Immersion-cooled battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

The liquid-cooled battery module design addresses inefficiencies in conventional cooling methods by using direct contact cooling and insulating blocks, enhancing thermal management, safety, and reducing weight and volume.

JP2025502511AActive Publication Date: 2025-01-24LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
View PDF 8 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024543948
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-11-14
Filing Date
2023-08-07
Publication Date
2025-01-24
Estimated Expiration
2043-08-07

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional battery cell cooling technologies face inefficiencies in cooling performance, leading to thermal runaway and increased weight and volume due to the use of heat sinks and insulating oils, which also fail to prevent fire propagation and increase production costs.

Method used

A liquid-cooled battery module design with a module case containing battery cells, inlet and outlet for cooling solution, insulating blocks between sub-modules, and direct contact cooling, reducing the need for external piping and enhancing thermal management.

Benefits of technology

Improves cooling performance, prevents thermal runaway, reduces weight and volume, and enhances electrical safety while simplifying electrical connections and reducing manufacturing costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 2025502511000001_ABST
    Figure 2025502511000001_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

An immersion cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery assembly, a module case having an opening at at least one end and accommodating the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening, and a sealing cover airtightly covering the opening, wherein the battery assembly includes a plurality of sub-battery modules arranged in one direction, each of the sub-battery modules including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, and an insulating block made of an insulating material and arranged between adjacent first and second sub-battery modules among the plurality of sub-battery modules.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0151509 filed on November 14, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety in the specification and drawings.

[0002] The present invention relates to an immersion cooling type battery module, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same, and more particularly to an immersion cooling type battery module in which rechargeable and dischargeable battery cells are cooled by direct contact with a coolant, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same. [Background technology]

[0003] Generally, a secondary battery refers to a battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged, such as a lithium-ion battery, a lithium polymer battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-zinc battery, etc. The most basic battery cell provides an output voltage of about 2.5V to 4.2V.

[0004] In recent years, as such secondary batteries are applied to devices and systems that require a high output voltage and a large charging capacity, such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS), battery modules in which a number of battery cells are densely arranged in a limited space and connected in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel, and battery packs in which such battery modules are arranged even more densely and connected in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel, have been widely used. In order for such battery modules and battery packs in which a number of battery cells are densely arranged in a limited space to operate normally, the temperature of the battery cells must be appropriately maintained.

[0005] However, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, the conventional technology cools the battery cells using a heat sink 300 that contacts only the lower edge portion of the battery cell. Therefore, such a conventional technology has a problem that the cooling performance of the battery cell is inferior and it is difficult to prevent thermal runaway of the battery cell. In addition, such a conventional technology has a problem that it is difficult to prevent a chain reaction of thermal runaway of other battery cells and other battery modules around the battery cell where thermal runaway occurs, because it cannot control a fire that occurs when the battery cell thermal runaway occurs.

[0006] In addition, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, the conventional technology of cooling battery cells built in a battery module using insulating oil provides cases 200, 300 for accommodating a battery cell stack 100 for each battery cell stack, and supplies and discharges insulating oil through independent piping 500, 600, 700 for each case 200, 300. Therefore, such a conventional technology requires a lot of space for installing piping for insulating oil, which not only increases the manufacturing cost of a battery pack including the battery module, but also increases the overall volume and weight of the battery pack, thereby reducing the energy density. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0053574 [Patent Document 2] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0048855 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a liquid-cooled battery module that prevents thermal runaway or cascading thermal runaway of battery cells included in the battery module by improving the cooling performance of the battery module, and a battery pack and vehicle including the same.

[0009] Another technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a liquid-cooled battery module that can improve energy density by minimizing an increase in the volume and weight occupied by the battery module, as well as a battery pack and a vehicle including the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid immersion cooled battery module comprising: a battery assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case having an opening at at least one end thereof and accommodating the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening; and a sealing cover having at least one of an inlet for introducing a coolant into the internal space and an outlet for discharging the coolant having flowed into the internal space to the outside of the module case, the sealing cover being inserted into the opening and airtightly covering the opening. The battery assembly comprises a plurality of sub-battery modules each including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, and arranged in one direction; and an insulating block made of an insulating material and arranged between adjacent first and second sub-battery modules among the plurality of sub-battery modules.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module may each include a bus bar frame that supports at least one bus bar connecting electrode leads of battery cells constituting a battery cell stack and is coupled to the insulating block.

[0012] In an embodiment, the bus bar frame may include a coupling protrusion extending toward the insulating block, and the insulating block may include a coupling groove into which the coupling protrusion is inserted for coupling.

[0013] In one embodiment, the immersion cooled battery module further includes a connecting member electrically connecting the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, and the insulating block may have a support groove into which at least a portion of the connecting member is inserted and supported.

[0014] In one embodiment, the insulating block may have a communication groove provided at a peripheral portion of the insulating block that is in close contact with an inner surface of the module case, for allowing the coolant to pass from the first sub-battery module side to the second sub-battery module side.

[0015] In one embodiment, the module case may include a stopper that protrudes from an inner surface of the module case to support the insulating block, thereby limiting movement of the insulating block.

[0016] In one embodiment, the liquid immersion cooled battery module may further include a plurality of circuit boards corresponding to the plurality of sub-battery modules, the circuit boards being housed in the internal space and configured to detect electrical signals related to the respective corresponding sub-battery modules.

[0017] In one embodiment, the liquid immersion cooled battery module may further include a flat flexible cable (FFC) configured to electrically connect a first circuit board that detects a first electrical signal related to the first sub-battery module among the plurality of circuit boards and a second circuit board that detects a second electrical signal related to the second sub-battery module among the plurality of sub-battery modules, and transmit the second electrical signal to the first circuit board.

[0018] In one embodiment, the immersion cooled battery module further includes a waterproof connector coupled to the sealing cover, and the first circuit board may be configured to transmit the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to the outside through the waterproof connector.

[0019] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of sub-battery modules includes a pair of side plates supporting both ends of the battery cell stack in a stacking direction, and at least one of the pair of side plates may include an opening that exposes surfaces of adjacent battery cells among the battery cells of the battery cell stack supported by the pair of side plates to contact the coolant.

[0020] In one embodiment, the immersion cooled battery module may further include an end cover having a through hole through which an inlet or an outlet of the sealing cover passes, and coupled to the opening through which the sealing cover is inserted and covering the opening.

[0021] In one embodiment, the cooling fluid may include an insulating oil or a dielectric liquid.

[0022] A battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention includes a liquid-cooled battery module according to any one of the above-described embodiments.

[0023] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle includes a submersion-cooled battery module according to any one of the above-described embodiments. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, the battery cells accommodated in the module case of the battery module are cooled through direct contact with the coolant flowing into the module case, thereby making it possible to omit battery cell cooling means such as a thermal pad and a heat sink, as well as to improve the cooling performance of the battery cells and effectively prevent thermal runaway of the battery cells. In addition, when a fire occurs due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant flowing into and filling the module case functions as a fire extinguisher, thereby preventing chain reaction thermal runaway of other battery cells and other battery modules around the battery cell where thermal runaway has occurred.

[0025] In addition, a plurality of sub-battery modules each including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked are housed in one module case to form one battery module, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack. As a result, in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules, the space occupied by the inlets and outlets provided for each battery module and the space occupied by piping required to supply the coolant to and recover the coolant from each battery module are reduced, which not only reduces the manufacturing cost of the battery pack but also reduces the overall volume and weight of the battery pack and improves the energy density of the battery pack.

[0026] In addition, an insulation module disposed between a first sub-battery module and a second sub-battery module disposed adjacent to each other among the plurality of sub-battery modules is coupled to the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, respectively, to support the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, thereby ensuring electrical safety of the sub-battery modules while preventing damage to the sub-battery modules due to physical impacts, vibrations, etc.

[0027] In addition, a communicating groove that allows the coolant to pass through is provided in the peripheral portion of the insulating block that is in close contact with the inner surface of the module case, thereby making it possible to facilitate the flow of the coolant, thereby further improving the cooling performance of the battery module.

[0028] In addition, one of the multiple circuit boards corresponding to the multiple sub-battery modules transmits the electrical signals it detects and the electrical signals detected by the remaining circuit boards to the outside through one waterproof connector, thereby facilitating electrical connection between the battery module and an external electrical device, simplifying the wiring structure of the battery pack including multiple battery modules, and enabling the status of the battery modules to be monitored for each sub-battery module.

[0029] In addition, since the waterproof connector is coupled to a sealing cover having an inlet or outlet and disposed in a space reserved for connecting the inlet or outlet to a piping, there is no need to reserve a separate space to enable the electrical connection of the waterproof connector within the battery pack, and the electrical connection of the waterproof connector is facilitated.

[0030] In addition, the inner periphery of the end cover is inserted between and coupled to the wall portion of the sealing cover and the opening edge of the module case, and the opening edge of the module case is inserted between and coupled to the inner periphery and outer periphery of the end cover to form a serpentine sealing structure, thereby minimizing the risk of leakage of coolant that has flowed into the inside of the battery module.

[0031] In addition, the sealing tape, liquid sealant, and structural adhesive applied to the sealing structure triple-block the leakage of the coolant, thereby improving the durability and safety of the liquid-cooled battery module.

[0032] Furthermore, a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will easily understand from the following description that various embodiments of the present invention are capable of solving various technical problems not described above. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the liquid immersion cooling battery module shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery assembly accommodated in a module case of a liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of an insulating block of the battery assembly shown in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a portion A1 of FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view showing a first sealing cover of a liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a first sealing cover coupled to a module case. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a first end cover of the liquid immersion cooling battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line SS' of the first end cover shown in FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a first end cover coupled to a module case. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view showing a portion A2 of FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] In order to clarify the solution to the technical problem of the present invention, the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in the description of the present invention, if the description of related publicly known techniques may make the gist of the present invention unclear, the description will be omitted.

[0035] In addition, the terms used in this specification are defined in consideration of the functions in the present invention, and may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the designer, manufacturer, etc. Therefore, the definitions of terms described below should be based on the entire contents of this specification.

[0036] For reference, components of the present invention shown in the drawings may be reduced in size, enlarged, omitted, or simplified in part or in whole in order to facilitate technical understanding.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the immersion-cooled battery module 10 shown in FIG.

[0039] 1 and 2, a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to cool battery cells accommodated in an internal space of a module case 100 by directly contacting the battery cells with a coolant. To this end, the battery module 10 may include a module case 100, a battery assembly 200, a first sealing cover 110 and a second sealing cover 110', a waterproof connector 120, and a first end cover 130 and a second end cover 130'.

[0040] The module case 100 may have an opening at at least one end, and may be configured to accommodate the battery assembly 200 in an internal space connected to the opening. For example, the module case 100 may be configured as a tube having an internal space extending in a first direction (Y-axis direction) and openings at both ends in the first direction.

[0041] The module case 100 may be made of a metal material having a certain strength, and may be integrally formed through an extrusion molding or sheet metal process so that the coolant does not leak out.

[0042] The battery assembly 200 may include a plurality of battery cells and may be accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100. As will be described further below, such a battery assembly 200 may include a plurality of sub-battery modules each including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, and a plurality of circuit boards corresponding to the sub-battery modules. In this case, the plurality of circuit boards may be configured to detect electrical signals related to the plurality of sub-battery modules.

[0043] The first sealing cover 110 and the second sealing cover 110' may be configured to include at least one of an inlet 112 for introducing coolant into the internal space of the module case 100 and an outlet 112' for discharging the coolant that has flowed into the internal space to the outside of the module case 100, and to be inserted into an opening of the module case 100 to hermetically cover the opening.

[0044] The first sealing cover 110 and the second sealing cover 110' may include a first sealing cover 110 having an inlet 112 and covering an opening at one end of the module case 100, and a second sealing cover 110' having an outlet 112' and covering an opening at the other end of the module case 100. In this case, high voltage (HV) terminals 114, 114' providing an output of the battery module 10 and a waterproof connector 120 may be disposed in the first sealing cover 110.

[0045] The waterproof connector 120 may be coupled to and supported by the first sealing cover 110, electrically connected to a circuit board of the battery assembly 200, and configured to transmit electrical signals detected by each circuit board to the outside of the module case 100.

[0046] The first end cover 130 and the second end cover 130' may be configured to be coupled to an opening of the module case 100 into which the first sealing cover 110 and the second sealing cover 110' are inserted and coupled, and to cover the opening. The first end cover 130 and the second end cover 130' may include a first end cover 130 covering the opening at one end into which the first sealing cover 110 is inserted, and a second end cover 130' covering the opening at the other end into which the second sealing cover 110' is coupled.

[0047] The cooling liquid applied to the present invention may include an insulating oil or a dielectric liquid having a high withstand voltage. For example, the cooling liquid may include one or more of trioctyl phosphate (TOP), tributyl phosphate (TOB), triphenyl phosphate, trimethyl phosphate, and tripropyl phosphate.

[0048] In the modified embodiment, the modified module case that houses the battery assembly may be configured to have an opening only at one end in the longitudinal direction, and the other end in the longitudinal direction may be configured to be closed. Also, the modified sealing cover that covers and seals the opening of the modified module case may be configured to have both an inlet and an outlet. According to this modified embodiment, the configurations corresponding to the second sealing cover 110' and the second end cover 130' shown in Figs. 1 and 2 can be omitted. In this case, the coolant that flows in from the inlet of the modified sealing cover may be discharged through the outlet of the modified sealing cover after circulating in the internal space of the modified module case to cool the battery cells.

[0049] As described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells accommodated in the module case 100 of the battery module 10 are cooled through direct contact with the coolant flowing into the module case 100, thereby making it possible to omit battery cell cooling means such as a thermal pad and a heat sink, improve the cooling performance of the battery cells, and effectively prevent thermal runaway of the battery cells. In addition, when a fire occurs due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant filled inside the module case functions as a fire extinguisher, thereby preventing chain reaction thermal runaway of other battery cells and other battery modules around the battery cell where thermal runaway has occurred.

[0050] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery assembly 200 housed in a module case of a liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 3, the battery assembly 200 may include a plurality of sub-battery modules 210, 220, an insulating block 230, and a plurality of circuit boards 240, 250.

[0052] Each of the sub-battery modules 210, 220 may include a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells 212, 222 are stacked, and may be accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100 and arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the module case 100.

[0053] For example, the battery assembly 200 may include a first sub-battery module 210 and a second sub-battery module 220.

[0054] In this case, the first sub-battery module 210 may include a first battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells 212 are stacked in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the module case 100, a pair of side plates 212a supporting both ends of the first battery cell stack in the stacking direction (X-axis direction), a first bus bar frame 214 arranged at one end of the first battery cell stack in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction), and a second bus bar frame 216 arranged at the other end of the first battery cell stack in the longitudinal direction.

[0055] At least one of the pair of side plates 212a may include an opening 212b that exposes surfaces of adjacent battery cells among the battery cells of the battery cell stack supported by the pair of side plates 212a to contact the coolant. For example, the opening 212b may include a through hole that exposes surfaces of the adjacent battery cells. The structure and shape of the opening 212b may be variously changed according to the embodiment.

[0056] The second sub-battery module 220 may also include a second battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells 222 are stacked in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the module case 100, a pair of side plates 222a supporting both ends of the second battery cell stack in the stacking direction (X-axis direction), a third bus bar frame 224 arranged at one end of the second battery cell stack in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction), and a fourth bus bar frame 226 arranged at the other end of the second battery cell stack in the longitudinal direction.

[0057] At least one of the pair of side plates 222a may include an opening 222b that exposes surfaces of adjacent battery cells among the battery cells of the battery cell stack supported by the pair of side plates 222a to contact the coolant. For example, the opening 222b may include a through hole that exposes surfaces of the adjacent battery cells. The structure and shape of the opening 222b may be variously changed according to the embodiment.

[0058] The first busbar frame 214, the second busbar frame 216, the third busbar frame 224, and the fourth busbar frame 226 may each be configured to support at least one busbar 214a that electrically connects the electrode leads of the battery cells that make up the battery cell stack to the electrode leads of other battery cells or to a separate terminal.

[0059] In particular, the second bus bar frame 216 of the first sub-battery module 210 and the fourth bus bar frame 226 of the second sub-battery module 220 adjacent to the insulating block 230 may be configured to be coupled to the insulating block 230 .

[0060] In addition, the battery cells constituting the battery cell stack of each of the sub-battery modules 210 and 220 may include a pouch-type battery cell in which an electrode assembly and an electrolyte material are housed inside a pouch-type case.

[0061] The insulating block 230 may be made of an insulating material and may be disposed between the first sub battery module 210 and the second sub battery module 220 adjacent to each other among the plurality of sub battery modules. One end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the second bus bar frame 216 of the first sub battery module 210, and the other end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the fourth bus bar frame 226 of the second sub battery module 220.

[0062] In this manner, the insulating block 230 is coupled to the adjacent sub-battery modules 210, 220 and supports the sub-battery modules 210, 220, thereby ensuring the electrical safety of the sub-battery modules 210, 220 and preventing damage to the sub-battery modules 210, 220 due to physical impacts, vibrations, etc.

[0063] The plurality of circuit boards 240, 250 may include a number of circuit boards corresponding to the plurality of sub battery modules 210, 220, respectively. For example, the plurality of circuit boards 240, 250 may include a first circuit board 240 corresponding to the first sub battery module 210 and a second circuit board 250 corresponding to the second sub battery module 220. The plurality of circuit boards 240, 250 may be accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100 and configured to detect electrical signals related to the plurality of sub battery modules 210, 220.

[0064] Therefore, the plurality of circuit boards 240, 250 may be disposed on the upper ends of the corresponding sub-battery modules, and each of the plurality of circuit boards 240, 250 may be made of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0065] In this case, the first circuit board 240 may be configured to detect a first electrical signal related to the first sub battery module 210 among the plurality of sub battery modules 210, 220. The first electrical signal may include an electrical signal indicating an output voltage, an output current, or a charging state of a battery cell included in the first sub battery module 210.

[0066] The second circuit board 250 may be configured to detect a second electrical signal related to the second sub battery module 220 among the plurality of sub battery modules 210, 220. The second electrical signal may include an electrical signal indicating an output voltage, an output current, or a charging state of the battery cells included in the second sub battery module 220.

[0067] In addition, the first circuit board 240 may be configured to receive a second electrical signal from the second circuit board 250, collect the first electrical signal detected by itself and the second electrical signal received from the second circuit board 250, and transmit the collected signal to the outside through the waterproof connector 120.

[0068] Therefore, the battery assembly 200 may further include a flexible flat cable (FFC) 260. The flexible flat cable 260 may be configured to electrically connect the first circuit board 240 and the second circuit board 250 and transmit a second electrical signal detected by the second circuit board 250 to the first circuit board 240.

[0069] Generally, the length of a battery module corresponds to the length of the battery cells constituting the battery module. However, since the liquid immersion cooling type battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of sub-battery modules 210, 220 arranged side by side in its longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction), it has a length more than twice as long as a general battery module including battery cells of the same size as the present invention. For example, if a general battery module is manufactured with a length of about 500 mm to 610 mm, the liquid immersion cooling type battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be manufactured with a length of 1000 mm or more.

[0070] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the insulating block 230 of the battery assembly shown in FIG.

[0071] 4, the insulating block 230 may be disposed between the first sub battery module 210 and the second sub battery module 220 that are disposed adjacent to each other. Such an insulating block 230 may be configured such that both ends thereof are coupled to the first sub battery module and the second sub battery module, respectively. That is, one end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the first sub battery module 210, and the other end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the second sub battery module 220.

[0072] In one embodiment, the insulating block 230 may be configured such that its periphery is in close contact with the inner surface of the module case 100. In this case, the insulating block 230 may include a communication groove 232.

[0073] The communication groove 232 may be provided in a peripheral portion of the insulating block 230 that is in close contact with the inner surface of the module case 100, and configured to allow the coolant that has flowed into the module case 100 to pass from the first sub battery module 210 side to the second sub battery module 220 side. Therefore, the communication groove 232 may have a shape that extends from the first sub battery module 210 side to the second sub battery module 220 side.

[0074] In addition, the communication groove 232 is configured to narrow from the first sub battery module 210 side toward the second sub battery module 220 side, thereby increasing the flow rate of the coolant passing through the communication groove 232. As a result, it is possible to prevent a phenomenon in which the flow rate of the coolant flowing into the module case 100 decreases while the coolant moves from the first sub battery module 210 side to the second sub battery module 220 side, resulting in a decrease in cooling performance.

[0075] In an embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may further include a connection member 218 electrically connecting the first sub-battery module 210 and the second sub-battery module 220. The connection member 218 may be made of a conductive material such as a metal.

[0076] In this case, the insulating block 230 may have a support groove 234 into which at least a portion of the connecting member 218 is inserted and supported.

[0077] FIG. 5 shows a vertical cross-sectional view of part A1 in FIG.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 5, one end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the second bus bar frame 216 of the first sub-battery module, and the other end of the insulating block 230 may be coupled to the fourth bus bar frame 226 of the second sub-battery module.

[0079] The second bus bar frame 216 may be configured to support a bus bar or a terminal electrically connected to the battery cells 212 of the first sub-battery module. The fourth bus bar frame 226 may be configured to support a bus bar or a terminal electrically connected to the battery cells 222 of the second sub-battery module.

[0080] The connecting member 218 may be configured such that one end is connected to a bus bar or terminal arranged on the second bus bar frame 216, and the other end extends along the support groove 234 of the insulating block 230 to be connected to a bus bar or terminal arranged on the fourth bus bar frame 226.

[0081] In one embodiment, the second bus bar frame 216 may include a first coupling protrusion 216a extending toward the insulating block 230, and the insulating block 230 may include a first coupling groove 236a into which the first coupling protrusion 216a is inserted for coupling. In this case, the first coupling protrusion 216a may extend in a first direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) toward the insulating block 230 and then bent in a second direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) intersecting the first direction. The first coupling groove 236a may be configured to be molded to fit the first coupling protrusion 216a.

[0082] In addition, the fourth bus bar frame 226 may include a second coupling protrusion 226a extending toward the insulating block 230, and the insulating block 230 may include a first coupling groove 236b into which the second coupling protrusion 226a is inserted for coupling. In this case, the second coupling protrusion 226a may extend in a third direction toward the insulating block 230 and then bent in a fourth direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) intersecting the third direction. The second coupling groove 236b may be configured to be molded to fit the second coupling protrusion 226a.

[0083] In addition, in one embodiment, the module case 100 may include stoppers 102 that protrude from an inner surface forming an internal space thereof to support the insulating block 230 and thereby limit the movement of the insulating block 230. In this case, the stoppers 102 are in close contact with both ends of the insulating block 230 and can limit the movement of the insulating block 230 so that the insulating block 230 does not move out of the normal position and become biased toward the first sub-battery module 210 side or the second sub-battery module 220 side.

[0084] In this manner, the insulating block 230 is coupled to the sub-battery module to support the sub-battery module, and the stopper 102 limits the movement of the insulating block 230, thereby ensuring the electrical safety of the sub-battery module while preventing damage to the sub-battery module due to physical impact, vibration, etc.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a first sealing cover 110 of a liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] 6, the first sealing cover 110 may be configured to include an inlet 112 for introducing a coolant into the internal space of the module case 100 and to be inserted into an opening of the module case 100 to airtightly cover the opening. To this end, the first sealing cover 110 may include a cover portion 110a, a fixing portion 110b, and a wall portion 110c.

[0087] The cover portion 110a may be configured such that its periphery has a shape that matches with the opening of the module case 100 and is inserted into the opening.

[0088] The fixing part 110b may be configured to protrude from a first surface (e.g., a first surface of the cover part 110a) of the first sealing cover 110 adjacent to the internal space of the module case 100 toward the internal space, and have a periphery attached to and fixed to an inner surface of the module case 100. To this end, a sealing tape capable of double-sided adhesion may be attached to a periphery surface of the fixing part 110b facing the inner surface of the module case 100.

[0089] The wall portion 110c corresponds to the surface opposite to the first surface, protrudes from a second surface (e.g., a second surface of the cover portion 110a) of the first sealing cover 110 facing the first end cover 130, and may be configured to face an opening edge of the module case 100 forming the opening at a predetermined interval. In this case, the wall portion 110c may be configured in the form of a roof (loop) that goes around the periphery of the cover portion 110a.

[0090] As will be described further below, the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 may form a first insertion groove together with a peripheral portion of the cover portion 110a and an opening edge of the module case 100. An inner peripheral edge of an end cover 130, which will be described below, may be inserted and coupled to the first insertion groove.

[0091] Meanwhile, high voltage (HV) terminals 114, 114' providing an output of the battery module 10 and a waterproof connector 120 may be disposed on a second surface of the first sealing cover 110. In this case, the waterproof connector 120 may be fixed to the first sealing cover 110 by a fastening member 120a such as a bolt.

[0092] FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first sealing cover 110 coupled to the module case 100. As shown in FIG.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 7, the first sealing cover 110 includes an inlet 112 for introducing a coolant into the internal space of the module case 100, and is inserted into an opening at one end of the module case 100 to airtightly cover the opening.

[0094] To this end, the cover portion 110 a of the first sealing cover 110 may be configured so that its periphery has a shape that matches with the opening of the module case 100 .

[0095] The fixing portion 110b of the first sealing cover 110 protrudes from the first surface of the cover portion 110a toward the inner space of the module case 100, and the periphery thereof is attached to the inner surface of the module case 100 and fixed thereto.

[0096] Therefore, a sealing tape 118a capable of double-sided adhesion may be attached to the peripheral surface of the fixing portion 110b facing the inner surface of the module case 100. In this case, the sealing tape 118a may be configured in a multi-layer structure having an adhesive layer on each side of a base material layer made of a waterproof material.

[0097] For example, the base layer of the sealing tape 118a may include one or more material layers made of one or more of polyimide, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, and the adhesive layer of the sealing tape 118a may be made of one or more of polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylmethacrylate, and polybutylmethacrylate.

[0098] The sealing tape 118a may further include a release paper covering the adhesive layer, which may be removed by an operator immediately before applying the sealing tape 118a.

[0099] The wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 may be configured to protrude from a second surface of the first sealing cover 110, which is an opposite surface to a first surface adjacent to the internal space of the module case 100, in a direction away from the internal space of the module case 100, and to face an opening edge of the module case 100 forming the opening at a predetermined interval. As described above, the wall portion 110c may be configured in the form of a roof that goes around the periphery of the cover portion 110a.

[0100] The wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 may form a first insertion groove G1 together with a peripheral portion of the cover portion 110a and an inner surface of the module case 100 that forms a peripheral edge of the opening. A liquid sealant 118b such as a sealing glue may be applied to the inner surface of the first insertion groove G1.

[0101] In addition, a structural adhesive 104 having high shear strength may be applied to the outer surface of the opening edge of the module case 100. Such structural adhesive 104 may include a polymer alloy adhesive or a polyimide adhesive. As will be described later, the outer periphery of a first end cover 130 described later may be attached and fixed to the outer surface of the periphery of the opening to which the structural adhesive 104 is applied.

[0102] Meanwhile, the first sealing cover 110 may have a through hole 116 into which at least a portion of the waterproof connector 120 is inserted.

[0103] The waterproof connector 120 may also include a connector body 122 , a contact pin 124 , and a connecting pin 126 .

[0104] The connector body 122 may be coupled to a second surface of the first surface of the first sealing cover 110 adjacent to the internal space of the module case 100 and the second surface of the first sealing cover 110 opposite to the first surface, and configured to cover the opening of the through hole 116 formed in the second surface. The connector body 122 of the waterproof connector 120 may be made of polymeric synthetic resin having insulating properties, and may be fixed to the first sealing cover 110 by a fastening member such as a bolt.

[0105] In one embodiment, the waterproof connector 120 may further include a sealing member 124a interposed between the connector body 122 and the second surface of the first sealing cover 110 to seal the periphery of the opening of the through hole 116. In this case, the sealing member 124a may include a sealant or a gasket, or may include both.

[0106] The contact pins 124 may be supported by the connector body 122 and configured to extend in a direction away from the internal space of the module case 100. Such contact pins 124 may come into contact with and be electrically connected to corresponding contact pins of a corresponding connector (not shown) connected to the waterproof connector 120. For this reason, the contact pins 124 may be made of a metallic material having electrical conductivity. The waterproof connector 120 may include one or more such contact pins 124.

[0107] The connecting pin 126 may be configured to be electrically connected to the contact pin 124, extend from the connector body 122 through the through hole 116 toward the internal space of the module case 100, and be electrically connected to a first circuit board 240 of the multiple circuit boards 240, 250 housed in the module case 100. For this reason, the connecting pin 126 may be made of a metallic material having electrical conductivity. The waterproof connector 120 may include one or more such connecting pins 126.

[0108] In one embodiment, the contact pins 124 and the connecting pins 126 may be integrally formed. Also, in one embodiment, the connector body 122 may be integrally formed with the contact pins 124 and the connecting pins 126 through an insert molding process.

[0109] Meanwhile, the battery module 10 may further include a connection circuit board 128 and a cable 128 a for electrical connection between the waterproof connector 120 and the first circuit board 240 .

[0110] In this case, the connecting circuit board 128 may be configured to be coupled to a first surface of the first sealing cover 110 adjacent to the internal space of the module case 100, cover the opening at the other end of the through hole 116 formed in the first surface, and be electrically connected to the connecting pin 126. To this end, the connecting circuit board 128 may have a via hole into which the connecting pin 126 is inserted. The connecting pin 126 inserted into the via hole of the connecting circuit board 128 may be further fixed to the connecting circuit board 128 through a soldering process.

[0111] The cable 128a may be configured such that one end is electrically connected to the connection circuit board 128 and the other end is electrically connected to the first circuit board 240. Such cable 128a may include a flexible flat cable (FFC). The first circuit board 240 connected to the cable 128a in this manner may be electrically connected to the bus bar 214a connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell 212. In this case, the bus bar 214a may be coupled to and fixed to the first bus bar frame 214.

[0112] 1 and 2, the second sealing cover 110' covering the opening at the other end of the module case 100 may include an outlet 112' for discharging the coolant flowing into the internal space of the module case 100, and may be inserted into the opening at the other end to airtightly cover the opening at the other end. Therefore, the second sealing cover 110' may include components corresponding to the cover part 110a, the fixing part 110b, and the wall part 110c of the first sealing cover 110. However, the second sealing cover 110' does not have components corresponding to the HV terminals 114, 114' or the waterproof connector 120.

[0113] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a first end cover 130 of a liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] 8, the first end cover 130 may be configured to be coupled to an opening of the module case 100 into which the first sealing cover 110 is inserted, and to cover the opening. The first end cover 130 may include an inlet hole 132 through which the inlet 112 of the first sealing cover 110 passes, and a connector hole 138 through which at least a portion of the waterproof connector 120 is inserted and exposed to the outside.

[0115] In addition, the first end cover 130 may further include terminal holes 134, 134' through which the HV terminals 114, 114' arranged on the first sealing cover 110 pass, and support portions 136, 136' that support the ends of the HV terminals 114, 114' that pass through the terminal holes 134, 134' and extend to the outside.

[0116] FIG. 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line SS' of the first end cover 130 shown in FIG.

[0117] 9, the first end cover 130 may have a cap structure that covers the opening of the module case 100 into which the first sealing cover 110 is inserted. Also, at least a portion of the peripheral portion of the first end cover 130 may be configured to be inserted and coupled between the edge of the opening of the module case 100 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. In this case, the first end cover 130 may include a main body that covers the opening, and an inner peripheral edge 130a and an outer peripheral edge 130b that extend from the main body.

[0118] The inner peripheral edge 130a may extend from the main body of the first end cover 130 toward the internal space of the module case 100 and be inserted between the opening edge of the module case 100 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. That is, the inner peripheral edge 130a may be configured to be inserted into a first insertion groove G1 formed by the opening edge of the module case 100 and the peripheral portion and wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110.

[0119] The outer peripheral edge 130b extends toward the outer surface of the module case 100 and can be attached to the outer surface portion to which the structural adhesive 104 is applied.

[0120] In addition, the inner periphery 130a and the outer periphery 130b may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance to form a second insertion groove G2 into which the opening edge of the module case 100 is inserted.

[0121] FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first end cover 130 coupled to the module case 100. As shown in FIG.

[0122] 10, the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 may extend from the main body of the first end cover 130 toward the internal space of the module case 100 and be inserted between the opening edge of the module case 100 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. That is, the inner periphery 130a may be configured to be inserted into a first insertion groove G1 formed by the opening edge of the module case 100 and the peripheral portion and wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110.

[0123] Furthermore, an outer peripheral edge 130b of the first end cover 130 extends toward the outer surface of the module case 100, and can be attached to the outer surface portion to which a structural adhesive is applied.

[0124] In addition, the opening edge of the module case 100 may be inserted between the inner periphery 130a and the outer periphery 130b of the first end cover 130 and coupled thereto. That is, the opening edge of the module case 100 may be inserted into a second insertion groove G2 formed between the inner periphery 130a and the outer periphery 130b and coupled thereto.

[0125] Meanwhile, the end portion of the waterproof connector 120 can be inserted into and supported in a connector hole 138 of the first end cover 130 .

[0126] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view showing a portion A2 in FIG.

[0127] 11, the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 may extend toward the inner space of the module case 100 and be inserted into a first insertion groove G1 formed between an opening edge 100a of the module case 100 and a wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 to be coupled thereto. In this case, the first insertion groove G1 may be filled with a liquid sealant 118b. As a result, the liquid sealant 118b may be interposed between the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. In addition, the liquid sealant 118b may be interposed between the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100.

[0128] An outer peripheral edge 130b of the first end cover 130 extends toward the outer surface of the opening edge 100a, and can be attached to the outer surface of the opening edge 100a to which the structural adhesive 104 has been applied.

[0129] Meanwhile, the opening edge 100a of the module case 100 may be inserted into and coupled to a second insertion groove formed between the inner periphery 130a and the outer periphery 130b of the first end cover 130. As a result, a liquid sealant 118b may be interposed between the inner periphery 130a and the inner surface of the opening edge 100a, while a structural adhesive 104 may be interposed between the outer periphery 130b and the outer surface of the opening edge 100a.

[0130] In this manner, the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 is inserted between and coupled to the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100, and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100 is inserted between and coupled to the inner periphery 130a and outer periphery 130b of the first end cover 130, thereby forming a serpentine-shaped sealing structure. As a result, the risk of leakage of coolant that has flowed into the interior of the battery module 10 can be minimized.

[0131] In addition, the sealing tape 118a, the liquid sealant 118b and the structural adhesive 104 applied to the sealing structure of the battery module 10 triple-block the leakage of the cooling liquid, thereby improving the durability and safety of the liquid-immersion cooled battery module 10.

[0132] For reference, as described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the second end cover 130', which covers the opening at the other end of the module case 100 together with the second sealing cover 110', may have an outlet hole through which the outlet 112' of the second sealing cover 110' passes, and may cover the opening at the other end into which the second sealing cover 110' is inserted. Therefore, the second end cover 130' may include configurations corresponding to the inner periphery 130a and the outer periphery 130b of the first end cover 130. Meanwhile, the second end cover 130' does not include configurations corresponding to the terminal holes 134, 134' and the connector hole 138 of the first end cover 130.

[0133] FIG. 12 shows a battery pack 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] 12, a battery pack 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and pack cases 22, 24 accommodating one or more battery modules 10. The pack cases 22, 24 may have a plurality of mounting spaces for accommodating and mounting a plurality of battery modules.

[0135] In addition, the battery pack 20 may further include a supply pipe 26 for supplying a coolant to the battery module 10, and a recovery pipe 28 for recovering the coolant discharged from the battery module 10. Although not shown in Fig. 12, the battery pack 20 may further include a coolant tank for storing the coolant, a pump for circulating the coolant stored in the coolant tank through the supply pipe 26 and the recovery pipe 28, and a chiller for removing heat from the coolant recovered through the recovery pipe 28.

[0136] In addition, the battery pack 20 may further include various electrical components (not shown) that control the charging / discharging operation of the battery module 10 housed in the pack cases 22, 24 or monitor the SOC (State of Charge), SOH (State of Health), etc. Such electrical components may be housed in the pack cases 22, 24 together with the battery module 10.

[0137] FIG. 13 shows a vehicle 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 13, a vehicle 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules 10 according to any one of the various embodiments described above, or may include at least one battery pack 20 including the battery module 10.

[0139] The battery module 10 or the battery pack 20 applied to the vehicle 2 in this manner can provide the electric energy required for various operations of the vehicle 2.

[0140] For reference, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be applied to an energy storage system (ESS) and various electric devices in addition to a vehicle.

[0141] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells accommodated in the module case of the battery module are cooled through direct contact with the coolant flowing into the module case, thereby making it possible to omit battery cell cooling means such as a thermal pad and a heat sink, as well as to improve the cooling performance of the battery cells and effectively prevent thermal runaway of the battery cells. In addition, when a fire occurs due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant filled in the module case functions as a fire extinguisher, thereby preventing chain reaction thermal runaway of other battery cells and other battery modules around the battery cell where thermal runaway has occurred.

[0142] In addition, the inner periphery of the first end cover covering an opening at one end of the module case is inserted and coupled between the wall portion of the first sealing cover inserted into the opening and the periphery of the opening, and the periphery of the opening is inserted and coupled between the inner periphery and outer periphery of the first end cover to form a serpentine sealing structure, thereby minimizing the risk of leakage of coolant that has flowed into the inside of the battery module.

[0143] In addition, the sealing tape, liquid sealant, and structural adhesive applied to the sealing structure triple-block the leakage of the coolant, thereby improving the durability and safety of the liquid-cooled battery module.

[0144] In addition, a plurality of sub-battery modules each including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked are housed in one module case to form one battery module, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack. As a result, in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules, the space occupied by the inlets and outlets provided for each battery module and the space occupied by piping required to supply the coolant to and recover the coolant from each battery module are reduced, which not only reduces the manufacturing cost of the battery pack but also reduces the overall volume and weight of the battery pack and improves the energy density of the battery pack.

[0145] In addition, an insulation module disposed between a first sub-battery module and a second sub-battery module disposed adjacent to each other among the plurality of sub-battery modules is coupled to the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, respectively, to support the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, thereby ensuring electrical safety of the sub-battery modules while preventing damage to the sub-battery modules due to physical impacts, vibrations, etc.

[0146] In addition, a communicating groove that allows the coolant to pass through is provided in the peripheral portion of the insulating block that is in close contact with the inner surface of the module case, thereby making it possible to facilitate the flow of the coolant, thereby further improving the cooling performance of the battery module.

[0147] In addition, one of the multiple circuit boards corresponding to the multiple sub-battery modules transmits the electrical signals it detects and the electrical signals detected by the remaining circuit boards to the outside through one waterproof connector, thereby facilitating electrical connection between the battery module and an external electrical device, simplifying the wiring structure of the battery pack including multiple battery modules, and enabling the status of the battery modules to be monitored for each sub-battery module.

[0148] In addition, since the waterproof connector is coupled to a sealing cover having an inlet or outlet and disposed in a space reserved for connecting the inlet or outlet to a piping, there is no need to reserve a separate space to enable the electrical connection of the waterproof connector within the battery pack, and the electrical connection of the waterproof connector is facilitated.

[0149] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the embodiments of the present invention can solve various other technical problems in the art, as well as in related arts, other than those described in this specification.

[0150] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will clearly understand that various modifications can be embodied within the technical scope of the present invention. Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be considered from an explanatory perspective, not a limiting perspective. In other words, the true scope of the technical ideas of the present invention is set forth in the claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalents thereto should be interpreted as being included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 10. Liquid-cooled battery module 20 Battery Pack 22 Pack Case 24 pack case 26 Supply pipe 28 Recovery tube 100 module case 100 Battery cell stack 100a Opening edge 102 Stopper 104 Structural Adhesives 110 First sealing cover 110' Second ceiling cover 110a Cover part 110b Fixed part 110c Wall section 112 Entrance 112' Exit 114 High voltage terminal (HV terminal) 114' High voltage terminal (HV terminal) 116 Through hole 118a Sealing tape 118b Liquid sealant 120 Waterproof Connector 120a Fastening member 122 Connector body 124 Contact pin 124a Sealing material 126 Connecting pin 128 Interconnected Circuit Board 128a cable 130 1st end cover 130' 2nd end cover 130a Inner rim 130b Outer periphery 132 Entrance hole 134 Terminal hole 134' terminal hole 136 Support part 136' Support 138 Connector hole 200 Battery Assembly 210 First sub battery module 212 Battery Cell 212a Side plate 212b Open area 214 First bus bar frame 214a Busbar 216 Second bus bar frame 216a 1st connecting protrusion 218 Connecting member 220 Second sub battery module 220 Sub battery module 222 Battery Cell 222a Side Plate 222b Open area 224 3rd bus bar frame 226 4th bus bar frame 226a 2nd connecting protrusion 230 Insulation Block 232 Communication groove 234 Support groove 236a 1st coupling groove 236b 2nd coupling groove 240 1st circuit board 250 2nd circuit board 260 Flexible Flat Cable (FFC) 300 Heatsink 500 Piping 600 Piping 700 Piping G1 First insertion groove G2 Second insertion groove

Claims

1. A battery assembly; a module case having an opening at at least one end and housing the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening; a sealing cover including at least one of an inlet for introducing a cooling liquid into the internal space and an outlet for discharging the cooling liquid having flowed into the internal space to the outside of the module case, the sealing cover being inserted into the opening so as to airtightly cover the opening, The battery assembly includes: A plurality of sub-battery modules each including a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, and the sub-battery modules are arranged in a line in one direction; an insulating block made of an insulating material and disposed between a first sub-battery module and a second sub-battery module adjacent to each other among the plurality of sub-battery modules.

2. 2. The liquid-immersion cooled battery module of claim 1, wherein the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module each support at least one bus bar connecting electrode leads of battery cells constituting a battery cell stack, and include a bus bar frame coupled to the insulating block.

3. The bus bar frame includes a coupling protrusion extending toward the insulating block, The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 2 , wherein the insulating block has a coupling groove into which the coupling protrusion is inserted for coupling.

4. a connecting member electrically connecting the first sub-battery module and the second sub-battery module, The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the insulating block has a support groove into which at least a portion of the connecting member is inserted and supported.

5. The insulating block is 2. The liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication groove provided in a peripheral portion of the insulating block that is in close contact with an inner surface of the module case, the communication groove allowing the coolant to pass from the first sub-battery module side to the second sub-battery module side.

6. 2 . The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the module case includes a stopper protruding from an inner surface of the module case to support the insulating block, thereby limiting movement of the insulating block.

7. 2. The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of circuit boards corresponding to the plurality of sub-battery modules, the circuit boards being accommodated in the internal space and configured to detect electrical signals related to the respective corresponding sub-battery modules.

8. 8. The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 7, further comprising a flexible flat cable configured to electrically connect a first circuit board that detects a first electrical signal related to the first sub-battery module among the plurality of circuit boards and a second circuit board that detects a second electrical signal related to a second sub-battery module among the plurality of sub-battery modules, and to transmit the second electrical signal to the first circuit board.

9. a waterproof connector coupled to the sealing cover; The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 8 , wherein the first circuit board is configured to transmit the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to the outside through the waterproof connector.

10. Each of the plurality of sub-battery modules includes a pair of side plates supporting both ends of the battery cell stack in a stacking direction, 2. The liquid-immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the pair of side plates includes an opening that exposes surfaces of adjacent battery cells among the battery cells of the battery cell stack supported by the pair of side plates to contact the coolant.

11. 2. The liquid-immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1, further comprising an end cover having a through hole through which the inlet or outlet of the sealing cover passes, the end cover being coupled to the opening through which the sealing cover is inserted and covering the opening.

12. The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the cooling liquid comprises an insulating oil or a dielectric liquid.

13. A battery pack comprising the submersion-cooled battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A vehicle comprising the submersion cooled battery module of any one of claims 1 to 12.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • THERMALLY ROBUST CELL ARRANGEMENT AND CELL MODULE WITH SUCH A CELL ARRANGEMENT

    DE102020133450A1

  • Battery module

    JP2014078470A

  • Cartridge and battery module containing it

    JP2018513528A

  • Temperature-controlled battery configuration

    US20100104927A1

  • Electricity storage battery and manufacturing method of said battery

    US20220013841A1