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

The liquid-cooled battery module addresses inefficiencies in conventional cooling by using direct contact with a cooling solution and insulation blocks to enhance performance, prevent thermal runaway, and reduce weight and volume, while simplifying electrical connections and lowering costs.

JP2025502934AActive Publication Date: 2025-01-30LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024537152
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-01-20
Filing Date
2023-08-07
Publication Date
2025-01-30
Estimated Expiration
2043-08-07

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Abstract

An immersion-cooled battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery assembly including a plurality of battery units, a module case extending in a first direction and having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, the module case housing the battery assembly and a coolant in an internal space connected to the opening, and a sealing cover airtightly covering the opening.
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0185077 filed on December 26, 2022, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0008988 filed on January 20, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety in the specification and drawings.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same, and more particularly to a battery module including a plurality of chargeable and dischargeable battery cells, and a battery pack and a vehicle including such a battery module. [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 it is difficult to prevent thermal runaway of the battery cell because it has poor cooling performance for 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 thermally runs away.

[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 an immersion cooling type battery module that prevents thermal runaway or cascaded thermal runaway of battery cells included in the battery module by improving the cooling performance of the battery module, and a battery pack and a 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 units; a module case extending in a first direction and having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, the module case housing the battery assembly and a coolant in an internal space connected to the opening; and a sealing cover airtightly covering the opening, wherein each of the plurality of battery units comprises a plurality of battery cells arranged in line in the first direction; an insulating block arranged between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; and a connecting member coupled to the insulating block and electrically connected to electrode leads of the adjacent battery cells.

[0011] In one embodiment, each of the adjacent battery cells may be provided with an electrode lead at both ends in the first direction.

[0012] In an embodiment, a plurality of the battery units may be stacked in a second direction intersecting the first direction with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween.

[0013] In one embodiment, the battery assembly includes a plurality of unit stacks, each of which is configured by stacking two or more of the plurality of battery units with the cooling fins interposed therebetween, and the plurality of unit stacks may be configured to be stacked with the insulating pads interposed therebetween.

[0014] In one embodiment, the insulating block may include a coupling groove configured to have the connecting member inserted therein and coupled thereto, and a plurality of slots communicating with an internal space of the coupling groove and configured to have electrode leads of adjacent battery cells inserted therein.

[0015] In one embodiment, the insulating block may include an opening configured to open an internal space of the coupling groove and allow at least a portion of the connecting member coupled to the coupling groove to contact a cooling liquid.

[0016] In one embodiment, the insulating block may include a coolant channel provided on one surface that contacts the inner surface of the module case to provide a passage for the movement of a coolant.

[0017] In one embodiment, the battery assembly may include a circuit board configured to detect electrical signals related to battery cells included in a plurality of the battery units.

[0018] In one embodiment, the insulating block may include a support portion that supports the circuit board so that the circuit board is positioned at a distance from the battery cells and moves the coolant between the circuit board and the battery cells.

[0019] In one embodiment, the connecting member may include a main body portion electrically connected to the electrode leads of adjacent battery cells, and an extension portion extending from one end of the main body portion, inserted into a via hole provided in the circuit board, and electrically connected to the circuit board.

[0020] In one embodiment, the battery assembly includes a pair of side plates that are in close contact with both ends in the second direction of the plurality of battery units stacked in the second direction, and each of the pair of side plates may include a first opening provided at one end that contacts an inner surface of the module case and provides a passage for movement of a coolant.

[0021] In an embodiment, at least one of the pair of side plates may include a second opening that exposes a surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units to contact the coolant.

[0022] In one embodiment, the sealing cover may include at least one of an inlet for introducing a coolant into the internal space and an outlet for discharging the coolant that has flowed into the internal space to the outside of the module case, and the immersion cooled battery module may further include an end cover having a through hole through which the inlet or outlet of the sealing cover passes, and being coupled to the opening to cover the opening.

[0023] In one embodiment, the cooling fluid may include an insulating oil or a dielectric liquid.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, the battery cells accommodated inside a module case of a battery module are cooled through direct contact with a 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 improving the cooling performance of the battery cells and effectively preventing thermal runaway of the battery cells.

[0027] In addition, if a fire occurs due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant that flows into and fills the inside of the module case acts as a fire extinguisher, thereby preventing a chain reaction of thermal runaway in other battery cells or other battery modules surrounding the battery cell where thermal runaway occurred.

[0028] In addition, a pair of battery cells are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell with an insulating block interposed therebetween to form a battery unit, a plurality of battery units are stacked in the thickness direction of the battery cell to form a unit laminate, and a plurality of unit laminates are further stacked in the thickness direction to form a battery module having a length at least twice that of the battery cell, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack and allowing the coolant to move smoothly along the longitudinal direction of each battery module. 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, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the battery pack as well as the overall volume and weight of the battery pack and improving the energy density of the battery pack.

[0029] In addition, the insulating blocks included in the stacked battery units are configured to support the connecting members connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells and to bring the connecting members into contact with the coolant, thereby improving the cooling effect on the electrode lead portions of the battery cells which generate relatively high heat.

[0030] In addition, the insulating block may include a coolant channel that provides a passage for the coolant to move, thereby facilitating circulation of the coolant and further improving the cooling performance of the battery cells.

[0031] In addition, one of the multiple circuit boards that detects electrical signals of the battery cells inside the battery module transmits the electrical signals detected by it 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 and simplifying the wiring structure of a battery pack including multiple battery modules.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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]

[0036] [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] FIG. 2 is a 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. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing a battery unit included in the battery assembly shown in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 5 is a diagram showing an insulating block and a connecting member of the battery unit shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a unit laminate including a plurality of battery units. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 illustrates a battery stack including a plurality of unit stacks. [Figure 8] 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' in FIG. [Figure 9] 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 10] 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a first sealing cover coupled to a module case. FIG. [Figure 11] 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 12] 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line SS' of the first end cover shown in FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a first end cover coupled to a module case. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view showing a portion M1 in FIG. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] 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 prior art may make the gist of the present invention unclear, the description will be omitted.

[0038] 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.

[0039] For reference, components of the present invention shown in the drawings may be partially or entirely reduced in size, enlarged, omitted, or simplified in order to facilitate technical understanding.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the immersion-cooled battery module 10 shown in FIG.

[0042] 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'.

[0043] The module case 100 extends in a first direction (Y-axis direction), has an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and is configured to accommodate the battery assembly 200 and a coolant 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 the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery module and openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The battery assembly 200 may include a plurality of battery cells and may be housed in an internal space of the module case 100. As will be described further below, the battery assembly 200 may include battery units stacked in a width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery module, and a circuit board for detecting electrical signals of the battery cells included in the battery units.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 an electrical signal detected by the circuit board to the outside of the module case 100.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] In a modified embodiment, the modified module case housing the battery assembly 200 may be configured to have an opening at only one end in the longitudinal direction thereof and the other end in the longitudinal direction thereof closed. Also, a 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.

[0052] According to this modified embodiment, the configurations corresponding to the second sealing cover 110' and the second end cover 130' shown in Figures 1 and 2 may be omitted. In this case, the coolant flowing in from the inlet of the modified sealing cover may circulate in the internal space of the modified module case to cool the battery cells, and then may be discharged through the outlet of the modified sealing cover.

[0053] As described above, according to one 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 inside of the module case 100, thereby making it possible to omit battery cell cooling means such as thermal pads and heat sinks, thereby improving the cooling performance of the battery cells and effectively preventing thermal runaway of the battery cells.

[0054] In addition, if 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 a chain reaction of thermal runaway in other battery cells or other battery modules surrounding the battery cell where thermal runaway occurred.

[0055] FIG. 3 shows a battery assembly 200 housed in a module case of a liquid-immersion-cooled battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] 3, the battery assembly 200 includes a plurality of battery units BU. Each battery unit BU may include a plurality of battery cells 210, an insulating block 220, and a connecting member 230.

[0057] The plurality of battery cells 210 may be arranged side by side in a longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell. Also, each battery cell 210 may include an electrode lead 212 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The battery cells 210 may be embodied as secondary batteries of various types. For example, the battery cells 210 may be embodied as a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0058] The insulating block 220 is made of a material having insulating properties and heat resistance, and may be disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells 210 .

[0059] The connecting members 230 may be coupled to the insulating block 220 and configured to be electrically connected to the electrode leads of the adjacent battery cells, respectively.

[0060] As will be described further below, a plurality of battery units BU may be stacked in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween.

[0061] In an embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include a pair of side plates 240 that are in close contact with both ends of the stacked battery units in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) to support the battery units.

[0062] Each side plate 240 may include a first opening 240a that is provided at a lower end in contact with an inner surface (bottom surface) of the module case 100 and provides a passage for the movement of the coolant. In this case, the first opening 240a may include a groove that is formed in a concave shape from the lower end of the corresponding side plate 240 toward the center.

[0063] In addition, at least one of the pair of side plates 240 may include a second opening 240b that exposes a surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units BU to contact the coolant. For example, the second opening 240b may include a through hole that exposes a surface of the adjacent battery cell.

[0064] The structure and shape of the first opening 240a and the second opening 240b may be variously changed according to the embodiment.

[0065] In an embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include bus bar frames 250 disposed at both ends in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of a battery stack in which a plurality of battery units BU are stacked.

[0066] The bus bar frame 250 may be configured to support at least one bus bar 252 that electrically connects the electrode leads of the battery cells that constitute the battery unit BU to the electrode leads of other battery cells or to the terminals of the battery module.

[0067] In one embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include a circuit board 260 disposed above a battery unit and configured to detect electrical signals related to the battery cells included in the battery unit.

[0068] In this case, the circuit board 260 may include a first circuit board 262, a second circuit board 264, and a third circuit board 266.

[0069] The first circuit board 262 may be disposed on the insulating block 220 and configured to be electrically connected to the connecting member 230 coupled to the insulating block 220. To this end, the first circuit board 262 may have via holes 262a into which ends of the connecting members 230 are inserted. The ends of the connecting members 230 inserted into the via holes 262a may be soldered to be fixed to the first circuit board 262. The first circuit board 262 may include a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0070] The second circuit board 264 may be disposed on one side of the first circuit board 262 and configured to detect a first electrical signal related to a first group of battery cells among the battery cells included in the battery assembly 200. The first electrical signal may include an electrical signal indicative of an output voltage, an output current, or a charging state of the first group of battery cells.

[0071] The third circuit board 266 may be disposed on the other side of the first circuit board 262 and configured to detect a second electrical signal related to a second group of battery cells among the battery cells included in the battery assembly 200. The second electrical signal may include an electrical signal indicative of an output voltage, an output current, or a charging state of the second group of battery cells.

[0072] The second circuit board 264 and the third circuit board 266 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0073] In addition, the second circuit board 264 may be configured to collect the first electrical signal and a second electrical signal detected by the third circuit board 266 and transmit the collected signal to the outside through the waterproof connector 120 .

[0074] Generally, the length of a battery module corresponds to the length of the battery cells constituting the battery module. However, since the liquid immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in a row 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-cooled battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be manufactured with a length of 1000 mm or more.

[0075] FIG. 4 shows a battery unit BU included in the battery assembly shown in FIG.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 4 , the battery unit BU may include a plurality of battery cells 210, an insulating block 220, and a connecting member 230.

[0077] The plurality of battery cells 210 may be arranged side by side in a longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell. Also, each battery cell 210 may include an electrode lead 212 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The battery cells 210 may be embodied as secondary batteries of various types. For example, the battery cells 210 may be embodied as a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0078] Although FIG. 4 shows the battery unit BU including a pair of battery cells, in other embodiments, the battery unit BU may be configured to include three or more battery cells arranged side-by-side in one direction.

[0079] The insulating block 220 is made of a material having insulating properties and heat resistance, and may be disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells 210 .

[0080] The connecting members 230 may be coupled to the insulating block 220 and configured to be electrically connected to the electrode leads of the adjacent battery cells, respectively.

[0081] FIG. 5 shows the insulating block 220 and the connecting member 230 of the battery unit shown in FIG.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 5, the insulating block 220 may include a coupling groove 222 configured to receive and couple the connecting member 230 thereto, and a plurality of slots 224 communicating with the internal space of the coupling groove 222 and configured to receive electrode leads of adjacent battery cells therein, respectively.

[0083] The insulating block 220 may also include an opening 226 configured to open the internal space of the coupling groove 222 and allow at least a portion of the connecting member 230 coupled to the coupling groove 222 to contact the coolant.

[0084] That is, the connecting member 230 may be inserted into and coupled to the coupling groove 222 of the insulating block 220, and the electrode lead 212 of the battery cell 210 may be inserted into the slot 224 of the insulating block 220 to be electrically connected to the connecting member 230. In this case, the opening 226 of the insulating block 220 may provide a working space necessary for welding the electrode lead 212 to the connecting member 230.

[0085] In this manner, the insulating block 220 is configured to support the connecting member 230 connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell while bringing the connecting member 230 into contact with the coolant, thereby enhancing the cooling effect on the electrode lead portion of the battery cell which generates heat relatively rapidly.

[0086] In one embodiment, the insulating block 220 may include a coolant channel 228 that is provided on one surface in contact with the inner surface of the module case 100 that houses the battery assembly 200 and provides a passage for the movement of a coolant. In this case, the coolant channel 228 may be provided on a lower surface of the insulating block 220 that is in contact with the bottom surface of the module case 100. Also, the coolant channel 228 may be configured to communicate with the opening 226.

[0087] As a result, the coolant that flows into the opening 226 of the insulating block 220 can quickly move through the coolant channel 228 after cooling the connecting member 230 and the electrode lead 212 .

[0088] In one embodiment, the insulating block 220 may include a support portion 228a at an upper end thereof for supporting the first circuit board 262. The support portion 228a supports the first circuit board 262 so that the first circuit board 262 is positioned apart from the battery cells, and may allow a coolant to move between the first circuit board 262 and the battery cells.

[0089] As described above, the insulating block 220 includes the coolant channel 228 and the support portion 228a that provide a passage for the coolant to move, so that the circulation of the coolant is smooth, thereby further improving the cooling performance for the battery cells.

[0090] Meanwhile, the connecting member 230 may include a body portion 232 electrically connected to an electrode lead of a battery cell, and an extension portion 234 extending upward (in the Z-axis direction) from an upper end of the body portion 232 and inserted into a via hole 262a provided in the first circuit board 262. The extension portion 234 of the connecting member 230 inserted into the via hole 262a may be fixed to the first circuit board 262 by soldering.

[0091] FIG. 6 shows a unit laminate US including a plurality of battery units.

[0092] FIG. 7 shows a battery stack BS including a plurality of unit stacks.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the battery assembly 200 may include a battery stack BS in which a plurality of battery units are stacked in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells with plate-shaped cooling fins 242 or insulating pads 244 interposed therebetween.

[0094] First, as shown in FIG. 6, the unit laminate US may be formed by stacking two or more battery units BU1 and BU2 with cooling fins 242 interposed therebetween.

[0095] In this case, the cooling fin 242 may be made of a material having high thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling fin 242 may be made of a metal material. Also, the cooling fin 242 may include an opening 242a that is provided at a position corresponding to the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220 described above and provides a passage for the coolant to move. In this case, the opening 242a may include a groove that is formed in a concave shape from the lower end of the cooling fin 242 that contacts the bottom surface of the module case 100 toward the center.

[0096] Then, as shown in FIG. 7, the battery stack BS may be constructed by stacking two or more unit stacks US1 and US2 with insulating pads 244 interposed therebetween.

[0097] In this case, the insulating pad 244 may be made of a material having high insulating properties. For example, the insulating pad 244 may be made of a material including one or more of rubber, ceramics, and polymer synthetic resin. Also, the insulating pad 244 may include an opening 244a that is provided at a position corresponding to the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220 described above and provides a passage for the coolant to move. In this case, the opening 244a may include a groove that is formed in a concave shape from the lower end of the insulating pad 244 that contacts the bottom surface of the module case 100 toward the center.

[0098] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' in FIG.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 8, each insulating block 220 accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100 may be configured not only to support a connecting member 230 electrically connected to the electrode lead 212 of the battery cell, but also to support a first circuit board 262 electrically connected to the connecting member 230.

[0100] As described above, the extension portion 234 of the connecting member 230 may extend upward and be inserted into the via hole 262 a of the first circuit board 262 .

[0101] A space for the movement of the coolant may be provided between the insulating block 220 and the first circuit board 262. The coolant C that has flowed between the insulating block 220 and the first circuit board 262 may pass through the opening 226 of the insulating block 220, come into contact with the electrode lead 212 and the connecting member 230 to cool the electrode lead 212 and the connecting member 230, and then move through a movement path provided by the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220, the opening 242a of the cooling fin 242, the opening 244a of the insulating pad 244, and the first opening 240a of the side plate 240, and may be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10.

[0102] In one embodiment, the module case 100 may include a stopper 102 configured to protrude from an inner surface thereof to support the insulating block 220, thereby limiting movement of the insulating block 220. In this case, the stopper 102 may be configured to be positioned within the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220 and to contact the inner surface of the coolant channel 228. Such a stopper 102 may prevent the insulating block 220 from shifting in position due to vibration or external force applied to the battery module 10.

[0103] FIG. 9 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.

[0104] 9, 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first sealing cover 110 coupled to the module case 100. As shown in FIG.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 10, 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.

[0112] 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 .

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] The waterproof connector 120 may also include a connector body 122 , a contact pin 124 , and a connecting pin 126 .

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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 .

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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 second circuit board 264. Such a cable 128a may include a flat flexible cable (FFC). The second circuit board 264 connected to the cable 128a in this manner may be electrically connected to a bus bar 252 connected to an electrode lead of the battery cell 210. In this case, the bus bar 252 may be coupled to and fixed to the bus bar frame 250.

[0130] 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.

[0131] FIG. 11 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.

[0132] 9, 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] FIG. 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of the first end cover shown in FIG.

[0135] 12, 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] FIG. 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first end cover 130 coupled to the module case 100. As shown in FIG.

[0140] 13, 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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 .

[0144] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view showing the M1 portion of FIG.

[0145] 14, 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 also be interposed between the inner periphery 130a of the first end cover 130 and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] FIG. 15 shows a battery pack 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] 15, 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.

[0153] 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. 15, 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] FIG. 16 shows a vehicle 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] As shown in FIG. 16, 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.

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells accommodated inside 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 improving the cooling performance of the battery cells and effectively preventing thermal runaway of the battery cells.

[0160] In addition, if a fire occurs due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant that flows into and fills the inside of the module case acts as a fire extinguisher, thereby preventing a chain reaction of thermal runaway in other battery cells or other battery modules surrounding the battery cell where thermal runaway occurred.

[0161] In addition, a pair of battery cells are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell with an insulating block interposed therebetween to form a battery unit, a plurality of battery units are stacked in the thickness direction of the battery cell to form a unit laminate, and a plurality of unit laminates are further stacked in the thickness direction to form a battery module having a length at least twice that of the battery cell, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack and allowing the coolant to move smoothly along the longitudinal direction of each battery module. 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, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the battery pack as well as the overall volume and weight of the battery pack and improving the energy density of the battery pack.

[0162] In addition, the insulating blocks included in the stacked battery units are configured to support the connecting members connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells and to bring the connecting members into contact with the coolant, thereby improving the cooling effect on the electrode lead portions of the battery cells which generate relatively high heat.

[0163] In addition, the insulating block may include a coolant channel that provides a passage for the coolant to move, thereby facilitating circulation of the coolant and further improving the cooling performance of the battery cells.

[0164] In addition, one of the multiple circuit boards that detects electrical signals of the battery cells inside the battery module transmits the electrical signals detected by it 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 and simplifying the wiring structure of a battery pack including multiple battery modules.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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]

[0170] 10. Liquid-cooled battery module 10 Battery Module 20 Battery Pack 22 Pack Case 24 pack case 26 Supply pipe 28 Recovery tube 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 Battery Cells 212 Electrode Lead 220 Insulation Block 222 Connection groove 224 Slots 226 Open area 228 Coolant Channel 228a Support part 230 Connecting member 232 Main body 234 Extension 240 1st circuit board 240 Circuit Board 240 Side Plate 240a 1st opening 240b 2nd opening 242 Cooling fin 242a Open area 244 Insulation Pad 244a Open area 250 Circuit Board 252 Busbar 260 Circuit Board 262 1st circuit board 262a Beer Hall 264 2nd circuit board 266 Third circuit board 300 Heatsink 500 Piping 600 Piping 700 Piping BS Battery Stack BU Battery Unit BU1 Battery Unit BU2 Battery Unit C Coolant G1 First insertion groove G2 Second insertion groove US unit stack US1 Unit Laminate US2 Unit Laminate

Claims

1. A liquid-immersion cooled battery module, a battery assembly including a plurality of battery units; a module case extending in a first direction, which is a longitudinal direction of the liquid immersion cooling type battery module, having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and accommodating the battery assembly and a coolant in an internal space connected to the opening; a sealing cover that airtightly covers the opening; The liquid-immersion-cooled battery module includes: Each of the plurality of battery units is A plurality of battery cells arranged side by side in the first direction; an insulating block disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells; a connecting member coupled to the insulating block and electrically connected to electrode leads of the adjacent battery cells; A liquid-cooled battery module comprising:

2. The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 1 , wherein each of the battery cells adjacent to each other is provided with an electrode lead on both ends in the first direction.

3. 2. The liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of battery units are stacked in a second direction, which is a width direction of the liquid immersion cooling type battery module, with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween.

4. The battery assembly includes a plurality of unit stacks each including two or more battery units stacked with the cooling fins interposed therebetween, The liquid immersion cooling battery module of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of unit laminates included in the battery assembly are configured to be stacked with the insulating pads interposed therebetween.

5. The insulating block is a coupling groove configured to receive and couple the connecting member; 2. The liquid-immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of slots communicating with an internal space of the coupling groove and configured to receive electrode leads of adjacent battery cells.

6. 6. The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 5, wherein the insulating block further includes an opening configured to open an internal space of the coupling groove and allow at least a portion of the connecting member coupled to the coupling groove to contact a coolant.

7. 2 . The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the insulating block includes a coolant channel provided on one surface in contact with the inner surface of the module case to provide a passage for a coolant to move.

8. 2. The liquid-immersion cooled battery module of claim 1, wherein the battery assembly further includes a circuit board configured to detect electrical signals related to battery cells included in the plurality of battery units.

9. 9. The liquid immersion cooled battery module according to claim 8, wherein the insulating block includes a support portion that supports the circuit board so that the circuit board is positioned apart from the battery cells, and moves the coolant between the circuit board and the battery cells.

10. The connecting member is a main body portion electrically connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells adjacent to each other; 9. The liquid immersion cooling type battery module according to claim 8, further comprising: an extension portion extending from one end of the main body portion, inserted into a via hole provided in the circuit board, and electrically connected to the circuit board.

11. the battery assembly includes a pair of side plates closely contacting both ends in the second direction of the plurality of battery units stacked in the second direction, 2. The liquid immersion cooling battery module according to claim 1, wherein each of the pair of side plates includes a first opening provided at one end in contact with the inner surface of the module case and providing a passage for the movement of the cooling liquid.

12. 12. The liquid immersion cooled battery module of claim 11, wherein at least one of the pair of side plates further includes a second opening that exposes a surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units to contact the coolant.

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

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