Vehicle devices including battery packs

Abstract

A vehicle device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery pack and a tank. The battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells, a pack frame on which the battery cells are directly mounted or mounted while the battery cells are housed in a module frame, and a pack cover that covers the pack frame. The tank includes cooling water or fire extinguishing water, a tank outlet from which the cooling water or fire extinguishing water is discharged, and a sealing layer provided on one side where the tank outlet is located.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2024 - 0021604, filed on February 15, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the literature of the Korean patent application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates to a vehicle device including a battery pack, and more specifically, provides a vehicle device capable of preventing ignition on the surface of the battery pack by lowering the temperature of the battery pack surface.

Background Art

[0003] In modern society, the use of portable devices such as mobile phones, laptops, video cameras, and digital cameras has become commonplace, and technological development in the field related to such mobile devices has been active. In addition, rechargeable secondary batteries are a solution for solving problems such as air pollution in existing gasoline vehicles that use fossil fuels, and are being used as power sources for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug - in hybrid electric vehicles (P - HEVs), etc., and the need for the development of secondary batteries is increasing.

[0004] Commercially available secondary batteries currently include nickel cadmium batteries, nickel hydrogen batteries, nickel zinc batteries, lithium secondary batteries, etc. Among these, lithium secondary batteries have attracted attention for their advantages of almost no memory effect compared to nickel - based secondary batteries, free charge and discharge, very low self - discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium - based oxides and carbon materials as the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material, respectively. A lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with such positive electrode active material and negative electrode active material, respectively, are arranged with a separator therebetween, and a battery case for sealing and accommodating the electrode assembly together with an electrolytic solution.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into two types based on the shape of their casing: can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in an aluminum laminate sheet pouch.

[0007] In the case of secondary batteries used in small devices, two to three battery cells are arranged, but in the case of secondary batteries used in medium to large devices such as automobiles, a battery module is used in which many battery cells are electrically connected. In such battery modules, the capacity and output are improved by connecting many battery cells in series or parallel to each other to form a stack of battery cells. Furthermore, one or more battery modules can be installed together with various control and protection systems such as a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit), a BMS (Battery Management System), and a cooling system to form a battery pack.

[0008] A battery pack may include battery modules as a sub-concept, and a battery module may include battery cells as a sub-concept. The number of battery cells in a battery module or the number of battery modules in a battery pack may be determined in various ways depending on the output and capacity of the battery pack required for the electric vehicle.

[0009] However, one of the most important issues with such battery packs is safety. In particular, if a thermal event occurs in at least one of the many battery cells contained in the battery pack, high-temperature gas and heat will be generated.

[0010] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a conventional battery pack and a conventional chassis inside a vehicle device.

[0011] Referring to Figure 1, when thermal runaway occurs, high-temperature vent gas is discharged from the side of the conventional battery pack 1. Thermal runaway inside the conventional battery pack 1 causes the surface temperature of the conventional battery pack 1 to rise. The high-temperature vent gas flows from inside the conventional chassis 10 to the surface of the conventional battery pack 1. At this time, the high-temperature vent gas will ignite on the surface of the conventional battery pack 1. Since such ignition can lead to the explosion of the battery pack 1 and the vehicle devices containing it, it is necessary to lower the surface temperature of the battery pack to prevent such ignition of the battery pack surface. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to prevent the surface of a battery pack from igniting when thermal runaway occurs, and more specifically, to provide a vehicle device that can prevent the surface of a battery pack from igniting by lowering the surface temperature of the battery pack.

[0013] However, the problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to those described above, and can be extended in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] A vehicle device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery pack and a tank. The battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells, a pack frame on which the battery cells are directly mounted or mounted while the battery cells are housed in a module frame, and a pack cover that covers the pack frame. The tank includes cooling water or fire extinguishing water, a tank outlet from which the cooling water or fire extinguishing water is discharged, and a sealing layer provided on one side where the tank outlet is located.

[0015] The sealing layer melts or ruptures at high temperatures, allowing the cooling water or fire extinguishing water to be discharged.

[0016] The tank outlet may be provided facing the upper end of the pack cover.

[0017] The battery pack may have a valve for releasing internal gas.

[0018] The tank may be fixed to the chassis between the pack cover and the chassis inside the vehicle device.

[0019] The battery pack may include one or more frame members provided in the pack cover and equipped with cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0020] The frame member may be a tubular member having a cavity part inside and connected along one direction. The cooling water or fire extinguishing water may be provided in the cavity part.

[0021] The frame member may include a TIM pad that contacts the pack cover.

[0022] This may include an adhesive tape positioned between the frame member and the TIM pad.

[0023] The frame member may include one or more frame member valves for discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0024] The frame member valve may include a frame member discharge port toward the pack cover.

[0025] The frame member may include a mounting portion in which mounting holes are formed. Mounting bolts may pass through the mounting holes and be fastened to the pack cover.

[0026] The frame member can include a first hollow portion and a second hollow portion provided with the cooling water or the fire extinguishing water. The mounting portion may be located between the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion.

[0027] The frame member may be welded and joined to the pack cover.

[0028] The frame member may be fixed to the pack cover between the pack cover and the chassis inside the vehicle device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle device includes a tank provided with cooling water or fire extinguishing water, so that the temperature of the surface of the battery pack can be lowered. Thereby, ignition on the surface of the battery pack can be prevented, and outflow of flames can be prevented.

[0030] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] [Figure 1] It is a cross-sectional view showing a conventional battery pack and a conventional chassis inside a vehicle device. [Figure 2] It is an exploded perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a cross-sectional view showing a chassis inside a vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a partial drawing showing an enlarged view of the "A" part in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is an exploded perspective view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a plan view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a plan view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 9. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a partial perspective view showing the outlet of a frame member valve included in the frame member. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line B-B' in Figure 9. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view showing the chassis inside a vehicle device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily implement it. The present invention can be implemented in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0033] To clearly explain the present invention, unnecessary parts have been omitted, and the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0034] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily limited to those shown in the present invention. In the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are shown enlarged to clearly represent them. Also, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are shown exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

[0035] Furthermore, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is said to be "on top of" or "above" another part, this includes not only when it is "directly above" the other part, but also when there are other parts in between. Conversely, when one part is said to be "directly above" another part, it means that there are no other parts in between. Also, being "on top of" or "above" a reference part means being located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean being located "on top of" or "above" in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0036] Furthermore, when a specification states that a part of it "includes" a certain component, unless otherwise specified, this means that it may include other components, rather than excluding them.

[0037] Furthermore, throughout the specification, "on a plane" means when the subject is viewed from above, and "on a cross-section" means when the subject is viewed from the side of a cross-section obtained by cutting the subject perpendicularly.

[0038] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a battery pack 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a chassis 10000 inside a vehicle device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Specifically, Figure 4 shows the chassis 10000, the tank 1300, and the battery pack 1000.

[0042] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, a vehicle device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery pack 1000 and a tank 1300. The battery pack 1000 includes a plurality of battery cells 100, a pack frame 1100 on which the battery cells 100 are directly mounted or mounted while the battery cells 100 are housed in a module frame, and a pack cover 1200 that covers the pack frame 1100.

[0043] The tank 1300 includes cooling water or fire extinguishing water, a tank outlet 1300a from which the cooling water or fire extinguishing water is discharged, and a sealing layer 1300b provided on one side where the tank outlet 1300a is located.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the present invention, if ignition occurs inside the battery pack 1000, the heat or gas generated in the battery pack 1000 can melt the sealing layer 1300b. That is, the sealing layer 1300b surrounding the tank outlet 1300a melts, allowing the tank outlet 1300a to open. With the tank outlet 1300a open, the cooling water or fire extinguishing water inside the tank 1300 can be discharged. The discharged cooling water or fire extinguishing water is sprayed onto the surface of the battery pack 1000, lowering the surface temperature of the battery pack 1000. This prevents ignition of the surface of the battery pack 1000 and prevents the outflow of flames and the occurrence of an explosion.

[0045] The size of the tank 1300 may be determined according to the capacity, shape, and size of the battery pack 1000. The size of the tank 1300 can cover the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the battery pack 1000 (the xy plane in Figure 2).

[0046] The position and size of the tank outlet 1300a may be determined according to the shape, size, etc., of the battery pack 1000.

[0047] The sealing layer 1300b may be applied to the entire outer surface of the tank 1300, or it may be applied only to the area corresponding to the tank outlet 1300a. The material and function of the sealing layer 1300b will be described later.

[0048] Cooling water or fire extinguishing water may be one of the known or a mixture thereof, and any of the known may be used, as long as it can release the heat from the battery pack 1000 by being held in the tank 1300.

[0049] The tank 1300 may include an opening (not shown) for injecting or discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water. A user of the vehicle device, for example, can use the opening to inject or discharge cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or out of the tank 1300 depending on the remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the tank 1300.

[0050] The tank 1300 may have a water level sensor (not shown) that can check the remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water provided in the tank 1300. The vehicle device may have a water level display unit (not shown) that receives data on the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water from the water level sensor and displays the water level. The water level display unit allows the user of the vehicle device to check the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0051] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a water level warning display unit that can notify the user of the vehicle device if the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water stored in the tank 1300 exceeds a preset level or does not reach a preset level. When a warning is displayed on the water level warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0052] Furthermore, users of the vehicle device can easily check for leaks of cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the tank 1300 using the water level indicator and water level warning indicator.

[0053] Tank 1300 may have a temperature sensor (not shown) that can check the temperature of the coolant or fire extinguishing water contained in Tank 1300. The vehicle device may have a temperature display unit (not shown) that receives temperature data of the coolant or fire extinguishing water from the temperature sensor and displays the temperature. The temperature display unit allows the user of the vehicle device to check the temperature of the coolant or fire extinguishing water.

[0054] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a temperature warning display unit that can inform the user of the vehicle device if the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water contained in the tank 1300 exceeds a preset temperature. When a warning is displayed on the temperature warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0055] A transparent glass panel (not shown) can be provided on the side of the tank 1300, allowing the remaining amount of coolant or fire extinguishing water stored in the tank 1300 to be visually inspected. This allows users of the vehicle device, mechanics, etc., to directly visually check the remaining amount of coolant or fire extinguishing water stored in the tank 1300.

[0056] The tank 1300 may have a hose (not shown) for injecting or discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or out of the tank 1300. The hose may communicate with the tank 1300 via an opening or closing part, or directly with the tank 1300 without an opening or closing part.

[0057] The tank outlet 1300a can automatically discharge cooling water or fire extinguishing water in conjunction with the water level sensor and temperature sensor inside the tank 1300.

[0058] Figure 5 is a magnified view of section "A" in Figure 4. Specifically, Figure 5 shows the sealing layer 1300b rupturing and the discharge of cooling water or firefighting water.

[0059] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the sealing layer 1300b melts or ruptures at high temperatures, allowing cooling water or fire extinguishing water to be discharged.

[0060] The sealing layer 1300b may contain a material that melts or bursts at high temperatures. The sealing layer 1300b may have a structure that seals the tank 1300 and the tank outlet 1300a by methods such as fusion bonding. In environments that are not high temperatures, the sealing layer 1300b can serve to seal the tank outlet 1300a.

[0061] The sealing layer 1300b may include a material that melts or bursts only at high temperatures. The material can be determined based on the thickness and area of ​​the sealing layer 1300b, the shape and size of the tank outlet 1300a, and the distance between the sealing layer 1300b and the upper end of the battery pack 1000. For example, the material may be a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layer, a polyamide (PA) layer, a polycarbonate (PC) layer, or a polypropylene (PP) layer, and the thickness of the sealing layer 1300b can be determined according to the properties of the material.

[0062] The melting point of the sealing layer 1300b may be 200°C.

[0063] As mentioned above, if ignition occurs inside the battery pack 1000, the heat or gas generated in the battery pack 1000 can melt the sealing layer 1300b.

[0064] In other words, the sealing layer 1300b surrounding the tank outlet 1300a melts, allowing the tank outlet 1300a to open. With the tank outlet 1300a open, the cooling water or fire extinguishing water inside the tank 1300 can be discharged. The discharged cooling water or fire extinguishing water is sprayed onto the surface of the battery pack 1000, lowering the surface temperature of the battery pack 1000. This prevents the surface of the battery pack 1000 from igniting and blocks the outflow of flames and the occurrence of explosions.

[0065] Referring again to Figures 3 to 5, the tank outlet 1300a can be positioned facing the upper end of the pack cover 1200.

[0066] By positioning the tank outlet 1300a toward the pack cover 1200, the cooling water or fire extinguishing water discharged from the tank outlet 1300a can mix with the vent gas discharged from the battery pack 1000. This reduces the concentration of flammable gases diffused inside the chassis 10000, thereby preventing ignition of the surface of the battery pack 1000 and further preventing explosions inside the chassis 10000 caused by ignition.

[0067] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Referring to Figure 6, the battery pack 1000 may have a valve 2100 for venting internal gas. The valve 2100 may vent gas generated inside the battery pack 1000. This prevents and suppresses the propagation of thermal runaway in the battery pack 1000 and minimizes damage to the battery pack 1000.

[0069] The number, position, and type of valves 2100 may be appropriately determined considering the battery modules 110 (see Figure 2) within the battery pack 1000, their arrangement, the structure of the battery modules 110 (see Figure 2), and the venting system.

[0070] Referring again to Figure 4, the tank 1300 may be fixed to the chassis 10000 between the pack cover 1200 and the chassis 10000 inside the vehicle device.

[0071] The tank 1300 may be fixed to the chassis 10000 inside the vehicle device between the pack cover 1200 and the chassis 10000 inside the vehicle device. This ensures mechanical rigidity by fixing the tank 1300 even under conditions such as vibration and shock of the vehicle device, and prevents ignition inside the chassis 10000.

[0072] By minimizing the space between the upper ends through surface contact between the chassis 10000 and the tank 1300, the tank 1300 can be fixed to the chassis 10000. In this case, a gasket (not shown) or the like can be provided between the tank 1300 and the chassis 10000.

[0073] Furthermore, the tank 1300 is fixed to the chassis 10000 by bolt / nut connection, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0074] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a plan view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 9 is a plan view of the battery pack 1000 as seen along the -z axis direction on the xy plane. Figure 10 is a plan view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 10 is a plan view of the battery pack 1000 as seen along the +y axis direction on the xz plane.

[0075] Referring to Figures 7 to 10, the battery pack 1000 may include one or more frame members 1500 provided in the pack cover 1200 and equipped with cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0076] As illustrated in Figures 7 to 9, the frame member 1500 may have a shape that extends along the direction perpendicular to the longer side of the battery pack 1000. Furthermore, multiple frame members 1500 may be provided, and these multiple frame members 1500 may be arranged at regular intervals along the direction of the longer side of the battery pack 1000.

[0077] According to embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack 1000 includes one or more frame members 1500 equipped with cooling water or fire extinguishing water, thereby lowering the surface temperature of the battery pack 1000. This prevents ignition of the surface of the battery pack 1000 and prevents the outflow of flames and the occurrence of explosions.

[0078] The frame member 1500 may include an opening / closing section (not shown) for injecting or discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water. A user of the vehicle device, for example, can use the opening / closing section to inject or discharge cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or out of the frame member 1500 depending on the remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the frame member 1500.

[0079] The frame member 1500 may have a water level sensor (not shown) that can check the remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water provided in the frame member 1500. The vehicle device may have a water level display unit (not shown) that receives data on the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water from the water level sensor and displays the water level. The water level display unit allows the user of the vehicle device to check the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0080] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a water level warning display unit that can notify the user of the vehicle device if the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water provided in the frame member 1500 exceeds a preset level or does not reach a preset level. When a warning is displayed on the water level warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0081] Furthermore, the vehicle device user can easily check for leaks of cooling water or fire extinguishing water within the frame member 1500 using the water level indicator and water level warning indicator.

[0082] The frame member 1500 may have a temperature sensor (not shown) that can check the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water provided in the frame member 1500. The vehicle device may have a temperature display unit (not shown) that receives data on the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water from the temperature sensor and displays the temperature. The temperature display unit allows the user of the vehicle device to check the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0083] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a temperature warning display unit that can inform the user of the vehicle device if the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water provided in the frame member 1500 exceeds a preset temperature. When a warning is displayed on the temperature warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0084] A transparent glass panel (not shown) can be provided on the side of the frame member 1500, allowing the remaining amount of coolant or fire extinguishing water stored in the frame member 1500 to be visually inspected. This allows users of the vehicle device, mechanics, etc., to directly visually check the remaining amount of coolant or fire extinguishing water stored in the frame member 1500.

[0085] The frame member 1500 may have a hose (not shown) for injecting or discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or out of the frame member 1500. The hose can communicate with the frame member 1500 via an opening / closing section or directly with the frame member 1500 without an opening / closing section.

[0086] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 9.

[0087] Referring to Figure 11, the frame member 1500 may be a tubular member having a hollow part 1500a (cavity part) inside and connected along one direction. Cooling water or fire extinguishing water may be provided in the hollow part 1500a.

[0088] Referring to Figures 7 to 11, the frame member 1500 may be a tubular member having a hollow portion 1500a inside and connected along one direction. However, the frame member 1500 in the present invention is not limited to a tubular shape and may be any form that can hold a liquid such as cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0089] The hollow section 1500a may be filled with cooling water or fire extinguishing water. The cooling water or fire extinguishing water may be one of the known types or a mixture thereof, and any of the known types may be used as long as they can be held in the hollow section 1500a inside the frame member 1500 and release the heat from the battery cell 100 (see Figure 2).

[0090] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Referring to Figure 12, the frame member 1500 may include a TIM pad 1600 that contacts the pack cover 1200.

[0092] By providing a TIM pad 1600 between the frame member 1500 and the pack cover 1200, heat from the pack cover 1200 can be effectively transferred to the frame member 1500. This effectively lowers the surface temperature of the battery pack 1000, preventing ignition of the battery pack 1000's surface and preventing the outflow of flames.

[0093] The TIM pad 1600 can be of various types, such as heat dissipation grease, heat dissipation sheets, metal plates, and thermal conductive adhesives. Any known material that can transfer heat from the pack cover 1200 to the frame member 1500 may be used.

[0094] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to Figure 13, another embodiment of the present invention of a vehicle device may include an adhesive tape 1700 positioned between the frame member 1500 and the TIM pad 1600.

[0096] By positioning the adhesive tape 1700 between the frame member 1500 and the TIM pad 1600, the frame member 1500 and the TIM pad 1600 can be fixed together, thereby ensuring the mechanical rigidity of the battery pack 1000 under conditions such as vibration and shock of the vehicle device.

[0097] The material, area, and thickness of the adhesive tape 1700 may be appropriately determined considering the size, area, weight, material properties, required adhesive strength, and thermal conductivity of the frame member 1500 and the TIM pad 1600.

[0098] The frame member 1500 may include one or more frame member valves 1800 for discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0099] Referring again to Figures 7 to 11, the frame member 1500 may include one or more frame member valves 1800 for discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

[0100] The cooling water or fire-extinguishing water discharged by the frame member valve 1800 can vaporize due to the heat on the surface of the battery pack 1000 when thermal runaway occurs. By vaporizing the cooling water or fire-extinguishing water, that is, by changing phase from liquid to gas, it removes heat from the surface of the battery pack 1000, thereby lowering the surface temperature of the battery pack 1000. This prevents ignition of the surface of the battery pack 1000 and prevents the outflow of flames.

[0101] The number, position, and type of frame member valves 1800 may be appropriately determined considering the size of the battery pack 1000, the capacity of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the frame member 1500, and so on.

[0102] The frame member valve 1800 can automatically discharge cooling water or fire extinguishing water in conjunction with the water level sensor and temperature sensor inside the frame member 1500.

[0103] Figure 14 is a partial perspective view showing the outlet of the frame member valve 1800 included in the frame member 1500.

[0104] Referring to Figure 14, the frame member valve 1800 may include a frame member outlet 1800a facing the pack cover 1200.

[0105] The frame member outlet 1800a of the frame member valve 1800 faces the pack cover 1200, allowing the cooling water or fire extinguishing water discharged from the frame member outlet 1800a of the frame member valve 1800 to mix with the vent gas discharged from the battery pack 1000. This reduces the concentration of flammable gases diffused inside the chassis 10000, thereby preventing ignition on the surface of the battery pack 1000 and, consequently, preventing an explosion inside the chassis 10000 due to ignition.

[0106] The frame member outlet 1800a can be oriented along the longer side of the battery pack 1000.

[0107] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a section cut along the cutting line B-B' in Figure 9.

[0108] Referring to Figures 7 to 9 and Figure 15, the frame member 1500 may include a mounting portion 1900 in which a mounting hole 1900a is formed. The mounting bolt 2000 may pass through the mounting hole 1900a and be fastened to the pack cover 1200.

[0109] The frame member 1500 may include a mounting portion 1900 in which a mounting hole 1900a is formed. A mounting bolt 2000 may pass through the mounting hole 1900a and fasten to at least one of the pack cover 1200 or the pack frame 1100. That is, the mounting portion 1900 includes a mounting hole 1900a that penetrates in the -z axis direction in Figure 15.

[0110] Furthermore, the pack cover 1200 includes fastening holes (not shown) at positions corresponding to such mounting holes 1900a. The frame member 1500 is fixed to the battery pack 1000 by fastening mounting bolts 2000 that pass through the mounting holes 1900a and fastening holes, with the mounting holes 1900a and fastening holes aligned. For example, the mounting bolts 2000 may be fastened to the pack cover 1200. As another example, the mounting bolts 2000 may be fastened to both the pack cover 1200 and the pack frame 1100. For example, the pack frame 1100 may include vertical beams (not shown) for partitioning the battery cells 100 (see Figure 2) into sections. For stable fastening, the mounting bolts 2000 may be fastened to the vertical beams after passing through the mounting holes 1900a and the fastening holes in the pack cover 1200. Alternatively, the mounting bolts 2000 may be bolted to a separate nut member (not shown) after passing through the vertical beams.

[0111] For effective fastening, it is desirable that the mounting section 1900 and mounting bolt 2000 applied to each frame member 1500 be composed of multiple units.

[0112] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Referring to Figure 16, the frame member 1500 may include a first hollow section 1500b and a second hollow section 1500c, which are provided with cooling water or fire-extinguishing water. A mounting section 1900 may be positioned between the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c.

[0114] The first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c may each include a first opening / closing section (not shown) and a second opening / closing section (not shown). A user of the vehicle device, for example, can use the first and second opening / closing sections to inject or discharge cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or from both the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c, or into either the first hollow section 1500b or the second hollow section 1500c, depending on the remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c.

[0115] The first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c may each have a first water level sensor (not shown) and a second water level sensor (not shown). The vehicle device may have a first water level display unit and a second water level display unit that receive data on the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c from the first water level sensor and the second water level sensor, respectively, and display the water level. The first water level display unit and the second water level display unit allow the user of the vehicle device to check the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c, respectively.

[0116] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a first water level warning display unit and a second water level warning display unit that can inform the user of the vehicle device if the water level of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b or the second hollow section 1500c exceeds a preset water level or does not reach a preset water level. If a warning is displayed on both the first and second water level warning display units, or if a warning is displayed on either the first or second water level warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0117] Furthermore, users of the vehicle device can easily check for leaks of cooling water or fire extinguishing water within the frame member 1500 using the first water level indicator, the second water level indicator, the first water level warning indicator, and the second water level warning indicator, etc.

[0118] The first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c may each have a first temperature sensor (not shown) and a second temperature sensor (not shown). The vehicle device may have a first temperature display unit and a second temperature display unit that receive temperature data of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, respectively, and display the temperature. The first temperature display unit and the second temperature display unit allow the user of the vehicle device to check the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c, respectively.

[0119] Furthermore, the vehicle device may have a first temperature warning display unit and a second temperature warning display unit that can notify the user of the vehicle device if the temperature of the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b or the second hollow section 1500c exceeds a preset temperature or does not reach a preset temperature. If a warning is displayed on both the first and second temperature warning display units, or if a warning is displayed on either the first or second temperature warning display unit, the user of the vehicle device can immediately take measures such as repairing the vehicle device.

[0120] Furthermore, users of the vehicle device can easily check for leaks of coolant or fire extinguishing water within the frame member 1500 using the first temperature display unit, the second temperature display unit, the first temperature warning display unit, and the second temperature warning display unit, etc.

[0121] The first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c may each have a first hose and a second hose for injecting or discharging cooling water or fire extinguishing water into or out of the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c, respectively. The first hose and the second hose can communicate with the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c via a first opening / closing section and a second opening / closing section, or they can communicate directly with the frame member 1500 without going through the first opening / closing section and the second opening / closing section.

[0122] Referring again to Figures 14 and 16, the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c may each have a frame member valve 1800. Depending on the temperature or remaining amount of cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b and the second hollow section 1500c, each frame member valve 1800 can independently discharge the cooling water or fire extinguishing water. Specifically, regardless of whether the frame member valve 1800 in the second hollow section 1500c is activated or not, only the frame member valve 1800 in the first hollow section 1500b can be activated to discharge the cooling water or fire extinguishing water in the first hollow section 1500b.

[0123] The mounting portion 1900 can be positioned between the first hollow portion 1500b and the second hollow portion 1500c. In other words, the first hollow portion 1500b and the second hollow portion 1500c may be separated by the mounting portion 1900.

[0124] The frame member 1500 may be welded to the pack cover 1200. The welding process between the frame member 1500 and the pack cover 1200 allows for more secure fixation of the frame member 1500 to the pack cover 1200, thereby ensuring the mechanical rigidity of the battery pack 1000.

[0125] Welding-related elements such as the welding method, welding location, and welding agent may be appropriately determined considering the size of the battery pack 1000, the size and weight of the frame member 1500, and the material properties of the battery pack 1000 and the frame member 1500.

[0126] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a chassis 10000 inside a vehicle device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 17 shows the chassis 10000, tank 1300, frame member 1500, and battery pack 1000. A detailed explanation of each component is omitted as it would be redundant with the content described above.

[0127] Referring to Figure 17, the frame member 1500 may be fixed to the pack cover 1200 between the pack cover 1200 and the chassis 10000 inside the vehicle device. More specifically, the frame member 1500 may be located between the pack cover 1200 and the tank 1300 and fixed to the pack cover 1200. The explanation of the method by which the frame member 1500 is fixed to the pack cover 1200 is omitted as it would be redundant with what has been described above.

[0128] This ensures mechanical rigidity by fixing the frame members to the pack cover, even under conditions of vibration and shock to the vehicle device, thereby preventing ignition inside the chassis.

[0129] In this embodiment, terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down were used, but these terms are for convenience of explanation and can change depending on the position of the object in question, the position of the observer, etc. Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art, utilizing the basic concepts of the present invention as defined in the claims below, also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1000: Battery pack 1100: Pack Frame 1200: Pack Cover 1300: Tank 1300a: Tank outlet 1300b: Sealing layer 1500: Frame component 10000: Chassis

Claims

1. Battery pack, and Tank, Inc. The aforementioned battery pack is Multiple battery cells, A pack frame on which the battery cell is directly mounted, or on which the battery cell is mounted while housed in a module frame, and Includes a pack cover that covers the pack frame, The aforementioned tank is Cooling water or fire extinguishing water, The tank outlet from which the cooling water or fire extinguishing water is discharged, A vehicle device including a sealing layer provided on one side where the tank outlet is located.

2. The vehicle device according to claim 1, wherein the sealing layer melts or ruptures at high temperature to discharge the cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

3. The vehicle device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tank outlet is provided toward the upper end of the pack cover.

4. The vehicle device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the battery pack is equipped with a valve for discharging internal gas.

5. The vehicle device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tank is fixed to the chassis between the pack cover and the chassis inside the vehicle device.

6. The vehicle device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the battery pack includes one or more frame members provided in the pack cover and equipped with cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

7. The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the frame member is a tubular member having a hollow portion inside and connected along one direction, and the cooling water or fire extinguishing water is provided in the hollow portion.

8. The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the frame member includes a TIM pad that abuts against the pack cover.

9. The vehicle device according to claim 8, further comprising an adhesive tape positioned between the frame member and the TIM pad.

10. The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the frame member includes one or more frame member valves for discharging the cooling water or fire extinguishing water.

11. The vehicle device according to claim 10, wherein the frame member valve includes a frame member discharge port toward the pack cover.

12. The frame member includes a mounting portion in which mounting holes are formed, The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the mounting bolts pass through the mounting holes and are fastened to the pack cover.

13. The vehicle device according to claim 12, wherein the frame member includes a first hollow portion and a second hollow portion provided with the cooling water or the fire extinguishing water, and the mounting portion is located between the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion.

14. The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the frame member is welded to the pack cover.

15. The vehicle device according to claim 6, wherein the frame member is fixed to the pack cover between the pack cover and the chassis inside the vehicle device.

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