Battery pack

The battery pack design with controlled gas and flame discharge mechanisms and expandable structure addresses thermal runaway risks, improving safety and preventing chain reactions and explosions.

JP2026519732APending Publication Date: 2026-06-18LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
Filing Date
2025-01-24
Publication Date
2026-06-18

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Battery packs containing multiple modules and cells are vulnerable to thermal runaway events, which can lead to uncontrolled gas and flame release, potential chain reactions, and sudden voltage drops, posing safety risks such as explosions and fires, especially in electric vehicles.

Method used

A battery pack design with a case, pack cover, module cover, and fastening members that allow controlled discharge of gases and flames, expandable internal space, and suppression of heat propagation, featuring vent holes, covers, and partition walls to manage thermal events.

Benefits of technology

Enhances electrical safety by controlling gas and flame discharge, preventing explosions, and suppressing heat propagation, ensuring safer operation of battery packs, particularly in electric vehicles.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery pack. A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a case having a pack cover and providing space inside, a battery module located inside the case, a module cover located between the battery module and the pack cover and separated from the pack cover, and fastening members for securing the internal cover and the pack cover.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0060522 filed on May 8, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated into this application.

Background Art

[0003] As the demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet computers, and smartwatches has been rapidly increasing, and as electric vehicles have been widely popularized, research on batteries mounted thereon, particularly rechargeable secondary batteries, has been actively conducted.

[0004] Currently, commercially available secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, lithium secondary batteries, etc. Among these, lithium secondary batteries have attracted attention because they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, enabling free charge and discharge, having a very low self-discharge rate, and a high energy density.

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

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into a can-type secondary battery in which an electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and a pouch-type secondary battery in which an electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of an aluminum laminate sheet, according to the shape of the exterior material.

[0007] In recent years, secondary batteries have been widely used not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices, but also in medium and large-scale devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS), for propulsion and energy storage. Such secondary batteries are electrically connected and housed together inside a module case to form a single battery module. Each secondary battery within this battery module can be called a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules are connected to form a single battery pack.

[0008] However, when a battery pack contains numerous battery modules, and each battery module contains numerous battery cells, the connections between battery modules or between battery cells are vulnerable to chain reactions. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs inside one battery module, that runaway may propagate to other battery modules or battery cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules or between battery cells cannot be suppressed, an event occurring in a specific battery module or battery cell could trigger a chain reaction in other battery modules or battery cells, potentially leading to or escalating explosions or fires.

[0009] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in one battery module, gases and flames may be randomly released to the outside. If the release of these gases and flames is not properly controlled, they may be released towards other battery modules, potentially causing a chain reaction of thermal reactions in those modules. Specifically, module terminals are located on the front of a battery module, and configurations for electrical connection with other battery modules or battery packs, such as module busbars, may be provided. Therefore, if flames are released in front of such a battery module, they can damage the module terminals within the battery pack and cause a short circuit. Also, because other battery modules may be located in front of a particular battery module, if flames are released in front of a specific battery module, the released flames may be released towards other battery modules, easily leading to the spread of fire between battery modules.

[0010] If heat transfer between battery modules or between battery cells cannot be adequately controlled, a sudden voltage drop can occur in the battery modules or battery pack. This can also cause a sudden interruption in the equipment containing the battery modules or battery pack, potentially leading to unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop occurs in the battery pack while an electric vehicle is in operation, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Furthermore, if heat transfer between battery modules or battery cells cannot be controlled, and a fire or explosion occurs suddenly, it is highly likely to result in loss of life. For example, if thermal runaway occurs in an electric vehicle, if a certain amount of time cannot be secured before it progresses to a full-blown fire, occupants will not be able to escape safely. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] The present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a battery pack with an improved structure that can appropriately control the discharge of flames and other debris generated inside the battery module, and an automobile including the battery pack.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a structure that facilitates the expansion of the internal space of the battery pack when a thermal event occurs.

[0014] Furthermore, another objective of the present invention is to provide a structure in which the pack cover is easily expanded when a thermal event occurs.

[0015] Furthermore, another objective of the present invention is to provide a structure that can suppress heat propagation between battery modules.

[0016] However, the technical 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]

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention includes a case with a pack cover that provides space inside, a battery module located inside the case, a module cover located between the battery module and the pack cover and separated from the pack cover, and fastening members that secure the internal cover and the pack cover.

[0018] The battery pack may further include a spacer located between the inner cover and the pack cover.

[0019] Furthermore, the fastening member may penetrate the spacer.

[0020] Further, the battery module may include a module case that has a vent hole facing the module cover and provides a space inside, and a battery cell located inside the module case.

[0021] Further, the module cover may include a discharge hole facing the vent hole.

[0022] Further, a plurality of the vent holes may be provided, and a plurality of the discharge holes may be provided so as to correspond one-to-one with the plurality of vent holes.

[0023] Further, the battery pack may further include a vent cover located between the module cover and the pack cover and covering the discharge hole.

[0024] Further, the vent cover may be located between the module cover and the spacer.

[0025] Further, the vent cover may include a separation line facing the discharge hole.

[0026] Further, the module cover may include a top cover covering the upper surface of the battery module, and a side cover extending from the top cover and covering the side surface of the battery module.

[0027] Further, the module cover may be configured to be movable outward from the battery module when a thermal event occurs in the battery module.

[0028] An automobile according to another aspect of the present invention includes a battery pack according to an aspect of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0029] According to an aspect of the present invention, when gas or flame is generated inside the battery module, the discharge of the gas or flame can be appropriately controlled.

[0030] According to one aspect of the present invention, the electrical safety of the battery pack can be improved.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present invention, the internal space of the battery pack expands when a thermal event occurs, thereby preventing the battery pack from exploding.

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, heat propagation between battery modules can be suppressed when a thermal event occurs.

[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 figure shows a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows a partial configuration of a battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention, separated from its original form. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a battery module. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a separate view of some of the components of the battery module in Figure 3. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the first embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1. [Figure 7] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the first embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs. [Figure 8] This figure shows a partial configuration of a battery pack according to a second embodiment of the present invention, separated from its original form. [Figure 9]This is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of the battery pack according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the second embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1. [Figure 11] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the second embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs. [Figure 12] This figure shows a partial configuration of a battery pack according to a third embodiment of the present invention, separated from its original form. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of the battery pack according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the third embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1. [Figure 15] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the third embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs. [Figure 16] This figure shows a partial configuration of a battery pack according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, separated from its original form. [Figure 17] This is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of the battery pack according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the fourth embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1. [Figure 19] This figure shows the cross-sectional configuration of the fourth embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs. [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 this application.

[0037] Figure 1 shows a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 shows a separated view of a part of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 shows the battery module 200 of Figure 2, Figure 4 shows a separated view of a part of the battery module 200 of Figure 3, and Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of a part of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a case 100, a battery module 200, a module cover 400, and a fastening member 161.

[0039] The case 100 may include a base plate 110, side walls 120, and a pack cover 150. The base plate 110 may be rectangular in shape. The base plate 110 may be flat. The base plate 110 may form the exterior of the battery pack. The base plate 110 may provide the internal space of the battery pack.

[0040] The side walls 120 may be installed, fastened, joined, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. Four side walls 120 may be provided. The side walls 120 may be arranged along the periphery of the base plate 110. The side walls 120 may form the exterior of the battery pack. The side walls 120 may provide internal space.

[0041] The pack cover 150 may be rectangular or flat. The pack cover 150 may form the exterior of the battery pack. The pack cover 150 may cover the internal space of the battery pack.

[0042] The battery module 200 may include a plurality of battery cells 220. In this case, the battery cells 220 may represent rechargeable batteries. In particular, the battery cells 220 may be pouch-type rechargeable batteries. However, the shape of the battery cells 220 is not limited to pouch type, and may be various shapes such as cylindrical or rectangular parallelepiped.

[0043] The module cover 400 may be located between the battery module 200 and the pack cover 150. Alternatively, the module cover 400 may be separated from the pack cover 150. The space between the pack cover 150 and the module cover 400 may be referred to as the vent space VS (see Figure 6). The module cover 400 may cover the top surface of the battery module 200.

[0044] The fastening member 161 can fix the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150. The module cover 400 and the pack cover 150 can be fixed relative to each other by the fastening member 161. Alternatively, the fastening member 161 can maintain the space between the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150 and connect, fasten, or fix the module cover 400 to the pack cover 150.

[0045] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. When a thermal event occurs, vent gas g is discharged from the battery module 200. The pressure of the vent gas g causes the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150 to move outward, upward, or in the Z-axis direction of the battery module 200. This prevents a rapid increase in the internal pressure of the battery pack.

[0046] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the vent space VS between the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150 can function as a flow path for vent gas g. This ensures a stable flow path for vent gas g.

[0047] Furthermore, with this configuration of the present invention, the module cover 400 can block vent gas g generated outside the battery module 200 from flowing into the battery module 200. This prevents the diffusion of thermal events.

[0048] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a spacer 162 located between the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150. The spacer 162 can maintain a separated state between the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150.

[0049] The spacer 162 may be fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the module cover 400. Alternatively, the spacer 162 may be formed integrally with the module cover 400.

[0050] Alternatively, the spacer 162 may be fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the lower surface of the pack cover 150. Or, the spacer 162 may be formed integrally with the pack cover 150.

[0051] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. The spacer 162 can stably secure the vent space VS.

[0052] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a partition wall and a venting device 600.

[0053] The partition wall 300 may include a first partition wall 310 and a second partition wall 320. Multiple partition walls 300 may be provided. The partition wall 300 may be installed, fastened, fixed, joined, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. The partition wall 300 may partition the internal space of the battery pack. A battery module 200 or battery cell 220 may be located in the space partitioned by the partition wall 300.

[0054] The vent device 600 may be provided on the side wall 120. For example, the vent device 600 may be provided on the front side wall 120. For example, the vent device 600 may be a gas valve. The vent device 600 opens to release gas when the internal pressure of the case 100 becomes high. The vent device 600 can also block outside air from flowing into the inside of the case 100. Multiple vent devices 600 may be provided.

[0055] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules 200. The battery module 200 may include a module case 210, a plurality of battery cells 220, a pad 250, a busbar frame assembly 230, and an end cover 240.

[0056] The module case 210 may be rectangular in shape. The module case 210 may also be referred to as a frame 210. The module case 210 may provide internal space. The module case 210 may comprise a top plate, a bottom plate, and a pair of side plates. The module case 210 may also have an open front and rear.

[0057] The module case 210 may have vent holes 211 in its top plate. The vent holes 211 can connect the inside and outside of the module case 210. The vent holes 211 may also face the module cover 400. Multiple vent holes 211 may be provided. Multiple vent holes 211 may face the module cover 400.

[0058] The battery cells 220 can be housed inside the module case 210. Multiple battery cells 220 can be stacked in the left-right direction or along the Y-axis. The battery cell 220 may include a housing portion 221 with an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion 222 protruding forward and backward from the housing portion 221, and a second sealing portion 223 protruding above the housing portion 221. The battery cell 220 may also include electrode leads 224 protruding forward and backward from the first sealing portion 222, respectively. Each battery cell 220 may extend along the front-back direction or along the X-axis. The electrode leads 224 may protrude forward and backward from each battery cell 220.

[0059] The pads 250 may be positioned between multiple battery cells 220. The pads 250 may be positioned between at least some of the battery cells 220 and / or on the outer perimeter of the stack. For example, the pads 250 may be positioned for every four battery cells 220 stacked in the left-right direction.

[0060] Such a pad 250 may be made of an elastic material to absorb the swelling of the battery cell 220. For example, the pad 250 may be made of a foam material such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the pad 250 may be made of a material that can block heat, flames, etc. For example, the pad 250 may be made of an insulating or fireproof material such as silicone or mica.

[0061] The busbar frame assembly 230 may be provided in front of and behind the multiple battery cells 220, respectively. The busbar frame assembly 230 may be electrically connected to the electrode leads 224 of the multiple battery cells 220.

[0062] A pair of end covers 240 can be attached to the front and rear of the module case 210, respectively. The pair of end covers 240 can cover the front and rear surfaces of the module case 210. The end covers 240 can be rectangular in shape.

[0063] The battery module 200 may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate 110. If a thermal event occurs in the battery module 200, vent gas g may be discharged through the vent hole 211. The vent hole 211 may face the inner surface of the pack cover 150. The vent gas g discharged through the vent hole 211 may push the pack cover 150 outward, upward, or in the Z-axis direction. The battery module 200 may be located in a space partitioned by the partition wall 300.

[0064] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. When a thermal event occurs, the vent gas g that passes through the vent hole 211 pressurizes the module cover 400. This causes the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150 to move upward or in the +Z axis direction, preventing a rapid increase in the internal pressure of the battery pack.

[0065] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the module cover 400 of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a top cover 410 and a side cover 420. The top cover 410 may cover the top plate of the battery module 200. The top cover 410 may be plate-shaped. The side cover 420 may extend downward or in the -Z-axis direction from the top cover 410. The side cover 420 may be plate-shaped. The side cover 420 may cover the side plate of the battery module 200 or the side surface of the battery module 200. The side covers 420 may be provided in pairs. Each pair of side covers 420 may cover a pair of side plates of the battery module 200. The side cover 420 and the top cover 410 may be formed integrally. The side cover 420 may be located between the first partition wall 310 and the battery module 200.

[0066] The module cover 400 may include a metallic material. For example, the module cover 400 may include stainless steel or aluminum. Furthermore, the module cover 400 is thin. For example, the module cover 400 may have a thickness of 1 mm.

[0067] According to this configuration of the present invention, the module cover 400 can move stably upward or in the +Z axis direction when a thermal event occurs. The side cover 420 can guide the movement of the module cover 400.

[0068] Furthermore, with this configuration of the present invention, the module cover 400 completely encloses the battery module 200 with the side cover 420. As a result, the module cover 400 can more reliably block vent gas g generated outside the battery module 200 from flowing into the battery module 200.

[0069] Figure 6 shows the cross-sectional configuration of the first embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1, and Figure 7 shows the cross-sectional configuration of the first embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs.

[0070] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the fastening member 161 of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention may penetrate the spacer 162. The fastening member 161 may also penetrate the pack cover 150, the spacer 162, and the module cover 400. Furthermore, the fastening member 161 may penetrate the fastening holes 151 and 401. For example, the fastening member 161 may be a bolt. The fastening member 161 may also be coupled with a nut 163. In this case, the nut 163 may be located between the module cover 400 and the battery module 200. The fastening member 161 and the nut 163 may fasten, connect, or fix the pack cover 150, the spacer 162, and the module cover 400.

[0071] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. The module cover 400, spacer 162, and pack cover 150 are stably coupled, so that the vent space VS can be stably maintained even if the internal pressure of the case 100 increases due to a thermal event.

[0072] Referring to Figure 7, if a thermal event occurs in the battery module 200a of the battery pack according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the module cover 400 may move to the outside or above the battery module 200a. The vent gas g may be discharged between the side cover 420 and the first partition wall 310. Alternatively, the vent gas g may be discharged towards the end cover 240 side of the battery module 200a. The discharged vent gas g may move along the vent space VS. At this time, the module cover 400 prevents the vent gas g from flowing into the adjacent battery module 200b. The vent gas g will then be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the vent device 600.

[0073] The following section will focus on explaining the differences from the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0074] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 10 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the second embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1, and Figure 11 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the second embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs.

[0075] Referring to Figures 8 to 11, the module cover 400 of the battery pack according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be provided with an outlet 411 facing the vent holes 211. The size of the outlet 411 may be larger than that of the vent holes 211. The outlet 411 may face multiple vent holes 211.

[0076] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module 200 can be improved. The module cover 400 is equipped with an exhaust hole 411, which allows for easier discharge of vent gas g.

[0077] Figure 12 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the third embodiment of the present invention, Figure 13 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the third embodiment of the present invention, Figure 14 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the third embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1, and Figure 15 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the third embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs.

[0078] Referring to Figures 12 to 15, the battery pack according to the third embodiment of the present invention may further include a vent cover 500. The vent cover 500 may be located between the module cover 400 and the pack cover 150. The vent cover 500 may also be plate-shaped. The vent cover 500 may cover the top cover 410. The vent cover 500 may also cover the discharge hole 411.

[0079] The vent cover 500 may contain a highly fire-resistant material. It may also contain a highly heat-resistant material. For example, the vent cover 500 may contain at least one of silicon material, mica material, and ceramic material. Furthermore, the vent cover 500 may have a thin thickness. For example, the vent cover 500 may have a thickness of 0.5 mm.

[0080] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. By covering the exhaust hole 411 with the vent cover 500, it is possible to more reliably block the vent gas g generated outside the battery module 200 from flowing into the battery module 200.

[0081] Referring to Figures 12 to 15, the vent cover 500 of the battery pack according to the third embodiment of the present invention may be located between the module cover 400 and the spacer 162. The fastening member 161 may penetrate the vent cover 500. The fastening member 161 may also penetrate the fastening holes 151, 401, and 501. For example, the fastening member 161 may be a bolt. The fastening member 161 and the nut 163 may fasten, connect, or fix the pack cover 150, the spacer 162, the module cover 400, and the vent cover 500.

[0082] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. The module cover 400, spacer 162, vent cover 500, and pack cover 150 are stably coupled, so that the vent space VS can be stably maintained even if the internal pressure of the case 100 increases due to a thermal event.

[0083] Referring to Figures 12 to 15, the vent cover 500 of the battery pack according to a third embodiment of the present invention may include a separation line 502. The separation line 502 may face the discharge holes 411. Multiple separation lines 502 may be provided so as to correspond one-to-one with a plurality of discharge holes 411. The term separation line (score line) 502 may be used as a term encompassing and collectively referring to perforated line, notching line, cutting line, shredding line, tear line, or separation line. The separation line 502 may be configured to be easily separated by pressure applied to the vent cover 500.

[0084] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. The vent cover 500 is equipped with a separation line 502, which allows the vent gas g to be discharged more easily.

[0085] Furthermore, with this configuration of the present invention, the separation wire 502 is not pulled apart by vent gas g generated outside the battery module 200. As a result, the vent cover 500 covers the discharge hole 411, making it more reliable to block vent gas g generated outside the battery module 200 from flowing into the battery module 200.

[0086] Figure 16 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 17 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a partial configuration of the battery pack according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 18 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the fourth embodiment along the cutting line A-A' in Figure 1, and Figure 19 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the fourth embodiment along the cutting line A-A' when a thermal event occurs.

[0087] Referring to Figures 16 to 19, the vent holes 211 of the battery pack according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may be provided in multiple locations. Furthermore, the discharge holes 412 may be provided in multiple locations corresponding one-to-one with the multiple vent holes 211. Each of the multiple discharge holes 412 may face a vent hole 211. The multiple discharge holes 412 may be configured with substantially the same shape as the facing vent hole 211. For example, the vent holes 211 and discharge holes 412 may be elliptical or circular in shape.

[0088] Furthermore, multiple separation lines 503 may be provided. Multiple separation lines 503 may be provided so as to correspond one-to-one with multiple discharge holes 412. Each of the multiple separation lines 503 may face a discharge hole 412.

[0089] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery pack can be improved. The vent hole 211, the discharge hole 412, and the separation line 503 are aligned and arranged in a way that allows the vent gas g to be discharged more easily.

[0090] Furthermore, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include, in addition to such a battery module, a variety of other components, such as a battery management system (BMS), busbars, relays, current sensors, and other components of a variety of battery packs known at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0091] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention can be applied to automobiles such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. That is, an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include various other components included in the automobile in addition to such a battery pack. For example, an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, an electronic control unit (ECU), and other control devices.

[0092] 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 pertains.

Claims

1. A case equipped with a pack cover that provides space inside, A battery module located inside the aforementioned case, A module cover located between the battery module and the pack cover, and separated from the pack cover, A battery pack including fastening members for securing the internal cover and the pack cover.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a spacer located between the internal cover and the pack cover.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the fastening member penetrates the spacer.

4. The aforementioned battery module is A module case having vent holes facing the module cover and providing space inside, The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a battery cell located inside the module case.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein the module cover is provided with an exhaust hole facing the vent hole.

6. Multiple vent holes are provided, The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the discharge holes are provided in multiple locations such that they correspond one-to-one with the multiple vent holes.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, further comprising a vent cover located between the module cover and the pack cover and covering the discharge hole.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the vent cover is located between the module cover and the spacer.

9. The battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the vent cover is provided with a separation line facing the discharge hole.

10. The module cover is A top cover that covers the top surface of the aforementioned battery module, The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a side cover extending from the top cover and covering the side of the battery module.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the module cover is configured to move outward from the battery module when a thermal event occurs in the battery module.

12. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 11.