Battery module with improved safety and ease of assembly

Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery module with improved ease of assembly and safety. The battery module according to one aspect of the present invention includes a cell assembly having one or more battery cells, and a module frame having a plurality of unit frames fitted to each other to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel at an overlapping portion formed by the fitting.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0187503, filed on December 24, 2021, and the entire contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of that application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery, and more particularly to a battery module with enhanced safety and ease of assembly, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same. [Background technology]

[0003] In recent years, as demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, laptops, and wearable devices has grown rapidly and the commercialization of robots and electric vehicles has progressed in earnest, active research has been conducted into high-performance secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0004] Currently, commercially available secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among these, lithium secondary batteries are attracting attention due to their advantages of being able to be freely charged and discharged since they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, as well as their extremely low self-discharge rate and high energy density.

[0005] This type of lithium secondary battery primarily uses a lithium-based oxide and a carbon material as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, each coated with the positive and negative electrode active materials, are arranged with a separator sandwiched between them, and an exterior material, such as a battery case, that encapsulates the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte. Meanwhile, recent efforts have been actively made to develop all-solid-state batteries that do not use a liquid electrolyte.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be broadly classified into 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 a pouch made of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the exterior material.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries have been widely used for driving and storing energy not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium- to large-sized devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS). A battery module can be formed by electrically connecting a plurality of such secondary batteries and housing them together inside a module case. A battery pack can be formed by connecting a plurality of such battery modules.

[0008] However, when multiple battery modules are included in a battery pack, there is a concern that the battery pack may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the battery modules. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in one battery module, the propagation of such thermal runaway to other battery modules must be prevented. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules is not prevented, an event occurring in a specific battery module may trigger a chain reaction among multiple battery modules, which may result in an explosion or fire or its scale becoming larger.

[0009] In particular, if a thermal runaway or other event occurs in one battery module, there is a concern that gas, flame, sparks, etc. may be emitted to the outside. If the emission of such gas, flame, sparks, etc. cannot be properly controlled, not only may the battery module explode, but the gas, flame, etc. may also be emitted toward other battery modules. This may then promote a thermal chain reaction in the other battery modules.

[0010] Meanwhile, with regard to battery modules, in addition to ensuring safety, it is also necessary to improve assembly ease. In particular, battery modules can be manufactured by assembling multiple components, but poor assembly ease may increase the production cost and production time of the battery module, thereby reducing productivity. Furthermore, it is undesirable to sacrifice assembly ease or productivity in order to improve the safety of the battery module. Typically, if components for venting gases, flames, etc. are provided to improve the safety of the battery module, if the assembly or manufacturing process becomes complicated, the productivity of the battery module will decrease, making it difficult to practically apply such safety components in the battery industry. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] Therefore, the present invention has been devised to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a battery module with improved assembly ease and safety, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same.

[0012] However, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention given below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] To achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery module includes: a cell assembly having one or more battery cells; and a module frame having a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting.

[0014] Here, the unit frame may include a center plate and two end plates formed by bending both ends of the center plate.

[0015] The plurality of unit frames may include a first frame and a second frame configured so that the width of the center plate is wider than that of the first frame.

[0016] Furthermore, at least a portion of an end plate provided on the first frame can come into contact with a center plate of the second frame.

[0017] Furthermore, the ends of the end plates of the second frame may be configured to extend to the center plate of the first frame.

[0018] Furthermore, the end plates of the second frame may be configured to surround at least a portion of the center plate of the first frame.

[0019] Furthermore, the plurality of unit frames may further include a third frame configured so that the width of the center plate is wider than that of the second frame.

[0020] Furthermore, the first frame may have a mounting groove formed on an inner surface thereof so that an end of the battery cell is placed thereon, and the mounting groove may be configured to protrude toward the vent channel.

[0021] Furthermore, at least one of the unit frames may have an opening formed in the end plate.

[0022] Furthermore, the end portions of the end plates of the unit frame may have an uneven shape to form the openings.

[0023] Furthermore, the two end plates located at the overlapping portion may have an inlet and an outlet of the vent channel formed at opposite ends.

[0024] Furthermore, the vent channel may be configured to allow a fluid to flow in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the plurality of unit frames are coupled together.

[0025] Furthermore, the battery module according to the present invention may further include an end frame that closes the open ends of the unit frames when the unit frames are fitted together, and the end frame may include an end guide portion that guides the fitting position of the unit frames.

[0026] In order to achieve the above object, a battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention includes a battery module according to the present invention.

[0027] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above object, according to yet another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle includes a battery module according to the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to one aspect of the present invention, the safety of a battery module can be improved.

[0029] In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the discharge of gases, flames, etc. generated inside the battery module can be appropriately controlled through the vent channel.

[0030] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the propagation of a thermal event to other adjacent battery modules due to flames, gases, or the like emitted from a particular battery module where an event has occurred.

[0031] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, sufficient vent channels are formed through the multiple U-frame structure, allowing gas generated inside the battery module to be smoothly discharged.

[0032] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the battery module from exploding due to an increase in internal pressure.

[0033] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, the assembly and productivity of the battery module can be improved.

[0034] In particular, one embodiment of the present invention simplifies the assembly process of a module frame including a vent channel. Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention allows the vent channel to be easily formed using the gap that is created when two or more U-frames are interlocked with each other.

[0035] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a blockage may be provided on the module frame to prevent flow resistance or sparks from being exposed to the outside, thereby more effectively preventing other fires or explosions from occurring outside the battery module.

[0036] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, configurations that apply vent channels of various structures can be easily realized.

[0037] In addition to these, the present invention can have various other additional effects, which will be explained in the respective embodiments, and explanations of effects that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0038] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further understand the technical concepts of the present invention as well as the content of the invention, and therefore the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to only the matters described in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of FIG. 1. [Figure 3]3 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a coupling configuration of a module frame included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the configuration of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1′ in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 3A and 3B are perspective views illustrating different unit frames provided in a module frame in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] 3A and 3B are perspective views illustrating different unit frames provided in a module frame in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] 3 is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a module frame provided in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a unit frame according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame in which the unit frame of FIG. 9 is provided. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a unit frame according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame provided with the unit frame of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a unit frame according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame provided with the unit frame of FIG. 13. FIG. [Figure 15] 10 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 16] 10 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 17]17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame provided with the unit frame of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of a module frame according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A5-A5′ in FIG. 18. [Figure 21] FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of a portion A6 in FIG. [Figure 22] 10 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the components of FIG. 22 assembled together. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a diagram of the battery module of FIG. 22, looking down on the first frame from above. [Figure 25] 10 is a top cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, the terms and words used in the specification and claims should not be construed as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be construed as having meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical ideas of the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventors themselves can appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best explain the invention.

[0041] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and that there may be various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted therefor at the time of this application.

[0042] Meanwhile, although directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, and rear may be used in this specification, these terms are used merely for ease of explanation, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms may vary depending on the position of the object, the position of the observer, etc. However, unless otherwise specified or explained, the following description will be given based on the drawings, with the Z-axis direction indicating the up-down direction, the X-axis direction indicating the left-right direction, and the Y-axis direction indicating the front-back direction, respectively.

[0043] Furthermore, this specification may include multiple embodiments, and for each embodiment, detailed descriptions of parts that are identically or similarly applicable to other embodiments will be omitted, and the description will focus on parts that are different.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of FIG.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery module according to the present invention includes a cell assembly 100 and a module frame 200.

[0046] The cell assembly 100 may include one or more battery cells 110. Here, each battery cell 110 may represent a secondary battery. A secondary battery may be configured to be repeatedly charged and discharged. In particular, a secondary battery, i.e., a battery cell 110, may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a battery case. The battery cell 110 may be a lithium battery, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to such a specific type of battery.

[0047] The battery cell 110 provided in the cell assembly 100 may be a pouch-type secondary battery. In this case, the exterior material of the battery cell 110 may be a pouch-type exterior material in which an aluminum layer is enveloped by a polymer layer. Furthermore, the battery cell 110 in this shape, i.e., the pouch-type battery cell 110, may have a housing portion and a sealing portion from a structural perspective. Here, the housing portion refers to the portion that houses the electrode assembly (positive electrode plate, negative electrode plate, separator) and electrolyte, and the sealing portion refers to the portion where the pouch exterior material is fused to surround the housing portion.

[0048] In particular, a pouch-type cell can be said to have four side surfaces (edges) with the storage section at the center. In this case, all four side surfaces may be configured to be sealed, or only three side surfaces may be configured to be sealed. In this case, a cell with four sealed side surfaces may be called a four-side sealed cell, and a cell with three sealed side surfaces may be called a three-side sealed cell.

[0049] A battery module may include a plurality of the battery cells 110. Each battery cell 110 may include an electrode lead. The electrode leads include a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead, and the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead may be provided to protrude from the same side (edge) of the battery cell 110 or from different sides. In this case, when the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead are located on the same side, the battery cell 110 may be referred to as a unidirectional cell. When the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead are located on different sides, particularly on opposite sides, the battery cell 110 may be referred to as a bidirectional cell.

[0050] Meanwhile, other forms of secondary batteries, such as cylindrical batteries and prismatic batteries, can also be employed as the battery cells 110 in the cell assembly 100 of the present invention.

[0051] A plurality of battery cells 110 may be stacked on one another to form a cell assembly 100. That is, the cell assembly 100 according to the present invention may be configured with a plurality of battery cells 110 stacked in at least one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 110 may be arranged in a horizontal direction, for example, a left-right direction (X-axis direction), while standing upright in the up-down direction (vertical direction, Z-axis direction). In this case, the electrode leads of each battery cell 110 can be said to be arranged at both ends in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction).

[0052] The module frame 200 may have an empty space formed therein, and may accommodate the cell assembly 100 in the empty space. In particular, the module frame 200 may include a plurality of unit frames U. The plurality of unit frames U may be configured to be interlocked with each other. The module frame 200 may have a vent channel formed in the space formed by the interlocking of the plurality of unit frames U. This will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0053] Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a coupling configuration of a module frame 200 included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the components of Fig. 3, and Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1-A1' in Fig. 4.

[0054] First, referring to Fig. 3, two different unit frames U can be coupled as indicated by arrow B1. At this time, the two unit frames U can be assembled into a structure in which they interlock with each other by fitting, as shown in Fig. 4. After being assembled in this manner, the multiple unit frames U form an empty space inside, as indicated by R in Fig. 4, and the cell assembly 100 can be housed in this internal space.

[0055] Furthermore, an overlapping portion may be formed in the module frame 200 by fitting. Such an overlapping portion may be a stacked structure formed in the process of forming an interlocking structure when different unit frames U are fitted together, as shown by A2 in FIG. 5 . Furthermore, such an overlapping portion may be located on the same side of the accommodation space R of the cell assembly 100 when the different unit frames U are fitted together. The overlapping portion may be configured such that the plate-like structures face each other. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the overlapping portion may be formed on each of the left and right plates between two unit frames U joined in the vertical direction.

[0056] A vent channel, indicated by V, may be formed at the overlapping portion formed in this manner. That is, at the overlapping portion, the unit frames U joined together are partially stacked on top of each other, but the stacked portions are not completely in contact with each other and are at least partially separated to form an empty space, thereby forming the vent channel V. When vent gas or the like is emitted from the cell assembly 100 housed in the internal space R of the module frame 200, the vent channel V can serve as a passage for discharging the vent gas or the like to the outside of the module frame 200, as indicated by arrow B2. Furthermore, the vent channel V may be formed in the fitting structure between the unit frames U, particularly in the space between the unit frames U at the overlapping portion.

[0057] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to manufacture a module frame 200 including a vent channel V using a simple process. Therefore, if vent gas or the like is emitted from a specific battery cell 110 under abnormal conditions such as thermal runaway, the vent gas or the like can be discharged to the outside, thereby preventing an explosion due to an increase in internal pressure of the battery module. In addition, in this case, the vent gas can be discharged only through a designated path, which can contribute to preventing the propagation of thermal runaway between modules using directional venting.

[0058] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment can improve the assembly and productivity of the battery module. In particular, the above-described embodiment can easily assemble the module frame 200 by fitting the unit frames U together, while also ensuring safety by forming the vent channel V in the module frame 200.

[0059] The plurality of unit frames U provided on the module frame 200 may be formed in a plate shape. In this case, the unit frames U are easy to manufacture, and the fitting structure can be easily realized. This is also advantageous in reducing the volume and weight of the unit frames U.

[0060] In the module frame 200, various fastening methods can be adopted to maintain the fitted shape of the plurality of unit frames U. For example, the plurality of unit frames U can be joined or fixed to each other by a variety of fastening methods such as welding, sliding guides, fitting, bolting, and adhesive bonding.

[0061] The unit frame U may include a center plate CP and end plates EP, which will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.

[0062] 6 and 7 are perspective views showing different unit frames U provided on a module frame 200 in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] 6 and 7, the unit frame U may include a center plate CP and two end plates EP located on either end of the center plate CP. In particular, the two end plates EP may be configured so as to be bent from each end of the center plate CP. More specifically, the center plate CP may be configured as a plate lying horizontally so as to be parallel to a horizontal plane, for example, the XY plane. The two end plates EP may then be joined at the left and right ends of the center plate CP so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle from the center plate CP.

[0064] In particular, the end plates EP and the center plate CP may be configured as an integrated unit. Furthermore, the end plates EP and the center plate CP may be configured as a single plate that is bent. That is, the unit frame U may be configured as a bent plate. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the unit frame U may be configured as a horizontally lying plate with both ends bent upward at approximately right angles. In this case, the unit frame U may also be referred to as a "U-frame" in view of its geometric characteristics.

[0065] Furthermore, the multiple unit frames U provided in the module frame 200 may have different shapes. In particular, the multiple unit frames U may be configured to have different sizes and shapes so that they can fit together. For example, one unit frame U provided in the module frame 200 may be configured as a U-frame with both ends bent upward, as shown in FIG. 6. In this case, the internal space of the unit frame U may have an upwardly open shape. Another unit frame U provided in the module frame 200 may be configured as a U-frame with both ends bent downward, as shown in FIG. 7. In this case, the internal space of the unit frame U may have a downwardly open shape, which is opposite to the opening direction of the unit frame U in FIG. 6.

[0066] In this embodiment, the two unit frames U1 and U2 may be fitted together with their open ends facing each other. That is, the two U-frames may have an interlocking structure. For example, considering the embodiments of FIGS. 3 and 4 together, the U-frame of FIG. 6 may be located at the bottom and the U-frame of FIG. 7 may be located at the top, with the open ends of the two U-frames facing each other. The two U-frames may be fitted together to form a receiving space R of the cell assembly 100 and a vent channel V on the side of the receiving space R. In particular, the receiving space R of the cell assembly 100 may be bounded on the left, right, and bottom sides by the first frame U1, and on the left, right, and top sides by the second frame U2.

[0067] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the unit frames U can be easily manufactured and are advantageous in reducing their bulk and weight. In addition, in this case, the assembly process using the overlapping of the unit frames U can be easily performed, and the vent channel V can also be easily formed by this assembly.

[0068] Since the module frame 200 can form the exterior of the battery module, it can be composed of various materials that can maintain a certain level or higher of mechanical and structural strength. For example, each unit frame U can be made of a metal material or a plastic material. Furthermore, the unit frame U can be made of a heat-resistant material that can withstand heat at a certain level or higher. More specifically, the unit frame U can be made of materials such as steel, particularly stainless steel (SUS). Also, the unit frame U can be provided with an electrical insulating material in order to ensure electrical insulation from the battery cell 110. For example, the unit frame U can be configured in a shape where an insulating material is coated on the outer surface of the metal material. In addition to this, as the material of the module frame 200, various materials that are already known at the time of filing the present invention can be adopted, and the representative configuration of the present invention is not limited to any specific material of such a module frame 200. Also, the plurality of unit frames U that are fitted to each other may be made of different materials from each other.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 7 and the like, the plurality of unit frames U may include a first frame U1 and a second frame U2. Here, the second frame U2 may be configured to be larger than the first frame U1. In particular, the second frame U2 may be configured such that the first frame U1 can be fitted into the internal space. Therefore, the first frame U1 can be distinguished as the inner frame and the second frame U2 as the outer frame.

[0070] For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 and the like, when the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 are each configured to have a center plate CP and two end plates EP, the sizes of the center plates CP between the two unit frames U can be configured to be different from each other. That is, when the lateral width of the center plate CP of the first frame U1 is W1 and the lateral width of the center plate CP of the second frame U2 is W2, the relationship W1 < W2 can be established.

[0071] Since the two end plates EP are provided at both ends of the center plate CP, the difference in width of the center plate CP can be replaced by a difference in the separation distance between the two end plates EP. Therefore, in the embodiment of Figures 6 and 7, the separation distance in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) between the two end plates EP of the first frame U1 can be configured to be smaller than the separation distance in the left-right direction between the two end plates EP of the second frame U2. Therefore, the two end plates EP of the first frame U1 can be fitted into the space between the two end plates EP of the second frame U2.

[0072] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the vent channel V can be more easily formed through a simple assembly process between a plurality of unit frames U. Therefore, the safety of the battery module as well as the ease of assembly and productivity can be further improved.

[0073] In particular, as shown in Fig. 5, the width of the second frame U2, which is the upper frame, may be wider than that of the first frame U1, which is the lower frame. That is, the width of the unit frame U coupled from the upper side may be wider than that of the unit frame U coupled from the lower side.

[0074] In this case, the vent gas discharged from the cell assembly 100 may move upward as shown by arrow B2 in Figure 5, passing over the upper end of the second frame U2 and flowing into the vent channel V. At this time, since the vent gas is usually in a high temperature state, it may have a strong tendency to move upward in the internal space of the module frame 200. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment, the high-temperature vent gas can be allowed to flow smoothly and quickly into the vent channel V.

[0075] 5, the vent channel V may be configured to allow the vent gas to flow downward and be discharged to the outside. In this case, since flames and the like have a tendency to move only upward, they are prevented from being discharged downward to the outside of the vent channel V as much as possible.

[0076] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration of a module frame 200 provided in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 8, like Fig. 5, can be said to show an example of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the arrows A1-A1' in Fig. 4.

[0077] Referring to Figure 8, at least a portion of the end plate EP of some unit frames U may be configured to contact the center plate CP of other unit frames U. In particular, of two fitted unit frames U, the end plate EP of the unit frame U fitted on the inside may contact the center plate CP of the unit frame U that surrounds it on the outside. More specifically, the upper end of the left end plate EP of the first frame U1 may contact the center plate CP of the second frame U2, as shown in the portion indicated by A3. Furthermore, the upper end of the right end plate EP of the first frame U1 may contact the center plate CP of the second frame U2, as shown in the portion indicated by A3'.

[0078] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the two unit frames U are in contact with and coupled to each other, enabling them to stably support each other. In particular, according to the embodiment of Fig. 8, the upper end of the end plate EP of the first frame U1 can support the center plate CP of the second frame U2 in an upward direction. This prevents the center plate CP of the second frame U2, which constitutes the top plate of the module frame 200, from sagging downward or becoming distorted.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a unit frame U according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame 200 provided with the unit frame U of Fig. 9.

[0080] 9 and 10, a first bent portion, such as the portion indicated by C1, may be provided at an end of the end plate EP of the unit frame U. For example, one end (lower end) of the end plate EP of the first frame U1 may be connected to the center plate CP and configured in an upright shape, while the other end (upper end) may be bent horizontally to form the first bent portion C1. In particular, the first frame U1 is the innermost unit frame U of the two unit frames U1 and U2 that are joined together. Therefore, it can be said that the first bent portion C1 is formed in the end plate EP of the inner frame. Furthermore, the first bent portion C1 may be formed in each of the two end plates EP.

[0081] In this embodiment, the surface of the horizontally bent portion C1 can come into surface contact with the center plate CP of another unit frame U. For example, referring to the embodiment in Fig. 10, the lower surface of the center plate CP of the second frame U2 can be placed on and come into contact with the upper surface of the bent portion C1 at the upper end of the first frame U1.

[0082] This embodiment of the present invention allows for a more stable support and connection between the unit frames U. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 10, the center plate CP of the second frame U2 can be more stably supported upward by the first bent portion C1 of the end plate EP of the first frame U1. Therefore, in this case, the structural stability of the module frame 200 can be further improved.

[0083] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the presence of surface contact between the unit frames U makes the fastening process even easier. For example, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 10, an adhesive is applied to the upper surface of the first bent portion C1 of the first frame U1, allowing it to be stably attached to the lower surface of the center plate CP of the second frame U2. As another example, a bolt or rivet structure may be applied between the first bent portion C1 of the first frame U1 and the center plate CP of the second frame U2 to fasten them together.

[0084] Furthermore, the above-described configuration strengthens the sealing force between the end of the end plate EP and the center plate CP, making it easier to achieve a directional vent configuration that allows vent gas to be discharged only in the intended direction.

[0085] Furthermore, the end of the end plate EP of the second frame U2 may be configured to extend to the center plate CP of the first frame U1. For example, referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, in the case of the left end of the second frame U2 surrounding the left exterior of the first frame U1, the lower end may extend elongatedly to the center plate CP of the first frame U1, as shown in the portion indicated by A4. In addition, in the case of the right end of the second frame U2 surrounding the right exterior of the first frame U1, the lower end may extend elongatedly to the center plate CP of the first frame U1, as shown in the portion indicated by A4'. In other words, the end plate EP of the second frame U2 extends downward with one end connected to the center plate CP, and the other extended end may be located in the portion (on the XY plane) where the center plate CP of the first frame U1 is located.

[0086] According to this embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to maximize the space forming the vent channel V. Therefore, it is possible to lower the temperature of the vent gas while it passes through the vent channel V, and to minimize the discharge of flames, sparks, and the like emitted from the battery cells 110 along with the vent gas to the outside. Therefore, it is possible to prevent such flames, sparks, and the like from acting as an ignition source outside the battery module.

[0087] An opening may be formed in at least one of the unit frames U. In particular, such an opening may be formed in an end plate EP of the unit frame U. For example, the first frame U1 may have openings formed in two end plates EP, as shown by I in FIGS. 5 and 6 . Here, the end plate EP of the first frame U1 is the inner end plate EP located inside the vent channel V, and may form the vent channel V together with the end plate EP of the second frame U2, which is the outer end plate EP. The opening I formed in the end plate EP of the first frame U1 may be configured to communicate the storage space R of the cell assembly 100 with the vent channel V. In this case, vent gas and the like ejected from the cell assembly 100 may flow into the vent channel V through the opening I formed in the end plate EP of the first frame U1, as shown by arrow B2 in FIG. 5 . Therefore, the opening I formed in the end plate EP of the first frame U1 can function as an inlet for the vent channel V.

[0088] The opening can be formed by making the unit frame U uneven. In particular, the opening I can be provided at the end of the inner end plate EP. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first frame U1 can be configured so that the upper end of the end plate EP has an uneven shape. In such an uneven configuration, a portion that is formed in a concave shape facing relatively downward can form an opening. In addition, in the uneven configuration, a portion that is formed in a convex shape facing relatively upward can contact and support another unit frame U, for example, the center plate CP of the second frame U2, as shown by A3 and A3' in FIG. 8.

[0089] Such unevenness can be formed by cutting out a portion of the edge of the plate, or can be molded into the uneven shape from the beginning. This embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to easily provide an inlet leading from the space R housing the cell assembly 100 to the vent channel V. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, in order for the vent gas discharged from the cell assembly 100 to flow into the vent channel V, it must travel along the surface of the inner end plate EP to the edge. Therefore, the longer path before the gas flows into the vent channel V further enhances the cooling effect on the vent gas and the effect of suppressing the emission of flames or sparks.

[0090] A number of openings I may be formed in one end plate EP. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, a number of openings I may be formed in each of the left and right end plates EP of the first frame U1. In this case, even if vent gas is generated in any part of the storage space of the cell assembly 100, the vent gas can be discharged more smoothly and quickly.

[0091] The opening may be configured in a shape in which a hole is drilled in the center of the end plate EP, as shown in Fig. 9. That is, the opening may be configured in the shape of a hole drilled in the center, rather than in a shape in which a part of the end is cut out, as shown in Fig. 6.

[0092] The two end plates EP located at the overlapping portion may have an inlet and an outlet for the vent channel V formed at opposite ends. In particular, the two end plates EP forming one vent channel V may have an inlet and an outlet for the vent channel V formed at vertically opposite ends. For example, referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the inlet for the vent channel V may be formed at the upper end of the end plate EP of the first frame U1 forming the inner wall of the vent channel V. The outlet for the vent channel V may be formed at the lower end of the end plate EP of the second frame U2 forming the outer wall of the vent channel V. Furthermore, the inlet for the vent channel V may be configured as a cutout or hole, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 9 . The outlet for the vent channel V may be formed by separating the end of the second frame U2 from the end plate EP of the first frame U1 by a predetermined distance, as shown by O in FIGS. 5 and 8 . In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, vent gases from the vent channel V can be discharged toward the bottom of the battery module through the outlet O.

[0093] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the path of the vent channel V can be formed to be even longer. In particular, in the above embodiment, the path of the vent channel V can be formed to be even longer from the upper end to the lower end of the module frame 200. This can further enhance the cooling effect of vent gas and the like and the effect of suppressing the emission of flames, sparks, and the like.

[0094] Fig. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a unit frame U according to still another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame 200 provided with the unit frame U of Fig. 11.

[0095] 11 and 12, the end plates EP of the second frame U2 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the center plate CP of the first frame U1. In particular, the end plates EP of the second frame U2 may overlap the end plates EP of the first frame U1 to form the vent channel V, but may be located outside the first frame U1. Therefore, the second frame U2 may be an outer frame. The second frame U2 may be configured to move toward and be coupled to the first frame U1 from the upper side.

[0096] In this embodiment, the end plates EP of the second frame U2 extend downward from the center plate CP of the second frame U2, and the lower ends may be bent inward to form a second bent portion, as shown in C2. This second bent portion C2 may be configured to surround the outside of the center plate CP of the first frame U1, particularly the lower portion of the center plate CP of the first frame U1, as shown in FIG. 12. In this case, the second bent portion C2 may be a bent portion at the lower end of the end plates EP of the second frame U2.

[0097] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the first frame U1 is supported at both its upper and lower ends by the second frame U2, further strengthening the connection between the first frame U1 and the second frame U2. In addition, the first frame U1 can be coupled to the internal space of the second frame U2 in a sliding manner. That is, the internal space of the second frame U2 can be limited in the up, down, left, and right directions by the center plate CP, the end plates EP, and the second bent portions C2 of the end plates EP. The first frame U1 can slide in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction) relative to the internal space and be inserted into the internal space of the second frame U2. This facilitates assembly of the first frame U1 and the second frame U2, resulting in a more stable connection structure. Alternatively, the second bent portion C2 of the second frame U2 can be formed by being bent after the first frame U1 is inserted.

[0098] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , an opening may be formed in the end plate EP of the second frame U2, as indicated by O. Because the second frame U2 is located outside the vent channel V, the opening O formed in the second frame U2 can function as an outlet for the vent channel V. Therefore, vent gas and other gases that have flowed into the vent channel V can be discharged to the outside through the outlet O, as indicated by arrows B3 and B3′ in FIG. 12 . The outlet O formed in the end plate EP of the second frame U2 may be formed as a hole by drilling a portion of the end plate EP, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 . As another example, the outlet O formed in the end plate EP of the second frame U2 may be formed as an uneven portion at the end of the end plate EP, like the inlet I formed in the end plate EP of the first frame U1 in FIG. 6 .

[0099] Fig. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a unit frame U according to still another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a module frame 200 provided with the unit frame U of Fig. 13.

[0100] 13, similarly to the embodiment in Fig. 11, second bent portions C2 are provided at the lower ends of the two end plates EP of the second frame U2 so as to extend inward and bend horizontally. Here, a support protrusion protruding upward as indicated by D may be provided on the inner surface, i.e., the upper surface, of the second bent portion C2.

[0101] The support protrusions D can support the center plate CP of the first frame U1 facing upward when the second frame U2 is coupled to the first frame U1. The support protrusions D are provided only on a portion of the inner surface of the second bent portion C2. A plurality of support protrusions D can be provided on the second bent portion C2, and the plurality of support protrusions D can be configured to be spaced apart a predetermined distance in the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction) on one second bent portion C2.

[0102] In this embodiment, the support protrusions D support the center plate CP of the first frame U1 and may form a space between the center plate CP of the first frame U1 and the second bent portion C2. For example, the space between the multiple support protrusions D provided on one second bent portion C2 may become a space that separates the center plate CP of the first frame U1 from the second bent portion C2.

[0103] In this embodiment, the outlet of the vent channel V may not be provided in the second frame U2. That is, as shown in FIG. 14, the support protrusion D forms a space between the second bent portion C2 of the second frame U2 and the center plate CP of the first frame U1, and this space can function as the outlet O. Therefore, there is no need to form a separate opening or the like in the end plate EP of the second frame U2 to function as an outlet. In this case, the vent gas and the like that flows into the vent channel V can be discharged to the outlet O between the second bent portion C2 of the second frame U2 and the center plate CP of the first frame U1, as indicated by arrows B4 and B4' in FIG. 14.

[0104] In particular, the above-described embodiment prevents vent gas from being discharged to the outside in a direction toward other battery modules. That is, referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 , vent gas can be discharged from the outlet O located on the left side of the module frame 200 to the right (in the direction of arrow B4) along the outer surface of the center plate CP of the first frame U1. And, from the outlet O located on the right side of the module frame 200, vent gas can be discharged to the left (in the direction of arrow B4') along the outer surface of the center plate CP of the first frame U1. In this case, vent gas and the like are not directly discharged toward other battery modules adjacent to the left or right side of the battery module. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules due to the discharge of vent gas, flames, and the like.

[0105] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when the outlet O is formed at the bottom of the battery module and the vent gas is discharged to the bottom of the battery module, it is possible to prevent high-temperature vent gas and flames from flowing toward components located at the top of the battery module, users, etc. Therefore, when a passenger is located at the top, such as in a battery module mounted on a vehicle, the discharge of vent gas and flames toward the passenger can be prevented, further improving the safety of the passenger.

[0106] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] 15, the module frame 200 may have a protrusion formed on the inside of the vent channel V. More specifically, a flow path protrusion, as indicated by P, may be formed on the outer surface of the end plate EP of the first frame U1. Such a flow path protrusion P may be provided on the surface of the unit frame U, protruding toward the vent channel V. For example, in the case of the end plate EP of the first frame U1, since the vent channel V is located on the outer side, the flow path protrusion P may be formed on the outer surface in a shape that protrudes outward.

[0108] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the flow path protrusions P can guide the flow of vent gas inside the vent channel V. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 15 , the flow path of the vent gas inside the vent channel V is not necessarily linear, but can be bent one or more times. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, the flow path of the vent gas inside the vent channel V can be formed into a long shape. Therefore, the temperature of the vent gas can be lowered during the process of flowing inside the vent channel V, and the emission of sparks, particles, and the like, which tend to move in a straight line, to the outside can be suppressed.

[0109] In particular, the flow path protrusions P can be configured in various shapes and layouts, and such flow path protrusions P can further improve the effects of cooling the vent gas and suppressing sparks and the like.

[0110] Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a configuration of a module frame 200 provided with the unit frame U of Fig. 16.

[0111] 16 and 17, the vent channel V may be configured to form a fluid flow direction perpendicular to the coupling direction of the plurality of unit frames U. In particular, the vent channel may be configured to form a vent gas flow direction horizontally when the plurality of unit frames U are coupled vertically. To this end, a flow path protrusion P may be formed on the outer surface of the end plate EP of the first frame U1 located inside the vent channel V, protruding horizontally outward toward the vent channel V. In this case, the flow path protrusion P may have an elongated shape extending in the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction), which is the horizontal direction, on the end plate EP of the first frame U1.

[0112] The flow path protrusions P may also be configured to contact the inner edges of other unit frames U that together form the vent channels V. For example, the flow path protrusions P provided on the end plate EP of the first frame U1 may contact the inner surface of the end plate EP of the second frame U2, as in the portion indicated by L in FIG.

[0113] Therefore, in a configuration in which the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 are joined in the up-down direction (vertical direction), the flow direction of the vent gas can be formed in the front-to-rear direction, which is perpendicular to the joining direction (up-to-down direction), by the flow path protrusions P. More specifically, vent gas, flames, sparks, etc. that flow into the vent channel V through the inlet I formed in the end plate EP of the first frame U1 can flow in the front-to-rear direction (horizontal direction) as indicated by arrows B5 and B6 by the flow path protrusions P. In particular, the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 can be formed elongated in the front-to-rear direction. The flow direction of the vent gas can be formed in the front-to-rear direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the first frame U1 and the second frame U2. Therefore, in this case, the vent path is formed to be as long as possible, further improving the effects of cooling the vent gas and suppressing sparks, etc.

[0114] Furthermore, the flow path protrusions P formed on the unit frame U may be configured to reverse the flow of vent gas inside the vent channel V. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16 , vent gas flowing into the vent channel V through the inlet I may flow as shown by arrow B5 depending on the extension direction of the upper flow path protrusions P and the position of the inlet I. Then, such vent gas may be redirected to flow in the opposite direction to arrow B5 as shown by arrow B6 depending on the extension direction of the lower flow path protrusions P and the position of the outlet O.

[0115] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the number of routes for discharging vent gas and the like can be further increased.

[0116] Fig. 18 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of a module frame 200 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of Fig. 18, and Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A5-A5' in Fig. 18. Also, Fig. 21 is an enlarged view of portion A6 in Fig. 18.

[0117] 18 to 21, the module frame 200 includes a plurality of unit frames U, and the plurality of unit frames U may further include a third frame U3 in addition to a first frame U1 and a second frame U2. That is, the module frame 200 of the battery module according to the present invention may be configured in a shape in which three or more unit frames U are fitted together. More specifically, at least a portion of the first frame U1 may be fitted into the second frame U2, and at least a portion of the second frame U2 may be fitted into the third frame U3. In this case, it can be said that the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 are fitted together in the internal space of the third frame U3.

[0118] The third frame U3 may include a center plate CP and end plates EP, similar to the first frame U1 and the second frame U2. Furthermore, the third frame U3 may include one center plate CP and two end plates EP bent at right angles from both ends of the center plate CP. Here, the center plate CP of the third frame U3 may be formed larger than the center plate CP of the second frame U2. Therefore, the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 can be fitted together between the two end plates EP formed at both ends of the center plate CP of the third frame U3.

[0119] Furthermore, the multiple unit frames U provided on the module frame 200 can be configured to be fitted together horizontally. That is, although the various embodiment drawings described above mainly show shapes in which the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 are joined together vertically (up and down), the multiple unit frames U can also be joined together horizontally (left and right) as in the embodiments of Figures 18 to 21.

[0120] When three unit frames U are configured to fit together as in the above embodiment, the innermost first frame U1 and the outermost third frame U3 may open in the same direction, while the central second frame U2 may open in the opposite direction. For example, as shown in Figures 19 and 20, the first frame U1 and the third frame U3 may be configured so that their internal spaces are open to the right, and the second frame U2 may be configured so that its internal space is open to the left.

[0121] According to this embodiment of the present invention, at least some of the sides of the module frame 200 are configured with multiple layers, which is more effective in protecting the cell assembly 100 housed in the internal space. For example, referring to FIG. 20, when the cell assembly 100 is housed in the housing space R, the upper and lower parts of the cell assembly 100 are protected triple-layered, and the left side of the cell assembly 100 is protected double-layered. This enhances the protection effect of the cell assembly 100 against impacts applied to the side. In addition, such multiple side walls can further improve the blocking effect against flames emanating from the cell assembly 100.

[0122] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment, the vent path can be formed in a longer length. For example, referring to FIG. 20, a first channel V1 can be formed between the first frame U1 and the second frame U2, and a second channel V2 can be formed between the second frame U2 and the third frame U3. The first channel V1 and the second channel V2 can be connected to each other, and the vent gas ejected from the accommodation space R can flow into the vent channel V through the inlet I and then pass through the vent channel V sequentially until it is discharged to the outlet O. In this case, the vent channel V can be said to be formed in multiple layers in the thickness direction of the module frame 200. Therefore, the vent path can be formed in a very long length, further improving the cooling effect of the vent gas and the suppression effect of flames or sparks.

[0123] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, bending of the vent path is even easier. In particular, as shown in Fig. 20, the inlet I1 for the first channel V1 may be formed at the right end of the end plate EP of the first frame U1, and the inlet I2 for the second channel V2 may be formed at the left end of the end plate EP of the second frame U2. Furthermore, the outlet O for the second channel V2 may be formed at the right end of the end plate EP of the third frame U3.

[0124] In this case, the flow directions of the vent gas in the first channel V1 and the second channel V2 can be switched to be opposite to each other, thereby further improving the effect of capturing sparks, flames, etc. or suppressing emissions.

[0125] As shown by G in FIG. 19 , a flow path groove may be formed on the surface of at least one of the multiple unit frames U provided in the module frame 200. The flow path groove G may be formed on the surface facing the vent channel V in at least some of the unit frames U. In particular, the flow path groove G may be formed concavely on the inner side in the thickness direction of the unit frames U. The flow path groove G may essentially form a vent channel V so that vent gas flows in the space between the unit frames U. In other words, the unit frames U are arranged so that the end plates EP are in contact with each other, and the vent gas can be moved along the flow path groove G formed concavely in the end plates EP.

[0126] Furthermore, the flow path groove G may be formed elongated in a direction perpendicular to the fitting direction between the unit frames U. Furthermore, like the flow path protrusions P, the flow path groove G may be formed so as to extend along the direction of the longest side of the unit frame U. For example, with reference to FIG. 19 , a plurality of unit frames U may be joined together in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and configured to have long sides in the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction). In this case, the flow path groove G may be formed so as to extend elongated along the front-rear direction, which is the long direction of the unit frames U.

[0127] In this way, the module frame 200 can be configured so that the vent gas flows along the longitudinal direction in which the side portions are formed to be the longest among various directions. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 18 to 21, the longitudinal direction of the module frame 200 can be the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction). In this case, the vent channel V can be provided so that the vent gas flows in the front-to-rear direction.

[0128] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the vent gas discharge path can be formed in a long shape. For example, the vent gas that flows into the first channel V1 between the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 in Fig. 19 can flow in a long shape in the front-to-back direction (Y axis) along the flow channel G, as shown by the arrow.

[0129] Furthermore, such flow channel G can be configured so that the direction of vent gas is reversed along the longitudinal direction. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, the vent gas flows forward (in the +Y-axis direction) in the space between the first frame U1 and the second frame U2, and then the direction is reversed so that the vent gas flows backward again. This direction reversal can also be achieved in a similar manner in the space between the second frame U2 and the third frame U3. Therefore, in this case, the vent path of the vent gas is significantly increased, while the effect of suppressing the emission of flames, sparks, particles, and the like that tend to travel in a straight line is also significantly improved.

[0130] In the battery module according to the present invention, at least some of the unit frames U to be coupled to each other may include a coupling guide portion. Here, the coupling guide portion is a component that guides the assembly or coupling of different unit frames U, and may be formed in the shape of a protrusion, groove, hook, or the like that can be fitted together.

[0131] 19, for example, the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 may have coupling guide portions of corresponding shapes. More specifically, the outer surfaces (upper and lower outer surfaces) of the end plate EP of the first frame U1 may be provided with protruding first guide portions extending elongatedly along the coupling direction, as indicated by the portion J1. The inner surfaces (upper and lower inner surfaces) of the end plate EP of the second frame U2 may be provided with groove-shaped second guide portions extending elongatedly along the coupling direction, as indicated by the portion J2, so that the first guide portions J1 can slide into them.

[0132] 19 and 21, a third guide portion, such as the portion indicated by J3, may be provided on the outer surfaces (upper and lower outer surfaces) of the end plates EP of the second frame U2, protruding and extending elongatedly in the joining direction. A fourth guide portion, such as the portion indicated by J4, may be provided on the inner surfaces (upper and lower inner surfaces) of the end plates EP of the third frame U3, into which the third guide portion J3 can slide and fit. Therefore, when the second frame U2 and the third frame U3 are joined, the third guide portion J3 and the fourth guide portion J4 may be fitted together, as shown in FIG. 21.

[0133] According to this embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to improve the ease of assembly by guiding the assembly position and direction when assembling a plurality of unit frames U. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, it is possible to further improve the ease of assembly by restricting the relative movement between the plurality of unit frames U after they are joined.

[0134] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled components of FIG. 22. For example, FIG. 23 can be said to illustrate the configuration of the cross section of the battery module of FIG. 22 taken along line A7-A7'. While only one battery cell 110 is shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 for ease of explanation, it goes without saying that a plurality of battery cells 110 may be included. FIG. 24 is a view of the first frame U1 of the battery module of FIG. 22 viewed from above.

[0135] 22 and 23 , a mounting groove, as indicated by K, may be formed in the first frame U1, which is the unit frame U located innermost in the module frame 200. The mounting groove K may be configured to receive an end of a battery cell 110. The mounting groove K may be formed in a portion of the unit frame U, for example, in the inner surface of the end plate EP. In particular, a portion of the battery cell 110, for example, an upper end or a lower end, may be received in the mounting groove K. For example, if the battery cell 110 is a pouch-type cell, the battery cell 110 may include a receiving portion M and a sealing portion S shaped to surround an edge of the receiving portion M. In this case, when the battery cell 110 is received in the internal space of the first frame U1 in an upright position, the upper sealing portion S and the lower sealing portion S of the battery cell 110 may be fitted into the mounting grooves K formed in the upper end plate EP and the lower end plate EP of the first frame U1. In addition, the receiving portion M of the battery cell 110 may be formed to be wider than the sealing portion S, and the upper and lower ends of the receiving portion M may be placed in the placement groove K of the first frame U1.

[0136] The first frame U1 may be configured to protrude outward from the portion where the mounting groove K is formed on the inside toward the vent channel V. That is, the mounting groove K can be said to be formed in a concave shape when the inner surface of the first frame U1 facing the battery cell 110 is used as a reference. However, this concave portion may form a protruding portion on the outer surface of the first frame U1, as indicated by K'. In particular, the first frame U1 may be formed in a thin plate shape. In this case, in order to form the mounting groove K on the inner surface, the outer surface may be configured to protrude in accordance with the shape of the mounting groove K. In particular, the vent channel V may be located on the outer surface of the first frame U1, as shown in FIG. 23 . Therefore, the mounting groove K of the first frame U1 may form a protruding portion K' protruding toward the vent channel V.

[0137] Further, with reference to the embodiments in FIGS. 22 and 24 , a plurality of protrusions K′ formed on the opposite side of the mounting groove K are arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, but may be arranged so that the positions of their longitudinal ends are staggered. For example, in the embodiment in FIG. 24 , when a plurality of protrusions K′ are arranged from left to right, the odd-numbered protrusions K′ from the left may extend elongatedly to the rear end of the end plate EP, as shown by the portion A8. The even-numbered protrusions K′ from the left may extend elongatedly to the front end of the end plate EP, as shown by the portion A8′. In this case, in the vent channel V provided on the outside of the end plate EP of the first frame U1, vent gas may flow in a manner that alternates between forward and rearward flows, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 24 .

[0138] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the assembly and connection between the cell assembly 100 and the module frame 200 can be improved, and the vent path can be formed longer. In particular, in the above embodiment, the components for mounting the battery cells 110 can also perform the function of setting the guide path of the vent channel V. Therefore, the module frame 200 does not need to be provided with separate components for mounting the battery cells 110 and for guiding the path of the vent channel V. Therefore, the structure of the module frame 200 can be simplified, and its bulk and weight can be reduced. This is further advantageous in terms of improving the energy density of the battery module and reducing costs. In addition, this can further improve the productivity of the battery module.

[0139] The battery module according to the present invention may further include an end frame 300.

[0140] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 15, the end frame 300 may be configured to close an open end of the module frame 200. In particular, the module frame 200 may have an open end formed by opening a specific end when a plurality of unit frames U are fitted together. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 15, a U-frame-shaped first frame U1 and a second frame U2 are coupled vertically with their upper and lower open ends facing each other to form the module frame 200, and the front and rear of the module frame 200 may be open. Two end frames 300, i.e., a front frame and a rear frame, may be coupled to the front open end and the rear open end of the module frame 200.

[0141] The end frame 300 may be coupled to an open end of the module frame 200 to seal the corresponding space. Therefore, when vent gas or flames are emitted from the cell assemblies 100 housed inside the module frame 200, the vent gas or flames can move to the vent channel V and be discharged without flowing out the front or rear open ends of the module frame 200.

[0142] The end frame 300 may also include components for electrically connecting the battery module to other external components. For example, the end frame 300 may include a module terminal for exchanging charge / discharge power of the battery module and / or a connector terminal for transmitting and receiving various information of the battery module.

[0143] The end frame 300 may include an end guide portion, such as the portion indicated by Q in Figure 15. The configuration of such an end guide portion Q will be described in more detail with further reference to Figure 25.

[0144] 25 is a top cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along line A9-A9′ in the assembled state of the battery module of FIG. 15.

[0145] 15 and 25, in a battery module according to the present invention, the end guide portion Q may be configured to guide the fitting position of the unit frame U. For example, the end guide portion Q may be configured to protrude inward from the inner surface of the end frame 300, in other words, toward the module frame 200. More specifically, in the case of an end frame 300 coupled to the rear open end, the end guide portion Q may be formed on the inner surface (front surface). The end guide portion Q may be configured to protrude toward the front side where the accommodation space for the cell assembly 100 is located. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 15, the end guide portion Q may be configured to have an elongated shape extending vertically.

[0146] In this embodiment, the unit frames U may be coupled on both sides of the end guide portion Q. In particular, referring to the embodiment of Fig. 25, the end plate EP of the first frame U1 located on the inside may be fixed to the inside of the end guide portion Q. Also, the end plate EP of the second frame U2 located on the outside may be fixed to the outside of the end guide portion Q. At this time, the ends of the end guide portion Q and the end plate EP may be brought into contact and fixed by various fastening methods such as fitting, adhesive, bolting, welding, etc.

[0147] According to this embodiment, the end guide portion Q can guide the joining position of the first frame U1 and the second frame U2. Therefore, the assembly and joining properties of the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 can be further improved. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 are joined together to form the module frame 200, the vent channel V formed between the first frame U1 and the second frame U2 can be stably maintained. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 25, the end guide portion Q can more stably maintain the left-right separation distance of the vent channel V between the end plate EP of the first frame U1 and the end plate EP of the second frame U2.

[0148] Therefore, even when pressure or impact is applied, distortion of the vent channel V is prevented, and vent performance can be ensured at a certain level or above. Furthermore, if vent gas or the like is generated on the battery cell 110 side, the end plate EP of the first frame U1 located on the inside may be pushed toward the vent channel V. However, in the above-described embodiment, the end guide portion Q prevents the end plate EP of the first frame U1 from being pushed and maintains its position, thereby stably ensuring the vent channel V.

[0149] 15 and 25, the end guide portion Q is formed in a protrusion shape, but the end guide portion Q may be formed in various other shapes such as a groove shape. In particular, when the end guide portion Q is formed in a groove shape, the unit frame U may be provided with a separate component that allows the end guide portion Q to be fitted therein.

[0150] Furthermore, a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention may include one or more battery modules according to the present invention described above. In addition to such battery modules, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components, such as a control unit such as a battery management system (BMS), bus bars between modules, a pack case, a relay, a current sensor, and various other battery pack components known at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0151] The battery module or battery pack according to the present invention may be applied to automobiles such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. That is, the automobile according to the present invention may include the battery module according to the present invention or the battery pack according to the present invention. Furthermore, the automobile according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the automobile in addition to the battery module or battery pack. For example, the automobile according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an electronic control unit (ECU), etc. in addition to the battery module according to the present invention.

[0152] Furthermore, the battery module according to the present invention may be applied to an energy storage system (ESS), i.e., the energy storage system according to the present invention may include the battery module according to the present invention or the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0153] Although the present invention has been described above using limited embodiments and drawings, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited thereby in any way, and it goes without saying that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can implement the present invention by making various modifications and variations within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 100: Cell assembly 110: Battery cell 200:Module frame 300: End Frame U: unit frame U1: First frame U2: Second frame U3: Third frame CP: Center plate EP: End plate R: Containment space V: Vent channel D: Support protrusion P: Flow path protrusion G: Flow channel K: Placement groove Q: End guide part

Claims

1. a cell assembly comprising one or more battery cells; a module frame including a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting; Including, The unit frame includes a center plate and two end plates formed by bending both ends of the center plate, the plurality of unit frames include a first frame and a second frame configured so that the width of the center plate is wider than the width of the center plate of the first frame, the battery module, wherein at least a portion of an end plate provided on the first frame is in contact with a center plate of the second frame.

2. a cell assembly comprising one or more battery cells; a module frame including a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting; Including, The unit frame includes a center plate and two end plates formed by bending both ends of the center plate, the plurality of unit frames include a first frame and a second frame configured so that the width of the center plate is wider than the width of the center plate of the first frame, the end plates of the second frame are configured to surround at least a portion of the center plate of the first frame.

3. a cell assembly comprising one or more battery cells; a module frame including a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting; Including, The unit frame includes a center plate and two end plates formed by bending both ends of the center plate, the plurality of unit frames include a first frame and a second frame configured so that the width of the center plate is wider than the width of the center plate of the first frame, a mounting groove formed on an inner surface of the first frame so that an end of the battery cell can be placed thereon, the mounting groove constituting a protrusion configured to protrude toward the vent channel.

4. a cell assembly comprising one or more battery cells; a module frame including a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting; Including, The unit frame includes a center plate and two end plates formed by bending both ends of the center plate, At least one of the unit frames has an opening formed in the end plate, The end of the end plate of the unit frame has an uneven shape to form the opening.

5. a cell assembly comprising one or more battery cells; a module frame including a plurality of unit frames fitted together to house the cell assembly in an internal space, the module frame having a vent channel formed in an overlapping portion formed by the fitting; Including, The unit frame further includes an end frame that closes the open ends of the unit frames when the unit frames are fitted together, The end frame includes an end guide portion that guides the fitting positions of the plurality of unit frames.

6. The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein ends of the end plates of the second frame are configured to extend to the center plate of the first frame.

7. 4. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of unit frames further include a third frame configured such that the width of the center plate is wider than the width of the center plate of the second frame.

8. The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the two end plates located at the overlapping portion have an inlet and an outlet of the vent channel formed at opposite ends of the two end plates.

9. The battery module of claim 1 , wherein the vent channel is configured such that a fluid flow direction is perpendicular to a direction in which the plurality of unit frames are coupled to each other.

10. A battery pack comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. A motor vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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