The housing 1200 stores multiple battery cells 1100 within its internal space. The multiple battery cells 1100 are arranged along a first direction within the internal space of the housing 1200. This first direction may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the battery module 1000.

[0030] Each battery cell 1100 includes a first side surface and a second side surface facing the first side surface. The first and second side surfaces comprise the wide surface of the battery cell 1100. In the example, a plurality of battery cells 1100 may be arranged such that the first side surface of one battery cell faces the second side surface of an adjacent battery cell. In this case, the first direction is the direction from the first side surface toward the second side surface.

[0031] The housing 1200 may include an end plate 1210, a side plate 1220, and a bottom plate 1230 that form the internal space of the storage battery cell 1100.

[0032] End plate 1210 forms part of the side surface of housing 1200. For example, end plate 1210 forms a side surface of housing 1200 positioned in a first direction. Therefore, end plate 1210 can be formed as a wide side surface facing battery cell 1100. For example, end plate 1210 can be formed as two end plates facing each other to form two side surfaces of housing 1200.

[0033] When the battery cell 1100 is repeatedly charged and discharged, the battery cell 1100 may expand. The expansion may be more noticeable on the relatively wide side surface of the battery cell 1100. However, the end plate 1210 can suppress the expansion of the battery cell 1100 and / or can support the exterior of the housing 1200.

[0034] Side plates 1220 form different portions of the side surfaces of the housing 1200. For example, side plates 1220 form a side surface of the housing 1200 positioned in a second direction. The second direction can be a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the battery module 1000, and the second direction can be a direction perpendicular to the first direction. For example, side plates 1220 can be formed as a pair of two side plates facing each other to form two sides of the housing 1200. Side plates 1220 can be connected to a pair of end plates 1210 on one side and the other side respectively.

[0035] The base plate 1230 forms the bottom surface of the housing 1200. The base plate 1230 can support multiple battery cells 1100 from the bottom. The base plate 1230 can be connected to the end plate 1210 and the side plate 1220. With this configuration, the housing 1200 can include an internal space formed by the end plate 1210, the side plate 1220 and the base plate 1230.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery cell 1100 may include at least one electrode assembly, a housing 20, and a cover assembly 30. The at least one electrode assembly is formed by winding a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12 and a separator 13 placed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 as an insulator. The electrode assembly is housed in the housing 20, and the cover assembly 30 is coupled to the housing 20 to cover an opening in the housing 20.

[0039] In the following description, an example of a battery cell 1100 as a prismatic lithium-ion secondary battery will be presented. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 1100 may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0040] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may include coated portions, which are areas of the current collector formed by a sheet of metal foil coated with an active material. The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may also include uncoated portions 11a and 12a, which are areas of the current collector not coated with an active material.

[0041] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be wound with a diaphragm 13, which serves as an insulator, placed therebetween. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly can have a structure in which the positive and negative electrodes are formed of a plurality of sheets and are stacked alternately with the diaphragm placed between the positive and negative electrodes.

[0042] The housing 20 forms the exterior of the battery cell 1100 and can be formed of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. Additionally, the housing 20 can provide space to accommodate electrode assemblies.

[0043] The cover assembly 30 may include a cover plate 31 that covers the opening of the housing 20. The housing 20 and the cover plate 31 may be made of a conductive material. A terminal 21 electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12 may pass through the cover plate 31 and protrude outward.

[0044] A pair of terminals 21 can be formed protruding outward from the cover plate 31. Terminals 21 can be connected to the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, and can serve as the positive and negative electrode terminals of the battery cell 1100. More specifically, terminals 21 can be electrically connected to current collectors, including a first current collector 40 (hereinafter referred to as the positive electrode current collector) welded to the uncoated portion 11a of the positive electrode and a second current collector 50 (hereinafter referred to as the negative electrode current collector) welded to the uncoated portion 12a of the negative electrode. For example, terminals 21 can be welded to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, respectively. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and terminals 21, as well as the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, can be integrally formed. The outer surface of the upper post of each terminal 21 can be threaded and can be secured to the cover plate 31 with a nut. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, terminals 21 can be formed with a riveting structure and can be riveted or welded to the cover plate 31.

[0045] The cover plate 31 can be a thin plate and is integrated into the opening of the housing 20. An electrolyte inlet 32 ​​with a sealing cap 33 can be formed in the cover plate 31. An exhaust port 34 can also be formed in the cover plate 31.

[0046] The vent 34 can open and close in response to changes in the internal pressure of the housing 20. That is, the vent 34 is closed during normal operation of the electrode assembly to seal the housing 20. When the internal pressure of the housing 20 rises to a set level or higher due to overcharging or ignition, the vent 34 can open. Therefore, emissions such as flames and gases can be discharged from the inside of the housing 20 to the outside through the vent 34.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, an insulating member may be disposed between the electrode assembly and the cover plate 31. The insulating member may include a first lower insulating member 60 and a second lower insulating member 70. Each of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70 may be disposed between the electrode assembly and the cover plate 31.

[0048] One end of the separating member may be disposed facing the electrode assembly, and the separating member is positioned between the insulating member and the terminal 21. The separating member may include a first separating member 80 and a second separating member 90. The first separating member 80 may be positioned between the first lower insulating member 60 and the positive electrode terminal 21, and the second separating member 90 may be positioned between the second lower insulating member 70 and the negative electrode terminal 21. As a result, the terminals 21 soldered to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 can be coupled to the ends of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70, as well as the first separating member 80 and the second separating member 90.

[0049] Figure 4 The interior of the battery module's casing is shown. Figure 5 The interior of the battery module is shown.

[0050] like Figure 4 As shown, the battery module 1000 includes a flow path 1300. The flow path 1300 is formed in the interior space of the housing 1200. For example, the flow path 1300 is formed in the interior space of the housing 1200 along a first direction corresponding to the length direction of the battery module 1000. The flow path 1300 is formed from the end plate 1210 formed on the first side toward the end plate 1210 formed on the second side.

[0051] Multiple battery cells 1100 can be formed into a battery structure arranged along a first direction. Alternatively, the multiple battery cells 1100 may include two battery structures arranged along the width direction of the battery module 1000. In this arrangement, the width direction of the battery module 1000 may be a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the battery module 1000. However, the multiple battery cells 1100 are not limited to this arrangement and may be arranged in one, three, or more rows along a second direction. An example of multiple battery cells 1100 forming two rows along the width direction of the battery module 1000 has been described herein, but this disclosure is not limited to such an arrangement. In the depicted arrangement, the multiple battery cells 1100 include a battery structure in which the battery cells are arranged along the first direction. The battery structure also includes a first battery structure and a second battery structure arranged in two rows along the width direction of the battery module 1000.

[0052] Viewed from above, the flow path 1300 can be arranged between the first battery structure and the second battery structure. The flow path 1300 can be located on the upper part of the battery cell 1100, or it can be located on the side of the battery cell 1100.

[0053] Despite Figure 4 and Figure 5 Although not shown in the diagram, the flow path 1300 can be connected to an extinguishing agent storage tank located outside the housing 1200 via a pipe 1320 extending from the housing 1200. The flow path 1300 can supply extinguishing agent from the extinguishing agent storage tank. The extinguishing agent may include a liquid extinguishing agent. For example, the extinguishing agent may include at least one of sulfuric acid, potassium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminum sulfate, water, halogenated alkanes, halogen compounds, and combinations thereof. However, the extinguishing agent according to this invention is not limited to these examples and may include, for example, solid extinguishing agents, gaseous extinguishing agents, etc.

[0054] The flow path 1300 may be formed of a heat-sensitive material that melts above a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature may be the ignition temperature of the battery cell 1100. The predetermined temperature may be, for example, 100°C to 150°C. In other examples, the predetermined temperature is 110°C to 150°C, or 100°C to 140°C, or 110°C to 140°C, or 110°C to 130°C, or 110°C to 120°C. When the predetermined temperature is less than 100°C, the flow path 1300 may melt during the simple charging and discharging process of the battery cell 1100. In this case, the use of the battery module 1000 is impaired. When the predetermined temperature is greater than 150°C, the flow path 1300 may not melt until long after an ignition F occurs in the battery cell 1100. Therefore, suppression of the ignition F may be delayed, and the cooling effect of the battery module 1000 is reduced. Therefore, it is preferable that the predetermined temperature is, for example, 100°C to 150°C.

[0055] The heat-sensitive material includes polyamide 12 (PA12) material. Alternatively, for example, the heat-sensitive material may include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), α-methylstyrene acrylonitrile (AMSAN), etc. For example, the flow path 1300 may be formed as a pipe made of PA12 material.

[0056] As the flow path 1300 melts at a predetermined temperature or higher, the flow path 1300 releases the extinguishing agent within it. Since the flow path 1300 is located within the interior space of the housing 1200, it can release the extinguishing agent 1310 into the interior space of the housing 1200.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, an ignition F may occur in at least one of the multiple battery cells 1100 (hereinafter referred to as event cell 1101). In this case, the flow path 1300 located near event cell 1101 may melt due to the heat of the ignition F. The melted flow path 1300 may move towards the battery cell 1100 (e.g., along...). Figure 4 The extinguishing agent 1310 is released in the directions a and a' shown. The extinguishing agent 1310 can be released toward the battery cell 1100 and then (e.g., along the directions b and b') diffuse into the interior space of the housing 1200. Therefore, the extinguishing agent 1310 can rise to a height h1 within the interior space of the housing 1200 and can cool the event cell 1101. Furthermore, the extinguishing agent 1310 can also cool the battery cells adjacent to the event cell 1101 (hereinafter referred to as "adjacent cells").

[0058] Figure 6The interior of the housing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 The interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0059] As described above, the battery module 1000 may include a flow path 1300. In this way, even when a fire F occurs in an event cell 1101, the battery module 1000 can rapidly cool multiple battery cells 1100 by releasing a fire extinguishing agent 1310 via the flow path 1300.

[0060] The temperature of the event cell 1101 or adjacent cells in a plurality of battery cells 1100 may increase if an ignition F occurs in the event cell 1101. However, even if there is an ignition F in the event cell 1101, the temperature of battery cells located away from the event cell 1101 may not increase. Therefore, the extinguishing agent can more effectively cool only the event cell 1101 and adjacent cells, rather than all battery cells 1100 included in the battery module 1000. Methods for improving the cooling efficiency of the battery module 1000 will be described in detail below.

[0061] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery module 1000 includes a housing 1200 for storing a plurality of battery cells 1100. A flow path 1300 is formed to extend along a first direction of the battery module 1000 and to spray a fire extinguishing agent into the interior space of the housing 1200. One or more partition walls 1400 extend along a second direction different from the first direction and divide the interior space of the housing 1200 into two or more sub-internal spaces.

[0062] The battery module 1000 includes a partition wall 1400 located inside the housing 1200. The partition wall 1400 divides the internal space of the housing 1200. The partition wall 1400 is formed to extend in a direction different from the direction in which the flow path 1300 extends. For example, the flow path 1300 may be formed to extend in a first direction, and the partition wall 1400 may be formed to extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0063] One side of the partition wall 1400 is connected to the side plate 1220 on the first side of the housing 1200, and the other side of the partition wall 1400 is connected to the side plate 1220 on the second side of the housing 1200. In this case, the partition wall 1400 can be arranged parallel to the end plate 1210. However, the arrangement of the partition wall 1400 can vary depending on the shape or arrangement of the battery cell 1100. For example, the partition wall 1400 can be arranged at an inclined angle relative to the end plate 1210.

[0064] As described above, a plurality of battery cells 1100 are housed within the internal space of the housing 1200. Therefore, a partition wall 1400 extends through at least one of the gaps between the plurality of battery cells 1100 within the internal space. Thus, the partition wall 1400 can divide a single battery structure into two or more battery structures. More specifically, the partition wall 1400 divides the internal space of the housing 1200 into n sub-internal spaces, where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. Additionally, n is an integer equal to or less than the number of battery cells 1100.

[0065] As described above, the partition wall 1400 can be configured to pass through at least one gap between the plurality of battery cells 1100. Therefore, the partition wall 1400 divides the interior space of the housing 1200 into at least two sub-internal spaces. That is, the partition wall 1400 can divide the interior space of the housing 1200 into as many sub-internal spaces as there are battery cells 1100.

[0066] In one example embodiment, the plurality of battery cells 1100 may comprise a battery structure arranged in a row. In this case, one battery cell 1100 may reside within a sub-internal space. In another example embodiment, the plurality of battery cells 1100 may comprise two battery structures arranged in two rows in the width direction. In this case, a sub-internal space may comprise two battery cells 1100 arranged in two rows. That is, a sub-internal space may comprise a pair of battery cells 1100.

[0067] When multiple battery cells 1100 comprise a single battery structure, n can be an integer equal to or less than the number of battery cells 1100. Alternatively, when multiple battery cells 1100 comprise multiple battery structures, n can be an integer equal to or less than the number of battery cells included in a single battery structure.

[0068] Although not in Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, however, when multiple battery structures are arranged in two or more rows, the battery module 1000 may also include one or more blocks located between the multiple battery structures. In this case, the two or more rows of battery cells 1100 located in a sub-internal space may be further divided into blocks.

[0069] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described above, the flow path 1300 may be formed of a heat-sensitive material that melts above a predetermined temperature. Additionally, the extinguishing agent 1310 may include a liquid extinguishing agent. Optionally, the extinguishing agent 1310 may include at least one of liquid extinguishing agents, solid extinguishing agents, and gaseous extinguishing agents, or combinations thereof. The flow path 1300 and / or the extinguishing agent 1310 and... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The same or similar as described in the text.

[0070] According to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the case of a battery module 1000 excluding the partition wall 1400, when a fire occurs in the event unit 1101, the entire internal space of the housing 1200 can be impregnated with the extinguishing agent 1310 released as it melts along the flow path 1300. On the other hand, in the case of a battery module 1000 including the partition wall 1400, when a fire occurs in the event unit 1101, only a portion of the internal space of the housing 1200, rather than the entire internal space, can be impregnated with the extinguishing agent 1310. For example, within the divided internal space, only the sub-internal space located by the event unit 1101 can be impregnated with the extinguishing agent 1310. In this way, the battery module 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the cooling efficiency of the extinguishing agent 1310. For example, the battery module 1000 can improve cooling performance and / or reduce the amount of extinguishing agent required.

[0071] The extinguishing agent 1310 can fill at least one of two or more sub-internal spaces at a predetermined rate or a greater rate. In this case, the predetermined rate is the rate at which the extinguishing agent 1310 fills the internal space not divided by the partition wall 1400. For example, the extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space not divided by the partition wall 1400 at a predetermined rate to the extent that... Figure 5 The predetermined height h1 is shown. On the other hand, the extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the sub-internal space divided by the partition wall 1400 to a height h2 that is the same as the predetermined height h1. In this case, since the battery module 1000 is divided, the extinguishing agent 1310 fills the narrower internal space to the same height. Therefore, the extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the sub-internal space faster than a predetermined rate. In this way, when the battery module 1000 includes the partition wall 1400, the extinguishing agent 1310 fills the sub-internal space at a faster rate than when the partition wall 1400 is not provided to the battery module 1000.

[0072] In another example, extinguishing agent 1310 can fill at least one of two or more sub-internal spaces to a predetermined height or higher. The predetermined height is reached when extinguishing agent 1310 fills an internal space not divided by partition wall 1400. For example, extinguishing agent 1310 can fill an internal space not divided by partition wall 1400 to a height such as... Figure 5 The predetermined height h1 is shown. On the other hand, when the flow path 1300 carries the same amount of extinguishing agent 1310, as shown... Figure 7As shown, the extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the sub-internal space divided by the partition wall 1400 to a predetermined height h2 above a predetermined height. In this way, when the battery module 1000 includes the partition wall 1400, the extinguishing agent 1310 fills the sub-internal space to a higher height than when the partition wall 1400 is not provided.

[0073] As described above, the battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can effectively cool all battery cells (e.g., event cell 1101, adjacent cells, etc.) through the partition wall 1400.

[0074] Figure 8 According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6 An enlarged view of part V depicted in the image.

[0075] The partition wall 1400 may include at least one through-hole 1400h. A flow path 1300 may extend through the through-hole 1400h to each of two or more sub-internal spaces. In some embodiments, the flow path 1300 is above the upper side of the partition wall 1400. However, in situations such as... Figure 8 In other embodiments depicted, the flow path 1300 may extend through a through-hole 1400h formed in the partition wall 1400. The shape of the through-hole 1400h may correspond to the flow path 1300, such that the flow path 1300 may extend through the through-hole 1400h. That is, the size of the through-hole 1400h may correspond to the size of the flow path 1300. For example, when the flow path 1300 is a pipe with a circular cross-section, the through-hole 1400h may be formed as a circle with a diameter greater than or equal to the diameter of the flow path 1300.

[0076] As described above, when an ignition F occurs in event unit 1101, the flow path 1300 melts in a portion of the region adjacent to event unit 1101. That is, the flow path 1300 melts in the sub-internal space including event unit 1101. On the other hand, the flow path 1300 does not need to melt in the sub-internal space excluding event unit 1101. This is because the cooling efficiency is lower when the flow path 1300 melts in the sub-internal space excluding event unit 1101. Therefore, the flow path 1300 does not need to melt on the other side of partition wall 1400.

[0077] In the partition wall 1400 including the through hole 1400h, the through hole adjacent portion 1401 is formed adjacent to the through hole 1400h, and the through hole non-adjacent portion 1402 is a region not adjacent to the through hole 1400h. The through hole adjacent portion 1401 may be formed to be thicker than the through hole non-adjacent portion 1402. In this case, the through hole adjacent portion 1401 in the partition wall 1400 includes a region adjacent to the through hole 1400h, such as a region located within a first distance from the through hole 1400h. The first distance may be, for example, 0.1 mm or greater and 20 mm or less.

[0078] The adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole can be formed to be thicker than the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole. For example, when viewed from above the battery module 1000, the adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole can be thicker than the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole. In this arrangement, the adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole and the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole can be connected in a streamlined manner with curved surfaces. The thickness of the partition wall 1400 gradually decreases from the adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole toward the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole. Optionally, the adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole and the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole can be connected to form a step. That is, the thickness of the partition wall 1400 gradually decreases from the adjacent portion 1401 of the through hole toward the non-adjacent portion 1402 of the through hole.

[0079] In other embodiments, the partition wall 1400 may further include a first support structure (not shown) disposed along the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 1400h. The first support structure may improve the rigidity of the partition wall 1400. The first support structure includes, for example, an insulating material. The insulating material may include at least one of, for example, polyimide (PI), polysulfone (PU), polyurethane (PU), polyamide (PA), 6,6 nylon, polycarbonate (PC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and combinations thereof. The first support structure may also include an adhesive material for adhering the insulating material to the partition wall 1400 to fix it to the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 1400h. The adhesive material may include at least one of, for example, silicone resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, rubber resin, epoxy resin, polyolefin, and combinations thereof.

[0080] Additionally, although not shown, the partition wall 1400 may include both a through-hole adjacent portion 1401 formed with a relatively thick thickness and a first support structure.

[0081] Therefore, the battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a method for ensuring the rigidity of the partition wall 1400 in contact with the flow path 1300. When one side of the flow path 1300 melts, the partition wall 1400 supports the flow path 1300 at the through-hole 1400h and prevents heat transfer outside the partition wall 1400. Therefore, the cooling efficiency in the battery module 1000 can be improved.

[0082] Figure 9 According to another embodiment of this disclosure Figure 6 Enlarged view of section V.

[0083] At least one through-hole 1400h is formed in the partition wall 1400, and the flow path 1300 can extend through the through-hole 1400h to extend into each of two or more sub-internal spaces. That is, in some embodiments, the flow path 1300 can pass over the upper side of the partition wall 1400. In other embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the flow path 1300 can extend through the through-hole 1400h formed in the partition wall 1400. The through-hole 1400h and... Figure 8 The through holes described herein are the same or similar.

[0084] As described above, the flow path 1300 does not need to melt on the side of the partition wall 1400 opposite to the side where ignition or the like occurs in the battery cell.

[0085] like Figure 9 As shown, the flow path 1300 includes a partition wall adjacent portion 1301 that passes through the through hole 1400h and is adjacent to the partition wall 1400, and a partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302 that is not adjacent to the partition wall 1400. The partition wall adjacent portion 1301 may be formed to be thicker than the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302.

[0086] In this case, the adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall includes the region in the flow path 1300 adjacent to the partition wall 1400. This is the portion that passes through the partition wall 1400 or is located within a second distance from the partition wall 1400. The second distance can be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 30 mm or less. The adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall can be formed to be thicker than the non-adjacent portion 1302 of the partition wall. In this case, the adjacent portion 1301 and the non-adjacent portion 1302 of the partition wall can be connected in a streamlined manner by a curved surface. In this case, the thickness of the flow path 1300 can gradually decrease from the adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall toward the non-adjacent portion 1302 of the partition wall. Optionally, the adjacent portion 1301 and the non-adjacent portion 1302 of the partition wall can be connected to form a step. That is, the thickness of the flow path 1300 can gradually decrease from the adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall toward the non-adjacent portion 1302 of the partition wall.

[0087] The battery module 1000 may further include a second support structure (not shown) that encloses at least a portion of the adjacent partition wall 1301. The second support structure may improve the rigidity of the flow path 1300. The second support structure may include an insulating material. The insulating material may include at least one of, for example, polyimide, polysulfone, polyurethane, polyamide, 6,6 nylon, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and combinations thereof.

[0088] The second support structure may further include an adhesive material for adhering the insulating material to the flow path 1300 to secure it to the adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall. The adhesive material may include at least one of, for example, silicone resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, rubber resin, epoxy resin, polyolefin, and combinations thereof.

[0089] Additionally, although not shown, the flow path 1300 may include both the adjacent partition wall 1301 and the second support structure, which are formed with relatively thick thickness.

[0090] Thus, the battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a method for ensuring the rigidity of the flow path 1300 in contact with the partition wall 1400. Even when the flow path 1300 on one side of the partition wall 1400 melts, the battery module 1000 can prevent the flow path from melting through the adjacent portion 1301 of the partition wall. Therefore, cooling efficiency can be improved.

[0091] Although not in Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, however, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the partition wall 1400 and / or flow path 1300 can be combined in one or more combinations and applied to the battery module 1000. For example, the battery module 1000 may include the flow path 1300 and the partition wall 1400 through which a through hole 1400h is formed and the flow path 1300 extends through the through hole 1400h. In this case, the partition wall 1400 may include a relatively thick through hole adjacent portion 1401 and / or a first support structure, and the flow path 1300 may include a relatively thick partition wall adjacent portion 1301 and / or a second support structure. Therefore, the cooling efficiency in the battery module can be improved.

[0092] Figure 10 This is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] like Figure 10As shown, the battery module 1000 includes a plurality of battery cells 1100, a housing 1200, a flow path 1300, and a separator 1400. In this case, the separator 1400 may include an insulating material. Therefore, the separator 1400 can serve as a separator for the plurality of battery cells 1100. The insulating material includes, for example, a first material that allows the separator 1400 to have insulating properties. The first material may include, for example, at least one selected from aerogel, wet silica, dry silica, polyurethane, polystyrene, polyethylene, polyester, and combinations thereof.

[0094] In another embodiment, the insulating material may include a second material having heat-insulating and / or heat-resistant properties while maintaining the shape of the partition wall 1400. The second material may include at least one of, for example, mica, fiber, cement, talc, diatomaceous earth, bentonite, silica, pyroxene porphyry, kaolin, polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, and combinations thereof.

[0095] The partition wall 1400 may be formed from a single layer comprising a first material or a second material. Alternatively, the partition wall 1400 may be formed from multiple layers formed by stacking layers comprising a first material and layers comprising a second material. For example, the partition wall 1400 may be formed as a sandwich structure in which the first material is formed on both surfaces of the second material.

[0096] The battery module 1000 may further include one or more insulating sheets 1110 disposed in at least one of the gaps between a plurality of battery cells 1100. The insulating sheets 1110 may be located in areas where the partition walls 1400 are not provided. In such a case, at least one of the plurality of battery cells 1100 may have one surface in contact with the insulating sheet 1110 and another surface in contact with the partition wall 1400. In this way, the partition wall 1400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can function similarly to the insulating sheet while also improving cooling efficiency. Therefore, the battery module 1000 may further include insulating sheets 1110 to insulate the battery cells 1100 from each other.

[0097] Figure 11 The interior of the housing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 12 The interior of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0098] The battery module 1000 includes a housing 1200 that accommodates a plurality of battery cells 1100. A flow path 1300 extends in a first direction and distributes extinguishing agent into the interior space of the housing 1200. One or more partition walls 1400 extend in a second direction different from the first direction and divide the interior space of the housing 1200 into two or more sub-internal spaces. The partition walls 1400 may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals.

[0099] For example, battery module 1000 may include a first partition wall 1410 and a second partition wall 1420 spaced apart from each other. Figure 11 As shown, the housing 1200 can be formed with a distance d along the length of the battery module 1000. In this case, the first partition wall 1410 and the end plate 1210 on one side can be formed with a distance d1 between them. The first partition wall 1410 and the second partition wall 1420 can be formed with a distance d2 between them. The second partition wall 1420 and the end plate 1210 on the other side can be formed with a distance d3 between them. In this case, d1, d2, and d3 can all be equal, that is, each of d1, d2, and d3 can have a value of d / 3. Therefore, each of the sub-internal spaces divided by the partition walls 1400 that are equally spaced can all have the same volume. However, in another embodiment, at least some of the plurality of partition walls 1400 can be spaced apart from each other at different distances.

[0100] use Figure 11 The arrangement shown is as follows: Figure 12 As shown, the extinguishing agent 1310 can be distributed into a smaller space to impregnate the battery cell 1100. Therefore, the extinguishing agent 1310 can impregnate the battery cell 1100 to a height h3. Optionally, the extinguishing agent 1310 can impregnate the battery cell 1100 at a rate faster than predetermined.

[0101] The partition wall 1400 divides the internal space into n sub-internal spaces, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to the number of multiple battery cells 1100. The sub-internal spaces may include a first sub-internal space and a second sub-internal space divided by the partition wall 1400, and the volume of the first sub-internal space may be greater than or equal to the volume of the second sub-internal space.

[0102] In the example, at least one of d1, d2, and d3 differs from the others; that is, at least one of d1, d2, and d3 can have a value less than d / 3. Therefore, each of the multiple sub-internal spaces can have a different volume. Using this arrangement, sub-internal spaces with a relatively high probability of fire can be formed with a larger volume. Additionally or alternatively, sub-internal spaces with a relatively low probability of fire can be formed with a smaller volume.

[0103] Therefore, the battery module 1000 can provide an environment in which the battery cells 1100 with a relatively high probability of ignition can be cooled more intensively during a fire event.

[0104] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery module with improved cooling efficiency is provided. For example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the cooling rate can be increased. As another example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the amount of fire extinguishing agent can be reduced.

[0105] However, the effects obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical effects not mentioned herein through the description herein.

[0106] This disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, which are merely exemplary. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, The battery module includes: The housing contains multiple battery cells within its internal space; A flow path, extending along a first direction and configured to distribute the extinguishing agent into the interior space of the housing; and At least one partition wall extends along a second direction different from the first direction and divides the interior space of the housing into two or more sub-internal spaces.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one partition wall divides the interior space into n sub-internal spaces, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to the number of the plurality of battery cells.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path is formed by a thermosensitive material that melts at a predetermined temperature or higher.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path is configured to dispense the extinguishing agent comprising at least one of liquid extinguishing agents, solid extinguishing agents, gaseous extinguishing agents, and combinations thereof.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, A through-hole is formed in at least one of the partition walls, and The flow path extends through the through-hole to each of the two or more sub-internal spaces.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The at least one partition wall includes: The portion adjacent to the through hole, and adjacent to the through hole; and The non-adjacent portion of the through hole is the area that is not adjacent to the through hole, and The adjacent portion of the through hole is thicker than the non-adjacent portion of the through hole.

7. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The at least one partition wall also includes a support structure disposed along the circumferential surface of the through hole.

8. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flow path includes: The adjacent portion of the partition wall extends through the through hole and is adjacent to the at least one partition wall; and The non-adjacent portion of the partition wall is not adjacent to the at least one partition wall, and The adjacent portions of the partition wall are thicker than the non-adjacent portions of the partition wall.

9. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flow path includes: The adjacent portion of the partition wall extends through the through hole and is adjacent to the at least one partition wall; and The non-adjacent portion of the partition wall is not adjacent to the at least one partition wall, and The battery module also includes a support structure that encloses at least a portion of the adjacent portion of the partition wall.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one partition wall includes an insulating material.

11. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interior space includes a first sub-internal space and a second sub-internal space divided by the at least one partition wall, and Wherein, the volume of the first sub-internal space is greater than or equal to the volume of the second sub-internal space.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path is configured to distribute the extinguishing agent in such a manner that the extinguishing agent fills at least one of the two or more sub-internal spaces at a predetermined rate or higher.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path is configured to distribute the extinguishing agent in such a manner that it fills at least one of the two or more sub-internal spaces to a predetermined height or higher.

14. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery module also includes one or more insulating sheets disposed in at least one of the gaps between the plurality of battery cells.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the plurality of battery cells includes a first surface in contact with the one or more insulating sheets and a second surface in contact with the at least one partition wall.

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