Battery rack with improved cooling structure

Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery rack etc. capable of efficiently ensuring cooling performance and improving safety. A battery rack according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules stacked in at least one direction, a supply unit configured to supply a cooling gas, an inlet duct unit configured to guide a flow of the cooling gas supplied by the supply unit by connecting one end to the supply unit, and a distribution unit configured to distribute the cooling gas guided by the inlet duct unit to each of the plurality of battery modules by connecting the other end of the inlet duct unit.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0068541, filed on June 3, 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 a battery, and more particularly to a technology for improving the cooling or safety of a battery rack and a battery container including the battery rack. [Background technology]

[0003] In recent years, as issues such as power shortages and environmentally friendly energy have come to the fore, energy storage systems (ESS) for storing generated electricity have been drawing more attention. Typically, the use of such ESS makes it easy to build a power management system such as a smart grid system, making it easy to adjust the supply and demand of electricity in a specific region or city. In addition, as electric vehicles are becoming more commercially available, such ESS can also be applied to electric charging stations for charging electric vehicles.

[0004] The ESS may be configured in various forms, typically including one or more battery containers. A battery container used in an ESS may generally include a large number of battery modules to ensure a large charge / discharge capacity. Here, the battery modules may be included in a container housing in a form of a group in a certain unit for various aspects such as management and loading. In particular, a group is formed in a state where a large number of battery modules are vertically stacked in the container housing, and such a group is called a battery rack. At this time, the stacked state of the battery modules included in the battery rack is maintained through a rack frame or a separate fixing structure. A large number of such battery racks may be included in the container housing in a horizontal direction. That is, the battery container may include a large number of battery racks.

[0005] A battery device such as a battery rack or a battery container includes a number of battery modules. In this case, in order to stably secure the performance of each battery module, the air condition inside or outside the battery module needs to be maintained within a certain condition. In particular, when a number of battery modules are densely packed in a battery rack or a battery container, the temperature around the battery modules may rise excessively. Such an increase in temperature may not only cause a decrease in the performance of the battery modules, but may also pose a serious threat to safety due to the occurrence of thermal runaway or the like. Therefore, when the temperature around a battery module included in a battery rack or a battery container rises, it is necessary to properly cool the battery module.

[0006] In the case of a conventional battery rack or battery container, a cooling component such as a separate fan may be provided for each battery module in order to cool the battery modules. However, in this case, the number of fans and the wiring of connecting cables for connecting the fans are increased. This not only increases material costs, but also complicates the internal structure of the container, making it difficult to install each component, and is disadvantageous in many aspects such as after-sales service. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has an object to provide a battery rack that can efficiently ensure cooling performance and improve safety, a battery container including the battery rack, and an energy storage system.

[0008] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a battery rack according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules stacked in at least one direction, a supply unit configured to supply cooling gas, an inlet duct unit having one end connected to the supply unit and configured to guide the flow of cooling gas supplied by the supply unit, and a distribution unit connected to the other end of the inlet duct unit and configured to distribute the cooling gas guided by the inlet duct unit to each of the plurality of battery modules.

[0010] Here, the inlet duct unit may include a fan.

[0011] Also, the inlet duct unit may be located above the plurality of battery modules.

[0012] In addition, the distribution unit may be formed with a plurality of distribution outlets corresponding to the plurality of battery modules, respectively.

[0013] At least some of the plurality of distribution outlets may be configured to have different opening ratios.

[0014] In addition, the battery modules may have module inlets formed therein through which the cooling gas flows into an internal space.

[0015] The distribution unit may further include an exhaust portion that exhausts gas or flames discharged from the battery modules to the outside.

[0016] Also, the exhaust port may be configured to open when a pressure above a certain level is applied.

[0017] The inlet duct unit may include two or more unit inlet ducts configured to be detachable from each other.

[0018] Also, at least one of the two or more unit inlet ducts may include a corrugated pipe.

[0019] Furthermore, the two or more unit inlet ducts may be configured to be detachable by magnetic force.

[0020] In addition, the battery rack according to the present invention may further include an outlet duct unit that transfers cooling gas exhausted from the plurality of battery modules to the supply unit.

[0021] Moreover, the outlet duct unit may include two or more unit outlet ducts configured to be detachable from each other.

[0022] A battery container according to another aspect of the present invention includes a battery rack according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0023] Furthermore, an energy storage system according to yet another aspect of the present invention includes a battery rack according to an aspect of the present invention. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, the cooling performance of a battery rack or a battery container can be efficiently ensured.

[0025] In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, when a plurality of battery modules are included inside a battery rack or a battery container, it is not necessary to provide a corresponding fan for each battery module. For example, with only one fan for each battery rack including a plurality of battery modules, the cooling performance of all the battery modules included in the battery rack can be stably ensured.

[0026] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, waste of cooling airflow is minimized, and the cooling air can be efficiently delivered to the battery module.

[0027] Therefore, according to one aspect of the present invention, the lifespan of a battery module, a battery rack or battery container including the battery module, an energy storage system, etc. can be stably ensured.

[0028] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, the manufacturing cost of the battery container is reduced, improving cost competitiveness, and the simple structure improves the convenience of assembly, installation, or management for manufacturers or businesses.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, an effective container-integrated air conditioning structure can be realized, and in particular, a rack-unit air conditioning configuration can be more easily realized for a battery rack or battery container that does not include a rack frame for storing and stacking a plurality of battery modules or that includes a simple rack frame.

[0030] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the safety of battery racks, battery containers, energy storage systems, and the like.

[0031] In particular, effective cooling of the battery modules can prevent situations such as thermal runaway, explosion, and fire. Furthermore, when an emergency situation such as thermal runaway occurs in a specific battery module, the spread of gas and flames between battery modules is suppressed, improving the safety of battery racks and battery containers.

[0032] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the energy density of a battery rack, a battery container, etc. In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the air conditioning space in front of and behind the battery container.

[0033] In addition, various other additional effects can be achieved by many embodiments of the present invention. The various effects of the present invention will be described in detail in each embodiment, but the description of the effects that are easily understood by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0034] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further understand the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to only the matters described in the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1]1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of the battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration and an enlarged portion of a distribution unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration in which a plurality of battery modules are stacked according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion A1 in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A2-A2' in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 13 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a partial configuration of a distribution unit included in a battery rack according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 10] 13 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a partial configuration of a distribution unit included in a battery rack according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an inlet duct unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an outlet duct unit included in a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a portion of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the flow of cooling gas in a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an outlet duct unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery container according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, the terms and words used in the present specification and claims are not to be construed as being limited to their ordinary and dictionary meanings, but are to be construed as having meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical ideas of the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventors themselves can appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe the invention.

[0037] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiment described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiment of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore there may be various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted therefor at the time of this application.

[0038] Meanwhile, in this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used, but such terms are used for convenience of explanation, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that they may change depending on the position of the object to be measured, the position of the observer, etc.

[0039] In addition, terms indicating directions such as inside and outside are used in this specification, but unless otherwise specified, inside means the direction toward the center of the battery rack or each component, and outside means the opposite direction.

[0040] In addition, although various embodiments are described in this specification, detailed descriptions of parts that are the same or similar to the descriptions of other embodiments will be omitted, and differences will be mainly described.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] 1 and 2, a battery rack according to the present invention includes a battery module 100, a supply unit 200, an inlet duct unit 300, and a distribution unit 400.

[0043] A battery rack may include a plurality of battery modules 100. The plurality of battery modules 100 may be electrically connected to each other. In particular, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be connected in parallel and / or series to increase capacity and / or output. In this case, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be connected to each other through bus bars, cables, etc.

[0044] The plurality of battery modules 100 may be stacked in at least one direction. In particular, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be stacked in a vertical direction as illustrated. Furthermore, the battery rack according to the present invention may include a rack frame, as indicated by RF in FIGS. 1 and 2, in order to more stably maintain the stacked state of the plurality of battery modules 100. Alternatively, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be directly placed on a container housing or the like included in a battery container, rather than on a battery rack, to maintain the stacked state. In this case, such a battery container may be referred to as a rackless container, in the sense that there is no rack frame for maintaining the stacked state of the battery modules 100 on the battery rack.

[0045] Each of the battery modules 100 may include a plurality of battery cells and a module case for accommodating the cells. In this case, the battery cell means one secondary battery, and may be a pouch-type battery or a can-type battery. The present invention is not limited to a specific structure, shape, or type of the battery module 100, and various battery modules 100 known at the time of filing of the present invention may be used in the present invention.

[0046] The battery modules 100 may also be referred to as a battery pack. In particular, each battery module 100 may include a control module such as a battery management system (BMS), in which case the battery modules 100 may be a battery pack.

[0047] The supply unit 200 may be configured to supply a cooling gas. In particular, the supply unit 200 may supply a gas having a lower temperature than the surroundings as a refrigerant. In this case, the supply unit 200 may generate and supply the cooling gas by sucking in the surrounding air and cooling it. Alternatively, the supply unit 200 may receive the cooling gas from another external unit and supply it.

[0048] For example, the supply unit 200 may include an air conditioning device such as an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) or may be realized using an HVAC. In the case of the HVAC, it may be configured to circulate air in a space in which a battery rack is provided, for example, inside a battery container. Furthermore, the HVAC may include a condenser, an evaporator, and the like, and may be configured to absorb heat from the internal air while circulating the internal air and discharge the heat to the outside of the battery container. The HVAC may supply the gas, which has absorbed heat and been cooled in this manner, to the internal space of the battery container to cool the air inside the battery container. Here, the HVAC may absorb only heat from the internal air and discharge the absorbed heat to the outside without discharging the internal air to the outside of the battery container.

[0049] The inlet duct unit 300 may have one end connected to the supply unit 200. The inlet duct unit 300 may be configured to receive a supply of cooled gas from the supply unit 200 and guide a flow of the supplied cooled gas. That is, the inlet duct unit 300 may receive a supply of cooled gas from the supply unit 200 and provide a flow path through which the supplied gas flows.

[0050] 1, the inlet duct unit 300 may have a front (+Y-axis) end connected to the supply unit 200. The inlet duct unit 300 may be formed to extend long in the front-rear direction, and may have a hollow space formed therein. Both ends of the hollow space may be open, and one end, for example, the right end, may be connected to the supply unit 200. Therefore, the cooling gas supplied by the supply unit 200 may flow along the extension direction of the hollow space inside the inlet duct unit 300.

[0051] As a more specific example, the inlet duct unit 300 may be configured in the form of a cylindrical pipe extending long in the front-rear direction. However, the present invention is not limited to such a specific shape of the inlet duct unit 300.

[0052] The distribution unit 400 may be connected to the other end of the inlet duct unit 300. The distribution unit 400 may be configured to distribute the cooling gas guided by the inlet duct unit 300 to each of the plurality of battery modules 100. For example, when a front end of the inlet duct unit 300 extending in the front-rear direction is connected to the supply unit 200, the distribution unit 400 may be connected to a rear end of the inlet duct unit 300. The cooling gas moving from the front side to the rear side inside the inlet duct unit 300 may flow into the distribution unit 400 and be divided and supplied to each of the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0053] In particular, the distribution unit 400 may be configured in a shape that is elongated in the stacking direction of the battery modules 100. In particular, when a plurality of battery modules 100 are stacked in the vertical direction in a battery rack, the distribution unit 400 may have a shape that is elongated in the vertical direction as shown in FIG.

[0054] The distribution unit 400 may have a hollow space formed therein so that the cooling gas can flow therethrough. In particular, the hollow space of the distribution unit 400 may have a shape that extends long along the extension direction of the distribution unit 400. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the hollow space of the distribution unit 400 may be configured to extend long in the vertical direction.

[0055] The distribution unit 400 may be disposed on one side of the battery modules 100 and may divide and supply cooling gas to the battery modules 100. For example, the distribution unit 400 may be located at the rear of the module stack and may supply cooling gas to the rear of each battery module 100.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to stably ensure cooling performance for a battery rack. In particular, in the process in which cooling gas generated from the supply unit 200 is supplied to the battery module 100, the gas flow is guided by the inlet duct unit 300 and the distribution unit 400, so that it is possible to minimize the wasted cooling air flow and the supply distance of the cooling gas.

[0057] Furthermore, by stably ensuring such cooling performance, it is possible to improve the performance, lifespan, safety, etc. of the battery rack and application devices including the battery rack, such as battery containers and energy storage systems.

[0058] In addition, in a battery container or energy storage system including a plurality of battery racks according to the present invention, an air conditioning module for each rack can be easily realized. In addition, in this respect, when a battery container or energy storage system is constructed by including a plurality of battery racks according to the present invention, manufacturing and installation can be easily performed.

[0059] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the space in front of or behind the battery module 100 for cooling the battery module 100 can be reduced, which is advantageous for improving the energy density of the battery rack and the application device including the battery rack.

[0060] 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, an inlet duct unit 300 and a distribution unit 400 are shown in FIG.

[0061] 3, the inlet duct unit 300 may include a fan at a portion indicated by F. The fan may control the direction, speed, etc. of the cooling gas flowing into the inlet duct unit 300. In particular, the fan may increase the speed at which the cooling gas supplied from the supply unit 200 to the internal space of the inlet duct unit 300 flows.

[0062] The fan may be provided on one side of the inlet duct unit 300. For example, the fan may be located at an end of the inlet duct unit 300, but may be disposed at a portion connected to the distribution unit 400. In this case, the fan may suck in cooling gas flowing in the internal space of the inlet duct unit 300 and release it to the distribution unit 400.

[0063] In this embodiment, it is not necessary for a fan to be provided for each battery module 100. In particular, in conventional embodiments, a fan is often provided for each battery module 100 included in a battery rack, but in the present invention, the flow of cooling gas is accelerated using the fan provided in the inlet duct unit 300, so that the cooling gas can be smoothly supplied to each battery module 100. Therefore, it is not necessary for a fan to be provided for each battery module 100. Furthermore, only one fan may be provided in the inlet duct unit 300.

[0064] According to such an embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the battery rack is simplified, improving the cost competitiveness of the battery module 100. In this case, the energy density of the battery module 100 and the battery rack can be improved. Furthermore, according to such an embodiment, the wiring or power for operating and controlling a plurality of fans is reduced, making it easier to install the battery module 100 and realizing a simpler structure.

[0065] 1 and 2, the inlet duct unit 300 may be located on the upper part of the battery modules 100. In this case, the inlet duct unit 300 may supply cooling gas from the upper side to the lower side of the entire battery module 100. Furthermore, in the case where a fan is provided in the inlet duct unit 300, the fan may also be located on the upper part of the battery module 100.

[0066] According to this embodiment of the present invention, cooling gas is more smoothly supplied to the battery modules 100. In particular, since the cooling gas supplied by the supply unit 200 has a low temperature, it can flow more smoothly when supplied from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in this embodiment, cooling gas is smoothly supplied to all of the multiple battery modules 100 stacked in the vertical direction, so that the cooling performance for each battery module can be stably ensured.

[0067] The distribution unit 400 may have a distribution outlet, as shown by DO in Fig. 3. The distribution outlet DO is an opening formed to allow the cooling gas flowing through the hollow of the distribution unit 400 to flow out to the battery module 100. The distribution unit 400 may have a plurality of distribution outlets DO.

[0068] The distribution outlet DO may be configured to correspond to each of the plurality of battery modules 100. In particular, the distribution outlet DO may be provided to have a position and shape corresponding to the positions and shapes of the plurality of battery modules 100. For example, when the plurality of battery modules 100 are stacked in a vertical direction, the plurality of distribution outlets DO may be arranged in a vertical direction similar to the stacking shape of the battery modules 100.

[0069] Here, the multiple distribution outlets DO may be provided in one-to-one correspondence with the multiple battery modules 100. For example, when 12 battery modules 100 are stacked vertically in the battery rack, 12 distribution outlets DO may be formed in the vertical direction in the distribution unit 400. In this case, the vertical interval between the distribution outlets DO may correspond to the vertical interval between the battery modules 100.

[0070] According to this embodiment of the present invention, cooling gas can be stably supplied to each battery module 100. Therefore, cooling performance can be more effectively ensured for all battery modules 100 included in the battery rack.

[0071] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the overall configuration and an enlarged portion of a distribution unit 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] 4 shows an overall configuration of the distribution unit 400 and an enlarged view of some of the distribution outlets DO included in the distribution unit 400. Referring to FIG. 4, a distribution inlet may be formed on the upper side of the distribution unit 400, as indicated by DI. The distribution inlet DI may be coupled to one end of the inlet duct unit 300, for example, a rear end of the inlet duct unit 300. Thus, the cooling gas transferred from the inlet duct unit 300 may flow into the hollow inside the distribution unit 400 through the distribution inlet DI. Only one distribution inlet DI may be formed in the distribution unit 400.

[0073] The cooling gas flowing into the hollow inside the distribution unit 400 through the distribution inlet DI may be distributed to each battery module 100 from a plurality of distribution outlets DO arranged at a distance in the vertical direction. At this time, at least some of the plurality of distribution outlets DO may be configured to have different aperture ratios. That is, the aperture ratios may be different for all or some of the plurality of distribution outlets DO. In particular, when the plurality of distribution outlets DO are arranged in the vertical direction, the distribution outlet DO located at the lower side may be configured to have a larger aperture ratio than the distribution outlet DO located at the upper side.

[0074] 4, (a) is an enlarged view of the uppermost distribution outlet DO, (b) is an enlarged view of one of the centrally located distribution outlets DO, and (c) is an enlarged view of the lowermost distribution outlet DO. Each distribution outlet DO may have a number of holes, as indicated by O. Each hole O may be formed in a manner penetrating the distribution unit 400, and may open the hollow to the outside.

[0075] In this case, when the enlarged view of the upper distribution outlet DO shown in (a) is compared with the enlarged view of the central distribution outlet DO shown in (b), it can be seen that the aperture ratio of the upper distribution outlet DO is smaller than that of the central distribution outlet DO. Also, when the enlarged view of the central distribution outlet DO shown in (b) is compared with the enlarged view of the lower distribution outlet DO shown in (c), it can be seen that the aperture ratio of the central distribution outlet DO is smaller than that of the lower distribution outlet DO. In this case, the lower distribution outlet DO can be formed to have a larger aperture ratio than the upper distribution outlet DO.

[0076] For example, the upper distribution outlet DO shown in (a) may be configured to have an aperture ratio of 10% to 30%, for example 16%, the central distribution outlet DO shown in (b) may be configured to have an aperture ratio of 50% to 70%, for example 68%, and the lower distribution outlet DO shown in (c) may be configured to have an aperture ratio of 80% to 100%, for example 85%.

[0077] The differential adaptation to the aperture ratio of the distribution outlets DO can be realized by changing the size of the holes O in each distribution outlet DO, as shown in Figure 4. As another example, the differential adaptation to the aperture ratio of the distribution outlets DO can be realized by changing the number of holes O in each distribution outlet DO.

[0078] Furthermore, such application of the difference in the aperture ratio may be applied to all of the distribution outlets DO arranged in the vertical direction. In this case, the aperture ratio of the distribution outlets DO may be configured to gradually increase from the top to the bottom.

[0079] According to this embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to eliminate or minimize differences in cooling performance of the plurality of battery modules 100 depending on the distance from the inlet duct unit 300. For example, the plurality of battery modules 100 stacked in the vertical direction are supplied with cooling gas from the inlet duct unit 300 located at the upper side, and the battery module 100 located at the bottom is sufficiently supplied with cooling gas through the distribution outlet DO having a relatively high aperture ratio. Therefore, it is possible to prevent differences in cooling flow rates between the battery modules 100 depending on the distance from the inlet duct unit 300. That is, it is possible to ensure uniform cooling performance for the battery modules 100 stacked in the vertical direction.

[0080] A module inlet may be formed in the plurality of battery modules 100. This will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.

[0081] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration in which a plurality of battery modules 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention are stacked, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion A1 of FIG.

[0082] 5 and 6, the battery modules 100 are stacked vertically, and a module inlet may be formed on one side of each battery module 100, as indicated by MI. In particular, if the -Y-axis direction in the drawings is the rear, the battery modules 100 may have a module inlet MI on the rear side. The module inlet MI may be configured in a form penetrating the internal space and the external space of each battery module 100. A plurality of battery cells are accommodated in the internal space of the battery module 100, and a charging and discharging process is repeated, and a large amount of heat may be generated during this process. At this time, the module inlet MI may directly supply a cooling gas to the battery cells located in the internal space of the battery module 100, thereby improving the cooling performance of the battery cells. The module inlet MI may be formed in a position and shape corresponding to the distribution outlet DO of the distribution unit 400.

[0083] In particular, the module inlet MI may be configured in a form in which a number of holes are formed in one battery module 100, as shown in Fig. 6. In this case, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from flowing into the internal space of the battery module 100 through the module inlet MI. In addition, in this case, when an emergency such as thermal runaway occurs inside the battery module 100, it is possible to prevent flames, electrode active materials, etc. from being discharged to the outside.

[0084] The battery module 100 may have a sealing part formed on the periphery of the module inlet MI, as indicated by MS in the drawings. The sealing part MS may be interposed between the distribution outlet of the distribution unit 400 and the module inlet MI of the battery module 100, and may be formed in a ring shape to surround the periphery of the module inlet MI. For example, the sealing part MS may be formed in a square ring shape and provided in a form surrounding a number of holes forming the module inlet MI. The sealing part MS may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber or polyurethane.

[0085] According to this embodiment of the present invention, cooling gas can be stably supplied from the distribution unit 400 to the inside of the battery module 100 and leakage of the flowing cooling gas can be prevented, thereby more stably ensuring the cooling performance of the battery module 100. In addition, in this case, since vibrations and impacts between the distribution unit 400 and the battery module 100 are mitigated by the sealing part MS, damage to the connection part between the battery module 100 and the distribution unit 400 can be prevented.

[0086] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery rack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2-A2' in FIG.

[0087] 7 and 8, in the battery rack according to the present invention, the distribution unit 400 may include a discharge part as indicated by DG. The discharge part DG may be configured to discharge gas or flame discharged from the battery module 100 in the distribution unit 400 to the outside.

[0088] In the event of an emergency such as thermal runaway of the battery module 100, gas or flame may occur inside the battery module 100. If the gas or flame cannot be properly exhausted at this time, an explosion may occur due to an increase in the internal pressure of the battery module 100, and the heat or fire may spread rapidly to other adjacent battery modules 100. However, according to the present embodiment, when gas or fire occurs in the battery module 100, the gas or fire can be properly exhausted to the outside.

[0089] In particular, since a plurality of battery modules 100 are coupled to the distribution unit 400, a plurality of discharge parts DG may be provided in one distribution unit 400. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when a plurality of battery modules 100 are stacked in the vertical direction in one battery rack, a plurality of discharge parts DG may also be formed in the vertical direction in the distribution unit 400. Furthermore, the discharge parts DG may be provided in one-to-one correspondence with each battery module 100. As a more specific example, when 12 battery modules 100 are stacked in the vertical direction in one battery rack, one distribution unit 400 may be provided with 12 discharge parts DG formed in the vertical direction.

[0090] The exhaust part DG may be configured in a form capable of exhausting gas, flames, etc. exhausted from each battery module 100 from inside to outside the distribution unit 400. For example, the exhaust part DG may be formed to communicate with the module inlet MI and the distribution outlet DO as shown in Fig. 8. Therefore, the exhaust part DG may be formed at a position equal to the module inlet MI and the distribution outlet DO not only in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction) but also in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0091] According to such an embodiment of the present invention, in an emergency such as thermal runaway, flames and gases can be quickly exhausted to the outside, thereby more effectively preventing explosion and fire of the battery module 100. Also, according to this embodiment, the vent direction is controlled for the plurality of battery modules 100, thereby preventing gases and flames from affecting each other among the battery modules 100. Furthermore, since flames tend to travel in a straight line, the flame exhaust performance is further improved when the exhaust part DG is formed in line with the module inlet MI and the distribution outlet DO and is configured to open when pressure or heat is applied in a horizontal direction, as in this embodiment.

[0092] The discharge part DG may be configured to open when pressure or heat above a certain level is applied. In particular, when the battery rack and the battery modules 100 included therein are operating normally, the discharge part DG may be maintained in a closed state, and when an emergency situation such as thermal runaway occurs in a specific battery module 100, the corresponding discharge part DG may be switched to an open state.

[0093] For example, the discharge part DG may be formed on an outer plate material of the distribution unit 400 as shown in Fig. 8. In this case, the discharge part DG may be configured to be thinner than other parts. As a more specific example, the distribution unit 400 may be formed to a thickness of about 1 mm, while only the part where the discharge part DG is formed may be configured to have a thickness of 0.5 mm.

[0094] In this embodiment, under normal circumstances, the cooling gas in the internal space of the distribution unit 400 may flow into the internal space of the battery module 100 through the distribution outlet DO and the module inlet MI in sequence, as indicated by the dotted arrow. At this time, the exhaust part DG may be maintained in a closed state. However, in an abnormal situation, for example, in a thermal runaway situation of the battery module 100, the gas and flame generated in the battery module 100 may flow toward the exhaust part DG of the distribution unit 400 through the module inlet MI and the distribution outlet DO in sequence, as indicated by the solid arrow in FIG. 8. At this time, the exhaust part DG of the distribution unit 400 is formed thin, and may be thermally deformed, ruptured, or melted before other parts due to the high-temperature and high-pressure vent gas and flame.

[0095] According to this embodiment, since the exhaust part DG is normally closed, the distribution unit 400 effectively circulates the cooling gas, and loss of the cooling gas can be prevented. Also, during normal operation, it is possible to prevent external foreign matter from penetrating into the internal space of the distribution unit 400 and the battery module 100 through the exhaust part DG.

[0096] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the propagation of a thermal runaway state between the battery modules 100 can be more effectively prevented. In particular, gas or flame discharged from an abnormal battery module 100 opens the corresponding discharge part DG, while the discharge part DG corresponding to the other normal battery modules 100 can be maintained in a closed state. Therefore, gas or flame discharged from a specific discharge part DG to the outside of the distribution unit 400 can be prevented from moving toward the other battery modules 100 through the other discharge parts DG outside the distribution unit 400. Furthermore, a space where the battery rack is located, particularly behind the battery rack, may not have sufficient space. In this case, high-temperature gas or flame discharged from a specific discharge part DG may flow upward or downward along the outer surface of the distribution unit 400. In this case, since the other discharge parts DG are maintained in a closed state, the problem of gas or flame flowing back into the other battery modules 100 can be effectively prevented.

[0097] 8, the discharge part DG may be formed on the inner surface of the outermost plate of the two plates defining the internal flow path of the distribution unit 400. In particular, the discharge part DG may be formed as a groove recessed outward on the inner surface of the outer plate of the distribution unit 400.

[0098] According to this embodiment, as shown by the solid arrow in Fig. 8, when gas or flame is directed toward the exhaust part DG, the gas or flame may be concentrated in the concave part. Therefore, the exhaust part DG is ruptured more quickly and smoothly. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the gas or flame that has flowed into a specific exhaust part DG from being directed toward another exhaust part DG.

[0099] The discharge part DG may be formed integrally with other parts of the distribution unit 400 as shown in FIG. 8, and may be configured to differ only in thickness. For example, the distribution unit 400 may be formed of or include polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) materials. The distribution unit 400 may be configured such that the discharge part DG is made of a material different from the other parts. Furthermore, the discharge part DG may be made of a material having a lower melting point or strength than the other parts of the distribution unit 400.

[0100] 9 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a distribution unit 400 included in a battery rack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 9 may be a modified example of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A2-A2' in FIG.

[0101] 9, the discharge part DG may be formed in a concave shape from the outer surface toward the inside in the distribution unit 400. The thickness of the discharge part DG is reduced due to the concave shape formed on the outer surface, and the discharge part DG is opened more quickly by heat or pressure applied from the inside.

[0102] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the other discharge parts DG from bursting due to flames, gases, etc. discharged from a specific discharge part DG and flowing along the outer surface of the distribution unit 400. For example, when gas, flames, etc. are discharged from a specific discharge part DG, the flames, etc. flow along the outer surface of the distribution unit 400 as shown by the arrows in FIG. 9. At this time, since the other discharge parts DG are recessed from the outer surface of the distribution unit 400 toward the inside, the influence of flames, etc. with high linearity can be reduced. Therefore, in this case, the influence of flames, gases, etc. between the battery modules 100 can be further reduced.

[0103] 10 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a distribution unit 400 included in a battery rack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 10 may be another modified example of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A2-A2' in FIG.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 10, the discharge part DG may be configured to be openable and closable by pivoting on a hinge. For example, the discharge part DG may have a discharge cover as shown by DG1 coupled to a hinge as shown by DG2. In this case, the discharge part DG may be opened or closed through a hinge pivoting configuration as shown by an arrow A3. Furthermore, the hinge DG2 may be configured to have an elastic body such as a spring to maintain a closed state. Therefore, the discharge part DG normally maintains a closed state, and in an emergency, when pressure is applied from the inside by gas or flame, etc., and exceeds the elastic force of the elastic body, the discharge cover DG1 may be pivoted to open the discharge part DG.

[0105] According to such an embodiment of the present invention, the exhaust part DG is opened only in an emergency and is more stably maintained in a closed state under normal circumstances, thereby preventing the problem of the exhaust part DG being opened by cooling gas or the like under normal circumstances.

[0106] In particular, in the discharge part DG, the hinge DG2 may be located at the lower part of the discharge cover DG1 as shown in FIG. 10. That is, the discharge cover DG1 may be hinged with its lower end fixed. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the discharge part DG may be more reliably prevented from being opened by the cooling gas. That is, in the hollow of the distribution unit 400, the cooling gas flows downward as shown by the dotted arrow. Therefore, in the state where the lower end of the discharge cover DG1 is hinged as in this embodiment, the discharge cover DG1 may be prevented from being opened by such a flow of the cooling gas. Therefore, the cooling gas is stably held in the internal space of the distribution unit 400 during normal operation, and leakage of the cooling gas from the discharge part DG may be prevented.

[0107] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view that shows a schematic configuration of an inlet duct unit 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] 11, the inlet duct unit 300 may include two or more unit inlet ducts. Each unit inlet duct may have a hollow space to guide the cooling gas. The unit inlet ducts may be configured to be detachable from each other.

[0109] More specifically, the inlet duct unit 300 may include a first inlet duct 310 and a second inlet duct 320. The two unit inlet ducts may be coupled or separated in a front-rear direction (Y-axis direction) that is a flow direction of the cooling gas in the inlet duct unit 300, as shown by an arrow in FIG. 11. In this case, the first inlet duct 310 may be coupled to the supply unit 200, and the second inlet duct 320 may be coupled to the distribution unit 400. For example, the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may be formed in a form that extends long in the front-rear direction. In addition, a front end of the first inlet duct 310 may be coupled to the supply unit 200, and a rear end of the first inlet duct 310 may be detachably coupled to a front end of the second inlet duct 320. In addition, a rear end of the second inlet duct 320 may be coupled to the distribution unit 400. In this case, the above-mentioned fan may be provided at the rear end of the second inlet duct 320.

[0110] The first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may move as indicated by arrow A4 to be connected to each other. At this time, the hollow of the first inlet duct 310 and the hollow of the second inlet duct 320 may communicate with each other. The joint portion between the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may be sealed, and the cooling gas flowing along the hollow of the first inlet duct 310 may flow along the hollow of the second inlet duct 320 without leaking from the joint portion to the outside. Meanwhile, the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may move as indicated by arrow A4' to be separated from each other.

[0111] According to this embodiment, two or more unit inlet ducts may be adaptively separated or connected as the position of the supply unit 200 changes. For example, the battery rack according to the present invention may be included in a battery container, and in this case, the supply unit 200 may be attached to a door of a container housing included in the battery container. In this embodiment, when the door is closed, the two or more unit inlet ducts may be connected, and when the door is opened, the two or more unit inlet ducts may be separated. Therefore, with the supply unit 200 attached to the door, the door can be stably opened and closed.

[0112] In this embodiment, at least one of the two or more unit inlet ducts may include a corrugated pipe. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, at least a part of the first inlet duct 310 may be configured in a corrugated pipe shape. Here, the corrugated pipe may also be referred to as a bellows hose. In particular, the corrugated pipe may be configured to have flexibility in the longitudinal direction and / or in a direction perpendicular thereto. That is, at least a part of the unit inlet ducts may be configured to have a variable length or a bent shape.

[0113] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the inlet duct unit 300 can be modified to a shape suitable for the structure of the battery rack or the structure of the space in which the battery rack is installed. This facilitates the manufacture and installation of the battery rack. Also, according to this embodiment, even if the supply unit 200 moves, the flexibility of the unit inlet ducts prevents damage and ensures a stable sealing force. Furthermore, when the supply unit 200 is installed in the door of the container housing, damage to the unit inlet ducts can be prevented during the process of opening and closing the door, and a stable sealing force can be ensured.

[0114] Two or more unit inlet ducts may be configured to be detachable by magnetic force. For example, in this embodiment, the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may be configured to be coupled to each other by magnetic force. Therefore, at least one of the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may include a material that generates a magnetic field. In particular, one of the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may include a magnet. And the other may include a magnetic material that is attracted by the magnet. Alternatively, the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 may be configured such that magnetic materials having different polarities face each other. As a more specific example, as shown by N1 and N2 in FIG. 11, magnets or magnetic materials are provided at the ends where the first inlet duct 310 and the second inlet duct 320 face each other, and when they approach within a certain distance, they may attract each other.

[0115] In particular, the magnet or magnetic body on which the magnetic force acts may be formed in a ring shape. For example, the magnet or magnetic body may be configured in an O-ring shape at an end facing the other unit inlet duct. In this case, the cooling gas may be transmitted to the hollow part of the O-ring. In addition, the magnets or magnetic bodies coupled to each other may be configured to be interlocking.

[0116] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the unit inlet ducts can be easily attached and detached from each other. In particular, when the supply unit 200 is attached to a door and moves, the unit inlet ducts can be easily connected and separated from each other. Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, the sealing force between the unit inlet ducts can be more stably secured.

[0117] The battery rack according to the present invention may further include an outlet duct unit 500, as shown in FIG. 1 and the like.

[0118] The outlet duct unit 500 may be configured to deliver the cooling gas discharged from the plurality of battery modules 100 to the supply unit 200. This will be described in more detail with further reference to FIG.

[0119] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an outlet duct unit 500 included in a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] 12, the outlet duct unit 500 may be formed to extend in the vertical direction, which is the stacking direction of the battery modules 100, and may have a hollow space therein. A duct inlet may be formed on the inside of the outlet duct unit 500, as indicated by OI, and may face the battery modules 100. Thus, the cooling gas that absorbs heat while passing through the battery modules 100 may flow into the hollow space inside the outlet duct unit 500 through the duct inlet OI. Furthermore, the duct inlet OI may be provided corresponding to each battery module 100. In particular, the duct inlet OI may be provided one-to-one corresponding to the battery modules 100. Thus, the cooling gas that absorbs heat from each battery module 100 may be collected in the outlet duct unit 500.

[0121] In addition, the outlet duct unit 500 may have a duct outlet as indicated by OO. The duct outlet OO may be formed on a side of the outlet duct unit 500 different from the duct inlet OI, for example, on the opposite side of the duct inlet OI. The duct outlet OO is configured to discharge the cooling gas collected from each battery module 100 to the outside, and does not need to be provided in a plurality of units like the duct inlets OI. For example, only one duct outlet OO may be provided in the outlet duct unit 500. Furthermore, the duct outlet OO may be configured to be coupled to the supply unit 200 to collect the cooling gas discharged from the battery module 100 and transfer it to the supply unit 200. In this case, the supply unit 200 may remove heat from the transferred cooling gas to lower the temperature of the cooling gas, and then re-supply the cooling gas to the inlet duct unit 300 side.

[0122] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the cooling efficiency of the battery rack can be further improved. In particular, according to this embodiment, the cooling gas that has absorbed heat from the battery modules 100 and has increased in temperature is directly transferred to the supply unit 200. Therefore, the problem of the cooling gas not being directed to the supply unit 200 but to other parts in the internal space of the battery rack can be reduced. Therefore, the cooling efficiency is further improved. In addition, in this case, the air around the battery rack is circulated to continuously supply the cooling gas to the battery modules 100, so there is no need for external air to flow in. Therefore, problems such as foreign matter flowing in from around the battery rack can be more reliably prevented.

[0123] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a portion of a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, Fig. 13 shows a configuration in a state where the outlet duct unit 500 is removed from the stack of battery modules 100.

[0124] 13, a module outlet MO may be formed in each battery module 100. The module outlet MO may be formed in a form penetrating an internal space and an external space of the battery module 100. Furthermore, a module inlet MI may be formed in the battery module 100 as shown in FIG 5. In this case, the cooling gas flowing into the internal space of the battery module 100 from the module inlet MI may flow between the battery cells accommodated inside the battery module 100 and then be discharged to the outside through the module outlet MO.

[0125] In particular, the module inlet MI and the module outlet MO can be located on opposite sides in the front-rear direction. For example, the module inlet MI can be located on the rear side of the battery module 100, and the module outlet MO can be located on the front side of the battery module 100. Further, the module inlet MI and the module outlet MO can also be located on opposite sides in the left-right direction. For example, the module inlet MI can be located on the right side of the rear surface of the battery module 100, and the module outlet MO can be located on the left side of the front surface of the battery module 100.

[0126] According to this embodiment, the battery cells housed inside each battery module 100 can be sufficiently cooled. In particular, in this case, the cooling gas can flow while being in contact with the widest possible surface with respect to the entire battery cell. Therefore, the cooling performance for the inside of the battery module 100 is further improved.

[0127] In this embodiment, an outlet duct unit 500 can be coupled to the module outlet MO provided in each battery module 100. In particular, the duct inlet OI of the outlet duct unit 500 can communicate with and be connected to the module outlet MO of each battery module 100. At this time, a ring-shaped sealing member can be provided at the periphery of the module outlet MO so that the sealing force between the duct inlet OI of the outlet duct unit 500 and the module outlet MO of the battery module 100 is stably ensured.

[0128] Also, the duct inlet OI of the outlet duct unit 500 can be configured to be fitted to the battery module 100. In particular, the duct inlet OI can be configured to be insertable into the module outlet MO of the battery module 100. Therefore, at least a part of the duct inlet OI can be configured in a form protruding toward the battery module 100 side. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the duct inlet OI can be provided with a protrusion protruding in a square ring shape toward the inside (-Y-axis direction).

[0129] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the flow of cooling gas in a battery rack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 14, the flow of cooling gas is indicated by arrows.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 14, the cooling gas supplied from the supply unit 200 can be transmitted to the distribution unit 400 through the inlet duct unit 300 located at the upper part, as shown by the solid-line arrow. Then, the cooling gas flows into the interior of each battery module 100 through the distribution unit 400, flows through the interior space of the battery module 100, and then can flow out to the outlet duct unit 500, as shown by the dotted-line arrow. Then, the outlet duct unit 500 can collect the cooling gas flowing out from each battery module 100 and transmit it to the supply unit 200. And the supply unit 200 can cool the cooling gas transmitted from the outlet duct unit 500 and supply it again to the inlet duct unit 300 side.

[0131] According to such an embodiment, the refrigerant for cooling the battery module 100 is used in a form of recirculation. Therefore, it is not necessary to receive a separate supply of refrigerant from the outside. In particular, when the battery rack is located in a sealed space such as a container housing, the battery rack can be cooled by utilizing only the air inside the container housing. Therefore, the effect of suppressing the inflow of external foreign substances into the container housing and the waterproof effect can be more stably ensured. Also, according to the present embodiment, since all the cooling gas is utilized for cooling the battery module 100, there is no waste of the cooling gas, and the cooling gas can be used more efficiently.

[0132] According to this embodiment, it is not necessary to secure a large space for cooling around the battery rack inside the container housing. That is, even if the space is narrow, the cooling gas can be reliably transmitted to the battery module 100 by providing the inlet duct unit 300, the distribution unit 400, and the outlet duct unit 500. Therefore, the volume of the battery rack and the battery container including the battery rack can be reduced, and the energy density can be improved.

[0133] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an outlet duct unit 500 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] 15, the outlet duct unit 500 may include two or more unit outlet ducts. The two or more unit outlet ducts may be configured to be detachable from each other. For example, the outlet duct unit 500 may include a first outlet duct 510 and a second outlet duct 520. The first outlet duct 510 and the second outlet duct 520 may each be hollow and configured to allow a cooling gas to flow therethrough. The hollows of these unit outlet ducts may communicate with each other to transfer the cooling gas.

[0135] In particular, the first outlet duct 510 may have a front end connected to the supply unit 200. A duct outlet OO may be formed at a front end of the first outlet duct 510 and may be coupled to and communicate with the supply unit 200. A rear end of the first outlet duct 510 may be coupled to a front end of the second outlet duct 520. A rear end of the second outlet duct 520 may be coupled to the battery module 100. In particular, a duct inlet OI may be formed at a rear side of the second outlet duct 520 and may be coupled to and communicate with a module outlet MO of the battery module 100.

[0136] The second outlet duct 520 of the outlet duct unit 500 may be fastened to the rack frame RF or the like so as to be stably coupled to the module outlet MO. In particular, the second outlet duct 520 may include a portion formed long in the vertical direction, and a plurality of fastening portions to the rack frame RF may be provided in the vertical direction. For example, the second outlet duct 520 may have a plurality of fastening portions for fastening to the rack frame RF arranged in the vertical direction, as in the portion indicated by DF in FIG. 15.

[0137] In this embodiment, the rear end of the first outlet duct 510 and the front end of the second outlet duct 520 may be configured to be detachable from each other. For example, the rear end of the first outlet duct 510 may be moved as indicated by arrow A5 to be coupled to the front end of the second outlet duct 520. In this case, the rear end of the first outlet duct 510 and the front end of the second outlet duct 520 may be sealed in a state in which their hollows are in communication. Then, the rear end of the first outlet duct 510 may be moved as indicated by arrow A5' to be separated from the second outlet duct 520.

[0138] According to such an embodiment of the present invention, the unit outlet ducts can be attached and detached according to the change in position of the supply unit 200, thereby preventing damage to the outlet duct unit 500 and ensuring stable sealing force. Furthermore, when the supply unit 200 is attached to a door, the door can be easily opened and closed. For example, when the door to which the supply unit 200 is attached is opened, the unit outlet ducts can be separated, and when the door is closed, the unit outlet ducts can be connected to each other.

[0139] In this embodiment, at least one of the two or more unit outlet ducts may include a corrugated pipe. For example, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 15, the first outlet duct 510 may include a corrugated pipe. In this case, the first outlet duct 510 can ensure the length in the front-rear direction and / or the flexibility in the up-down direction or the left-right direction. Therefore, the supply unit 200 can be moved stably, and damage to the outlet duct unit 500 can be prevented. In this case, it is also advantageous to maintain the sealing force of the outlet duct unit 500.

[0140] In addition, in this embodiment, two or more unit outlet ducts may be configured to be detachable by magnetic force. For example, as shown by N3 and N4 in FIG. 15, the portion where the first outlet duct 510 and the second outlet duct 520 are coupled may include a portion coupled to each other by magnetic force. In particular, the portion coupled to each other by magnetic force may include a material that generates a magnetic field such as a magnet or a ferromagnetic material that generates an attractive force by a magnet. In particular, the magnet or magnetic material may be formed in a ring shape surrounding a hollow opening in each unit outlet duct. In addition, the coupling portion between the first outlet duct 510 and the second outlet duct 520, particularly the magnet or magnetic material, may be configured to be interlockable.

[0141] According to such an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to more easily realize a detachable configuration for two or more unit outlet ducts, and also to more stably ensure a sealing force at the hollow openings that are connected to each other.

[0142] Also, in the present embodiment, the second outlet duct 520 may include a module coupling part 521 and a duct coupling part 522. Here, the module coupling part 521 may be a part configured to be coupled to the battery module 100 in the second outlet duct 520. Therefore, the module coupling part 521 may be formed to be elongated in the vertical direction, with a hollow formed therein, and with a plurality of duct inlets OI arranged in the vertical direction from the rear side. And, the duct coupling part 522 may be a part configured to be coupled to the first outlet duct 510 by connecting the hollow with the module coupling part 521. Furthermore, the duct coupling part 522 may have an opening formed on the front side, as shown by OD, so that the hollow communicates with the first outlet duct 510. And, a ring-shaped magnet or magnetic body may be provided on the periphery of such an opening OD. In this case, the first outlet duct 510 may be coupled to the duct coupling part 522 of the second outlet duct 520 through a ring-shaped magnet or the like.

[0143] In particular, the duct coupling part 522 may be provided on the left or right side, rather than in front of the module coupling part 521. For example, referring to the embodiment of Fig. 15, the duct coupling part 522 may be located at the right end part of the module coupling part 521. That is, the duct coupling part 522 may be coupled to the module coupling part 521 in the up-down or left-right direction, rather than in the front-rear direction, at the front of the battery module 100.

[0144] According to this embodiment of the present invention, both the portion of the second outlet duct 520 that collects cooling gas from the plurality of battery modules 100 and the connecting portion of the first outlet duct 510 may be disposed close to the battery modules 100. Therefore, the size of the outlet duct unit 500 in the front-rear direction may be reduced. Therefore, in this case, the energy density of the battery rack may be further improved due to efficient space utilization.

[0145] FIG. 16 is a perspective view that illustrates a schematic configuration of a battery container according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] Referring to Fig. 16, a battery container according to the present invention may include a battery rack BR ​​according to the present invention. In particular, although only one battery rack BR ​​is shown in Fig. 16, a battery container may include multiple battery racks BR. In this case, the multiple battery racks BR may be connected in series and / or parallel to each other.

[0147] Furthermore, the battery container according to the present invention may include a container housing CH for accommodating the battery rack BR ​​in an internal space. Here, the container housing CH may be made of a material such as steel to stably protect the battery rack BR ​​accommodated therein and maintain structural rigidity. Furthermore, a door DR may be provided on at least one side of the container housing CH. The door DR is configured to be openable and closable, and may control access to and closure of the internal space of the container housing CH. In particular, the door DR may be provided with the supply unit 200 of the battery rack BR ​​according to the present invention, as described above.

[0148] In addition, the battery container according to the present invention may adopt various configurations of various battery containers known at the time of filing of the present invention. For example, the battery container according to the present invention may further include a control unit that controls the charging and discharging operation of the battery rack BR.

[0149] Also, an energy storage system (ESS) according to the present invention may include a plurality of battery racks according to the present invention. Also, an energy storage system according to the present invention may include one or more battery containers according to the present invention. In particular, since the energy storage system has a large energy capacity, it may include a plurality of battery racks or battery containers according to the present invention, which are electrically connected to each other.

[0150] In addition, the energy storage system according to the present invention may further include various other components of an energy storage system known at the time of filing of the present invention. For example, the energy storage system according to the present invention may further include a control container for controlling the charging / discharging, temperature, etc. of the plurality of battery containers, in addition to a plurality of battery containers including a plurality of battery racks according to the present invention.

[0151] The energy storage system according to the present invention can be applied to a variety of locations and devices for storing and supplying stored power, including smart grid systems, electric charging stations, solar photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation systems, and the like.

[0152] Although the present invention has been described above using limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that various modifications and variations can be made by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention belongs within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention and the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 100: Battery module 200: Supply unit 300: Inlet duct unit 310: First inlet duct 320: Second inlet duct 400: Distribution unit 500: Exit duct unit 510: First exit duct 520: Second exit duct 521: Module connection part 522: Duct joint RF: Rack frame DI: Distribution inlet DO: Distribution outlet MI: Module inlet MO: Module outlet O: Hole MS: Sealing part DG: Discharge section DG1: Ejection cover DG2: Hinge OI: Duct inlet OO: Duct outlet BR: Battery rack CH: Container housing DR: Door

Claims

1. A plurality of battery modules stacked in at least one direction; a supply unit configured to supply a cooling gas; an inlet duct unit, one end of which is connected to the supply unit and configured to guide a flow of the cooling gas supplied by the supply unit; a distribution unit connected to the other end of the inlet duct unit and configured to distribute the cooling gas guided by the inlet duct unit to each of the plurality of battery modules.

2. The battery rack of claim 1 , wherein the inlet duct unit comprises a fan.

3. The battery rack according to claim 1 , wherein the inlet duct unit is located above a plurality of the battery modules.

4. The battery rack according to claim 1 , wherein the distribution unit is formed with a plurality of distribution outlets corresponding to the plurality of battery modules, respectively.

5. The battery rack according to claim 4 , wherein at least some of the plurality of distribution outlets are configured to have different opening rates.

6. The battery rack according to claim 1 , wherein a module inlet port is formed in each of the plurality of battery modules so that the cooling gas flows into an internal space of the battery rack.

7. The battery rack according to claim 1 , wherein the distribution unit is provided with an exhaust section that exhausts gas and flames discharged from the plurality of battery modules to the outside.

8. The battery rack according to claim 7 , wherein the exhaust portion is configured to open when a pressure equal to or greater than a certain level is applied.

9. The battery rack according to claim 1 , wherein the inlet duct unit comprises two or more unit inlet ducts configured to be detachable from each other.

10. The battery rack of claim 9 , wherein at least one of the two or more unit inlet ducts comprises a corrugated pipe.

11. The battery rack according to claim 9 , wherein the two or more unit inlet ducts are configured to be detachable by magnetic force.

12. The battery rack according to claim 1 , further comprising an outlet duct unit that transmits cooling gas discharged from the plurality of battery modules to the supply unit.

13. The battery rack according to claim 12 , wherein the outlet duct unit comprises two or more unit outlet ducts configured to be detachable from each other.

14. A battery container comprising a battery rack according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. An energy storage system comprising a battery rack according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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