Battery module

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery module that can improve cooling efficiency and / or reduce the amount of fire extinguishing agent required. [Solution] This disclosure relates to a battery module and provides a battery module comprising: a housing for housing a plurality of battery cells; a channel formed extending in a first direction for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the housing; and one or more partitions extending in a second direction different from the first direction for dividing the internal space of the housing into two or more sections.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module including a flow path for injecting a fire extinguishing agent.

Background Art

[0002] A battery cell is a battery that can be charged and discharged, unlike a non-rechargeable primary battery. Low-capacity battery cells are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, notebook computers, digital cameras, and video cameras, and high-capacity battery cells are widely used in power sources for motor drives such as hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles and in batteries for power storage. Such a battery cell includes an electrode assembly composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a case for housing the same, electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly, and the like.

[0003] A battery cell can be used as a battery module formed of a plurality of battery cells connected in series and / or in parallel to provide a high energy density. A battery module can be formed by connecting a plurality of battery cells to each other.

[0004] The above information disclosed in the technology that is the background of such an invention is only for improving the understanding of the background of the present invention, and thus may also include information that does not constitute the prior art.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a battery module that includes a channel for spraying a fire extinguishing agent.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a battery module in which the internal space of the housing is partitioned.

[0008] However, the technical problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above technical problems includes a housing for housing a plurality of battery cells, a flow path formed extending in a first direction for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the housing, and one or more partitions extending in a second direction different from the first direction for dividing the internal space of the housing into two or more sections. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module with improved cooling efficiency can be provided.

[0011] For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the cooling rate can be improved.

[0012] For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the amount of fire extinguishing agent can be reduced.

[0013] However, the effects obtained through the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other technical effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further understand the technical idea of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention to be described later. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a view showing the inside of the housing of the battery module. [Figure 5] It is a view showing the inside of the battery module. [Figure 6] It is a view showing the inside of the housing of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a view showing the inside of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a view showing an enlarged view of V in FIG. 6. [Figure 9] It is a view showing an enlarged view of V in FIG. 6. [Figure 10] It is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a view showing the inside of the housing of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a view showing the inside of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, terms or words used in this specification and the claims should not be construed as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of terms in order to explain his invention in the best way, they should be construed as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. It should be understood that at the time of this application, there can be various equivalents and modifications that can replace these. Also, as used in this specification, "comprise, include" and / or "comprising, including" identify the presence of the recited shape, number, step, operation, member, element, and / or group thereof, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, numbers, operations, members, elements, and / or groups. Also, when describing embodiments of the present invention, "can be done" and "can be" can include "one or more embodiments of the present invention".

[0017] Also, for the ease of understanding of the present invention, the accompanying drawings are not shown at actual scale, and the dimensions of some components can be exaggerated. Also, in different embodiments, the same components can be given the same reference numerals.

[0018] A reference that two comparison targets are "identical" means "substantially identical". Therefore, being substantially identical can include cases having a deviation regarded as a low level in the relevant technical field, for example, a deviation within 5%. Also, the fact that any parameter in a given region is uniform can mean being uniform from an average perspective.

[0019] Even though terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another, and in particular, unless otherwise stated, the first component may be the second component.

[0020] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0021] The placement of any configuration "above (or below)" or "above (or below)" a component means not only that the configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, but also that other configurations may be interposed between the component and any configuration placed on (or below) it.

[0022] Furthermore, when it is stated that one component is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected to each other or connectable, but may also be “interposed” between each component, or each component may be “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” through other components. Also, when it is said that one part is electrically coupled to another part, this includes not only cases where they are directly connected, but also cases where they are connected with other elements in between.

[0023] Throughout the specification, where it says "A and / or B," it means A only, B only, or A and B, unless otherwise specified. That is, "and / or" includes all combinations or any combination of the listed items. Where it says "C to D," it means C or greater and D or less, unless otherwise specified.

[0024] When syntax such as "at least one of A, B, and C", "at least one of A, B, or C", "at least one selected from the group A, B, and C", or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" is used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the syntax can refer to any and all appropriate combination.

[0025] The term “use” can be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.” As used herein, “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations, not terms of degree, to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​as recognized by a person of general skill in the art.

[0026] In this specification, terms such as first, second, third, etc., are used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, drawing layer, or section from other elements, components, regions, drawing layers, or sections. Accordingly, the first elements, components, regions, layers, or sections discussed below may be referred to as second elements, components, regions, layers, or sections without departing from the teaching of the exemplary embodiments.

[0027] As shown in the drawings, spatial relative terms such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and to facilitate explanation. Spatially relative positions will be understood to encompass different directions of the device in use or operation, in addition to the direction in which the figure is drawn. For example, if the device in the drawing is inverted, an element described as “beneath” or “below” other elements will be understood as “above” or “upper” other elements. Thus, the term “beneath” can encompass both up and down directions.

[0028] The terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 1 shows a battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] A battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells 1100 and a housing 1200 that houses the plurality of battery cells 1100.

[0032] The battery module 1000 includes a plurality of battery cells 1100. The battery cells 1100 can function as unit structures that store and supply power in the battery module 1000.

[0033] The battery cell 1100 includes, for example, a battery cell in which the case 20 of the battery cell 1100 is formed in a rectangular shape. However, the shape of the battery cell 1100 applicable to the battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the battery cell 1100 can be formed in a variety of shapes such as pouch type, cylindrical type, coin type, etc. Below, the case in which the battery cell 1100 included in the battery module 1000 is formed in a rectangular shape will be described as an example.

[0034] Multiple battery cells 1100 are arranged inside the housing 1200. In this configuration, the housing 1200 forms the general appearance of the battery module 1000. The housing 1200 can function as a structure that supports the multiple battery cells 1100 as a whole.

[0035] The housing 1200 accommodates multiple battery cells 1100 in its internal space.

[0036] Multiple battery cells 1100 are arranged in a first direction within the internal space of the housing 1200.

[0037] The first direction may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the battery module 1000. For example, a battery cell 1100 includes a first side and a second side that face each other. In this case, the first side and the second side include a broad surface on the side of the battery cell 1100. For example, multiple battery cells 1100 may be arranged so that the first side of one battery cell faces the second side of an adjacent battery cell. In this case, the first direction is the direction from the first side to the second side.

[0038] The housing 1200 may include an end plate 1210, a side plate 1220, and a bottom plate 1230 that form an internal space for housing the battery cells 1100.

[0039] The end plate 1210 forms part of the side surface of the housing 1200. For example, the end plate 1210 forms the side surface of the housing 1200 that is located in a first direction. This allows the end plate 1210 to be formed opposite a wide surface on the side surface of the battery cell 1100. For example, the end plate 1210 can be formed as a pair of two end plates facing each other to form both sides of the housing 1200.

[0040] The battery cell 1100 may undergo a swelling phenomenon, where it expands as it repeatedly charges and discharges. In this case, the swelling phenomenon may be more pronounced on the relatively wider side of the battery cell 1100. The end plate 1210 can restrain the swelling of the battery cell 1100 and / or support the appearance of the housing 1200, even if the swelling phenomenon occurs in the battery cell 1100.

[0041] The side plate 1220 forms another part of the side surface of the housing 1200. For example, the side plate 1220 forms a side surface of the housing 1200 located in a second direction. In this case, the second direction may be the same as the width direction of the battery module 1000. In this case, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction. For example, the side plate 1220 can be formed by a pair of two side plates facing each other to form the other two sides of the housing 1200. In this case, one side and the other side of the side plate 1220 may each be connected to a pair of end plates 1210.

[0042] The lower plate 1230 forms the lower surface of the housing 1200. The lower plate 1230 can, for example, support multiple battery cells 1100 from below. The lower plate 1230 can be connected to the end plate 1210 and the side plate 1220.

[0043] Through this configuration, the housing 1200 can include an internal space formed by the end plate 1210, the side plate 1220, and the lower plate 1230.

[0044] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] A battery cell 1100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one electrode assembly wound with an insulating separator 13 interposed between a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12, a case 20 in which the electrode assembly is housed, and a cap assembly 30 coupled to the opening of the case 20.

[0047] In the following description, the battery cell 1100 will be described as a prismatic lithium-ion battery cell. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 1100 may be a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0048] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may include a coated portion which is a region where an active material is applied to a current collector formed from a thin metal foil, and plain portions 11a and 12a which are regions where the active material is not coated.

[0049] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may be wound up with an insulating separator 13 interposed between them. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly may be formed in a structure in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode, each consisting of multiple sheets, are alternately stacked with a separator in between.

[0050] The case 20 forms the overall appearance of the battery cell 1100 and may be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. The case 20 may also provide space for housing the electrode assembly.

[0051] The cap assembly 30 may include a cap plate 31 that covers the opening of the case 20, and the case 20 and the cap plate 31 may be made of a conductive material. Here, terminals 21, 22 electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12 may be installed so as to penetrate the cap plate 31 and protrude outward.

[0052] Furthermore, the terminals 21 and 22 protruding from the outside of the cap plate 31 may be formed in pairs. The pair of terminals 21 and 22 can be connected to the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, respectively, and function as the positive and negative terminals of the battery cell 1100.

[0053] More specifically, terminals 21 and 22 can be electrically connected to a current collector including first and second current collectors 40 and 50 (hereinafter referred to as positive and negative current collectors) which are welded to the positive or negative blank portion 11a or negative blank portion 12a. For example, a pair of terminals 21 and 22 can be welded to the positive and negative current collectors 40 and 50, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the terminals 21 and 22 and the positive and negative current collectors 40 and 50 can be formed by integrally joining them. The outer circumferential surface of the upper column of terminals 21 and 22 can be threaded and fixed to the cap plate 31 with a nut.

[0054] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the terminals 21 and 22 may be formed with a rivet structure and riveted together, or they may be welded to the cap plate 31.

[0055] Furthermore, the cap plate 31 may be made of a thin plate and be coupled to the opening of the case 20, and the cap plate 31 may have an electrolyte inlet 32 ​​on which a sealing plug 33 can be installed, and a vent 34 can be installed.

[0056] The vent 34 can be opened and closed in conjunction with changes in the internal pressure of the case 20. That is, the vent 34 can remain closed during normal operation of the electrode assembly, thereby sealing the case 20. The vent 34 can be opened when the internal pressure of the case 20 rises above a set level due to overcharging or fire, allowing flames, gases, and other exhaust materials to be discharged from inside the case 20 to the outside.

[0057] Furthermore, an insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly and the cap plate 31. Here, the insulating member may include first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70, and each of the first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70 can be installed between the electrode assembly and the cap plate 31.

[0058] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, one end of a separating member, which can be installed facing one side of the electrode assembly, can be installed between the insulating member and the terminals 21 and 22.

[0059] Here, the separating member may include first and second separating members 80 and 90.

[0060] Therefore, one end of the first and second separating members 80 and 90, which can be installed facing one side of the electrode assembly, can be installed between the first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70 and the positive and negative electrode terminals 21 and 22.

[0061] Ultimately, the terminals 21, which are welded to the positive and negative current collectors 40 and 50, can be connected to one end of the first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70, and the first and second separating members 80 and 90.

[0062] Figure 4 shows the inside of the battery module housing.

[0063] Figure 5 shows the inside of a battery module.

[0064] As shown in Figure 4, the battery module 1000 includes a flow path 1300.

[0065] The flow path 1300 is formed in the internal space of the housing 1200. For example, the flow path 1300 is formed in the internal space of the housing 1200 along a first direction. The first direction may be, for example, the same direction as the longitudinal direction of the battery module 1000. For example, the flow path 1300 is formed from one end plate 1210 formed on one side toward the other end plate 1210 formed on the other side.

[0066] For example, multiple battery cells 1100 can form a battery structure arranged in a first direction. Alternatively, for example, multiple battery cells 1100 can include two battery structures arranged in the width direction of a battery module 1000. In this case, the width direction of the battery module 1000 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the battery module 1000.

[0067] However, the multiple battery cells 1100 are not limited to this arrangement method and may be arranged in one or more rows in the second direction. For convenience of explanation, this specification describes an example in which the multiple battery cells 1100 form two rows in the width direction of the battery module 1000.

[0068] The multiple battery cells 1100 include, for example, a battery structure in which the multiple battery cells are arranged in a first direction. The battery structure also includes a first battery structure and a second battery structure arranged in two rows in the width direction of the battery module 1000.

[0069] The flow path 1300 may be provided between the first battery structure and the second battery structure when viewed from above. In this case, the flow path 1300 may be provided on the top of the battery cell 1100 or on the side of the battery cell 1100.

[0070] Although not shown in Figures 4 and 5, the flow path 1300 may be connected to a fire extinguishing agent storage tank located outside the housing 1200 via a flow path pipe 1320 that is exposed to the outside of the housing 1200. The flow path 1300 may be supplied with fire extinguishing agent from the fire extinguishing agent storage tank.

[0071] In this case, the fire extinguishing agent may include, for example, a liquid fire extinguishing agent. For example, the fire extinguishing agent may include at least one of the following: sulfuric acid, potassium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminum sulfate, water, halons, halogen compounds, and combinations thereof.

[0072] However, the fire extinguishing agent according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto and may include, for example, solid fire extinguishing agents, gaseous fire extinguishing agents, and the like.

[0073] The flow channel 1300 can be formed from a heat-sensitive material that melts at a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0074] In this case, the predetermined temperature may be, for example, the ignition temperature of the battery cell 1100. The predetermined temperature may be, for example, 100°C to 150°C. Or, for example, the predetermined temperature may be 110°C to 150°C. Or, for example, the predetermined temperature may be 100°C to 140°C. Or, for example, the predetermined temperature may be 110°C to 140°C. Or, for example, the predetermined temperature may be 110°C to 130°C.

[0075] If the predetermined temperature is below 100°C, the flow path 1300 may melt during the charging and discharging process of a simple battery cell 1100. In this case, the use of the battery module 1000 becomes inconvenient. Alternatively, if the predetermined temperature exceeds 150°C, a fire F may occur from the battery cell 1100, and after some time, the flow path 1300 may melt. In this case, the cooling effect of the battery module 1000 decreases due to the delayed suppression of the fire F. Therefore, the predetermined temperature is preferably, for example, 100°C to 150°C.

[0076] For example, the heat-sensitive material may include PA12 material. Alternatively, the heat-sensitive material may include HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, ABS, AMSAN, etc. For example, the flow path 1300 may be formed in the shape of a tube made of PA12 material.

[0077] The flow path 1300 melts at a temperature above a predetermined temperature, releasing the fire extinguishing agent present within the flow path 1300. At this time, since the flow path 1300 is located in the internal space of the housing 1200, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can be released into the internal space of the housing 1200.

[0078] For example, as shown in Figure 5, a fire F may occur in at least one of the multiple battery cells 1100 (hereinafter referred to as the event cell 1101).

[0079] In this case, the channel 1300 located adjacent to the event cell 1101 may melt due to the heat of the fire F. As the channel 1300 melts, it can release the fire extinguishing agent 1310 toward the battery cell 1100 (for example, in directions a, a'). For example, after being released toward the battery cell 1100, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can spread into the internal space of the housing 1200 (for example, in directions b, b').

[0080] As a result, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space of the housing 1200 up to a height of h1. Through this, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can cool the event cell 1101. Furthermore, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can also cool battery cells adjacent to the event cell 1101 (hereinafter referred to as "adjacent cells").

[0081] Figure 6 shows the inside of a battery module housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 7 shows the inside of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the battery module 1000 including the flow path 1300. In this way, the battery module 1000 can rapidly cool multiple battery cells 1100 even if a fire F occurs in the event cell 1101 by releasing the fire extinguishing agent 1310 through the flow path 1300.

[0084] On the other hand, among the multiple battery cells 1100, the event cell 1101 or adjacent cells may experience a temperature increase due to a fire F occurring in the event cell 1101. Conversely, among the multiple battery cells 1100, battery cells located far from the event cell 1101 may not experience a temperature increase despite the fire F in the event cell 1101. In this case, cooling only the event cell 1101 and adjacent cells, rather than all the battery cells 1100 contained in the battery module 1000, can further improve the cooling efficiency of the fire extinguishing agent. Therefore, the following describes a method for improving the cooling efficiency of the battery module 1000.

[0085] A battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 1200 that houses a plurality of battery cells 1100, a flow path 1300 formed extending in a first direction for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the housing 1200, and one or more partition walls 1400 extending in a second direction different from the first direction for dividing the internal space of the housing 1200 into two or more sections.

[0086] The battery module 1000 includes a partition wall 1400 located inside the housing 1200. The partition wall 1400 is installed while partitioning the internal space of the housing 1200.

[0087] The partition wall 1400 is formed while extending in a direction different from the direction in which the flow path 1300 extends. For example, the flow path 1300 may be formed while extending in a first direction. Alternatively, the partition wall 1400 may be formed while extending in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0088] For example, one side of the bulkhead 1400 is connected to the side plate 1220 on one side. The other side of the bulkhead 1400 is connected to the side plate 1220 on the other side. In this case, the bulkhead 1400 may be installed parallel to the end plate 1210. However, the arrangement structure of the bulkhead 1400 may change depending on the shape and arrangement relationship of the battery cells 1100. For example, the bulkhead 1400 may be installed at an oblique angle to the end plate 1210.

[0089] As described above, multiple battery cells 1100 are housed in the internal space of the housing 1200. As a result, the partition wall 1400 can be installed while passing through at least one of the multiple battery cells 1100 housed in the internal space. This allows the partition wall 1400 to divide one battery structure into two or more parts.

[0090] The partition wall 1400 divides the internal space of the housing 1200 into n or fewer sections. Here, n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. Also, n is an integer less than or equal to the number of battery cells 1100.

[0091] As described above, the partition wall 1400 may be installed while passing between at least one of the multiple battery cells 1100.

[0092] As a result, the partition wall 1400 divides the internal space of the housing 1200 into at least two sections. Furthermore, the partition wall 1400 can divide the internal space of the housing 1200 into as many sections as there are battery cells 1100.

[0093] For example, multiple battery cells 1100 can include a single battery structure arranged in a single row. In this case, one battery cell 1100 can be located in one of the partitioned internal spaces. Alternatively, for example, multiple battery cells 1100 can include two battery structures arranged in two rows in the width direction. In this case, two battery cells 1100 arranged in two rows can be located in one of the partitioned internal spaces. That is, one of the partitioned internal spaces can include a pair of battery cells 1100.

[0094] Thus, when multiple battery cells 1100 comprise one battery structure, n is an integer less than or equal to the number of battery cells 1100. Alternatively, when multiple battery cells 1100 comprise multiple battery structures, n is an integer less than or equal to the number of battery cells contained in one battery structure.

[0095] On the other hand, although not shown in Figures 6 and 7, if the battery module 1000 includes multiple battery structures arranged in two or more rows, it may further include one or more blocks located between the multiple battery structures. In this case, two or more rows of battery cells 1100 located in a partitioned internal space can be re-partitioned and positioned by the blocks.

[0096] As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the channel 1300 may include a heat-sensitive material that melts above a predetermined temperature. The fire extinguishing agent 1310 may include a liquid fire extinguishing agent. Alternatively, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 may include at least one of the following: liquid, solid, gaseous, or a combination thereof. The description of the channel 1300 and / or the fire extinguishing agent 1310 is identical or similar to that described in Figures 4 and 5.

[0097] For example, in the case of the battery module 1000 shown in Figures 4 and 5, which does not include the partition wall 1400, if a fire occurs in the event cell 1101, the entire internal space of the housing 1200 is impregnated with the fire extinguishing agent 1310 released as the flow path 1300 melts. On the other hand, in the case of the battery module 1000 which includes the partition wall 1400, if a fire occurs in the event cell 1101, only a portion of the internal space of the housing 1200, rather than the entire space, may be impregnated with the fire extinguishing agent 1310. For example, of the partitioned internal space, only the internal space where the event cell 1101 is located may be impregnated with the fire extinguishing agent 1310.

[0098] Thus, the battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention can improve the cooling efficiency of the fire extinguishing agent 1310. For example, the battery module 1000 can improve cooling performance and / or reduce the amount of fire extinguishing agent required.

[0099] For example, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill at least one of two or more partitioned internal spaces at a predetermined speed or faster.

[0100] Here, the predetermined speed is the speed at which the fire extinguishing agent 1310 fills the internal space that is not partitioned by the partition wall 1400.

[0101] For example, if the flow path 1300 carries the same amount of fire extinguishing agent 1310, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space not partitioned by the partition wall 1400 to a predetermined height h1 at a predetermined speed, as shown in Figure 5. On the other hand, for example, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space partitioned by the partition wall 1400 to a height h2, which is the same height as the predetermined height h1. In this case, the battery module 1000 fills the partitioned, narrower internal space to the same height via the fire extinguishing agent 1310. As a result, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the partitioned internal space faster than the predetermined speed.

[0102] In this way, by including the partition wall 1400, the battery module 1000 can ensure that the fire extinguishing agent 1310 fills the internal space at a faster rate than if the partition wall 1400 were not installed.

[0103] Alternatively, for example, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill at least one of the two or more partitioned internal spaces to a predetermined height or higher.

[0104] In this case, the predetermined height is the height reached when the fire extinguishing agent 1310 fills the internal space not partitioned by the partition wall 1400. For example, if the flow path 1300 carries the same amount of fire extinguishing agent 1310, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space not partitioned by the partition wall 1400 to a predetermined height h1, as shown in Figure 5. On the other hand, for example, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can fill the internal space partitioned by the partition wall 1400 to a height h2 that is above the predetermined height, as shown in Figure 7.

[0105] In this way, by including the partition wall 1400, the battery module 1000 can fill the internal space with the fire extinguishing agent 1310 to a higher height than would be possible if the partition wall 1400 were not installed.

[0106] Thus, the battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention can efficiently cool all battery cells that require cooling (including, for example, the event cell 1101, adjacent cells, etc.) via the partition wall 1400.

[0107] Figure 8 is a magnified view of V in Figure 6.

[0108] A battery module 1000, including a flow path 1300 and a partition wall 1400, is described with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0109] In this case, the partition wall 1400 may include at least one through-hole 1400h. The flow path 1300 can pass through the through-hole 1400h and through each of the two or more partitioned internal spaces. That is, the flow path 1300 may be provided passing over the partition wall 1400, but as shown in Figure 8, it may also be provided passing through the partition wall 1400. Thus, the shape of the through-hole 1400h may be formed in correspondence with the flow path 1300 so that the flow path 1300 can pass through the through-hole 1400h. The size of the through-hole 1400h may also be formed in correspondence with the flow path 1300. For example, if the cross-section of the flow path 1300 is formed as a circular tube, the through-hole 1400h may be formed as a circle with an inner circumferential surface that is larger than or equal to the diameter of the flow path 1300.

[0110] As described above, if a fire F occurs in the event cell 1101, a portion of the flow path 1300 adjacent to the event cell 1101 will melt. That is, the flow path 1300 will melt in the partitioned internal space that includes the event cell 1101. On the other hand, the flow path 1300 must not melt in the partitioned internal space that does not include the event cell 1101. If the flow path 1300 melts even in the partitioned internal space that does not include the event cell 1101, it will be difficult to improve cooling efficiency despite the installation of the partition wall 1400.

[0111] Therefore, the flow path 1300 must not melt on the other side of the partition wall 1400.

[0112] The partition wall 1400 includes a penetration-adjacent portion 1401 adjacent to the penetration-opening 1400h and a non-penetration-adjacent portion 1402 which is an area not adjacent to the penetration-opening 1400h, and the penetration-adjacent portion 1401 may be formed to be thicker than the non-penetration-adjacent portion 1402.

[0113] In this case, the portion adjacent to the through-port 1401 includes, for example, a region located within a first distance from the through-port 1400h, as a region adjacent to the through-port 1400h in the partition wall 1400. The first distance may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 20 mm or less.

[0114] The portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 may be formed thicker than the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402. For example, when viewed from above the battery module 1000, the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 may be thicker than the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402. In this case, the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 and the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402 may be connected in a streamlined manner while forming a curved surface. In this case, the thickness of the partition wall 1400 may gradually decrease from the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 toward the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402. Alternatively, the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 and the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402 may be connected while forming a staircase. In this case, the thickness of the partition wall 1400 may decrease in a staircase manner from the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1401 toward the portion not adjacent to the through-hole 1402.

[0115] Alternatively, the partition wall 1400 may further include a first support structure (not shown) provided along the inner circumferential surface of the through-hole 1400h.

[0116] The first support structure can improve the rigidity of the partition wall 1400.

[0117] The first support structure includes, for example, an insulating material. The insulating material may include at least one selected from the group consisting of, for example, polyimide (PI), polysulfone, polyurethane (PU), polyamide (PA), nylon 6,6, polycarbonate (PC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and combinations thereof.

[0118] Furthermore, the first support structure may further include an adhesive material that adheres an insulating material to the partition wall 1400 in order to be fixed, for example, to the inner circumferential surface of the through-hole 1400h. The adhesive material may include, for example, at least one of silicone resins, acrylic resins, urethane resins, rubber resins, epoxy resins, polyolefins, and combinations thereof.

[0119] Although not shown in the diagram, the partition wall 1400 may also include both the relatively thickened penetration-adjacent portion 1401 and the first support structure.

[0120] Through such a method, the battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention can provide a method for ensuring the rigidity of the partition wall 1400 in contact with the flow path 1300. Even if one side of the flow path 1300 melts, the partition wall 1400 can support the flow path 1300 at the through-hole 1400h, preventing heat from being transferred beyond the partition wall 1400. As a result, the battery module 1000 can improve the cooling efficiency through the partition wall 1400.

[0121] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of V in Figure 6.

[0122] A battery module 1000, including a flow path 1300 and a partition wall 1400, is described with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0123] In this case, the partition wall 1400 includes at least one through-hole 1400h, and the flow path 1300 can pass through the through-hole 1400h and through each of the two or more partitioned internal spaces. That is, the flow path 1300 may be provided passing over the partition wall 1400, but may also be provided passing through the partition wall 1400, as shown in Figure 9. The description of the through-hole 1400h is the same as or similar to that described in Figure 8.

[0124] As explained in Figure 8, the flow path 1300 needs to not melt on the other side of the partition wall 1400.

[0125] The flow path 1300 penetrates the through-hole 1400h and includes a partition-adjacent portion 1301 adjacent to the partition wall 1400 and a partition-non-adjacent portion 1302 not adjacent to the partition wall 1400, wherein the partition-adjacent portion 1301 may be formed to be thicker than the partition-non-adjacent portion 1302.

[0126] In this case, the partition wall adjacent portion 1301 includes, for example, a region in the flow path 1300 adjacent to the partition wall 1400, which either penetrates the partition wall 1400 or is located within a second distance from the partition wall 1400. The second distance may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

[0127] The partition wall adjacent portion 1301 may be formed thicker than the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302. In this case, the partition wall adjacent portion 1301 and the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302 may be connected in a streamlined shape while forming a curved surface. In this case, the thickness of the flow path 1300 may gradually decrease from the partition wall adjacent portion 1301 toward the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302. Alternatively, the partition wall adjacent portion 1301 and the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302 may be connected while forming a step. In this case, the thickness of the flow path 1300 may decrease in a stepped manner from the partition wall adjacent portion 1301 toward the partition wall non-adjacent portion 1302.

[0128] The flow path 1300 penetrates the through-hole 1400h and includes a partition-adjacent portion 1301 adjacent to the partition wall 1400 and a partition-non-adjacent portion 1302 not adjacent to the partition wall 1400. The battery module 1000 may further include a second support structure (not shown) that encloses at least a portion of the partition-adjacent portion 1301.

[0129] The second support structure can improve the rigidity of the flow path 1300.

[0130] The second support structure includes, for example, an insulating material. The insulating material may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of polyimide, polysulfone, polyurethane, polyamide, nylon 6,6, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene terephthalate, and combinations thereof.

[0131] Furthermore, the second support structure may further include, for example, an adhesive material that adheres the insulating material to the flow path 1300 in order to be fixed to the partition wall adjacent portion 1301. The adhesive material may include, for example, at least one of silicone resins, acrylic resins, urethane resins, rubber resins, epoxy resins, polyolefins, and combinations thereof.

[0132] Although not shown in the diagram, the flow path 1300 may also include both the relatively thickened partition adjacent portion 1301 and the second support structure.

[0133] Through such a method, the battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention can provide a method for ensuring the rigidity of the flow path 1300 in contact with the partition wall 1400. The battery module 1000 can prevent the flow path 1300 on the other side from melting even if one side of the flow path 1300 melts, thanks to the partition wall adjacent portion 1301. As a result, the battery module 1000 can improve the cooling efficiency through the partition wall 1400.

[0134] Although not shown in Figures 8 and 9, the partition wall 1400 and / or flow path 1300 according to the embodiment of the present invention described in Figures 8 to 9 can be applied to the battery module 1000 in combination, one or more of them.

[0135] For example, the battery module 1000 includes a flow path 1300 and a partition wall 1400 including a through-hole 1400h through which the flow path 1300 passes. In this case, the partition wall 1400 may include a relatively thicker through-hole adjacent portion 1401 and / or a first support structure, and the flow path 1300 may include a relatively thicker partition wall adjacent portion 1301 and / or a second support structure.

[0136] Through this, the battery module 1000 can further improve its cooling efficiency.

[0137] Figure 10 is a top view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] As shown in Figure 10, a battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells 1100, a housing 1200, a flow path 1300, and a partition wall 1400.

[0139] In this case, the partition wall 1400 may include an insulating material. Through this, the partition wall 1400 can function as an insulating sheet for multiple battery cells 1100.

[0140] In this case, the thermal insulation material includes, for example, a first material that makes the partition wall 1400 thermally insulating. The first material may include, for example, at least one of aerogel, wet silica, dry silica, polyurethane, polystyrene, polyethylene, polyester, and combinations thereof.

[0141] Alternatively, the insulating material may include, for example, a second material that provides insulation and / or heat resistance while maintaining the shape of the partition wall 1400. The second material may include, for example, at least one of mica, fiber, hard mica, talc, diatomaceous earth, bentonite, silicon, maifan stone, kaolin, polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, and combinations thereof.

[0142] The partition wall 1400 may be formed from a single layer containing a first material or a second material. Alternatively, the partition wall 1400 may be formed from multiple layers, each consisting of a layer containing a first material and another layer containing a second material. For example, the partition wall 1400 may be formed from a sandwich structure in which the first material is formed on both sides of the second material.

[0143] The battery module 1000 may further include one or more heat insulating sheets 1110 provided on at least one of the plurality of battery cells 1100.

[0144] The heat insulating sheet 1110 can be located, for example, in an area where the partition wall 1400 is not provided. In this case, for example, at least one of the multiple battery cells 1100 can have one side in contact with the heat insulating sheet 1110 and the other side in contact with the partition wall 1400.

[0145] Thus, the partition wall 1400 according to one embodiment of the present invention can perform the role of improving cooling efficiency and the same role as an insulating sheet. Furthermore, the battery module 1000 can further include an insulating sheet 1110 to provide insulation between the battery cells 1100.

[0146] Figure 11 shows the inside of a battery module housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Figure 12 shows the inside of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] A battery module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 1200 that houses a plurality of battery cells 1100, a flow path 1300 formed extending in a first direction for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the housing 1200, and one or more partition walls 1400 extending in a second direction different from the first direction for dividing the internal space of the housing 1200 into two or more sections.

[0149] The battery module 1000 may include multiple partition walls 1400. For example, the multiple partition walls 1400 may be positioned at equal intervals from each other.

[0150] For example, the battery module 1000 may include a first partition wall 1410 and a second partition wall 1420 that are spaced apart from each other. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the housing 1200 may be formed at intervals d in the longitudinal direction of the battery module 1000. In this case, the first partition wall 1410 and one end plate 1210 may be formed at an interval of d1. In this case, the first partition wall 1410 and the second partition wall 1420 may be formed at an interval of d2. In this case, the second partition wall 1420 and the other end plate 1210 may be formed at an interval of d3. In this case, d1, d2, and d3 may all be the same. That is, each of d1, d2, and d3 may have a value of d / 3.

[0151] As a result, each of the internal spaces partitioned by multiple partition walls 1400 that are spaced at equal intervals can have the same volume.

[0152] Alternatively, the battery module 1000 may include multiple partitions 1400. For example, at least some of the multiple partitions 1400 may be spaced apart from each other at different intervals.

[0153] Through this, as shown in Figure 12, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can be released into a narrower space and impregnate the battery cells 1100. This allows the fire extinguishing agent 1310 to impregnate the battery cells 1100 to a height h3 greater than a predetermined height. Alternatively, the fire extinguishing agent 1310 can impregnate the battery cells 1100 at a speed faster than a predetermined speed.

[0154] On the other hand, the partition wall 1400 divides the internal space into n or fewer sections, where n is an integer of 2 or more and less than or equal to the number of battery cells 1100. The internal space includes a first internal space and a second internal space partitioned by the partition wall 1400, and the volume of the first space may be greater than or equal to the volume of the second space.

[0155] For example, at least one of d1, d2, and d3 can have a different value from the others. That is, at least one of d1, d2, and d3 can have a value less than d / 3.

[0156] This allows each of the partitioned internal spaces to have a different volume from the others. In this case, the partitioned internal spaces may be formed with a larger volume for spaces where the probability of ignition is relatively high, or with a smaller volume for spaces where the probability of ignition is relatively low.

[0157] Through this, the battery module 1000 can provide an environment in which the battery cells 1100, which are located in areas with a relatively high probability of ignition, can be cooled intensively.

[0158] The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, which are merely illustrative, and a person with ordinary skill in the art will understand that a variety of modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom.

[0159] Therefore, the scope of technical protection of the present invention should be defined by the claims described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 11: Positive electrode 11a: Plain part of the positive electrode 12: Negative electrode 12a: Negative electrode blank area 13: Separator 20: Case 21: Positive terminal 22: Negative terminal 30: Cap Assembly 31: Cap plate 32: Electrolyte inlet 33: Sealing stopper 34: Vent 40: First current collector (positive electrode current collector) 50: Second current collector (negative electrode current collector) 60: First lower insulating member 70: Second lower insulating member 80: First separating member 90: Second separating member 1000: Battery Module 1100: Battery cell 1101: Event Cell 1110: Insulation sheet 1200: Housing 1210: End plate 1220: Side plate 1230: Lower plate 1300: Flow channel 1301: Adjacent section of bulkhead 1302: Non-adjacent section of bulkhead 1310: Fire extinguishing agent 1320: Flow channel exposed to the outside 1400: Bulkhead 1400h: Penetration 1401: Adjacent to the through-hole 1402: Non-adjacent part of the through-hole 1410: First bulkhead 1420: Second bulkhead a, a', b, b': direction d, d1, d2, d3: Interval F: Fire h1, h2, h3: height

Claims

1. A housing that contains multiple battery cells, A flow path is formed extending in a first direction and for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the internal space of the housing, Includes one or more partitions extending in a second direction different from the first direction, which divide the internal space of the housing into two or more sections. Battery module.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the partition wall divides the internal space into n or fewer sections, and n is an integer of 2 or more and less than or equal to the number of battery cells.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the flow path includes a heat-sensitive material that melts at a predetermined temperature or higher.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the fire extinguishing agent includes a liquid or gaseous fire extinguishing agent.

5. The partition wall includes at least one through-hole, The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the flow path passes through the through-hole and through each of the two or more partitioned internal spaces.

6. The partition wall includes a portion adjacent to the through-hole and a portion not adjacent to the through-hole, The battery module according to claim 5, wherein the portion adjacent to the through-hole is formed to be thicker than the portion not adjacent to the through-hole.

7. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein the partition wall further includes a first support structure provided along the inner circumferential surface of the through-hole.

8. The flow path includes a partition-adjacent portion that penetrates the through-hole and is adjacent to the partition wall, and a partition-non-adjacent portion that is not adjacent to the partition wall. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein the portion adjacent to the partition wall is formed to be thicker than the portion not adjacent to the partition wall.

9. The flow path includes a partition-adjacent portion that penetrates the through-hole and is adjacent to the partition wall, and a partition-non-adjacent portion that is not adjacent to the partition wall. The battery module according to claim 5, further comprising a second support structure that encloses at least a portion of the portion adjacent to the partition wall.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the partition wall includes an insulating material.

11. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the internal space includes a first internal space and a second internal space partitioned by the partition wall, and the volume of the first internal space is greater than or equal to the volume of the second internal space.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the fire extinguishing agent fills at least one of the two or more partitioned internal spaces at a predetermined speed or faster.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the fire extinguishing agent fills at least one of the two or more partitioned internal spaces to a predetermined height or higher.

14. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising one or more heat insulating sheets provided on at least one of the plurality of battery cells.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the plurality of battery cells has one side in contact with the heat insulating sheet and the other side in contact with the partition wall.

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