Battery module, battery pack including said battery module, and automobile

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to house the cell assembly, wherein the module terminals are provided on one side and a first vent hole is formed on the other side, configured to allow gas generated by the battery cells to be discharged to the outside; and a block member configured to guide the gas to the first vent hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the battery module, and a vehicle.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0008985 filed on January 19, 2024, and all of the contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the application are incorporated into this application.

[0003] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0113576 filed on August 23, 2024, and all of the contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the application are incorporated into this application.

Background Art

[0004] Secondary batteries with high applicability for each product group and having electrical characteristics such as high energy density are generally applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by an electric drive source. Such secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving energy efficiency because they not only have the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels but also are environmentally friendly in that they do not generate any by-products from the use of energy.

[0005] Currently, secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, nickel metal hydride batteries, and nickel zinc batteries are widely used. When a high output voltage is required, a plurality of battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or a battery pack. Also, in order to increase the charge / discharge capacity, a plurality of battery cells may be connected in parallel to form a battery module or a battery pack.

[0006] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, the common method is to first create a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then add other components to this at least one battery module to form a battery pack or battery rack. Alternatively, in recent years, cell-to-pack battery packs have also been manufactured, in which multiple battery cells are not modularized but directly housed in a pack housing or similar structure.

[0007] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery modules, it becomes vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the battery modules. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs inside one battery module, that runaway can propagate to other battery modules. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules is not properly suppressed, an event occurring in one battery module could trigger a chain reaction in many battery modules, potentially causing major problems such as explosions or fires.

[0008] Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell within a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation to prevent gases, flames, etc., from spreading to other cells within the battery module or to adjacent battery modules, thus preventing thermal runaway.

[0009] Furthermore, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, it is necessary to develop a structure that can quickly expel high-temperature gases and flames generated in the battery module to the outside, thereby eliminating heat buildup inside the battery module. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] Therefore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery module that can eliminate heat buildup inside the battery module by quickly discharging high-temperature gases, flames, etc. generated in the battery module to the outside when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module.

[0011] Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack and an automobile that include such a battery module.

[0012] However, the problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following explanation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] To solve the above problems, a battery module according to one aspect of the present invention includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, a module case configured to house the cell assembly, wherein the module terminals are provided on one side and a first vent hole is formed on the other side, configured to allow gas generated by the battery cells to be discharged to the outside, and a block member configured to guide the gas to the first vent hole.

[0014] Multiple of the first vent holes may be arranged in at least one direction.

[0015] The plurality of battery cells each have electrode leads, and the busbar frame may further include a busbar frame provided on the side of the battery cell where the electrode leads are provided, with a second vent hole formed therein that is configured to communicate with the first vent hole.

[0016] Multiple second vent holes may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

[0017] The second vent hole may be configured to allow at least some of the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells to pass through.

[0018] The block member may include a first block member provided on the outside of the busbar frame, which is configured to suppress the movement of gas discharged from the second vent hole along the stacking direction of the battery cells in the space between the busbar frame and the other side of the module case.

[0019] Multiple of the first block members may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

[0020] The first block member may be configured to extend along the height direction of the busbar frame.

[0021] The first block member may be configured to be compressed by the busbar frame.

[0022] The first block member may be configured to be compressed by the module case.

[0023] The block member may include a second block member interposed between the busbar frame and the cell assembly.

[0024] The second block member may be configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell.

[0025] The battery cell includes a housing portion configured to house an electrode assembly and extend in one direction, and a sealing portion configured to protrude in one direction from the housing portion, and the second block member may be provided on at least one side of the sealing portion.

[0026] The cell assembly further includes a barrier member provided between the battery cells, and the second block member may be provided between the barrier member and the sealing portion of the battery cell.

[0027] The second block member may be configured to press against the inner surfaces of the storage portion and the bus bar frame.

[0028] A plurality of the second block members are respectively arranged on one side and the other side of the battery cell, and more of the second block members may be provided on one side of the battery cell than on the other side of the battery cell.

[0029] The battery cell may include a fixing member configured to fix the upper surface.

[0030] Another aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack including a battery module according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0031] Still another aspect of the present invention provides an automobile including a battery module according to an aspect of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, by guiding high-temperature gas, flames, etc. generated in the battery cells in the battery module to be directionally vented (venting with directivity) backward where the module terminals are not provided, the high-temperature gas, flames, etc. can be quickly discharged to the outside. Thereby, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0033] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, by partitioning and separating multiple battery cells within a battery module, even if a thermal event occurs in some of the battery cells within the battery module, it is possible to effectively prevent or delay the diffusion of gases, flames, etc., to other battery cells within the battery module, thereby preventing thermal runaway.

[0034] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gases or flames discharged to the outside of the battery module from flowing back into the inside of the battery module.

[0035] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, even in a battery pack unit including multiple battery modules, high-temperature gases, flames, etc., can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack through directional venting.

[0036] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent or delay events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway phenomena in battery packs including multiple battery modules or in devices to which they are attached.

[0037] In addition, the present invention can produce a variety of other effects. These will be described in each embodiment, but effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will not be described.

[0038] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and are intended to facilitate a better understanding of the technical concept of the invention, along with the detailed description of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be construed as being limited solely to what is shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0039] [Figure 1] This is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a rear perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of a disassembled battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a side view of a battery cell included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a rear cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' in Figure 1. [Figure 6] This is a front view of the back panel included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a front view of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows how the electrode leads of a battery cell included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention are connected to the rear busbar frame. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a rear cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module to which a first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 12] This is a front view of a busbar frame included in a battery module to which a first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 13] This figure shows the back panel separated from a battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 14] This is a rear cross-sectional view of a battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. For example, Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view along line II-II' in Figure 1. [Figure 15]This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the back side of a battery module to which a block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view showing the interior of the rear side of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 17] This is a front cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 18] This is a perspective view showing the interior of the front side of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 19] This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack containing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a schematic perspective view of an automobile including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0040] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and in the claims shall not be interpreted in a manner limited to their general and dictionary meanings, but in accordance with the principle that inventors themselves may appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe their invention, and shall be interpreted in a manner and concept corresponding to the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0041] Therefore, the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the drawings represent only one of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical concept of the invention. It should be understood that there are various equivalents and modifications that can substitute for them at the time of this application.

[0042] Furthermore, the present invention includes a variety of embodiments. In each embodiment, redundant explanations of substantially identical or similar configurations will be omitted, and the explanation will focus on the differences.

[0043] On the other hand, while terms such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification to indicate direction, these terms are used for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that they can change depending on the position of the object being examined, the position of the observer, etc.

[0044] For example, in the embodiment of the present invention, the illustrated X-axis direction may mean the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), i.e., the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, i.e., the height direction of the battery cell.

[0045] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 is a side view of a battery cell included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, for example, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along line I-I' in Figure 1.

[0046] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cell assembly 100, module terminals 200, module case 300, and block member 400.

[0047] First, referring primarily to Figure 3, the cell assembly 100 may include battery cells 110. Multiple battery cells 110 may be provided. In this case, the multiple battery cells 110 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0048] Multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked along one direction. For example, as shown in Figure 3, multiple battery cells 110 can be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0049] More specifically, referring to Figure 4, a plurality of battery cells 110 may include electrode assemblies and cell cases 111 that house the electrode assemblies. The cell cases 111 may include laminate sheets comprising a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0050] Furthermore, each of the multiple battery cells 110 may be provided with an electrode lead 112. The electrode lead 112 is connected to the electrode assembly and extends to the outside of the cell case 111, functioning as an electrode terminal.

[0051] The electrode leads 112 may be provided in pairs, and the pair of electrode leads 112 may be drawn out from both ends of the battery cell 110, i.e., in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 112 may be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead.

[0052] On the other hand, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of such battery cell 110, and a variety of battery cells 110 known at the time of filing of the present invention can be used in the configuration of the battery module 10 of the present invention. In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is targeted, but of course, cylindrical secondary batteries or prismatic secondary batteries can also be applied as battery cells 110.

[0053] The module terminal 200 may be configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 110. The module terminal 200 may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The module terminal 200 may also be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a Battery Management System (BMS).

[0054] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the module case 300 may be configured to house the cell assembly 100. Specifically, the module case 300 may have a housing space formed therein, and the cell assembly 100 may be housed in the housing space. Such a module case 300 may be made of a rigid and heat-resistant metallic material to physically or chemically protect the housed cell assembly 100.

[0055] Such a module case 300 may have module terminals 200 on one side. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 1, the module terminals 200 may be provided on the front of the module case 300.

[0056] Furthermore, a first vent hole H1 may be formed in the module case 300. The first vent hole H1 may be configured to discharge vent gas generated in the battery cell 110 to the outside of the module case 300. In particular, the first vent hole H1 may be formed on the other side of the module case 300, where the other side of the module case 300 may mean the side opposite to the side of the module case 300 where the module terminals 200 are provided. That is, the module terminals 200 and the first vent hole H1 may be located on opposite sides. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 2, the first vent hole H1 may be formed on the rear surface of the module case 300.

[0057] As a result, directional venting in one direction is possible in the battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, directional venting toward the rear of the battery module 10 is possible through the first vent hole H1.

[0058] Thus, the first vent hole H1 provided on the rear surface of the module case 300 can be provided to discharge gas and flames generated inside the battery module 10 to the outside of the battery module 10 when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10. The rest of the module case 300, excluding the first vent hole H1, is sealed, and gas and flames can be discharged in a straight line toward the first vent hole H1.

[0059] According to this embodiment, regardless of where a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110, the gas and flame generated in the battery cell 110 are discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through a specific first vent hole H1 located behind the battery cell 110, thus enabling smooth ventilation.

[0060] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the block member 400 may be configured to guide gas and flames into the first vent hole H1. In particular, the block member 400 may be configured to suppress the discharge of vent gas, flames, etc., to the side where the first vent hole H1 is not provided.

[0061] The block member 400 may be provided inside the module case 300. Specifically, the block member 400 may be provided between the module case 300 and the cell assembly 100. The block member 400 guides gas or other fluids flowing through the space formed between the module case 300 and the cell assembly 100 toward the first vent hole H1.

[0062] According to this embodiment, if a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 within the battery module 10, vent gas and the like will be discharged only in one target direction, for example, the direction in which the first vent hole H1 is formed, as shown by the arrow in Figure 5. In other words, since all areas surrounding the block member 400 except for the first vent hole H1 are closed off, directional venting of the vent gas toward the first vent hole H1 can be guided more effectively.

[0063] As a result, according to this embodiment, the vent gas is quickly guided to the first vent hole H1 and discharged to the outside. In other words, according to this embodiment, heat accumulation inside the battery module 10 can be prevented or suppressed. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery module 10.

[0064] Furthermore, the block member 400 may be configured to partition the space through which gas flows into multiple sections. The block member 400 may also be configured to suppress the movement of vent gas into adjacent vent spaces. That is, the block member 400 may be configured to separate the vent flow path for each of the battery cells 110.

[0065] For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 5, the block member 400 may be configured to suppress the movement of vent gas and other substances generated in groups of two battery cells 110 to other groups of battery cells 110. In this case, the groups of battery cells 110 may consist of capacities of approximately 230 Ah to 300 Ah.

[0066] According to this embodiment, by partitioning the space through which gases and other fluids flow, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell 110, the diffusion of vent gases, flames, etc., to adjacent battery cells 110 is prevented, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells 110.

[0067] Such a block member 400 may contain an elastic material such as silicone. This allows the block member 400 to be compressed by the components inside the battery module 10. According to this embodiment, the space through which gas flows can be more reliably sealed, and directional venting toward the first vent hole H1 can be more effectively guided. Furthermore, the block member 400 may have at least one of flame retardant properties and fire-resistant properties.

[0068] On the other hand, referring to Figures 1 to 3, the module case 300 may include a case body 310, a front panel 320, and a rear panel 330.

[0069] Specifically, as shown in the figure, the case body 310 may consist of a U-frame. When the case body 310 consists of a U-frame, it may be provided to cover both sides and the bottom of the cell assembly 100. The case body 310 may include a left plate and a right plate that cover both sides of the cell assembly 100, and a bottom plate that covers the bottom of the cell assembly 100. The left plate, right plate and bottom plate may be configured as an integrated unit. In this case, the top and front and rear surfaces of the case body 310 may be open.

[0070] If the case body 310 consists of a U-frame, it may further include a top plate that is joined to the open top surface of the case body 310. The top plate may be joined to the case body 310 by welding. In this case, the configuration in which the top plate and the case body 310 are joined may be a rectangular tube shape with open front and rear surfaces.

[0071] In addition, the module case 300 can be formed in a variety of other forms. For example, the module case 300 can be formed in a monoframe form. For example, the case body 310 may be configured in a rectangular tube form having a top surface, a bottom surface, a left side surface, and a right side surface, with the front and rear surfaces open.

[0072] The front panel 320 and the rear panel 330 may be provided on the open front and rear surfaces of the case body 310, respectively. The front panel 320 and the rear panel 330 may be joined to the case body 310 by welding. Alternatively, the front panel 320 and the rear panel 330 may be formed integrally with the case body 310.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present invention, module terminals 200 may be provided on the front panel 320. The front panel 320 may have holes or slits in part to expose components that are exposed to the outside, such as the module terminals 200 or connectors of the battery module 10.

[0074] Furthermore, a first vent hole H1 may be formed in the back panel 330. This allows vent gases generated when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 to be discharged to the rear of the battery module 10 through the first vent hole H1.

[0075] On the other hand, the front panel 320 and the rear panel 330 may, for example, have an insulating material on their inner surface and a metallic material on their outer surface.

[0076] On the other hand, referring to Figure 3, the battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling plate 700.

[0077] The cooling plate 700 may be interposed between the cell assembly 100 and the module case 300. For example, referring to Figure 2, the cooling plate 700 may be provided on one side of the cell assembly 100, for example, between the lower part of the cell assembly 100 and the bottom surface of the module case 300.

[0078] On the other hand, while the drawings in this specification mainly describe a configuration in which the cooling plate 700 is located on the underside of the battery module 10, the cooling plate 700 may also be located on the other side, such as the top side of the battery module 10. Furthermore, the cooling plate 700 may be located on two or more sides of the battery module 10. For example, the cooling plate 700 may be provided on the top and bottom sides of the cell assembly 100, respectively.

[0079] The cooling plate 700 may be configured to transfer heat between the cell assembly 100 and the module case 300. The battery cell 110 generates heat during use, and if this heat is not properly dissipated, the performance of the battery cell 110 cannot be stably ensured, and in severe cases, this may lead to thermal runaway, ignition, or explosion of the battery cell 110. For this reason, it is necessary to properly dissipate the heat generated by the battery cell 110 to the outside through the module case 300. In this case, the cooling plate 700 facilitates heat transfer between the battery cell 110 and the module case 300, thereby ensuring the stable cooling performance of the battery module 10.

[0080] The cooling plate 700 may contain a heat-conducting material. In particular, the cooling plate 700 may contain a resin material, in which case it may be referred to as a thermal resin. The cooling plate 700 may contain a variety of materials, typically at least one of urethane, silicone, epoxy, etc. The cooling plate 700 may also be referred to by other terms such as TIM (Thermal Interface Material) or potting resin, and as the material for the cooling plate 700 of the battery module 10 according to the present invention, a variety of thermally conductive adhesives or TIMs known at the time of filing of the present invention may be used.

[0081] The cooling plate 700 can be interposed between the entirety of the battery cells 110 provided in the cell assembly 100 and the module case 300. That is, the cooling plate 700 can be configured to directly contact all of the battery cells 110 included in the cell assembly 100. According to this embodiment, heat can be dissipated from the entirety of the battery cells 110 included in the battery module 10 through the cooling plate 700. Therefore, the overall cooling performance of the battery module 10 can be further improved.

[0082] The cooling plate 700 may be configured to fix the cell assembly 100 to the module case 300. Therefore, the cooling plate 700 may contain an adhesive component. For example, if the cooling plate 700 is located below the cell assembly 100, as shown in Figure 2, the cooling plate 700 can bond and fix the lower part of the cell assembly 100 to the bottom surface of the module case 300.

[0083] Such a cooling plate 700 can be applied to the bottom surface of the module case 300 before the cell assembly 100 is housed in the module case 300, and then cured over time.

[0084] Figure 6 is a front view of the back panel included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Referring to Figure 6, multiple first vent holes H1 may be provided. The first vent holes H1 may be arranged in at least one direction. The first vent holes H1 may be arranged in multiple rows. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the first vent holes H1 may be arranged in a single row along the height direction of the back panel 330, and multiple first vent holes H1 arranged in a single row may be arranged in multiple rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, i.e., the width direction of the back panel 330. Such multiple first vent holes H1 may be provided at a certain interval from each other.

[0086] According to this embodiment, no matter where a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110, the vent gas and flames can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the multiple first vent holes H1 provided at the rear of the battery cell 110.

[0087] Figure 7 is a front view of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 8 shows how the electrode leads of the battery cells included in the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention are connected to the rear busbar frame. Furthermore, Figure 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the rear busbar frame included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring further to Figures 7-10 along with Figure 3, the battery module 10 of the present invention may further include a busbar frame 500. The busbar frame 500 may be located inside the module case 300 and configured to cover at least one side of the cell assembly 100.

[0089] The busbar frame 500 may be located on the side of the battery cell 110 where the electrode leads 112 are provided. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the electrode leads 112 may be located on the front and rear sides of the battery cell 110, and the busbar frame 500 may be coupled to the front and rear of the cell assembly 100.

[0090] Therefore, the busbar frame 500 may include a front busbar frame 500a and a rear busbar frame 500b. The busbar frame 500 may be formed from, for example, a plastic material that has electrical insulating properties.

[0091] Referring to Figures 7 to 10, a second vent hole H2 may be formed in the busbar frame 500. For example, as shown, the second vent hole H2 may be formed in the rear busbar frame 500b.

[0092] According to this embodiment, the front busbar frame 500a does not have a second vent hole H2, which allows for smoother guidance of vent gas, flames, etc., being discharged in one direction, particularly towards the rear.

[0093] The second vent hole H2 may be configured to communicate with the first vent hole H1. The second vent hole H2 may be positioned to face the first vent hole H1 at least partially. The first vent hole H1 and the second vent hole H2 may be arranged in a substantially straight line.

[0094] According to this embodiment, vent gas and flames are discharged to the outside in a nearly straight line through the first vent hole H1 and the second vent hole H2. This allows vent gas and flames to be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 more quickly.

[0095] On the other hand, referring to Figures 7 and 8, the busbar frame 500 may include lead slots 510. The lead slots 510 may be provided so that at least some of the electrode leads 112 of a plurality of battery cells 110 can pass through. The lead slots 510 may be provided so that the plurality of electrode leads 112 can pass through in the +Y axis direction or the -Y axis direction (front-to-back direction).

[0096] Multiple lead slots 510 may be provided so as to be spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the multiple battery cells 110. In this case, multiple electrode leads 112 that have passed through the lead slots 510 may be bent and overlap each other. Through such an overlapping structure, multiple battery cells 110 whose electrode leads 112 are in contact with each other can be electrically connected to each other.

[0097] Referring also to Figure 8, a battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of busbars 600. The plurality of busbars 600 may be configured to connect a plurality of battery cells 110 in series and / or in parallel.

[0098] The busbar 600 may be provided between multiple lead slots 510. This allows the busbar 600 to be configured to directly contact the electrode leads 112 passing through the lead slots 510. Specifically, the electrode leads 112 of multiple battery cells 110 are drawn out to the outside of the busbar frame 500 by passing through the lead slots 510 of the busbar frame 500, and the drawn-out portions may be attached to the surface of the busbar 600 by welding or other means.

[0099] The busbar 600 may be made of a metallic material such as copper, aluminum, or nickel. The busbar 600 may also be a rod-shaped structure extending in the vertical direction.

[0100] The busbar 600 may be attached to the outer surface of the busbar frame 500. To this end, the busbar frame 500 may include a busbar coupling portion 520. The busbar 600 may also be located inside the electrode lead 112. That is, the busbar 600 may be located between the bent electrode lead 112 and the busbar frame 500.

[0101] In this case, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 8, stacked electrode leads 112 and busbars 600 can be provided one at each busbar coupling portion 520.

[0102] On the other hand, referring to Figures 7 to 10, multiple second vent holes H2 may be provided. Multiple second vent holes H2 may be arranged along at least one direction. For example, multiple second vent holes H2 may be arranged in a line along the height direction of the busbar frame 500b. The second vent holes H2 may be configured to be connected to one another, as shown in Figure 7. This allows the second vent holes H2 to be provided in a form that extends long along the height direction of the busbar frame 500b. In this case, the second vent holes H2 may be configured in a rib-like shape when the rear busbar frame 500b is viewed from the front.

[0103] Furthermore, multiple second vent holes H2 may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. More specifically, the second vent holes H2 may be formed between busbar couplings 520. That is, the second vent holes H2 may be located between the stacked electrode leads 112 and busbars 600.

[0104] Furthermore, some of the multiple second vent holes H2 may be provided to be integrated with the lead slots 510. That is, the second vent holes H2 may be configured so that at least some of the electrode leads 112 of the multiple battery cells 110 can pass through them.

[0105] The remaining second vent holes H2 of the multiple second vent holes H2 may be provided at a predetermined distance from the lead slot 510. These remaining second vent holes H2 may be configured to allow only fluids, such as vent gas, to pass through.

[0106] On the other hand, referring to Figures 9 and 10, the second vent hole H2 may be configured so that a certain portion is open not only in the front-to-back direction but also in the left-to-right direction. As a result, as shown by the arrow in Figure 9, vent gas and flames generated in the battery cell 110 can be discharged not only rearward along the electrode lead 112 but also to both the left and right sides through the second vent hole H2, and can be quickly moved by the first vent hole H1.

[0107] Referring to Figure 9, the electrode lead 112 that has passed through the lead slot 510 or the second vent hole H2 provided on the outermost edge of the busbar frame 500 may be configured to be pressed against the busbar 600 by the busbar frame 500. In other words, the electrode lead 112 may be pressed inward by the rib shape of the busbar frame 500.

[0108] According to this embodiment, when multiple electrode leads 112 that are in contact with the busbar 600 are stacked on top of each other, the electrode leads 112 and the busbar 600 can make more stable contact, and thus the electrode leads 112 and the busbar 600 can be electrically connected more stably.

[0109] Figure 11 is a rear cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 12 is a front view of a busbar frame included in a battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0110] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the block member 400 may include a first block member 410. The first block member 410 may be located outside the busbar frame 500. For example, the first block member 410 may be located in the space between the rear busbar frame 500b and the rear panel 330.

[0111] The first block member 410 may be configured to suppress the movement of gas discharged from the second vent hole H2 along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 in the space between the busbar frame 500 and the other side of the module case 300. That is, the first block member 410 may be configured to suppress the movement of gas along the stacking direction (left-right direction) of the battery cells 110 in the space between the rear busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330.

[0112] According to this embodiment, the first block member 410 suppresses the movement of vent gas and the like along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, thereby suppressing or preventing heat transfer between the battery cells 110. Furthermore, since the first block member 410 can guide the vent gas and the like toward the first vent hole H1, directional venting of the vent gas and the like can be guided more reliably.

[0113] More specifically, a plurality of first block members 410 may be provided. The plurality of first block members 410 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, that is, along the left-right direction of the busbar frame 500b. For example, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the first block members 410 may be provided between electrode leads 112 that are configured to be stacked. Alternatively, the first block members 410 may be provided between adjacent busbars 600. That is, the first block members 400 may be provided in the space formed between the busbar coupling portions 520.

[0114] As a result, multiple separated spaces can be formed between adjacent first block members 410. At least one first vent hole H1 can be located between adjacent first block members 410. For example, according to the embodiment shown in Figure 12, two first vent holes H1 can be located between adjacent first block members 410.

[0115] Furthermore, the first block member 410 may be provided on the outside of the second vent hole H2. This allows the first block member 410 to be configured to face the second vent hole H2 at least partially. In addition, the first block member 410 may be configured to be spaced a predetermined distance from the second vent hole H2. This prevents obstruction of the path of vent gas, flames, etc., discharged from the second vent hole H2.

[0116] According to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell 110, the vent gas and flames discharged through the second vent hole H2 are guided by the first block member 410 to be discharged only towards the space located behind the battery cell 110 and the first vent hole H1. This allows for rapid directional venting of the vent gas and flames to the first vent hole H1.

[0117] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the movement of vent gas, flames, etc., beyond the first block member 410 to other spaces. As a result, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 110, it is possible to suppress or prevent the movement of vent gas, flames, etc., to other battery cells 110 and the propagation of heat.

[0118] In other words, the first block member 410 can be configured to separate the vent passages of multiple battery cells 110. For example, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the first block member 410 can be configured to suppress the movement of vent gas and other substances generated in groups of four battery cells 110 to other groups of battery cells 110.

[0119] Furthermore, the first block member 410 may be configured to extend along the height direction of the busbar frame 500b. Referring to Figure 12, the height of the first block member 410 may be configured to correspond to the height of the rear busbar frame 500b.

[0120] According to this embodiment, the first block member 410 can more reliably separate the space along the height direction of the busbar frame 500b. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress the movement of vent gas and other substances into other spaces where adjacent battery cells 110 are located.

[0121] Furthermore, the first block member 410 may include an elastic material. The first block member 410 may also include a highly heat-resistant material. Furthermore, the first block member 410 may include a highly flame-resistant material. Furthermore, the first block member 410 may include an electrically insulating material. For example, the first block member 410 may include a silicone material.

[0122] Furthermore, referring to Figure 11, the first block member 410 may be configured to be compressed by the busbar frame 500b.

[0123] Specifically, referring to Figure 11, the rear busbar frame 500b may further include a projection 530. The projection 530 may be configured such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the busbar frame 500b protrudes outward. In this case, the projection 530 may extend further outward than the outer surface of the busbar coupling 520. The projection 530 may also be formed to extend in a straight line along the height direction of the first block member 410. Such a projection 530 may be provided between adjacent second vent holes H2.

[0124] Such protrusions 530 may be configured to press against the first block member 410. The number of protrusions 530 may correspond to the number of first block members 410. This allows the first block member 410 to be configured such that at least a portion of it is recessed by the protrusions 530. In this case, the first block member 410 can be in close contact with the busbar frame 500b without any gaps.

[0125] According to this embodiment, the protrusion 530 is configured to press against the first block member 410, eliminating any gap between the busbar frame 500b and the first block member 410. This allows the first block member 410 to more reliably partition and separate the space between the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330. As a result, when thermal runaway propagation occurs in the battery module 10, thermal runaway propagation between the battery cells 110 can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0126] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the back panel separated from a battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the back side of the battery module to which the first block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. For example, Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view along line II-II' in Figure 1.

[0127] The first block member 410 may be configured to be further compressed by the module case 300. The first block member 410 may be configured to be pressed in the front-rear direction by the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330. This makes it possible to prevent vent gas, flames, etc. from moving between the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330 and the first block member 410 by ensuring that the first block member 410 is in close contact with the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330.

[0128] Specifically, the first block member 410 may be configured to be compressed according to the shape of the inner surface of the back panel 330. The inner surface of the back panel 330 may be configured to correspond to the shape of the busbar frame 500b. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 14, the upper portion of the back panel 330 where the busbar 600 is not provided may be configured to protrude inward. As a result, the first block member 410 may also be configured in a form in which the upper part is recessed inward to correspond to the shape of the inner surface of the back panel 330.

[0129] According to this embodiment, the first block member 410 can be compressed and joined to correspond to the shape of the space between the back plate 330 and the busbar frame 500b. This allows the space between the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330 to be more reliably separated by the first block member 410. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first block member 410 is stably fixed by the busbar frame 500b and the back plate 330, which suppresses bending deformation of the first block member 410. Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs, the possibility of the resulting high-temperature, high-pressure vent gas or flames spreading into other spaces while pressing against the first block member 410 can be reduced.

[0130] As a result, according to this embodiment, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 110, it is possible to reliably suppress or prevent vent gas, flames, etc. from moving to other battery cells 110 and causing heat propagation.

[0131] Figure 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the rear side of a battery module to which a block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the interior of the rear side of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. Furthermore, Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the front side of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the interior of the front side of a battery module to which a second block member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0132] Referring to Figures 15 to 18, the block member 400 may include a second block member 420. The second block member 420 may be configured to guide the discharge of vent gas, flames, etc., in one direction, particularly backward. The second block member 420 may also be configured to suppress the discharge of vent gas, flames, etc., in directions other than backward, particularly forward.

[0133] The second block member 420 may be located further inward than the first block member 410. That is, the second block member 420 may be located closer to the battery cell 110 than the first block member 410.

[0134] Specifically, the second block member 420 may be interposed between the busbar frame 500 and the cell assembly 100. The second block member 420 may be interposed in front of and / or behind the cell assembly 100. The second block member 420 may be provided only in front of the cell assembly 100, or it may be interposed both in front of and behind the cell assembly 100. More specifically, the second block member 420 may be located in front of and / or behind the battery cell 110.

[0135] Furthermore, the second block member 420 may include an elastic material. The second block member 420 may also include a highly heat-resistant material. Furthermore, the second block member 420 may include a highly flame-resistant material. Furthermore, the second block member 420 may include an electrically insulating material. For example, the second block member 420 may include a silicone material.

[0136] According to this embodiment, the provision of the second block member 420 allows vent gas, flames, etc., to be guided so that they are discharged to the outside only in one direction, particularly through the first vent hole H1 located behind the battery module 10.

[0137] Furthermore, the second block member 420 may be configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell 110. The second block member 420 may be configured to extend only as far as the height of the storage portion 111a of the battery cell 110.

[0138] According to this embodiment, the second block member 420 can more reliably block the movement of vent gas and flame in the height direction of the battery cell 110. This suppresses the movement of vent gas and other substances to adjacent battery cells 110 and the resulting heat transfer.

[0139] Multiple second block members 420 may be provided. Multiple second block members 420 may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, i.e., the left-right direction. The second block members 420 may be provided between the battery cells 110.

[0140] On the other hand, referring to Figure 4, if the battery cell 110 of the present invention is a pouch-type battery cell, the cell case 111 may include a storage section 111a and a sealing section 111b.

[0141] The storage section 111a may be configured to house the electrode assembly. The storage section 111a has a concave internal space on the surface facing the electrode assembly, and the electrode assembly can be housed in this internal space. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the storage section 111a may have a double cup shape formed on both sides of the cell case 111.

[0142] The storage section 111a may be configured to extend in one direction. That is, the storage section 111a may be configured to extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110.

[0143] The periphery of the storage portion 111a can be heat-fused to form a sealing portion 111b. That is, the sealing portion 111b can be provided by sealing the outer periphery of the storage portion 111a. As shown in the embodiment in Figure 4, the sealing portion 111b can be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell 110.

[0144] In this case, the sealing portion 111b may be configured to protrude in one direction from the storage portion 111a. The sealing portion 111b may be configured to protrude further than the storage portion 111a along one direction. At the ends of the battery cell 110, the storage portions 111a are in close contact with each other, and a predetermined space may be formed between the sealing portions 111b.

[0145] Furthermore, the electrode leads 112 may be configured to protrude forward and / or backward from the housing portion 111a or the sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110.

[0146] On the other hand, the battery cell 110 can be installed in an upright position with the side without the sealing portion 111b facing downwards. As shown in Figure 3 and other figures, multiple battery cells 110 can be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). In this case, each battery cell 110 may have its sealing portion 111b facing in the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and upward (+Z-axis direction), and its housing portion 111a facing in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0147] The second block member 420 may be provided on at least one side of the sealing portion 111b. That is, at least one surface of the second block member 420 may be configured to contact the sealing portion 111b. In other words, the second block member 420 may be configured to contact the front and / or rear of the storage portion 111a and also to contact the sealing portion 111b. According to this embodiment, the second block member 420 can fix the sealing portion 111b.

[0148] Furthermore, the second block member 420 may contact the front and / or rear of the storage section 111a. Also, one side of the second block member 420 may be configured to contact the storage section 111a and the other side to contact the busbar frame 500.

[0149] On the other hand, referring to Figures 3, 15, and 16, a cell assembly 100 of a battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a barrier member 120. The barrier member 120 may be provided between battery cells 110 and configured to partition off the spaces between multiple battery cells 110. In particular, at least one barrier member 120 may be included in a single battery module 10. Multiple barrier members 120 may be provided along the direction in which the battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0150] The barrier member 120 may be placed for at least one battery cell 110. The barrier member 120 may also be configured to contact the busbar frame 500.

[0151] For example, as shown in Figure 15, in a battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a barrier member 120 may be placed for every two battery cells 110. This allows the barrier member 120 to partition and separate the battery cells 110 into groups of two.

[0152] The barrier member 120 may be an insulating pad thinner than the thickness of the battery cell 110. The barrier member 120 may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Alternatively, the barrier member 120 may be made of a compressible pad form, such as a material like silicone or aerogel.

[0153] According to this embodiment, by partitioning or separating the multiple battery cells 110, it is possible to prevent gases, flames, etc., from moving to other adjacent barrier members 120 and transferring heat to other battery cells 110. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when a swelling phenomenon occurs in a battery cell 110, the barrier member 120 can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cell 110 by compressing the battery cell 110.

[0154] The barrier member 120 may be configured to extend in the front-rear direction and protrude beyond the sealing portion 111b in the front-rear direction. That is, the length of the barrier member 120 may be configured to be longer than the length of the battery cell 110. The barrier member 120 may also be configured to contact the inner surface of the busbar frame 500.

[0155] In this case, the second block member 420 may be provided between the barrier member 120 and the battery cell 110. The second block member 420 may be provided between the barrier member 120 and the sealing portion 111b. One side of the second block member 420 may be configured to contact the end portion of the barrier member 120, and the other side may be configured to contact the sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110.

[0156] The second block members 420 may be provided on both sides of the barrier member 120. The second block members 420 may be configured to compress the barrier member 120 from both sides. That is, the second block members 420 can compress the barrier member 120 from the left and right directions. This fixes the position of the barrier member 120. In addition, the second block members 420 can prevent bending deformation of the barrier member 120.

[0157] According to this embodiment, even if a thermal event occurs, the possibility of the resulting high-temperature, high-pressure vent gas or flame spreading to other spaces while pressing against the end portion of the barrier member 120 can be reduced. As a result, according to this embodiment, no matter which battery cell 110 experiences a thermal event, it is possible to reliably suppress or prevent the vent gas or flame from moving to other battery cells 110 and causing heat propagation.

[0158] Furthermore, a second vent hole H2 may be located between adjacent second block members 420. This allows vent gases and flames generated in the battery cells 110 between adjacent second block members 420 to be discharged to the outside of the battery module 10 through the second vent hole H2.

[0159] As an example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 15 and 16, two battery cells 110 are provided between two adjacent barrier members 120, and second block members 420 may be provided on both rear sides of these two barrier members 120. Furthermore, a second vent hole H2 may be provided between the second block members 420 located inside the two barrier members 120. That is, inside the busbar frame 500, the vent flow path can be separated for each portion of the battery cells 110 by the second block members 420.

[0160] According to this embodiment, gases, flames, etc., ejected from the battery cell 110 located between adjacent barrier members 120 are discharged to the outside of the module case 300 only through the second vent hole H2 located between adjacent second block members 420.

[0161] As a specific example, referring to the thick arrow shown in Figure 15, if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 110 located between the barrier members 120, generating gas or flame, the gas or flame can be guided to the second vent hole H2 by the second block member 420. Furthermore, such gas or flame can move into the space between the busbar frame 500b and the back panel 330, be guided towards the first vent hole H1 by the first block member 410, and immediately discharged to the outside.

[0162] According to this embodiment, since the vent flow path is separated not only by the first block member 410 but also by the second block member 420, it is possible to suppress the movement of vent gas generated in some groups of grouped battery cells 110 to other groups of battery cells 110. This prevents thermal runaway from spreading to other adjacent battery cells 110.

[0163] On the other hand, the second block member 420 may be configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the busbar frame 500. For example, the second block member 420 may be attached to the inner surface of the busbar frame 500. This allows the second block member 420 to be configured to contact the storage section 111a and the busbar frame 500 in the front-rear direction, and the sealing section 111b and / or the barrier member 120 in the left-right direction.

[0164] In this case, the second block member 420 may be configured to receive compressive forces from all four sides. For example, the second block member 420 may be interposed in a compressed state by the storage section 111a, the sealing section 111b, the busbar frame 500 and / or the barrier member 120. The second block member 420 may be configured to press against the inner surfaces of the storage section 111a and the busbar frame 500.

[0165] According to this embodiment, by compressing the second block member 420 in the front-rear direction and interposing it, the second block member 420 can be made to be even more tightly fitted to the inner surface of the storage section 111a and the busbar frame 500. As a result, the space formed by the second block member 420 is further sealed, preventing vent gas, flames, etc. from moving beyond the second block member 420 into the space where other battery cells 110 are located.

[0166] On the other hand, referring to Figures 15 to 18, multiple second block members 420 can be arranged on one side and the other side of the battery cell 110. Here, one side of the battery cell 110 means the front of the battery cell 110, and the other side means the rear of the battery cell 110.

[0167] In this case, the second block members 420 may be provided in greater numbers on one side of the battery cell 110 than on the other side. That is, the second block members 420 may be provided at a higher density in front of the battery cell 110 than behind the battery cell 110.

[0168] For example, as shown in the embodiments in Figures 17 and 18, the second block member 420 may be provided in front of the battery module 10, between each sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110. That is, the second block member 420 may be interposed in all spaces between the front sealing portions 111b of adjacent battery cells 110 and between the barrier member 120 and the front sealing portion 111b.

[0169] Furthermore, the second block member 420 can provide a compressive force to the sealing portion 111b. The second block member 420 can compress the sealing portion 111b from the left and right directions. The sealing portion 111b in front of the battery cell 110 can be positioned and fixed between the second block members 420. The second block member 420 can also be positioned to push the storage portion 111a backward.

[0170] On the other hand, referring to Figures 15 and 16, the second block member 420 can be interposed only on both sides of the barrier member 120 at the rear of the battery module 10. This allows for a space to be provided between adjacent second block members 420 for vent gases and flames generated in the battery cells 110 to escape.

[0171] According to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs, the direction of exhaust of vent gas and flames can be guided to the rear. Specifically, when a thermal event occurs, the internal pressure of the sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110 increases. At this time, according to this embodiment, the second block member 420 compresses the front sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110, thereby dispersing or reducing the pressure applied to the front sealing portion 111b. This makes it possible to suppress or block the discharge of vent gas to the front sealing portion 111b or the electrode lead 112 side. The pressure of the vent gas is then concentrated in the rear sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110. As a result, the vent gas is discharged to the rear sealing portion 111b side of the battery cell 110.

[0172] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the second block member 420 prevents the front sealing portion 111b from being exposed to flames or high-temperature gases. As a result, the front sealing portion 111b is prevented from being damaged by external flames or high-temperature gases, and the discharge of vent gas from the front sealing portion 111b can be suppressed.

[0173] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the second block member 420 can prevent the front sealing portion 111b from being damaged by external pressure by compressing and fixing the front sealing portion 111b.

[0174] On the other hand, referring further to Figure 4, the battery cell 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fixing member 113. The fixing member 113 may be configured to fix the upper surface of the battery cell 110.

[0175] More specifically, the cell case 111 may include a folding portion 111c that is bent on one side of the sealing portion 111b where the electrode leads 112 do not protrude. That is, the cell case 111 may have a folding portion 111c on the side sealing portion of the sealing portion 111b where the electrode leads 112 are not located. Such a folding portion 111c may be provided on the upper part of the battery cell 110.

[0176] The fixing member 113 may be attached to the folding portion 111c to fix the folded portion 111c. The fixing member 113 may be attached to the cell case 111 so as to cover and wrap around the folding portion 111c along the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell 110.

[0177] In particular, the fixing member 113 may be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110. The fixing member 113 may have a length equal to the length of the battery cell 110. This allows the fixing member 113 to be configured to completely cover the folding portion 111c of the battery cell 110 along its longitudinal direction.

[0178] According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the opening of the folding portion 111c located at the top when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110. This suppresses or blocks the discharge of vent gas from the top of the battery cell 110. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110, the rear sealing portion 111b is opened, and the vent gas is guided to be discharged through the rear sealing portion 111b of the battery cell 110.

[0179] Figure 19 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack containing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0180] Referring to Figure 19, a battery pack 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack 1 according to the present invention may further include a battery management system (BMS) for integrated control of the charging and discharging of one or more battery modules 10, a current sensor, a fuse, and the above-mentioned components, along with a pack case 2 for housing these components.

[0181] On the other hand, in a battery pack 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, the module case 300 may be omitted. That is, in a battery pack 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells 110 can be directly housed in the pack case 2 without being modularized. Such a battery pack 1 may be defined as a cell-to-pack configuration.

[0182] Referring to Figure 19, multiple battery modules 10 can be arranged such that one side with the module terminals 200 faces inward towards the pack case 2. This allows the other side of the battery module 10, with the first vent hole H1 and the second vent hole H2, to face outward towards the pack case 2.

[0183] According to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 110 inside the battery module 10, vent gas and flames are directionally vented toward the rear of the battery module 10. This allows the vent gas and flames discharged toward the rear to be quickly expelled from the outside of the battery pack 1.

[0184] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by minimizing the direction of vent gas, flames, etc. toward the module terminal 200 side, it is possible to suppress or prevent heat propagation to other adjacent battery modules 10. This makes it possible to prevent or delay events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway in the battery pack 1, which includes multiple battery modules 10.

[0185] Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view of an automobile including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0186] Referring to Figure 20, an automobile V according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs 1 or battery modules 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The automobile V according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The automobile V includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The automobile V operates by receiving power from the battery pack 1 or battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] As described above, the present invention has been explained with limited embodiments and drawings, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited thereto, and that various modifications and variations are possible within the equivalent scope of the technical idea and claims of the present invention by persons with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

1. A cell assembly containing multiple battery cells, A module terminal configured to be electrically connected to multiple battery cells, A module case configured to house the cell assembly, wherein the module terminals are provided on one side and a first vent hole is formed on the other side, configured to allow gas generated by the battery cell to be discharged to the outside, A battery module comprising a block member configured to guide the gas to the first vent hole.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the first vent holes are arranged in a plurality in at least one direction.

3. Each of the aforementioned battery cells is equipped with electrode leads, The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a busbar frame provided on the side where the electrode leads of the battery cell are provided, and having a second vent hole formed therein which is configured to communicate with the first vent hole.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of the second vent holes are arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

5. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein the second vent hole is configured to allow at least a portion of the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells to pass through.

6. The aforementioned block member is The battery module according to claim 3, further comprising a first block member provided on the outside of the busbar frame, the first block member configured to suppress the movement of gas discharged from the second vent hole along the stacking direction of the battery cells in the space between the busbar frame and the other side of the module case.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein a plurality of the first block members are arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

8. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the first block member is configured to extend along the height direction of the busbar frame.

9. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the first block member is configured to be compressed by the busbar frame.

10. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the first block member is configured to be compressed by the module case.

11. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein the block member comprises a second block member interposed between the busbar frame and the cell assembly.

12. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein the second block member is configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell.

13. The aforementioned battery cell is A housing section configured to house the electrode assembly and extend in one direction, It includes a sealing portion configured to protrude in one direction from the storage portion, The battery module according to claim 11, wherein the second block member is provided on at least one side of the sealing portion.

14. The cell assembly further includes a barrier member provided between the battery cells, The battery module according to claim 13, wherein the second block member is provided between the barrier member and the sealing portion of the battery cell.

15. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein the second block member is configured to press against the inner surfaces of the storage section and the busbar frame.

16. Multiple of the second block members are arranged on one side and the other side of the battery cell, The battery module according to claim 14, wherein the second block member is provided in greater numbers on one side of the battery cell than on the other side of the battery cell.

17. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell includes a fixing member configured to fix the upper surface.

18. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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