Battery pack housing and battery pack containing the same

Abstract

Battery pack housing (10), including: a housing base (100); a side housing (200) extending upwards from a periphery of the housing base (100) and forming a receiving space (15) together with the housing base (100); and a partition unit (300) positioned on an upper surface of the housing base (100) and configured to partition the receiving space (15), wherein the subdivision unit (300) includes: a partition support module (310) coupled to the housing base (100); and a partition isolation module (320) coupled to the partition support module (310) and forming an isolation space (325) as a hollow portion therein.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery pack case and a battery pack including the same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a battery pack case that suppresses fire propagation between battery cells by using an insulation space formed therein, and a battery pack including the battery pack case. [State of the art]

[0002] If a fire occurs in a secondary battery cell due to overcurrent or overheating, the flames may spread to other adjacent battery cells. In this case, multiple battery cells may ignite in sequence, causing a chain reaction of fires.

[0003] In particular, in the case of an electric vehicle equipped with a battery module composed of a plurality of secondary battery cells, or an electric vehicle equipped with the plurality of secondary battery cells, the safety of passengers in the electric vehicle may be compromised if fire spread between battery cells or battery modules is not effectively suppressed. Therefore, a structure capable of suppressing fire spread between battery cells is required in a battery pack case used in the electric vehicle or the like.

[0004] (Patent Document 1) KR 10-2282482 B1 [Summary of the Invention][Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to address the above-mentioned problems as well as other related problems.

[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack case that suppresses fire transmission between a plurality of battery modules and a battery pack incorporating the same.

[0007] In addition, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack case that prevents fire transmission between partitioned accommodation spaces and a battery pack incorporating the same.

[0008] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack case in which a partition unit serving as a cross member has an insulation space, and a battery pack incorporating the same.

[0009] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack case in which a side insulation space is formed in a side case, and a battery pack incorporating the same.

[0010] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack case that releases a fire extinguishing agent when the pressure in a hollow portion is a predetermined pressure or more, and a battery pack incorporating the same. [Means of solving the problems]

[0011] To achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery pack case including: a case bottom; a side case extending upward from a periphery of the case bottom and forming an accommodation space together with the case bottom; and a partition unit positioned on an upper surface of the case bottom and configured to partition the accommodation space, wherein the partition unit includes: a partition support module coupled to the case bottom; and a partition insulation module coupled to the partition support module and forming an insulation space as a hollow portion therein.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery pack including: a plurality of battery cell groups, each containing a plurality of battery cells; and a battery pack case configured to accommodate a plurality of battery groups, the battery pack case including: a case bottom; a side case extending upward from a periphery of the case bottom and forming an accommodation space together with the case bottom; and a partition unit positioned on an upper surface of the bottom plate and configured to partition the accommodation space, the partition unit including: a partition support module coupled to the case bottom; and a partition insulation module coupled to the partition support module and forming an insulation space as a hollow portion therein. [Beneficial Effects]

[0013] The effects of the battery pack case according to the present disclosure are described as follows.

[0014] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack case that suppresses fire transmission between the plurality of battery modules and a battery pack including the same may be provided.

[0015] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack case that prevents fire transmission between the divided accommodation spaces and a battery pack incorporating the same may be provided.

[0016] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack case in which a partition unit serving as the cross member has the insulation space and a battery pack including the same can be provided.

[0017] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack case having the side insulation space formed in the side case and a battery pack including the same may be provided.

[0018] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack case that releases a fire extinguishing agent when the pressure in the hollow portion is a predetermined pressure or more, and a battery pack incorporating the same may be provided.

[0019] Additional areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various alternatives and modifications within the technical spirit and scope of the present disclosure can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are provided for illustrative purposes only. [Brief description of the drawings] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a second partition unit formed therein; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA; Fig. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the insulation module of Fig. 3 illustrates; Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a first partition isolation module and a second partition isolation module spaced apart from each other; Fig. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the first partition isolation module and the second partition isolation module of Fig. 5 illustrates; Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a state in which an insulation member is arranged between the first division insulation module and the second division insulation module; Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a state in which a partition insulation module is arranged between the first partition support module and the second partition support module; Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line B1-B2; Fig. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the Fig. 9 shown side insulation module; Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a state in which an erasing part is formed in the dividing leg part; Fig. Figure 12 is a detailed view showing section ‘C’ of Fig. 11 illustrates; Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1, illustrating a state in which a portion of a case bottom is integrally formed with the partition support module; Fig. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a battery cell group according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the battery modules housed in the battery pack case; and Fig. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the battery cell groups accommodated in the battery pack case. [Mode of carrying out the invention]

[0020] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the numbering of the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and the same configuration will not be described repeatedly. The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are provided or used interchangeably for convenience in writing the description and have no independent meanings or roles. In addition, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, well-known techniques related to the present disclosure, which may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the disclosure, will not be described in detail.Furthermore, the accompanying drawings are provided solely to assist in understanding the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and it should be understood that the technical ideas disclosed herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions are included within the scope of the disclosure and the technology range.

[0021] It is understood that terms containing ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe different components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from other components.

[0022] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but another intervening component may be present between them. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another component, no intervening component is present.

[0023] 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.

[0024] It is further understood that the terms "include," "comprising," "containing," and / or "including," when used herein, indicate the presence of the specified 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.

[0025] In the drawings, the dimensions of the components may be exaggerated or reduced for ease of description. For example, since the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily illustrated for ease of description, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0026] Where some embodiments may be implemented differently, specific process sequences may be performed in a different order than the described order. For example, two processes described sequentially may be performed substantially concurrently or may be performed in the reverse order of the described order.

[0027] In the following embodiments, when a layer, region, component, etc. is referred to as "connected," this includes not only the case where the layers, regions, and components are directly connected, but also the case where other layers, regions, and components are arranged between the layers, regions, and components and are indirectly connected. For example, in the present specification, when a layer, region, or component, etc. is referred to as "electrically connected," this includes not only the case where the layers, regions, and components are directly electrically connected, but also the case where other layers, regions, and components are arranged between them and are indirectly electrically connected.

[0028] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] With reference to Fig. 1, a battery pack housing 10 can contain at least one battery module 30 (see Fig. 14). The battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) can accommodate a plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15). One battery pack 1 (see Fig. 16) the battery pack housing 10 and the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14).

[0030] The battery pack 1 (see Fig. 16 and Fig. 17) can be installed, for example, in an electric vehicle to serve as an electrical energy source of an energy storage unit for the electric vehicle. The battery pack 1 (see Fig. 16 and Fig. 17) can, for example, be installed in a lower section of the electric vehicle.

[0031] The battery pack housing 10 can accommodate the plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15). For example, the plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15) into the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) and then accommodated in the battery pack housing 10.

[0032] In another example, the plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15) directly into the battery pack housing 10. This means that the battery pack 1 comprises the battery pack housing 10 and the plurality of battery cells 36 accommodated therein (see Fig. 15) may include.

[0033] In the event of a fire in a battery cell, the fire can easily spread to adjacent battery cells or adjacent battery modules. Therefore, a structure that suppresses the spread of fire in the battery cell may be required in the battery pack case 10.

[0034] The battery pack housing 10 may include a housing base 100. The housing base 100 may be arranged below at least one battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15). The housing base 100 may, for example, form the bottom of the battery pack housing 10. The housing base 100 may, for example, form a lower surface (or floor surface) of the electric vehicle.

[0035] The housing base 100 may be formed in the shape of a plate. The housing base 100 may be formed in a rectangular shape overall. For example, the upper surface and the lower surface of the housing base 100 may have a rectangular shape.

[0036] This means that both the upper and lower surfaces of the housing base 100 can have a rectangular shape. For example, the four sides of the housing base 100 can consist of two short edges and two long edges.

[0037] For example, the housing base 100 may be formed in a shape that extends from one side to the other side, i.e., the opposite side. The one side and the opposite side of the housing base 100 may correspond to the short edges of the housing base 100.

[0038] The two long edges of the housing base 100 may connect the two short edges of the housing base 100. A direction in which the housing base 100 extends may correspond to the longitudinal direction of the battery pack housing 10, while a direction connecting the two long edges of the housing base 100 may correspond to the width direction of the battery pack housing 10.

[0039] The battery pack housing 10 may include a side housing 200. The side housing 200 may be formed along edges of the housing base 100. For example, the side housing 200 may extend upwardly from an edge or a portion of an edge of the housing base 100.

[0040] The side housing 200 may include a first side housing 201. The first side housing 201 may be formed along the long edge or the portion of the long edge of the bottom housing 100. For example, the first side housing 201 may be formed in a shape that extends upward from the long edge or the portion of the long edge of the bottom housing 100. The first side housing 201 may be formed in a shape that extends in the longitudinal direction of the battery pack housing 10.

[0041] A plurality of first side housings 201 may be provided. For example, the first side housing 201 may include a pair of first side housings 201. The pair of first side housings 201 may be formed in a shape extending upward from each of the two long edges of the case base 100. The pair of first side housings 201 may be spaced apart from each other and positioned to face each other. A direction in which the pair of first side housings 201 face each other may correspond to the width direction of the battery pack case 10.

[0042] The side housing 200 may include a second side housing 202. The second side housing 202 may be formed along the short edge portion or the short edge portion of the bottom housing 100. For example, the second side housing 202 may be formed in a shape that extends upward from the short edge or the short edge portion of the bottom housing 100. The second side housing 202 may be formed in a shape that extends in the width direction of the battery pack housing 10.

[0043] A plurality of second side housings 202 may be provided. For example, the second side housing 202 may include a pair of second side housings 202. The pair of second side housings 202 may be formed in a shape extending upward from each of the two short edges of the case base 100. The pair of second side housings 202 may be spaced apart from each other and positioned to face each other. A direction in which the pair of second side housings 202 face each other may correspond to the longitudinal direction, that is, the longitudinal direction of the battery pack case 10.

[0044] The side housing 200 and the housing base 100 can form a receiving space 15. An upper part of the receiving space 15 can be open. The receiving space 15 can be a space in which the battery module or the battery cell is positioned. The housing base 100 and the side housing 200 can define a boundary of the receiving space 15.

[0045] The battery pack case 10 may include a partition unit 300. The partition unit 300 may be positioned on an upper surface of the case base 100. The partition unit 300 may be positioned in the accommodation space 15. The partition unit 300 may be formed in a shape that extends upward from the upper surface of the case base 100.

[0046] The partition unit 300 may be surrounded by the side housing 200. For example, the partition unit 300 may be positioned between the pair of first side housings 201. For example, the partition unit 300 may be positioned between the pair of second side housings 202.

[0047] The partition unit 300 may include a first partition unit 301. The first partition unit 301 may be connected or coupled to the first side case 201. The first partition unit 301 may extend from one of the pair of first side cases 201 to the other of the pair of first side cases 201. The first partition unit 301 may be formed in a shape that extends in the width direction of the battery pack case 10.

[0048] The partition unit 300 may divide the accommodation space 15 into a plurality of accommodation spaces. For example, the plurality of accommodation spaces 15 divided by the first partition unit 301 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the battery pack case 10.

[0049] Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a second partition unit formed therein.

[0050] With reference to Fig. 2, the partition unit 300 may include a second partition unit 302. The second partition unit 302 may be connected or coupled to the second side housing 202.

[0051] The second partition unit 302 may extend from one of the pair of second side cases 202 to the other of the pair of second side cases 202. The second partition unit 302 may be formed in a shape that extends in the longitudinal direction of the battery pack case 10.

[0052] The second partition unit 302 may divide the accommodation space 15 into a plurality of accommodation spaces. For example, the plurality of accommodation spaces 15 divided by the second partition unit 302 may be arranged in the width direction of the battery pack case 10. The second partition unit 302 and the first partition unit 301 may intersect each other.

[0053] The first partition unit 301 and the second partition unit 302 may intersect with each other. When the first partition unit 301 and the second partition unit 302 intersect, the battery pack case 10 may substantially form a lattice shape.

[0054] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA.

[0055] With reference to Fig. 3, the partition unit 300 may include a partition support module 310. The partition support module 310 may be disposed on the upper surface of the housing base 100. The partition support module 310 may be coupled or attached to the upper surface of the housing base 100.

[0056] For example, the partition support module 310 may be welded to the upper surface of the housing base 100. For example, the partition support module 310 may be attached to the upper surface of the housing base 100 with an adhesive. The partition support module 310 may be attached to the housing base 100 and / or the side housing 200 (see Fig. 1) provide increased rigidity.

[0057] The partition unit 300 may include a partition isolation module 320. The partition isolation module 320 may be coupled to the partition support module 310. For example, the partition isolation module 320 may cover upper and side surfaces of the partition support module 310. For example, the partition isolation module 320 may be coupled to the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15).

[0058] The partition isolation module 320 may form a partition isolation space 325. The partition isolation space 325 may be a hollow portion formed in the partition isolation module 320. The pressure in the partition isolation space 325 may be less than 1 atm. For example, the pressure in the partition isolation space 325 may approach 0 atm. In this context, the partition isolation module 320 may be referred to as a "vacuum structure."

[0059] The partition insulation space 325 can have relatively higher insulation performance. In the event of a fire on one side of the partition unit 300, the partition insulation space 325 can suppress the heat caused by the fire from being transferred to the other side of the partition unit 300.

[0060] Fig. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the insulation module of Fig. 3 illustrates.

[0061] With reference to Fig. 4, the partition isolation module 320 may include a partition leg portion 3210 and a partition head portion 3220. The partition leg portion 3210 may face the side surface of the partition support module 310 (see Fig. 3).

[0062] The partition leg part 3210 may include first partition leg plates 3211. The first partition leg plates 3211 may face the partition support module 310 (see Fig. 3).

[0063] The partition leg part 3210 may include second partition leg plates 3212. The second partition leg plates 3212 may be positioned on the opposite side from the first partition leg plates 3211. The second partition leg plates 3212 may be provided to the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15).

[0064] The partition leg part 3210 may include third partition leg plates 3213. The third partition leg plates 3213 may connect the first partition leg plates 3211 and the second partition leg plates 3212.

[0065] For example, the third partition leg plates 3213 may connect lower end portions of the first partition leg plates 3211 and lower end portions of the second partition leg plates 3212. The third partition leg plates 3213 may form the bottom of the partition leg part 3210.

[0066] The third partition leg plates 3213 may face the housing base 100 (see Fig. 1). For example, the third partition leg plates 3213 may be fixed, coupled, or attached to the housing base 100 (see Fig. 1).

[0067] The partition leg part 3210 may include a plurality of partition leg parts 3210. For example, the partition leg part 3210 may include a first partition leg part 3210a and a second partition leg part 3210b. The first partition leg part 3210a and the second partition leg part 3210b may be connected to the partition support module 310 (see Fig. 3) be positioned.

[0068] A hollow portion may be formed within the partition leg portion 3210. For example, the hollow portion formed within the partition leg portion 3210 may form a portion of the partition isolation space 325.

[0069] The partition header 3220 may be arranged on the partition support module 310 (see Fig. 3). The partition head portion 3220 may connect the first partition leg portion 3210a and the second partition leg portion 3210b. A hollow portion may be formed within the partition head portion 3220. For example, the hollow portion formed within the partition head portion 3220 may form another portion of the partition isolation space 325.

[0070] The hollow portion formed in the partition head portion 3220 may be connected to the hollow portions formed in the partition leg portion 3210. The partition isolation space 325 may include the hollow portions formed in the partition leg portion 3210 and the hollow portion formed in the partition head portion 3220.

[0071] The partition header 3220 may include a first partition header plate 3221. The first partition header plate 3221 may face the partition support module 310 (see Fig. 3). The first partition head plate 3221 may be connected to the first partition leg plates 3211.

[0072] For example, the first partition head plate 3221 may extend from an upper end of the first partition leg plate 3211 of the first partition leg part 3210a to an upper end of the first partition leg plate 3211 of the second partition leg part 3210b.

[0073] The partition header 3220 may include a second partition header plate 3222. The second partition header plate 3222 may be spaced apart from the first partition header plate 3221 and positioned above the first partition header plate 3221. The second partition header plate 3222 may define a top surface of the partition header 3220.

[0074] The second partition head plate 3222 may be connected to the second partition leg plates 3212. For example, the second partition head plate 3222 may extend from an upper end of the second partition leg plate 3212 of the first partition leg portion 3210a to an upper end of the second partition leg plate 3212 of the second partition leg portion 3210b.

[0075] The partition isolation module 320 may be made of a material that includes metal. In this case, in the event of a fire, on one side of the partition unit 300 (see Fig. 3) heat caused by the fire is conducted along the partition head 3220 and transferred to the other side of the partition unit 300 (see Fig. 3).

[0076] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a first partition isolation module and a second partition isolation module spaced apart from each other. Fig. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the first partition isolation module and the second partition isolation module of Fig. 5 illustrates.

[0077] With reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the partition isolation module 320 may include a first partition isolation module 320a and a second partition isolation module 320b. The first partition isolation module 320a and the second partition isolation module 320b may be spaced apart from each other. The first partition isolation module 320a and the second partition isolation module 320b may face each other. The partition support module 310 may be positioned between the first partition isolation module 320a and the second partition isolation module 320b.

[0078] Each of the first partition isolation module 320a and the second partition isolation module 320b may include partition leg parts 3211, 3212, and 3213. The partition leg parts 3211, 3212, and 3213 may include first partition leg plates 3211, second partition leg plates 3212, and third partition leg plates 3213.

[0079] Each of the first partition isolation module 320a and the second partition isolation module 320b may include partition headers 3221, 3222, and 3223. The partition headers 3221, 3222, and 3223 may include first partition headers 3221, second partition headers 3222, and third partition headers 3223.

[0080] The first partition head plate 3221 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends from the upper end of the first partition leg plate 3211. The second partition head plate 3222 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends from the upper end of the second partition leg plate 3212. The third partition head plate 3223 may connect one end of the first partition head plate 3221 and one end of the second partition head plate 3222.

[0081] The third partition head plate 3223 of the first partition insulation module 320a may be spaced apart from and positioned to face the third partition head plate 3223 of the second partition insulation module 320b. In the event of a fire in a battery cell adjacent to the first partition insulation module 320a, heat conducted along the first partition insulation module 320a can be effectively prevented from being transferred to the second partition insulation module 320b.

[0082] However, radiant heat generated from the third partition head plate 3223 of the first partition insulation module 320a can be transferred to the third partition head plate 3223 of the second partition insulation module 320b. In other words, heat from the third partition head plate 3223 of the first partition insulation module 320a can be transferred to the third partition head plate 3223 of the second partition insulation module 320b by thermal radiation.

[0083] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a state in which an insulation member is arranged between the first division insulation module and the second division insulation module.

[0084] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the partition unit 300 may include an insulation member 330. The insulation member 330 may be disposed between the first partition insulation module 320a and the second partition insulation module 320b.

[0085] The insulation element 330 may be made of a substance including a material having a relatively low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulation element 330 may be made of a material including a polymer material. For example, the insulation element 330 may include polypropylene (PP) and / or glass wool.

[0086] The insulation member 330 can suppress radiant heat generated from the third partition head plate 3223 of the first partition insulation module 320a from being transferred to the third partition head plate 3223 of the second partition insulation module 320b.

[0087] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line AA, illustrating a state in which a partition insulation module is arranged between the first partition support module and the second partition support module.

[0088] With reference to Fig. 8, a plurality of partition support modules 310 may be provided. For example, the partition support module 310 may include a first partition support module 310a and a second partition support module 310b.

[0089] The first partition support module 310a and the second partition support module 310b may be arranged horizontally. The first partition support module 310a and the second partition support module 310b may be spaced apart from each other. The first partition support module 310a and the second partition support module 310b may be coupled or attached to the upper surface of the housing base 100.

[0090] The partition isolation module 320 may be disposed between the first partition support module 310a and the second partition support module 310b. The partition isolation module 320 may be coupled or attached to the upper surface of the housing base 100.

[0091] The partition insulation module 320 may form a hollow portion therein. For example, the partition insulation module 320 may include a partition insulation space 325 formed therein. In the event of a fire in a battery cell adjacent to the first partition support module 310a, the partition insulation space 325 may suppress heat from being transferred to the second partition support module 310b.

[0092] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 along the line B1-B2. Fig. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the Fig. 9 shown side insulation module.

[0093] With reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the side housing 200 may include the side support module 210 and the side isolation module 220. The side support module 210 may be formed in a shape that extends upward from one end of the housing base 100. The side support module 210 may ensure the rigidity of the side housing 200. The side support module 210 may define an outer surface of the side housing 200.

[0094] The side insulation module 220 may face the side support module 210. The side insulation module 220 may be connected or coupled to the side support module 210. The side insulation module 220 may face an inner surface of the side support module 210. The inner surface of the side support module 210 may face the receiving space 15 (see Fig. 1).

[0095] The side insulation module 220 may face an upper surface of the side support module 210. The side insulation module 220 may form a side insulation space 225 as a hollow portion therein. The side insulation module 220 may be connected to the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15).

[0096] The side isolation module 220 may include a side leg portion 2210. The side leg portion 2210 may include a first side leg plate 2211. The first side leg plate 2211 may face the inner surface of the side support module 210.

[0097] The side leg portion 2210 may include a second side leg plate 2212. The second side leg plate 2212 may be positioned on the opposite side from the first side leg plate 2211. The first side leg plate 2211 may be positioned between the second side leg plate 2212 and the side support module 210.

[0098] The side leg portion 2210 may include a third side leg plate 2213. The third side leg plate 2213 may connect the first side leg portion 2211 and the second side leg portion 2212. For example, the third side leg plate 2213 may extend from a lower end of the first side leg portion 2211 and be connected to a lower end of the second side leg portion 2212. The third side leg plate 2213 may face the housing base 100.

[0099] The side isolation module 220 may include a side header portion 2220. The side header portion 2220 may face the upper surface of the side support module 210. The side header portion 2220 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends from an upper end of the side leg portion 2210.

[0100] The side header portion 2220 may include a first side header plate 2221. The first side header plate 2221 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends from an upper end of the first side leg plate 2211. The first side header plate 2221 may face the side support module 210.

[0101] The side header portion 2220 may include a second side header plate 2222. The second side header plate 2222 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends from an upper end of the second side leg plate 2212. The second side header plate 2222 may define an upper surface of the side header portion 2220.

[0102] The side header portion 2220 may include a third side header plate 2223. The third side header plate 2223 may connect the first side header plate 2221 and the second side header plate 2222. For example, the third side header plate 2223 may extend from one end of the first side header plate 2221 and be connected to the second side header plate 2222. The third side header plate 2223 may define an outer surface of the side header portion 2220.

[0103] For example, if the battery pack housing 10 (see Fig. 1) is installed in the lower section of the vehicle, there is a risk that the fire may spread to the entire vehicle if the flame spreads to the outside of the side housing 200. In this regard, in the event of a fire in the battery module or battery cell installed in the receiving space 15 (see Fig. 1), the side insulation module 220 suppresses the heat from being transferred to the outside.

[0104] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 taken along the line AA, illustrating a state in which an erasing part is formed in the dividing leg part. Fig. 12 is a detailed view showing a section “C” of Fig. 11 illustrates.

[0105] With reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the subdivision unit 300 (see Fig. 1) include a deleting part 3230. For example, the partition isolation module 320 may include the deleting part 3230.

[0106] For example, the erasing part 3230 may be coupled or positioned in the dividing leg part 3210. For example, the erasing part 3230 may be coupled or positioned in the dividing head parts 3221 and 3222.

[0107] In another example, the side isolation module 220 (see Fig. 10) include the erasing part 3230. For example, the erasing part 3230 may be coupled or positioned in the side leg part 2210. For example, the erasing part 3230 may be coupled or positioned in the side header part 2220.

[0108] The extinguishing part 3230 may include an extinguishing agent 3231. The extinguishing agent 3231 may be used to extinguish a fire in the event of a fire. The extinguishing agent 3231 may be in at least one of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a powder state.

[0109] The extinguishing agent 3231 may be positioned in the partition isolation space 325. For example, the extinguishing agent 3231 may be arranged in the isolation space 325 of the partition leg part 3210.

[0110] The erasing part 3230 may include an ejection unit 3232. The ejection unit 3232 may connect the interior and exterior of the partition isolation module 320. For example, the ejection unit 3232 may be coupled or formed in the partition leg part 3210. For example, the ejection unit 3232 may be coupled or formed in a second partition leg plate 3212.

[0111] The ejection unit 3232 may include an ejection unit body 32321. The ejection unit body 32321 may be coupled to the second partition leg plate 3212. The ejection unit body 32321 may be formed from the second partition leg plate 3212 in an elongated shape.

[0112] The ejection unit body 32321 may be formed in a shape that protrudes from the second partition leg plate 3212 toward the partition isolation space 325. One end of the ejection unit body 32321 may be connected or coupled to the second partition leg plate 3212.

[0113] The ejection unit 3232 may include an ejection valve 32322. The ejection valve 32322 may be formed in a shape extending from the other end of the ejection unit body 32321. The ejection valve 32322 may be formed with elasticity.

[0114] When the pressure in the partition isolation space 325 is less than a first pressure, the discharge valve 32322 may be maintained in a closed state. When the pressure in the partition isolation space 325 is greater than the first pressure, the discharge valve 32322 may be maintained in an open state. The first pressure may be a pressure greater than 1 atmosphere (atm).

[0115] In the event of a fire in the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15) adjacent to the partition insulation module 320, the partition insulation module 320 may be exposed to heat.

[0116] When the partition isolation module 320 is exposed to heat, the pressure in the partition isolation space 325 of the partition isolation module 320 may increase. For example, when the partition isolation module 320 is exposed to heat, at least a portion of the extinguishing agent 3231 contained in the partition isolation space 325 may be converted to vapor, thereby further increasing the pressure in the isolation space 325.

[0117] When the discharge valve 32322 is opened while the pressure in the partition isolation space 325 is greater than the first pressure, the extinguishing agent 3231 contained in the partition isolation space 325 can be released to the exterior of the partition isolation module 320. The extinguishing agent 3231 released to the exterior of the partition isolation module 320 can be applied to the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15) to extinguish the fire.

[0118] The ejection unit 3232 may be formed without a separate structure in the partition leg part 3210. For example, the ejection unit 3232 may mean a portion of the second partition leg plate 3212 with a relatively thin thickness.

[0119] For example, the partition leg part 3210 may be made of metal, and when heat is applied to the partition leg part 3210, a portion of the partition leg part 3210 may melt due to the heat.

[0120] Since the ejection unit 3232 is a portion of the second partition leg plate 3212 with a relatively thin thickness, it may melt due to heat. When the ejection unit 3232 melts due to heat, an opening is formed in the second partition leg plate 3212, and the extinguishing agent 3231 may be released through the opening.

[0121] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1, illustrating a state in which a portion of a case bottom is integrally formed with the partition support module.

[0122] With reference to Fig. 13, the housing base 100 may include an upper housing base 110 and a lower housing base 120. The upper housing base 110 may define an upper surface of the housing base 100.

[0123] The upper housing base 110 may be integrally formed with the partition support module 310. For example, when the metal plate 20 is processed by pressing, the partition support module 310 and the upper housing base 110 may be integrally formed with each other.

[0124] At least one section of the support module 310 of the subdivision unit 300 (see Fig. 2) may be formed integrally with the upper housing base 110. For example, the partition support module 310 of the first partition unit 301 (see Fig. 1) may be formed integrally with the upper housing base 110. For example, the partition support module 310 of the second partition unit 302 (see Fig. 2) be formed integrally with the upper housing base 110.

[0125] This can increase the connection force between the partition support module 310 and the housing base 100. Additionally, the process of manufacturing the partition support module 310 and attaching it to the housing base 100 can be simplified.

[0126] The partition support module 310 may be formed in a shape that protrudes upward from the upper case base 110. For example, the partition support module 310 may be formed in a shape that is curved and extends upward from the upper case base 110. The partition support module 310 may form a concave shape toward the lower case base 120.

[0127] The lower housing base 120 may be coupled to a lower surface of the upper housing base 110. For example, the lower housing base 120 and the upper housing base 110 may be coupled or secured together by welding.

[0128] A lower hollow portion 150 may be formed between the lower housing base 120 and the support module 310. The lower hollow portion 150 may be formed by the partition support module 310 and the lower housing base 120.

[0129] In the case of a fire generated on one side of the partition support module 310 in the battery module 30 (see Fig. 14) or the battery cell 36 (see Fig. 15), the lower hollow portion 150 may help prevent heat caused by a fire from being transferred to the other side of the partition support module 310.

[0130] The partition support module 310 may be integrally formed with at least a portion of the housing base 100. For example, the housing base 100 may be divided into an upper layer and a lower layer, and the support module 310 may be integrally formed with the upper layer of the housing base 100.

[0131] For example, when the metal plate 20 is processed by pressing, the partition support module 310 and the upper layer of the housing base 100 may be integrally formed with each other. In other words, the partition support module 310 and the upper housing base 110 may be integrally formed with each other.

[0132] In this case, a hollow space may be formed between the lower layer of the housing base 100 and the partition support module 310. In other words, the lower hollow portion 150 may be formed between the lower housing base 120 and the partition support module 310.

[0133] Fig. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a battery cell group according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] With reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, the battery module 30 may include a battery cell group 35. The battery cell group 35 may include the plurality of battery cells 36. The plurality of battery cells 36 may be stacked. The battery cell group 35 may be housed in a module housing. The battery module 30 may include the battery cell group 35 and the module housing.

[0135] The battery cell 36 may include a cell body 37. The cell body 37 may be formed in a shape that extends from one end to the other end. The cell body 37 may include an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly may include a cathode, an anode, and a separator.

[0136] The battery cell 36 may include electrode leads 38. A plurality of electrode leads 38 may be positioned at one end and the other end of the cell body 37. The one end and the other end of the cell body 37 may correspond to one end and the other end of the battery cell group 35.

[0137] Fig. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the battery modules housed in the battery pack case. Referring to Fig. 16, the battery pack 1 may include the battery pack housing 10 and the battery modules 30. The battery pack housing 10 may accommodate at least one battery module 30. Although in Fig. 16, the plurality of battery modules 30 may be electrically connected.

[0138] Fig. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the battery cell groups housed in the battery pack case. Referring to Fig. 17, the battery pack 1 may include the battery pack housing 10 and the battery cell groups 35. The battery pack housing 10 may accommodate at least one battery cell group 35. Although in Fig. 17 not shown, the plurality of battery cells 36 (see Fig. 15) may be electrically connected and a plurality of battery cell groups 35 may be electrically connected.

[0139] With reference to Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, the battery module 30 or the plurality of battery cell groups 35 may be housed in the battery pack case 10 to provide power for an electric vehicle, etc. As described above, in the event of a fire in the battery module 30 or the battery cell group 35, the battery pack case 10 can effectively suppress the spread of the fire. Therefore, the battery pack 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can function more stably.

[0140] Some embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or different from one another. The configurations or functions of some embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may optionally be combined or used together.

[0141] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit and essential characteristics of the present disclosure. The detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect, but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined by a fair interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications and changes within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure are included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0142] A battery pack case (10) is disclosed. The battery pack case (10) of the present disclosure may include: a case bottom (100); a side case (200) extending upward from a periphery of the case bottom (100) and forming an accommodation space (15) together with the case bottom (100); and a partition unit (300) positioned on an upper surface of the case bottom (100) and configured to partition the accommodation space (15), wherein the partition unit (300) includes: a partition support module (310) coupled to the case bottom (100); and a partition insulation module (320) coupled to the partition support module (310) and forming an insulation space (325) as a hollow portion therein. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] KR 10-2282482 B1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Battery pack housing (10), comprising: a housing base (100); a side housing (200) extending upwards from a periphery of the housing base (100) and forming a receiving space (15) together with the housing base (100); and a partition unit (300) positioned on an upper surface of the housing base (100) and configured to partition the receiving space (15), wherein the subdivision unit (300) includes: a partition support module (310) coupled to the housing base (100); and a partition isolation module (320) coupled to the partition support module (310) and forming an isolation space (325) as a hollow portion therein. [2] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 1, wherein the partition insulation module (320) includes a partition leg part (3210) positioned in the receiving space (15) and facing the partition support module (310). [3] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 2, wherein the partition leg portion (3210) includes: a first partition leg plate (3211) facing the partition support module (310); and a second partition leg plate (3212) positioned on an opposite side from the first partition leg plate (3211) and spaced from the first partition leg plate (3211). [4] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 3, wherein the partition leg part (3210) further includes a third partition leg plate (3213) extending from a lower end of the first partition leg plate (3211) to a lower end of the second partition leg plate (3212). [5] The battery pack case (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the partition insulation module (320) further includes a partition head portion (3220) that is bent and extends from the partition leg portion (3210) and is positioned above the partition support module (310). [6] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the partition leg part (3210) includes a first partition leg part (3210a) and a second partition leg part (3210b) positioned on both sides of the partition support module (310), respectively. [7] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 6, wherein the partition insulation module (320) includes a partition head portion (3220) facing the upper surface of the partition support module (310) and configured to connect the first partition leg portion (3210a) and the second partition leg portion (3210b). [8] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 1, wherein the partition insulation module (320) includes a first partition insulation module (320a) and a second partition insulation module (320b) which are respectively arranged on both sides of the partition support module (310) and spaced from each other, each of the first partition insulation module (320a) and the second partition insulation module (320b) including: a partition leg part (3210) positioned in the receiving space (15) and facing the partition support module (310); and a partition head portion (3220) which is bent and extends from the partition leg portion (3210) and faces an upper surface of the partition support module (310). [9] Battery pack case (10) according to claim 8, wherein the partition leg part (3210) includes: a first partition leg plate (3211) facing the partition support module (310); and a second dividing leg plate (3212) positioned on an opposite side of the first dividing leg plate (3211) and spaced from the first dividing leg plate (3211), wherein the subdivision header (3220) includes: a first partition head plate (3221) which is bent and extends from the first partition leg plate (3211) and faces the upper surface of the partition support module (310); a second dividing head plate (3222) which is curved and extends from the second dividing leg plate (3212) and defines an upper surface of the dividing head part (3220); and a third dividing head plate (3223) extending from one end of the first dividing head plate (3221) to one end of the second dividing head plate (3222). [10] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 9, wherein the third partition head plate (3223) of the first partition insulation module (320a) is spaced apart from and positioned to face the third partition head plate (3223) of the second partition insulation module (320b). [11] The battery pack case (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising an insulation member (330) disposed on an upper surface of the partition support module (310) and positioned between the first partition insulation module (320a) and the second partition insulation module (320b). [12] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 1, wherein the partition support module (310) includes a first partition support module (310a) and a second partition support module (310b) arranged horizontally and spaced from each other, the partition insulation module (320) being placed between the first partition support module (310a) and the second partition support module (310b). [13] Battery pack housing (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side housing (200) includes: a side support module (210) having a shape extending upward from an edge portion of the housing base (100); and a side insulation module (220) coupled to the side support module (210) and forming a side insulation space (225) as a hollow portion therein. [14] The battery pack case (10) according to claim 13, wherein the side insulation module (220) includes a side leg part (2210) positioned in the receiving space (15) and facing the side support module (210). [15] The battery pack casing (10) of claim 14, wherein the side insulation module (220) further includes a side head portion (2220) that is bent and extends from the side leg portion (2210) and is positioned above the side support module (210). [16] The battery pack case (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the partition unit (300) further includes an extinguishing part (3230) coupled to the partition insulation module (320) in communication with the insulation space (325) and configured to release an extinguishing agent (3231) toward the accommodation space (15) when a pressure within the insulation space (325) is a predetermined pressure or more. [17] Battery pack case (10) according to claim 16, wherein the extinguishing part (3230) includes: an ejection unit (3232) coupled or formed in communication with the receiving space (15) in the partition isolation module (320); and the extinguishing agent (3231) contained in the isolation space (325), wherein, when the pressure within the isolation space (325) is less than the predetermined pressure, the ejection unit (3232) remains closed, and when the pressure within the isolation space (325) is the predetermined pressure or more, the ejection unit (3232) opens. [18] Battery pack (1), containing: a plurality of battery cell groups (35), each containing a plurality of battery cells (36); and a battery pack housing (10) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cell groups (35), wherein the battery pack housing (10) includes: a housing base (100); a side housing (200) extending upwards from a periphery of the housing base (100) and forming a receiving space (15) together with the housing base (100); and a partition unit (300) positioned on an upper surface of the housing base (100) and configured to partition the receiving space (15), wherein the subdivision unit (300) includes: a partition support module (310) coupled to the housing base (100); and a partition isolation module (320) coupled to the partition support module (310) and forming an isolation space (325) as a hollow portion therein. [19] The battery pack (1) according to claim 18, wherein each of the plurality of battery cell groups (35) is housed in a module case to form a battery module (30), and the battery module (30) is housed in the battery pack case (10). [20] Battery pack (1) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the pressure in the insulation space (325) is maintained at less than 1 atm. [21] The battery pack (1) according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the partition insulation module (320) includes a vacuum structure.

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