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

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells, module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, a module frame housing the plurality of battery cells, with a first vent hole formed in a first plate and the module terminals provided on a second plate, and a frame cover provided with a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate, and a second cover connected to the first cover and configured to cover at least the second plate.

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. 10-2024-0021936 filed on February 15, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the application are incorporated into this application.

Background Art

[0003] 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), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), etc., which are driven by an electric drive source. Such secondary batteries not only have the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels, but are also environmentally friendly in that they do not generate any by-products due to energy use, and are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving energy efficiency.

[0004] 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. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or pack can be variously set according to the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] On the other hand, because battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade if used in environments with temperatures higher than the appropriate temperature. Furthermore, if the heat cannot be controlled to the appropriate temperature, there is a risk of unexpected ignition or explosion. In addition, battery modules have a structure in which such battery cells are densely housed inside a module frame. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in one battery cell, the emitted high-temperature gas and flames can propagate to adjacent battery cells, potentially causing a chain reaction of battery cell explosions, which is extremely dangerous.

[0006] In particular, because the module frame of a battery module is made of metal, if a thermal event occurs inside or in an adjacent battery module, it can become a heat source and promote heat transfer between battery modules.

[0007] Therefore, conventional battery modules are equipped with a frame cover that covers the outside of the module frame, especially the top surface. This is intended to minimize the spread of high-temperature gases and flames generated inside a battery module to other battery modules when thermal runaway occurs, thereby preventing heat transfer between battery modules and preventing the expelled gases and flames from flowing back into the battery module.

[0008] These frame covers are constructed in sheet form, combining materials such as FRB or silicone with mica, and are attached to the module frame with adhesive. However, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, the high-temperature gases and flames can deform the cover, causing it to lift away from the module frame. This can lead to problems where the high-temperature gases and flames are released into other battery modules and then flow back into the battery module that experienced thermal runaway.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that protects the module frame and prevents thermal runaway propagation between battery modules in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module. [Overview of the Initiative] [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 effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between modules by minimizing the spread of high-temperature gases and flames generated in battery cells during abnormal conditions of the battery module toward other adjacent battery modules.

[0011] 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]

[0012] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells, module terminals configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, a module frame housing the plurality of battery cells, with a first vent hole formed in a first plate and the module terminals provided on a second plate, and a frame cover provided with a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate, and a second cover connected to the first cover and configured to cover at least the second plate.

[0013] The first cover may be configured to further cover at least one of the third plates of the module frame provided at both the left and right ends of the first plate.

[0014] The second cover may be configured to further cover a fourth plate of the module frame located on the opposite side of the second plate.

[0015] The second and fourth plates of the module frame may be located on the side from which the electrode leads of the battery cell are drawn.

[0016] The first plate may be defined as the upper surface of the module frame, and the second plate as the front surface of the module frame.

[0017] The frame cover may be configured to be mounted on the module frame.

[0018] The frame cover may include a bent portion whose end is folded inward to at least partially cover the lower surface of the module frame.

[0019] The bent portions may be provided in pairs and configured to face each other.

[0020] The frame cover may include a guide portion configured to guide the coupling position with the module frame.

[0021] The frame cover may have a second vent hole formed at a position corresponding to the first vent hole.

[0022] The second vent hole may be formed in the first cover.

[0023] The frame cover may include a cover member configured to cover the second vent hole and to be opened by the vent gas.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack including a battery module according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0025] And yet another aspect of the present invention provides a motor vehicle including a battery module according to an aspect of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, by configuring the frame cover from a strong and heat-resistant material, deformation due to high-temperature gas, flames, etc. can be minimized. Thereby, the module frame can be protected and heat propagation between battery modules can be prevented.

[0027] Also, according to one aspect of the present invention, when an abnormal situation occurs in a battery module, it is possible to minimize the high-temperature gas, flames, etc. generated in the battery cells from heading towards other adjacent battery modules, effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between the modules. Thereby, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0028] Also, according to one aspect of the present invention, by ensuring the bonding force or fixing force between the frame cover and the module frame, it is possible to minimize the separation of the frame cover from the module frame.

[0029] Also, according to one aspect of the present invention, by simplifying the coupling structure between the frame cover and the module frame, the workability or productivity during the manufacture of the battery module can be improved.

[0030] Also, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gas, flames, etc. generated in the battery cells from flowing back into the battery module again when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery module. Thereby, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured.

[0031] Also, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent or delay events such as fires and explosions due to thermal runaway phenomena in battery packs including a plurality of battery modules or devices to which these are attached.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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]

[0034] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view of the module frame 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 cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This 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 taken along line II-II' in Figure 1. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates how a frame cover is attached to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a partially enlarged view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a guide portion provided on the frame cover. [Figure 10] This is a separated perspective view of a guide portion provided on a frame cover according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This figure illustrates a cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows a part of the cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention being opened. [Figure 13] This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack containing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 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]

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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 filing this application.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] For example, in embodiments 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), 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.

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the module frame of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along line I-I' in Figure 1. And Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along line II-II' in Figure 1.

[0041] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell 100, module terminals 200, module frame 300, and frame cover 400.

[0042] Referring primarily to Figure 2, the battery cell 100 may include multiple cells. In this case, the multiple battery cells 100 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0043] Multiple battery cells 100 can be stacked along one direction. For example, as shown in Figure 3, multiple battery cells 100 can be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0044] The multiple battery cells 100 may be, for example, pouch-type rechargeable batteries. The multiple battery cells 100 may include an electrode assembly, a cell case housing the electrode assembly, and electrode leads 110 connected to the electrode assembly and extending outwards from the cell case to function as electrode terminals.

[0045] The electrode leads 110 are provided in pairs, and the pair of electrode leads 110 can be drawn out from both ends of the battery cell 100, i.e., in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). In this case, the pair of electrode leads 110 may be a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead.

[0046] The present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of such battery cell 100, and various battery cells 100 known at the time of filing of the present invention can be used in the configuration of multiple battery cells 100 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 100.

[0047] On the other hand, referring to Figures 2 and 3, the module frame 300 may be configured to house the battery cells 100. Specifically, the module frame 300 may have an internal space formed within it, and the battery cells 100 may be housed in this internal space.

[0048] Such a module frame 300 may be made of a rigid and heat-resistant metallic material to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cells 100.

[0049] On the other hand, a first vent hole H1 may be formed in the module frame 300. The first vent hole H1 may be configured to discharge the vent gas generated in the battery cell 100 to the outside of the module frame 300. The first vent hole H1 enables directional venting in one direction.

[0050] The first vent hole H1 may be formed in the first plate 300a of the module frame 300. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the first plate 300a is defined as the top surface of the module frame 300, and directional ventilation toward the battery module 10 is possible through the first vent hole H1 formed in the top surface of the module frame 300.

[0051] Multiple first vent holes H1 may be provided, spaced at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions).

[0052] According to this embodiment, in a situation where any one of the battery cells 100 experiences thermal runaway and generates gas, the gas can be quickly directed directionally towards a specific direction.

[0053] Furthermore, module terminals 200 may be provided on the module frame 300. The module terminals 200 may be configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 100. The module terminals 200 may include positive and negative terminals. The module terminals 200 may also be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a Battery Management System (BMS). The module terminals 200 may be configured to be at least partially routed outside the module frame 300.

[0054] The module terminal 200 may be provided on the side from which the electrode leads 110 of the battery cell 100 are drawn out. In particular, the module terminal 200 may be provided on the second plate 300b of the module frame 300. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the second plate 300b is defined as the front surface of the module frame 300, and the module terminal 200 may be provided in front of the module frame 300.

[0055] On the other hand, referring mainly to Figures 3 and 4, the frame cover 400 may be configured to cover at least a portion of the module frame 300. The frame cover 400 may be provided on the outside of the module frame 300. The frame cover 400 may be configured to prevent vent gases, flames, etc., that are discharged when a thermal event occurs in the battery module 10 from moving to other battery modules 10.

[0056] The frame cover 400 may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as a mica sheet or a silicone composite material. For example, the frame cover 400 may be made of a non-flexible material obtained by thermoforming a mica sheet.

[0057] As a result, the frame cover 400 can maintain its morphological stability without deforming even when high temperatures are generated, thus reliably blocking high-temperature gases and flames generated in the battery cell 100.

[0058] According to this embodiment, the frame cover 400 is made of a rigid and heat-resistant material, thereby minimizing deformation caused by high-temperature gases, flames, and the like.

[0059] More specifically, the frame cover 400 may comprise a first cover 410 and a second cover 420. The first cover 410 may be configured to cover at least the first plate 300a of the module frame 300. The first cover 410 may be configured to protect the first vent hole H1. For example, the first cover 410 may be configured to prevent vent gases, flames, etc., discharged from other battery modules 10 from flowing into the interior of the module frame 300 through the first vent hole H1.

[0060] On the other hand, the second cover 420 may be configured to cover at least the second plate 300b of the module frame 300. As described above, the second plate 300b is provided with module terminals 200, and the second cover 420 may be configured to protect the module terminals 200. In other words, the second cover 420 may be configured to prevent vent gases, flames, etc., emitted from other battery modules 10 from being directed toward the module terminals 200.

[0061] Such a second cover 420 can be connected to the first cover 410. For example, the second cover 420 can be injection-molded integrally with the first cover 410 and then bent, or it can be manufactured separately from the first cover 410 and then connected.

[0062] According to this embodiment, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 are configured to protect the first vent hole H1 and the module terminal 200, respectively, thereby minimizing the direction of high-temperature vent gas or flames towards the first vent hole H1 and module terminal 200 of the battery module 10 in the event of an abnormal condition in an adjacent battery module 10. In particular, the frame cover 400 covers the module frame 300 from multiple directions, effectively suppressing the transfer of heat to or from the module frame 300. As a result, according to this embodiment, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules 10 can be effectively prevented or delayed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery modules 10.

[0063] On the other hand, referring to Figure 2, a module frame 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further comprise a third plate 300c, a fourth plate 300d, and a fifth plate 300e. The first plates 300a to the fifth plates 300e may form the appearance of the module frame 300. The module frame 300 may be rectangular parallelepiped by the first plates 300a to the fifth plates 300e.

[0064] More specifically, the third plate 300c may be provided at both the left and right ends of the first plate 300a. That is, the third plates 300c may be provided in pairs facing each other. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first plate 300a may form the upper surface of the module frame 300, and the third plate 300c may be configured to form the left and right sides of the module frame 300 on both sides of the first plate 300a.

[0065] Furthermore, the fifth plate 300e may be configured to face the first plate 300a. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first plate 300a may form the upper surface of the module frame 300, and the fifth plate 300e may form the lower surface of the module frame 300.

[0066] In this case, the first plate 300a, the third plate 300c, and the fifth plate 300e may be configured as an integrated unit. In this case, the combined form of the first plate 300a, the third plate 300c, and the fifth plate 300e may be a rectangular tube with open front and rear surfaces. Alternatively, the third plate 300c and the fifth plate 300e may be configured as an integrated unit.

[0067] The first cover 410 may be configured to further cover at least one of the third plates 300c of the module frame 300, which are provided at both the left and right ends of the first plate 300a. That is, the first cover 410 may be configured to further cover at least one third plate 300c together with the first plate 300a. For example, as shown in the embodiments in Figures 3 and 5, the first cover 410 may be configured to cover the first plate 300a provided at the top and the third plates 300c provided on the left and right sides.

[0068] The first cover 410 may be folded at the boundary between the first plate 300a and the third plate 300c to cover both the first plate 300a and the third plate 300c together. That is, the first cover 410 may be provided in the form of a single sheet that has been folded.

[0069] According to this embodiment, the first cover 410 covers not only the first plate 300a, which is provided with the first vent hole H1, but also both sides of the first plate 300a, thereby preventing thermal events from occurring inside the module frame 300 and preventing vent gases, flames, etc. from being discharged to the third plate 300c side. Furthermore, the frame cover 400 can block vent gases, flames, etc. from coming from the outside toward the third plate 300c.

[0070] On the other hand, the fourth plate 300d may be provided on the opposite side of the second plate 300b. That is, the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d may be configured to face each other. The second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d of the module frame 300 may be located on the side from which the electrode leads 110 of the battery cell 100 are drawn. That is, the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d may be located on the side from which the busbar frame assembly 500 is provided.

[0071] For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the second plate 300b may be configured to form the front surface of the module frame 300, and the fourth plate 300d may be configured to form the rear surface of the module frame 300. The second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d may be coupled to the open front and rear surfaces of the integrated first plate 300a, third plate 300c, and fifth plate 300e.

[0072] Referring to Figure 3, the battery module 10 of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly 500. The busbar frame assembly 500 is provided inside the module frame 300 and may be configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells 100. The busbar frame assembly 500 may be located on the side from which the electrode leads 110 of the battery cells 100 are drawn. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the busbar frame assembly 500 may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0073] The busbar frame assembly 500 may include a busbar frame 510 and a plurality of busbars 520. The busbar frame 510 may be configured to be coupled to the front and rear of several battery cells 100. The busbar frame 510 may have slits that allow the electrode leads of the battery cells 100 to be pulled out in the front-rear direction.

[0074] Furthermore, the busbar frame 510 may be formed from, for example, a plastic material that has electrical insulating properties, and configured to have the busbars 520 attached to its outer surface.

[0075] On the other hand, the multiple busbars 520 are means for connecting multiple battery cells 100 in series and / or parallel, and are made of a metallic material such as copper, aluminum, or nickel, and may be rod-shaped.

[0076] The electrode leads of multiple battery cells 100 are drawn out through slits in the busbar frame 510 to the outside of the busbar frame 510, and the drawn-out portions can be attached to the surface of the busbar 520 by means of welding or other methods.

[0077] To ensure electrical insulation, the busbar frame assembly 500 is provided, and the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d may, for example, contain insulating material on the inside and metallic material on the outside. In addition, at least one of the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d may have partial holes or slits to expose components that are exposed to the outside, such as the module terminals 200 or connectors of the battery module 10.

[0078] In this case, the second cover 420 may be configured to further cover the fourth plate 300d of the module frame 300, which is provided on the opposite side of the second plate 300b. That is, the second cover 420 may be configured to further cover the fourth plate 300d together with the second plate 300b. For example, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4, the second cover 420 may be configured to cover the second plate 300b provided on the front and the fourth plate 300d provided on the rear. Two second covers 420 may be provided and configured to face each other.

[0079] According to this embodiment, the second cover 420 covers not only the second plate 300b on which the module terminals 200 are provided, but also the fourth plate 300d, thereby preventing thermal events from occurring inside the module frame 300 and causing vent gases, flames, etc., to be discharged to the fourth plate 300d side. Furthermore, the frame cover 400 can block external vent gases, flames, etc., from moving toward the fourth plate 300d. In particular, by covering the second plate 300b and the fourth plate 300d located on the side where the electrode leads 110 of the battery cell 100 are located, the frame cover 400 can prevent damage to the electrode leads 110, busbars 520, etc., from being caused by vent gases, flames, etc.

[0080] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating how a frame cover is attached to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the first plate 300a can be defined as the top surface of the module frame 300, and the second plate 300b can be defined as the front surface of the module frame 300. Thus, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 can be configured to cover the top surface and the front surface of the module frame 300, respectively.

[0082] Furthermore, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 may be arranged in directions perpendicular to each other. For example, the first cover 410 may be configured to cover the top and left and right sides of the module frame 300 along the front-rear direction, and the second cover 420 may be configured to cover the front and rear sides of the module frame 300 along the left-right direction. In this case, the second cover 420 may be provided to be coupled to the front and rear of the first cover 410. Alternatively, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 may be manufactured integrally and folded.

[0083] The frame cover 400 may be configured to rest on the module frame 300. That is, the frame cover 400 may be configured to be placed over the module frame 300 from above, covering at least a portion of the module frame 300. If the frame cover 400 is configured to cover all sides of the module frame 300 except for the fifth plate 300e, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the first cover 410 and the second cover 420 may be placed over the module frame 300 with their respective ends spreading out to the sides (see arrows in Figure 6).

[0084] Once the frame cover 400 is placed on the module frame 300, the frame cover 400 can be in close contact with the module frame 300. More specifically, the frame cover 400 may be configured to be fixed to the module frame 300. For example, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 6 to 8, the frame cover 400 may have bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421). The bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) may be formed by bending the ends of the frame cover 400 inward. The bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) may be configured to at least partially cover the lower surface of the module frame 300, i.e., the fifth plate 300e. In other words, when the frame cover 400 is placed on the module frame 300, the bent portions of the frame cover 400 (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) can be configured to catch on the lower surface of the module frame 300 and be fixed in place.

[0085] The bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) may be provided in at least one pair. The pair of bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) may be configured to face each other. For example, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 7 and 8, the first cover 410 may have first bent portions 411 on its left and right sides, and the second cover 420 may also have second bent portions 421. The first bent portion 411 and the second bent portion 421 may each be provided in a pair and arranged to be orthogonal to each other. This allows the first bent portion 411 and the second bent portion 421 to fix the module frame 300 in the front-rear, left-right, and right directions.

[0086] Furthermore, a thermally conductive adhesive such as TIM (Thermal Interface Material) or thermal resin may be applied to the bottom surface of the module frame 300. This fixes the frame cover 400 at its bent portions (first bent portion 411, second bent portion 421) with the thermally conductive adhesive, preventing it from separating from the module frame 300.

[0087] According to this embodiment, by ensuring a bonding or fixing force between the frame cover 400 and the module frame 300, the separation of the frame cover 400 from the module frame 300 can be minimized. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the simplification of the fixing structure between the frame cover 400 and the module frame 300 can improve workability or productivity during the manufacturing of the battery module 10. In particular, since no separate adhesive is required, problems such as the frame cover 400 lifting away from the module frame 300 due to high-temperature vent gas or flames when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10 can be fundamentally prevented.

[0088] Figure 9 is a partially enlarged view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a guide portion provided on the frame cover. Figure 10 is a separated perspective view of the guide portion provided on the frame cover according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] On the other hand, referring to Figures 9 and 10, the frame cover 400 may include a guide portion 430. The guide portion 430 may be configured to guide the connection position with the module frame 300. The guide portion 430 may also be configured to fix the module frame 300 and the frame cover 400 together.

[0090] More specifically, referring to Figure 10, the guide portion 430 may include guide holes 431 and guide pins 432. Multiple guide holes 431 and guide pins 432 may be provided. The guide holes 431 may be formed in the frame cover 400. Fixing holes 310 may be formed in the module frame 300 at positions corresponding to the guide holes 431. For example, the fixing holes 310 may be provided in the second plate 300b. The fixing holes 310 may be provided inside the module terminals 200.

[0091] The guide pin 432, guide hole 431, and fixing hole 310 may be arranged vertically. The guide pin 432 may be pin-shaped. The guide pin 432 may be configured to pass through the guide hole 431. The guide pin 432 may be configured to be inserted into the fixing hole 310 through the guide hole 431.

[0092] According to this embodiment, when the frame cover 400 is coupled to the module frame 300, the coupling position can be guided more easily. This improves the workability or productivity during the manufacturing of the battery module 10. In addition, the frame cover 400 is firmly fixed to the module frame 300, preventing the frame cover 400 from separating from the module frame 300. This prevents the frame cover 400 from lifting away from the module frame 300, and provides more reliable protection for the module frame 300 from vent gases, flames, and the like.

[0093] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 12 is a diagram showing a part of the cover member of a frame cover applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention being open.

[0094] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, a second vent hole H2 may be formed in the frame cover 400. The second vent hole H2 may be configured to discharge the vent gas discharged from the first vent hole H1 to the outside of the battery module 10.

[0095] Multiple second vent holes H2 may be provided, spaced at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis and Y-axis directions). In particular, the second vent holes H2 may be formed in positions corresponding to the first vent holes H1. The second vent holes H2 may be formed in the first cover 410. As a result, according to this embodiment, vent gas, flames, etc., can be quickly directionally vented in a specific direction through the first vent holes H1 and the second vent holes H2.

[0096] On the other hand, the frame cover 400 may include a cover member 440. The cover member 440 may be configured to cover the second vent hole H2. The cover member 440 may be provided inside the second vent hole H2. That is, the cover member 440 may be provided between the first vent hole H1 and the second vent hole H2.

[0097] The cover member 440 is configured in a sheet shape and can be placed on the first plate 300a. In this case, the cover member 440 may be configured to cover a plurality of second vent holes H2 simultaneously. Alternatively, the cover member 440 may be configured to cover the second vent holes H2 individually. The cover member 440 may be attached to the inside of the first cover 410, or it may be attached to the first plate 300a of the module frame 300.

[0098] Such a cover member 440 may be configured so that at least a portion of it can be opened by vent gas or flame, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 12. Specifically, at least a portion of the cover member 440 may be configured to burst due to the pressure or heat of the vent gas directed toward the first vent hole H1. For example, the cover member 440 may have a notch or cut line in the portion corresponding to the first vent hole H1.

[0099] According to this embodiment, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell 100, a cover member 440 provided on one side of the specific battery cell 100 ruptures, opening at least one of the multiple first vent holes H1. This allows vent gas and the like to be discharged to the outside of the module frame 300 through the opened first vent hole H1.

[0100] Furthermore, the cover member 440 can prevent gases and flames discharged to the outside of the module frame 300 from flowing back into the battery module 10. In other words, the first vent hole H1, located on the battery cell 100 side where no thermal events are occurring, can remain closed without being opened. For this reason, the cover member 440 may be made of a material with excellent flame retardancy. For example, the cover member 440 may include materials such as silicone or FRB.

[0101] This fundamentally prevents vent gases and flames discharged to the outside through the opened first vent hole H1 from flowing back into the battery module 10. Furthermore, the remaining portion of the cover member 440 that has not ruptured can block not only heat, but also high-temperature gases, flames, and discharges generated in the battery cell 100.

[0102] According to this embodiment, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module 10, not only are the vent gases and flames generated inside the battery module 10 smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module 10, but it is also prevented from the discharged vent gases and flames flowing back into the battery module 10. Therefore, heat propagation to adjacent battery cells 100 and the battery module 10 can be minimized, effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway.

[0103] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack containing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to Figure 13, 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, a current sensor, a fuse, and the above-mentioned components, along with a pack case 2 for housing these components.

[0105] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of an automobile including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to Figure 14, an automobile 3 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 3 according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The automobile 3 includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The automobile 3 operates by receiving power from the battery pack 1 or battery module 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] 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. Multiple battery cells, A module terminal configured to be electrically connected to multiple battery cells, A module frame comprising a plurality of the aforementioned battery cells, with a first vent hole formed in the first plate and the module terminals provided on the second plate, A battery module comprising: a first cover configured to cover at least the first plate; and a frame cover provided with a second cover connected to the first cover and configured to cover at least the second plate.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the first cover is configured to further cover at least one of the third plates of the module frame provided at both left and right ends of the first plate.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the second cover is configured to further cover a fourth plate of the module frame provided on the opposite side of the second plate.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein the second plate and the fourth plate of the module frame are located on the side from which the electrode leads of the battery cell are drawn out.

5. The first plate is the upper surface of the module frame, The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the second plate is defined as the front surface of the module frame.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the frame cover is configured to be mounted on the module frame.

7. The aforementioned frame cover is The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a bent portion whose end is bent inward to at least partially cover the lower surface of the module frame.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein the bent portions are provided in at least one pair and are configured to face each other.

9. The aforementioned frame cover is The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a guide portion configured to guide the coupling position with the module frame.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the frame cover has a second vent hole formed at a position corresponding to the first vent hole.

11. The battery module according to claim 10, wherein the second vent hole is formed in the first cover.

12. The aforementioned frame cover is The battery module according to claim 10, comprising a cover member configured to cover the second vent hole and to be opened by the vent gas.

13. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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