Battery module including a flame-retardant frame

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery module structure including: a battery cell assembly; a housing that accommodates the battery cell assembly and has a first vent hole; a flame-retardant cover that is formed of a heat-resistant flexible sheet and has slits; and a flame-retardant frame that is made of a heat-resistant rigid material and has a second vent hole on its top surface, wherein the housing includes a frame that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates that cover the front and rear of the frame, the flame-retardant cover covers the top surface of the housing, and the flame-retardant frame covers the top surface, front and rear surfaces of the housing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0009691, filed January 25, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the documents of this Korean patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module incorporating a battery cell assembly, and to a battery module with an improved vent structure. [Background technology]

[0003] Secondary batteries, which are easily applicable to various products and have electrical properties such as high energy density, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles powered by electrical sources, power storage devices, etc. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source because they not only have the primary advantage of dramatically reducing the use of fossil fuels, but also because they are environmentally friendly and improve energy efficiency by not producing any by-products from energy use.

[0004] While small mobile devices use one or two or three battery cells per device, medium to large devices such as automobiles require high output and large capacity, and therefore use medium to large battery modules in which multiple battery cells are electrically connected.

[0005] Since it is preferable to manufacture medium- to large-sized battery modules with small size and weight if possible, prismatic batteries and pouch-shaped batteries, which can be stacked with high density and have low weight relative to capacity, are mainly used as battery cells for medium- to large-sized battery modules.

[0006] 1 and 2 are exploded and perspective views, respectively, of a typical battery module. Referring to these drawings, a typical battery module (M) includes a battery cell assembly 1 including a plurality of battery cells 11. A bus bar frame 12 that electrically connects the battery cells 11 to one another may be connected to the battery cell assembly 1. The battery cell assembly 1, together with the bus bar frame 12, is housed in a housing 2. The housing may include a frame 21 that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates 22 that cover the front and rear of the frame 21.

[0007] A pair of terminals 121 that electrically connect the battery cells 11 to the outside are provided on the bus bar frame 12. The terminals 121 may be exposed to the outside through a pair of terminal exposure holes 222 provided in the end plate 22.

[0008] The battery cell assembly 1 may be at risk of catching fire due to impact, short circuit, heating, etc., and high-temperature gas may be generated from the battery cell assembly 1. This may increase the internal pressure of the housing 2, and a sudden increase in this internal pressure may lead to the explosion of the battery module (M).

[0009] 3 is a perspective view showing a battery module provided with a vent hole, in which the housing 2 may be provided with a vent hole 211 for discharging the high-temperature gas from the inside of the housing 2 to the outside.

[0010] However, the provision of the vent hole 211 in this way presents a problem in that the battery module (M) also allows the inflow of high-temperature gas generated from other battery modules housed within the same battery pack, and therefore such a structure poses the risk of a chain reaction of fires due to heat transfer between battery modules, leading to thermal runaway of the entire pack.

[0011] 4 and 5 are exploded and perspective views, respectively, showing a battery module provided with a vent hole and a flame-retardant cover. Referring to these drawings, to solve the above-mentioned problems, the battery module may include a flame-retardant cover 3 attached to cover the surface of the housing 2 where the vent hole 211 is provided. The flame-retardant cover 3 is made of a heat-resistant sheet material and can prevent high-temperature gas from entering the housing 2 from the outside. The flame-retardant cover 3 is provided with slits 31 so that high-temperature gas generated inside the housing 2 can be discharged.

[0012] On the other hand, although these flame-retardant covers 3 can prevent gas from flowing in and heat from propagating upward and to the sides of the battery module (M), there is a problem in that it is difficult to prevent gas from flowing in and heat from propagating to the front and rear of the battery module (M) where the terminal exposure opening 222 is provided.

[0013] The flame-retardant cover 3 is attached to the surface of the housing 2 by applying an adhesive such as double-sided tape to a predetermined adhesive region 30. Therefore, in a battery module having the above structure, the flame-retardant cover 3 may easily become detached or float up due to the adhesive being weak against heat or the internal pressure of the housing 2 being too high. Furthermore, since the adhesive region 30 must avoid the area where the vent hole 211 is provided, applying or attaching the adhesive to the adhesive region 30 must be done manually, which is cumbersome. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0014] The present invention was devised against the background of the conventional technology described above, and its object is to provide a battery module structure equipped with a vent structure that can exhaust gas from the inside and prevent gas from entering from the outside in the event of a fire.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery module structure that significantly reduces the possibility of the vent structure being damaged, such as the flame-retardant cover becoming detached or floating up, despite a sudden increase in internal pressure during a fire.

[0016] Another technical object of the present invention is to provide a battery module structure that is easy to release high-temperature gas and thermal energy in the event of a fire, and that is connected to other battery modules to prevent heat propagation through the front, rear, and both sides of adjacent battery modules.

[0017] Yet another technical object of the present invention is to provide a battery module structure that includes a flame-retardant cover and a flame-retardant frame that can be attached even after the battery modules are stacked and arranged in a pack frame and connected to the pack bus bar.

[0018] A further technical object of the present invention is to provide a battery module structure in which the surface of the frame can be covered with a flame-retardant cover without the need for cumbersome manual work.

[0019] The technical object of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other unmentioned objects and advantages of the present invention can be understood from the following description and can be more clearly understood from the examples of the present invention. Furthermore, it can be easily understood that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be achieved by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0020] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a battery module structure including: a battery cell assembly; a housing that accommodates the battery cell assembly and has a first vent hole; a flame-retardant cover that is formed of a heat-resistant flexible sheet and has slits; and a flame-retardant frame that is made of a heat-resistant rigid material and has a second vent hole on its top surface, wherein the housing includes a frame that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates that cover the front and rear of the frame, the flame-retardant cover covers the top surface of the housing, and the flame-retardant frame covers the top surface, front and rear surfaces of the housing.

[0021] The battery cell assembly may include a plurality of battery cells. The battery cells may be pouch-type battery cells. However, the battery cell assembly may consist of only one electrode assembly or battery cell, or may be formed by integrating other types of battery cells other than pouch-type battery cells.

[0022] The battery cell assembly may be accommodated in the housing. The housing may include a frame that is open at the front and rear and a pair of end plates that cover the front and rear of the frame. However, the housing may have any configuration as long as it can accommodate the battery cell assembly.

[0023] A bus bar frame that electrically connects the battery cells to each other in parallel or series may be connected to the battery cell assembly. The bus bar frame may be provided with a pair of terminals that are electrically connected to the battery cells. The terminals may be exposed to the outside through a pair of first terminal exposure holes that are provided in the end plates.

[0024] The first vent hole may be provided in the upper plate of the frame, but the first vent hole may be formed in any shape as long as it allows gas to pass between the inside and outside of the housing.

[0025] The flame-retardant cover may be made of a heat-resistant flexible sheet material.

[0026] The flame-retardant cover may have a slit. The slit may have a plurality of slits. The slit is preferably provided at a position corresponding to the surface on which the vent hole is provided, but does not necessarily have to be provided at a specific position.

[0027] The flame-retardant frame may be formed of a heat-resistant rigid plate, for example, the flame-retardant frame may include a heat-resistant synthetic resin material and / or a mica (MICA) material.

[0028] The flame-retardant cover may cover the top surface of the housing, and the flame-retardant frame may cover the top surface, front and rear surfaces of the housing. Preferably, the flame-retardant frame may be formed in a box shape with an open bottom and cover five sides of the housing excluding the bottom. That is, the flame-retardant frame may cover the top surface, front and rear surfaces, and left and right surfaces of the housing.

[0029] The flame retardant frame may be formed as a single unit or as an assembly of a plurality of plate members.

[0030] The flame-retardant frame may be provided with a second vent hole. The second vent hole may be formed at a position corresponding to the first vent hole. However, the second vent hole may be formed in any shape as long as it can discharge high-temperature gas discharged through the first vent hole and the slit to the outside.

[0031] The flame-retardant frame may include a pair of second terminal exposure holes. The terminals may be exposed to the outside through the second terminal exposure holes. Exposing the terminals to the outside means that a pack bus bar connecting the battery module to another battery module may be fastened to the terminals through the second terminal exposure holes while the flame-retardant frame covers the front and rear surfaces of the housing.

[0032] The second terminal exposure opening may be provided on at least one of an upper surface, a side surface, and a front surface of the flame-retardant frame.

[0033] The second terminal exposure opening may extend to the lower end of the flame-retardant frame. That is, the second terminal exposure opening may be open not only to the front and rear, or upward or to the sides, but also downward.

[0034] The flame-retardant frame may be coupled to the housing. In this case, the flame-retardant frame may be coupled to the frame or the end plate. The coupling may be performed in various ways, and the flame-retardant frame is preferably configured so that it cannot easily release its covering of the housing.

[0035] The flame-retardant cover may be interposed and fixed between the flame-retardant frame and the housing. In this case, the flame-retardant cover may be frictionally fixed by being pressed between the flame-retardant frame and the housing. Alternatively, the flame-retardant cover may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame and the housing while being fixed to either the flame-retardant frame or the housing. Either method is acceptable as long as the housing and the flame-retardant frame are coupled to each other and the flame-retardant cover is interposed and fixed between the flame-retardant frame and the housing.

[0036] The housing may be provided with a first coupling hole, and the flame-retardant frame may be provided with a second coupling hole.

[0037] The first coupling hole may be provided in the frame and in the end plate.

[0038] The first and second coupling holes may each be provided in plural numbers. The first coupling holes may be provided in two of the end plates, for a total of four, and the second coupling holes may be provided in a number corresponding to the positions of the first coupling holes.

[0039] The housing and the flame-retardant frame may be connected to each other by a connecting member that passes through the first and second connecting holes, and the connecting member may be, for example, a bolt, a rivet, a push rivet, or the like.

[0040] The connecting member may be made of a heat-resistant material, so that the connection between the housing and the flame-retardant frame will not be released even if the battery module catches fire.

[0041] The battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include the housing including the frame and the end frames, and the frame may have a plurality of first vent holes arranged in a lattice pattern on an upper surface thereof. The flame-retardant cover and the flame-retardant frame may be sequentially provided on the upper surface of the frame. In this case, the flame-retardant cover may have a plurality of slits extending in the length direction, and the flame-retardant frame may have a plurality of second vent holes in a number corresponding to positions of the first vent holes.

[0042] In the battery module according to Example 1 of the present invention, each of the end plates may be provided with two first connecting holes, and the flame-retardant frame may be provided with two second connecting holes at each of its longitudinal ends. The flame-retardant frame and the end plates may be connected to each other by the connecting members that pass through the first and second connecting holes. In this case, the flame-retardant cover may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame and the frame and fixed by applying pressure.

[0043] The flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover may be coupled to the housing. In this case, the flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover may be coupled to the frame or the end plate. The coupling may be performed in various ways, and it is preferable that the flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover are configured so that they do not easily come off from covering the housing.

[0044] The housing, the flame-retardant frame, and the flame-retardant cover may be provided with a first coupling hole, a second coupling hole, and a third coupling hole, respectively.

[0045] The first to third coupling holes may each be provided in plural numbers. The first coupling holes may be provided in two of the end plates, totaling four, and the second and third coupling holes may be provided in numbers corresponding to the positions of the first coupling holes.

[0046] The housing, the flame-retardant cover, and the flame-retardant frame may be connected to one another by a connecting member that passes through the first to third connecting holes. The connecting member may be, for example, a bolt, a rivet, a push rivet, or the like.

[0047] The connecting member may be made of a heat-resistant material, so that the connection between the housing, the flame-retardant cover, and the flame-retardant frame will not be released even when the battery module catches fire.

[0048] In the battery module according to the second embodiment of the present invention, one second vent hole may be provided in an area that includes both the first vent hole and the planar area where the slit is provided.

[0049] In the battery module according to Example 2 of the present invention, the end plates may each be provided with two of the first connecting holes, the flame-retardant frame may each be provided with two of the second connecting holes at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and the flame-retardant cover may each be provided with two of the third connecting holes at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The flame-retardant frame, the flame-retardant cover, and the end plates may be connected to each other by the connecting members that pass through the first to third connecting holes.

[0050] The battery module may include blades that protrude from both widthwise ends of the flame-retardant cover and are attached to the outer walls of the housing on both sides, and adhesive regions on the back surfaces of the blades may be attached to the outer walls of the frame on both sides.

[0051] The present invention also provides a battery pack incorporating the battery module and a vehicle structure incorporating the battery pack.

[0052] A plurality of the battery modules may be connected in series and / or parallel to form a battery pack in order to increase the charge / discharge capacity and / or power thereof, and the battery pack may be installed in a vehicle as a power source for the vehicle.

[0053] The battery pack may include a vent passage and a vent device for discharging thermal energy and gases discharged upward from the battery module, and the vent device may be configured to rupture when an internal pressure of the battery pack reaches a predetermined level, thereby allowing the thermal energy and gases to be discharged. [Effects of the Invention]

[0054] The present invention provides a battery module structure that allows smooth gas discharge while preventing gas inflow in the event of a fire, thanks to a unique frame and cover structure that includes first and second vent holes and slits.

[0055] Furthermore, the present invention can provide a battery module structure that maintains structural stability without the flame-retardant cover becoming detached or floating up despite a sudden increase in internal pressure during a fire.

[0056] The present invention also provides a battery module structure that prevents heat transfer from and to other adjacent battery modules by providing a flame-retardant frame that covers the front, rear, and both sides of the battery module.

[0057] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to provide a battery module structure in which a flame-retardant cover and a flame-retardant frame can be attached even after the battery modules are stacked and arranged in the pack frame and connected to the pack bus bar.

[0058] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a battery module structure that can be provided with a flame-retardant cover through a simple assembly process that can be automated, without the cumbersome process of manually attaching double-sided tape.

[0059] In addition to the above, the present invention can achieve various other effects, which will be explained in each embodiment, or explanations of effects that can be easily inferred by ordinary engineers will be omitted. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0060] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a general battery module. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a general battery module. [Figure 3]FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a battery module provided with a vent hole. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery module provided with a vent hole and a flame-retardant cover. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a battery module provided with a vent hole and a flame-retardant cover. [Figure 6] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing how a battery pack is formed by connecting a plurality of battery modules with a pack bus bar. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing how a fire-retardant frame is placed over a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention after a pack bus bar is fastened to the battery module. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing how a fire-retardant frame is placed over a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention after a pack bus bar is fastened to the battery module. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram showing a battery pack incorporating a battery module according to the present invention; [Figure 16] 1 is a diagram showing an automobile incorporating a battery pack incorporating a battery module according to the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] The above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if a detailed description of known technologies relating to the present invention is deemed to obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0062] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, it is understood that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a first component may also be a second component.

[0063] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0064] Hereinafter, when an arbitrary structure is arranged "on top (or bottom)" of a component or "above (or below)" a component, it means that the arbitrary structure is not only arranged in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, but also that other structures may be interposed between the component and the arbitrary structure arranged above (or below) the component.

[0065] Furthermore, when a component is described as being "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly coupled or connected to each other, but that other components may be "intervening" between the components, or that each component may be "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" via other components.

[0066] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Terms such as "comprise" or "include" in this application should not be interpreted as including all of the multiple components or multiple steps described in the specification, but should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or some of the steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0067] In the entire specification, "A and / or B" means A, B or A and B unless otherwise specified, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless otherwise specified.

[0068] The present invention provides a battery module structure with an improved vent structure.

[0069] The present invention can be applied to any unit of a secondary battery that includes a battery cell or cell assembly and a housing that houses the battery cell or cell assembly, regardless of the type or structure of the battery cell or battery cell assembly to be housed therein, or the specific structure or name of the housing that houses the battery cell or cell assembly.

[0070] First, a general battery module structure that forms the basis of the battery module according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0071] 1 and 2 are exploded and perspective views, respectively, of a typical battery module. Referring to these drawings, the typical battery module may include a battery cell assembly 1 and a housing 2 that houses the battery cell assembly.

[0072] The battery cell assembly 1 may include a plurality of battery cells 11. The battery cells 11 may be pouch-type battery cells. However, the battery cell assembly 1 may consist of only one electrode assembly or battery cell, or may be formed by accumulating other types of battery cells other than pouch-type battery cells.

[0073] A bus bar frame 12 that electrically connects the battery cells 11 to each other in parallel or in series may be connected to the battery cell assembly 1. A pair of terminals 121 that are electrically connected to the battery cells may be provided on the bus bar frame 12. The terminals 121 may be exposed to the outside through a pair of first terminal exposure holes 222 provided in the end plate 22.

[0074] The battery cell assembly 1 may be housed in the housing 2. The housing 2 may include a frame 21 that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates 22 that cover the front and rear of the frame 21. However, the housing 2 may have any shape as long as it can house the battery cell assembly 1.

[0075] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] [Example 1] 6 and 7 are exploded and perspective views, respectively, of a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, the battery module according to this embodiment may be configured as a general battery module, except that the housing 2 is provided with a first vent hole 211, and the battery module may include a flame-retardant cover 3 and a flame-retardant frame 4.

[0077] The first vent hole 211 may be provided in the upper plate of the frame 21. However, the first vent hole 211 may be formed in any shape as long as it allows gas to pass between the inside and outside of the housing 2.

[0078] The flame-retardant cover 3 may be made of a heat-resistant flexible sheet material.

[0079] The flame-retardant cover 3 may be provided with a slit 31. A plurality of slits 31 may be provided. The slits 31 are preferably provided at positions corresponding to the surfaces on which the vent holes 211 are provided, but do not necessarily have to be provided at specific positions.

[0080] The flame-retardant frame 4 may be formed of a heat-resistant rigid plate, for example, the flame-retardant frame 4 may include a heat-resistant synthetic resin material and / or a mica (MICA) material.

[0081] The flame-retardant frame 4 may be provided with a second vent hole 41. The second vent hole 41 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first vent hole 211. However, the second vent hole 41 may be formed in any shape as long as it can discharge high-temperature gas discharged through the first vent hole 211 and the slits 31 to the outside.

[0082] The flame-retardant cover 3 and the flame-retardant frame 4 can sequentially cover the surface of the housing 2. That is, at least a part of the area on the surface of the housing 2 can be covered by the flame-retardant cover 3, and a predetermined area on the surface of the housing 2 including at least a part of the area covered by the flame-retardant cover 3 can be covered again by the flame-retardant frame 4.

[0083] At this time, the flame-retardant cover 3 may cover the top surface of the housing 2 , and the flame-retardant frame 4 may cover the top surface, front and rear surfaces of the housing 2 .

[0084] The flame-retardant frame 4 can be formed as a single unit or as an assembly of a plurality of plate members.

[0085] The flame-retardant frame 4 may include a pair of second terminal exposure holes 4021. The terminals 121 may be exposed to the outside through the second terminal exposure holes 4021. Exposing the terminals 121 to the outside means that a pack bus bar connecting the battery module to another battery module may be fastened to the terminals 121 through the second terminal exposure holes 4021 with the flame-retardant frame 4 covering the front and rear surfaces of the housing 2.

[0086] The second terminal exposure opening 4021 may be provided on at least one of the top surface, side surface, and front surface of the flame-retardant plate 4. That is, the second terminal exposure opening 4021 may be provided on the front surface of the flame-retardant plate 4 so that a pack bus bar connecting the battery module to other battery modules in the front-rear direction can pass through, or may be provided on the side surface and / or top surface of the flame-retardant plate 4 so that a pack bus bar connecting the battery module to other battery modules in the left-right direction can pass through.

[0087] The flame-retardant frame 4 may be coupled to the housing 2. In this case, the flame-retardant frame 4 may be coupled to the frame 21 or the end plate 22. The coupling may be performed in various ways, and it is preferable that the flame-retardant frame 4 is configured so that the state of covering the housing 2 cannot be easily released.

[0088] The flame-retardant cover 3 may be interposed and fixed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the housing 2. In this case, the flame-retardant cover 3 may be frictionally fixed by being pressed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the housing 2. Alternatively, the flame-retardant cover 3 may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the housing 2 while being fixed to either the flame-retardant frame 4 or the housing 2. For example, the flame-retardant cover 3 may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the housing 2 by joining the flame-retardant frame 4 to the housing 2 while being fixed to the flame-retardant frame 4 by bonding the top surface of the flame-retardant cover 3 to the bottom surface of the flame-retardant frame 4. However, any method may be used as long as the housing 2 and the flame-retardant frame 4 are joined to each other and the flame-retardant cover 3 is interposed and fixed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the housing 2.

[0089] The housing 2 may be provided with a first coupling hole 221 and the flame-retardant frame 4 may be provided with a second coupling hole 42 .

[0090] The first coupling hole 221 may be provided in the frame 21 and in the end plate 22 .

[0091] A plurality of first and second connecting holes 221 and 42 may be provided. Two first connecting holes 221 may be provided for each end plate 22, totaling four, and the number of second connecting holes 42 may correspond to the positions of the first connecting holes 221.

[0092] The housing 2 and the flame-retardant frame 4 may be connected to each other by a connecting member 5 that passes through the first and second connecting holes 221 and 42. The connecting member 5 may be, for example, a bolt, a rivet, a push rivet, or the like.

[0093] The connecting member 5 may be made of a heat-resistant material, so that the connection between the housing 2 and the flame-retardant frame 4 will not be released even when the battery module catches fire.

[0094] The battery module according to this embodiment may include the housing 2 including the frame 21 and the end frames 21, and the frame 21 may have a plurality of first vent holes 211 arranged in a lattice pattern on the upper surface of the frame 21. The flame-retardant cover 3 may be provided on the upper surface of the frame 21, and the upper surface and front and rear surfaces of the housing 2 including the flame-retardant cover 3 may be covered by the flame-retardant frame 4. In this case, the flame-retardant cover 3 may have a plurality of slits 31 extending in the length direction. The flame-retardant frame 4 may have a plurality of second vent holes 41 at positions corresponding to the first vent holes 211, and a pair of second terminal exposure holes 4021 for exposing the terminals 121 to the outside.

[0095] According to this embodiment, if the battery cell assembly 1 catches fire, high-temperature gas can be discharged through the first vent hole 211, the slit 31, and the second vent hole. Since the flame-retardant cover 3 is made of a flexible material, the slit 31 opens only when the internal pressure of the battery module increases and remains closed during normal operation. This allows the battery module according to this embodiment to smoothly discharge high-temperature gas generated inside the housing while preventing the inflow of high-temperature gas from the outside. This prevents heat transfer between battery modules within the battery pack and thermal runaway within the pack.

[0096] Normally, when a battery module catches fire, the terminals are exposed and gas and heat energy are likely to leak through the front and rear surfaces of the battery module to which other battery modules are connected. However, in the battery module according to this embodiment, the front and rear surfaces are covered with the flame-retardant frame 4, so that high-temperature gas and heat energy can be discharged upward instead of forward and backward.

[0097] In the battery module according to this embodiment, the end plates 22 may each be provided with two first connecting holes 221, and the flame-retardant frame 4 may each be provided with two second connecting holes 42 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The flame-retardant frame 4 and the end plates 22 may be connected to each other by the connecting members 5 that pass through the first and second connecting holes 221, 42. In this case, the flame-retardant cover 3 may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the frame 21 and fixed by applying pressure.

[0098] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the flame-retardant cover 3 does not need to be attached to the housing 2 with double-sided tape or the like, but may be interposed between the flame-retardant frame 4 and the frame 21 and fixed under pressure so that it will not become detached or float up even if the internal pressure increases explosively when the battery module catches fire. Furthermore, this embodiment has the advantage that covering the housing 2 with the flame-retardant cover 3 does not require a time-consuming manual process and can be fully automated.

[0099] [Example 2] Hereinafter, the parts of this embodiment that are not separately explained are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0100] 8 and 9 are an exploded perspective view and a perspective view, respectively, showing a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, one second vent hole 41 according to this embodiment may be provided. The second vent hole 41 may be provided to include an area on the flame-retardant cover 3 corresponding to an area where the slit 31 is provided, excluding the frame area of ​​the upper plate of the flame-retardant frame 4. In this way, the flame-retardant frame 4 may be provided to press the frame portion of the flame-retardant cover 3 against the housing 2.

[0101] In this case, the flame-retardant frame 4 is formed in a box shape with an open bottom, and can cover five sides of the housing 2 except for the bottom. That is, the flame-retardant frame 4 can cover the top, front, rear, left and right sides of the housing 2.

[0102] In addition, in the battery module according to this embodiment, not only the flame-retardant frame 4 but also the flame-retardant cover 3 may be coupled to the housing 2. In this case, the flame-retardant frame 4 and the flame-retardant cover 3 may be coupled to the frame 21 or to the end plate 22. The coupling may be performed in various ways, and it is preferable that the flame-retardant frame 4 and the flame-retardant cover 3 are configured so that the state of covering the housing 2 cannot be easily released.

[0103] The flame-retardant cover 3 and the flame-retardant frame 4 may be joined to the housing 2 with the top surface of the flame-retardant cover 3 and the bottom surface of the flame-retardant frame 4 adhered to each other. However, the flame-retardant cover 3 and the flame-retardant frame 4 may be joined to the housing 2 by common or separate means without being joined to each other.

[0104] The flame-retardant cover 3 may be provided with a third coupling hole 32 .

[0105] There may be a plurality of each of the first to third coupling holes 221, 42, 32. Two first coupling holes 221 may be provided for each of the end plates 22, totaling four, and the second and third coupling holes 42, 32 may be provided in numbers corresponding to the positions of the first coupling holes 221.

[0106] In this case, the portion of the flame-retardant cover 3 where the third connecting hole 32 is provided may be a portion that protrudes forward, avoiding the portion where the second terminal exposure opening 4021 is provided, so as to expose the terminal 121 to the outside through the second terminal exposure opening 4021.

[0107] The housing 2, the flame-retardant cover 3, and the flame-retardant frame 4 may be joined together by a joining member 5 that passes through the first to third joining holes 221, 42, and 32. The joining member 5 may be, for example, a bolt, a rivet, or a push rivet.

[0108] The connecting member 5 may be made of a heat-resistant material, so that the connection between the housing 2, the flame-retardant cover 3 and the flame-retardant frame 4 will not be released even when the battery module catches fire.

[0109] In the battery module according to this embodiment, one second vent hole 41 may be provided in an area that includes both the first vent hole 211 and the area on the plane where the slit 31 is provided.

[0110] In the battery module according to this embodiment, the end plates 22 may each be provided with two of the first connecting holes 221, the flame-retardant frame 4 may each be provided with two of the second connecting holes 42 at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and the flame-retardant cover 3 may each be provided with two of the third connecting holes 32 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The flame-retardant frame 4, the flame-retardant cover 3, and the end plates 22 may be connected to each other by the connecting members 5 that pass through the first to third connecting holes 221, 42, and 32.

[0111] According to this embodiment, when the internal pressure of the housing 2 increases due to the ignition of the battery module, the flame-retardant cover 3 may expand further upward, which may further expand the slits 31, thereby facilitating the discharge of gas. However, since the structure of the lower side of the flame-retardant cover 3 is the same as in Example 1, the flame-retardant cover 3 does not expand further downward, and gas inflow is prevented in the same way as in Example 1.

[0112] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the flame-retardant cover 3 is coupled to the end plate 22 together with the flame-retardant frame 4, so that the risk of the flame-retardant cover 3 being released in the event of a fire can be further reduced.

[0113] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the flame-retardant frame 4 covers both widthwise sides of the housing 2, thereby preventing heat from being transmitted from the battery module to other battery modules adjacent to it in the widthwise direction, as well as preventing heat from being transmitted from other battery modules to the battery module.

[0114] [Example 3] Hereinafter, the parts of this embodiment that are not separately explained are the same as those of the first and second embodiments.

[0115] 10 and 11 are an exploded perspective view and a perspective view, respectively, showing a battery module according to Example 3 of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, the second terminal exposure opening 4021 according to this example may extend to the lower end of the front surface of the flame-retardant frame 4. That is, the second terminal exposure opening 4021 may be open not only to the front and rear but also downward.

[0116] 12 shows how a battery pack is formed by connecting a plurality of battery modules with pack bus bars. Referring to this figure, a plurality of battery modules (M) can be connected in series and / or parallel to form a single battery pack (P) in order to increase the charge / discharge capacity and / or power. The battery pack (P) can also be installed inside a vehicle (V) as a power source for the vehicle (V).

[0117] In this case, the battery modules (M) may be connected in series or in parallel to one another by pack bus bars 6 that fasten the terminals of the battery modules (M).

[0118] 13 and 14 show how a flame-retardant frame is placed on a battery module after a pack bus bar is fastened to the battery module according to Example 3 of the present invention. Referring to these figures, the flame-retardant frame 4 according to this example can be placed on the battery module even when a plurality of battery modules (M) are placed on the pack frame and the pack bus bar 6 is fastened to the battery module.

[0119] In this case, the pack bus bar 6 may extend front-to-rear as shown in FIG. 13 to connect the battery module (M) to other battery modules front-to-rear, or may extend left-to-right as shown in FIG. 14 to connect the battery module (M) to other battery modules left-to-right. Accordingly, the second terminal exposure opening 4021 may be provided on the front surface, or on the side and top surfaces. The position and shape of the second terminal exposure opening 4021 may be selected singly or in various ways depending on the arrangement and connection relationship of the battery modules (M). In this case, all of the flame-retardant frames 4 do not need to be formed in the same shape. In either case, it is sufficient that the second terminal exposure opening 4021 extends to the lower end of the flame-retardant frame 4 and that the flame-retardant frame 4 covers the battery module (M) with the pack bus bar 6 fastened thereto.

[0120] In the battery modules according to Examples 1 and 2, it is impossible to attach a flame-retardant frame after the pack bus bar is fastened. However, according to this example, since the second terminal exposure opening 4021 is open downward, the flame-retardant frame 4 and the battery module (M) may be joined together vertically even when the pack bus bar 6 is fastened to the terminal.

[0121] The present invention also provides a battery pack incorporating the battery module and a vehicle structure incorporating the battery pack.

[0122] 15 and 16 respectively show a battery pack incorporating a battery module according to the present invention and a vehicle incorporating the battery pack. Referring to these drawings, a plurality of the battery modules (M) according to the present invention can be integrated and arranged in a single pack frame to form a battery pack (P).

[0123] The battery pack (P) may include a vent passage and a vent device for discharging heat energy and gas upward from the battery module (M). The vent device may rupture when the internal pressure of the battery pack (P) exceeds a predetermined level, thereby allowing the heat energy and gas to be discharged. The function of preventing the discharge and inflow of gas into the battery module according to the present invention may be even more significant in a situation where the internal pressure of the battery pack (P) is increasing before the vent device ruptures.

[0124] The general structure and manufacturing method of the battery pack (P) and the vehicle (V) are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0125] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims rather than the above detailed description. All modifications and variations within the meaning and scope of the following claims, as well as equivalent concepts, should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

[0126] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to illustrative drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration of the present invention are not explicitly described and explained while the embodiments of the present invention are described above, it is natural that the effects that can be predicted by the configuration should also be recognized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 1 Battery cell assembly 11 Battery Cells 12 Busbar frame Terminal 121 2. Housing 21 frames 211 First vent hole 22 End plate 221 First connecting hole 222 First Terminal Exposure 3. Flame-retardant cover 30 Adhesive area 31 Slit 32 Third connecting hole 33 Wing 4. Flame-retardant frame 401 Top surface 402 Front 4021 Second Terminal Exposure 403 Rear 404: Left and right sides 41 Secondary vent hole 42 Second coupling hole 5 Connecting members 6-pack busbars M Battery Module P Battery pack V Automobile X Length direction / Front-to-back direction Y width direction / horizontal direction Z height direction / up and down direction

Claims

1. a battery cell assembly; a housing that accommodates the battery cell assembly and has a first vent hole on an upper surface thereof; a flame-retardant cover formed of a heat-resistant flexible sheet and having slits; a flame-retardant frame made of a heat-resistant rigid material and having a second vent hole on an upper surface thereof; Including, The housing includes a frame that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates that cover the front and rear of the frame. the flame-retardant cover covers an upper surface of the housing; The flame-retardant frame covers the top surface and the front and rear surfaces of the housing. Battery module.

2. The flame-retardant frame is a box-shaped frame that is open at the bottom and covers the top surface, front and rear surfaces, and both widthwise side surfaces of the housing. The battery module according to claim 1 .

3. a pair of terminals electrically connected to the battery cell assembly; the end plate is provided with a pair of first terminal exposure holes through which the terminals are exposed to the outside; The flame-retardant frame is provided with a pair of second terminal exposure openings at positions corresponding to the first terminal exposure openings, through which the terminals are exposed. The battery module according to claim 1 .

4. The second terminal exposure opening extends to a lower end of the flame-retardant frame. The battery module according to claim 3 .

5. The second vent hole is provided at a position corresponding to the first vent hole. The battery module according to claim 1 .

6. The flame-retardant frame is coupled to the housing, The flame-retardant cover is interposed and fixed between the flame-retardant frame and the housing. The battery module according to claim 1 .

7. The flame retardant frame is coupled to the frame. The battery module according to claim 6 .

8. The flame-retardant frame is coupled to the end plate. The battery module according to claim 6 .

9. The housing and the flame-retardant frame are provided with a first coupling hole and a second coupling hole, respectively; the housing and the flame-retardant frame are coupled to each other via a coupling member passing through the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole; The battery module according to claim 6 .

10. The first and second coupling holes are each provided in plural numbers. The battery module according to claim 9 .

11. The housing includes a frame that is open at the front and rear, and a pair of end plates that cover the front and rear of the frame. The first coupling holes are provided in pairs on each of the end plates, The second coupling hole is provided at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole. The battery module according to claim 10.

12. The connecting member is made of a heat-resistant material. The battery module according to claim 9 .

13. the flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover are coupled to the housing; The battery module according to claim 1 .

14. The flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover are coupled to the frame. The battery module according to claim 13.

15. the flame-retardant frame and the flame-retardant cover are coupled to the end plate; The battery module according to claim 13.

16. The housing, the flame-retardant frame, and the flame-retardant cover are respectively provided with a first coupling hole, a second coupling hole, and a third coupling hole, the housing, the flame-retardant cover, and the flame-retardant frame are coupled to each other via coupling members that pass through the first coupling hole, the second coupling hole, and the third coupling hole; The battery module according to claim 13.

17. The first coupling hole, the second coupling hole, and the third coupling hole are each provided in plural numbers. The battery module according to claim 16.

18. The first coupling holes are provided in pairs on each of the end plates, the second and third coupling holes are provided at positions corresponding to the first coupling hole; The battery module according to claim 17.

19. The connecting member is made of a heat-resistant material. The battery module according to claim 16.

20. The flame-retardant frame includes a heat-resistant synthetic resin material. The battery module according to claim 1 .

21. The flame retardant frame comprises a mica (MICA) material. The battery module according to claim 1 .

22. A battery module comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 21. Battery pack.

23. 23. A battery pack comprising the battery pack of claim 22. car.

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