Battery assemblies, battery packs including the same, and automobiles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery assembly including: a plurality of battery cells each having a vent portion configured to discharge venting gas; a frame configured to mount the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vent portions; and a cover member configured to cover the venting holes and to be opened by the venting gas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0178828 filed on December 11, 2023 and Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2024 - 0179119 filed on December 5, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the documents of the Korean patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery assembly, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

Background Art

[0003] Secondary batteries with high applicability by product groups and having electrical characteristics such as high energy density are commonly applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by an electric drive source. Such secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency improvement not only because they can significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels but also because they do not generate any by - products from energy use.

[0004] Currently, commonly used types of secondary batteries include lithium - ion batteries, lithium - polymer batteries, nickel - cadmium batteries, nickel - metal hydride batteries, nickel - zinc batteries, etc. The operating voltage of such a unit secondary battery cell, that is, a unit battery cell, is about 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, a plurality of battery cells may be connected in series to form a battery pack. Also, depending on the charge - discharge capacity required for the battery pack, a plurality of battery cells may be connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set variously according to the required output voltage or charge - discharge capacity.

[0005] On the other hand, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first construct a battery assembly containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery assembly to add other components and construct a battery pack or battery rack. Alternatively, recently, cell-to-pack battery packs, in which multiple battery cells are not modularized but directly housed in a pack housing or similar, are also being manufactured.

[0006] In battery packs and battery assemblies using conventional battery cells, internal temperature can rise due to battery cell malfunctions and misuse, which can increase the internal pressure of the battery cells. This internal pressure can cause the battery cells to vent or explode, and the resulting hot gases and flames can transfer to adjacent battery cells, potentially causing a chain reaction of explosions, making it extremely dangerous.

[0007] Therefore, conventionally, battery cells have been manufactured to include a vent on one side, and the frame of the battery assembly that houses such battery cells has been made thinner in the portion facing the vent of the battery cell. Thus, when a particular battery cell is vented, the portion in question ruptures, allowing venting gases and other substances to be discharged to the outside, thereby slowing down or preventing the transfer of high-temperature gases and flames to other battery cells.

[0008] However, in such conventional battery assemblies, there are process limitations in making the frame, where the battery cells are fixed, thinner than a certain thickness through injection molding. As a result, when a particular battery cell is vented, the part of the battery cell facing the vent does not break, delaying the expulsion of high-temperature gas and flames to the outside. This causes them to flow into the battery assembly, increasing the likelihood of further chain ignition in adjacent battery cells, and improvement is required. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a battery assembly, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile that can more efficiently discharge high-temperature gas and flames to the outside when a battery cell is in an abnormal condition.

[0010] However, the problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a battery assembly comprising: a plurality of battery cells having vents configured to discharge venting gas; a frame configured to anchor the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vents; and a cover member configured to cover the venting holes and to be opened by the venting gas.

[0012] The cooling medium may further be configured to be filled between the battery cells.

[0013] The cover member can be located inside the frame.

[0014] The cover member can be configured to cover at least a portion of the plurality of venting holes.

[0015] The cover member may include a bent portion configured such that its end portion bends and extends away from the venting hole.

[0016] The frame may include an insertion groove that is recessed in at least a portion thereof, into which the end portion of the cover member is inserted.

[0017] The cover member can be located on the outside of the frame.

[0018] The system may further include a holder located inside the cover member and configured to at least partially house the battery cell.

[0019] The holder may include a plurality of housings configured to accommodate at least partially each battery cell, and spacers provided between adjacent housings to maintain spacing between the battery cells.

[0020] The system may further include an adhesive configured to fill the spaces between the battery cells and secure them together.

[0021] The adhesive can be interposed between the battery cell and the spacer.

[0022] The spacer may include portions that become thinner as they move in one direction.

[0023] The adhesive is interposed between the battery cell and the frame, and the frame may include filling grooves configured to be filled with the adhesive.

[0024] The frame may include coupling protrusions configured such that at least a part thereof protrudes inward, and the holder may include coupling grooves configured such that the coupling protrusions are inserted therein.

[0025] The cover member may include a housing portion that at least partially houses the battery cell.

[0026] The cover member may include a bottom part facing the vent part.

[0027] The cover member may include a spacer provided between adjacent housing portions among the plurality of housing portions and configured to maintain the interval between the battery cells.

[0028] A venting channel may be provided under the venting hole. The venting gas discharged from the vent part of the battery cell can pass through the venting hole and move to the venting channel.

[0029] The battery assembly may further include an external case provided outside the frame, and a venting channel configured to communicate with the venting hole may be formed between the frame and the external case.

[0030] The external case may further include ribs configured to partition the venting channel into a plurality of parts.

[0031] The external case may include a discharge part configured to communicate with the venting channel and allow the venting gas to be discharged to the outside, and the rib may be configured to guide the venting gas to the discharge part.

[0032] And the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including the battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0033] Furthermore, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery assembly according to the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0034] According to one aspect of the present invention, venting gases and flames that may be generated in the event of an abnormal condition in the battery cell can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery assembly.

[0035] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell and generates high-temperature gases and flames, the venting gases and flames can be guided in a specific direction and rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly.

[0036] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, in the process of venting gases and other substances vented from battery cells to the outside of the battery assembly, other battery cells can be prevented from suffering thermal damage as much as possible, thereby preventing further chain ignition.

[0037] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be explained in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will not be explained here. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] The drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described later, serve to further illustrate the technical concept of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited solely to the matters described in such drawings. [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]This is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention; for example, Figure 4 may be a drawing showing the I-I' section of Figure 1. [Figure 5] This drawing illustrates a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which a cover member is opened in the event of a thermal event. [Figure 6] This is an internal perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is an exploded perspective view of a part of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating how the cover member opens in the event of a thermal event in the battery assembly. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 12 may be a drawing showing the section I-I' in Figure 1. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of a holder applied to a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a top view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, and for example, Figure 14 may be a drawing showing the II-II' section of Figure 1. [Figure 15] This is an enlarged drawing of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17]This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which an external case according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 19] This is a cross-sectional view of another part of a battery assembly to which an external case according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 20] This is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating how the cover member opens in the event of a thermal event in the battery assembly. [Figure 22] This is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] This is a schematic perspective view of an automobile containing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and in the claims should not be interpreted in a manner limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings, but rather in a manner consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, based on the principle that inventors may appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe their invention.

[0040] Therefore, the embodiments and configurations shown in the drawings described herein 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, at the time of filing, there are various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted for them.

[0041] Furthermore, the present invention includes several diverse embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant explanations of substantially identical or similar configurations will be omitted, and the explanation will focus on the differences.

[0042] On the other hand, in the present invention, terms representing directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but these terms are for the convenience of explanation, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that they may differ depending on the position of the object in question, the position of the observer, etc.

[0043] For example, in the embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing can mean the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction can mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction can mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0044] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 4 may be a drawing showing the I-I' section of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a drawing illustrating how the cover member opens when a thermal event occurs in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell 100, a frame 200, and a cover member 300.

[0046] Multiple battery cells 100 can be arranged in numerous columns and rows to form a single battery assembly 10. Multiple battery cells 100 can be electrically connected to each other. The battery cells 100 can also be secondary batteries in the form of prismatic, cylindrical, or pouch-type battery cells, and in this embodiment, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 2, the battery cells 100 are exemplified as being composed of cylindrical battery cells.

[0047] Specifically, referring to Figure 3, the battery cell 100 may include an electrode assembly, a battery housing, a housing cover, and the like. The battery cell 100 may also include a vent section 110. The vent section 110 may be configured to discharge venting gas. The vent section 110 may be configured to rupture when the internal pressure of the battery housing increases above a certain level. For example, the vent section 110 may be formed as part of the housing cover and be a structurally weaker region than the surrounding area so that it can easily rupture when internal pressure is applied. The vent section 110 may be, for example, a region with a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. Referring to Figure 3, the vent section 110 may form a substantially circular closed loop.

[0048] As shown in Figure 2, the battery assembly 10 of the present invention may have a vent portion 110 of such a battery cell 100 facing downwards. However, it is not limited to this, and the vent portion 110 can of course be provided in other positions.

[0049] The frame 200 can be configured to accommodate all of the battery cells 100. The frame 200 can be configured to keep the battery cells 100 together as a single unit. The frame 200 can be made of plastic or metal to maintain rigidity.

[0050] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the frame 200 can be provided in a box form with an open top and composed of four walls. The frame 200 can be configured to accommodate multiple battery cells 100. Multiple battery cells 100 can be housed in the frame 200 upright in the Z-axis direction.

[0051] An assembly cover 11 can be attached to the open top surface of the frame 200. The assembly cover 11 can form the top surface of the battery assembly 10. The assembly cover 11 can be configured to cover the battery cells 100 from above. The assembly cover 11 and the frame 200 can be attached to form a rectangular hexahedron box shape.

[0052] Multiple venting holes (H) can be formed in the frame 200. Multiple venting holes (H) can be formed at positions corresponding to the vent portions 110 of the battery cell 100. Multiple venting holes (H) can be formed at positions corresponding to the vent portions 110 of each battery cell 100. The fact that the venting holes (H) are formed at positions corresponding to the vent portions 110 means that when viewed along the height direction of the battery cell 100, the venting holes (H) and the vent portions 110 have overlapping portions. Here, the height direction of the battery cell 100 is the direction between the top and bottom surfaces of the battery cell 100, and can be the direction parallel to the z-axis. That is, viewing along the height direction of the battery cell 100 means viewing along the +z-axis direction or the -z-axis direction on the xy-plane.

[0053] The venting holes (H) can be configured to connect the inside and outside of the battery assembly 10 to each other. This allows the venting gas discharged through the vent portion 110 of the battery cell 100 to be discharged to the outside of the battery assembly 10 through the venting holes (H).

[0054] Referring to Figure 4, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the venting hole (H). That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to close the venting hole (H). The cover member 300 can be located on the outside of the battery cell 100. The cover member 300 can be configured to face the vent portion 110 of the battery cell 100. Figure 4 shows that the cover member 300 is provided below the battery cell 100 and the battery cell 100 is fixed to it, but the position of the cover member 300 can be elsewhere depending on the position of the vent portion 110 of the battery cell 100.

[0055] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 can normally prevent venting gas and the like from being discharged to the outside of the frame 200. Therefore, under normal conditions of the battery cell 100, the cover member 300 can stably maintain coverage of the venting hole (H). Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 can normally close the venting hole (H) and prevent foreign matter from flowing into the inside of the frame 200 from the outside.

[0056] Furthermore, referring to Figure 5, the cover member 300 can be configured to be opened by the venting gas. That is, the cover member 300 can normally remain attached to the frame 200 to cover the venting holes (H), and be configured to be opened under specific circumstances. Specifically, the cover member 300 can be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100. For example, the cover member 300 can be released from its attachment to the frame 200, partially rupture due to the pressure of the venting gas, or melt and be opened by the heat of the venting gas.

[0057] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 100, the cover member 300 is opened, and the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame 200 through the exposed portion of the venting hole (H), as shown by the thick arrow in Figure 5. Therefore, when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 100, the pressure inside the battery assembly 10 is prevented from rising, and further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented. Thus, according to the above-described aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly 10 can be guaranteed.

[0058] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the other battery cells 100, other than the specific battery cell 100 where the event occurred, are kept closed by the cover member 300. This suppresses or prevents the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly 10 from affecting the adjacent other battery cells 100. Therefore, further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented more effectively.

[0059] The cover member 300 can be configured to have a flat surface. For example, the cover member 300 can be provided as a thin film or sheet. Although the drawing shows the cover member 300 with its maximum thickness, the cover member 300 can have a thickness of 200 μm to 500 μm. Such a cover member 300 can be attached to the frame 200 by methods such as adhesive application or ultrasonic fusion.

[0060] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the frame 200 is provided with venting holes (H), and the cover member 300 that covers the venting holes (H) is provided with a very thin thickness, so that the cover member 300 can be quickly broken. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 100, the venting gas can be quickly discharged to the outside.

[0061] On the other hand, referring to Figure 2, the frame 200 may include a bottom frame 210, side frames 220, and a top frame 230.

[0062] The bottom frame 210 can be provided below multiple battery cells 100. Venting holes (H) can also be formed in the bottom frame 210. Each venting hole (H) can be provided with a battery cell 100.

[0063] The side frames 220 can extend upward from each corner of the bottom frame 210. The side frames 220 can comprise a number of unit walls and be configured to surround a number of battery cells 100. More specifically, the number of side frames 220 can comprise a right wall located at the +X side end of the bottom frame 210, a rear wall located at the +Y side end, a left wall located at the -X side end, and a front wall located at the -Y side end, forming the sides of the battery assembly 10.

[0064] The top frame 230 can be configured to accommodate at least partially multiple battery cells 100. The top frame 230 can be positioned above and separated from the bottom frame 210. The top frame 230 can be configured to maintain spacing between the battery cells 100 at the top of the multiple battery cells 100. The top frame 230 can be provided to maintain spacing between the battery cells 100. The top frame 230 may have holes or the like formed therein into which the tops of the multiple battery cells 100 are inserted.

[0065] Figure 6 is an internal perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Referring to Figure 6, a battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling medium 400. The cooling medium 400 may consist of insulating oil or cooling water. The cooling medium 400 may be configured to be filled between the battery cells 100. Specifically, the cooling medium 400 may be filled between the top frame 230 and the cover member 300. That is, the space between the top frame 230, the cover member 300 and the battery cells 100 may be filled with a cooling medium 400 that serves to prevent the temperature of the battery cells 100 from rising due to high-temperature gases or flames.

[0067] This allows the battery cell 100 to be partially immersed in the cooling medium 400 within the battery assembly 10, or the entire battery cell 100 to be immersed in the cooling medium 400 within the battery assembly 10. The cooling medium 400 can cool the battery cell 100 by directly contacting it. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cooling performance of the battery cell 100 can be improved by the direct water cooling (immersion cooling) method.

[0068] The cooling medium 400 increases the thermal mass, delaying the temperature rise of the battery cell 100 even under conditions such as rapid charging and discharging of the battery cell 100, and preventing a rapid temperature rise of the battery cell 100.

[0069] On the other hand, even if the cooling medium 400 is not shown in drawings other than Figure 6, the cooling medium 400 can be interposed between the battery cells 100, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0070] On the other hand, since the battery assembly 10 of the present invention is subjected to a direct water cooling method in which a cooling medium 400 is filled between the battery cells 100, there is a possibility that the cooling medium 400 may leak to the outside through the venting holes (H) of the frame 200. This necessitates a structure to prevent the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside.

[0071] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 can be configured to prevent moisture penetration. The cover member 300 can be made of any structure or material that can prevent moisture penetration. For example, the cover member 300 can be made of a waterproof material such as a water-resistant film.

[0072] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, damage to the cover member 300 by the cooling medium 400 can be prevented, and the closed state of the venting holes (H) of the cover member 300 can be maintained more stably. Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, leakage of the cooling medium 400 to the outside of the battery assembly 10 through the venting holes (H) can be prevented, thereby further ensuring the cooling performance of the battery assembly 10.

[0073] Furthermore, the cover member 300 can be made of a heat-resistant material. The battery cell 100 may generate heat during repeated charging and discharging in the normal operating process. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if a high-temperature venting gas is generated from some of the battery cells 100 contained in the battery assembly 10, the cover member 300 may not open if the gas is below a specific temperature, especially if no thermal event occurs in the battery assembly 10 or if it can be used normally.

[0074] On the other hand, the cover member 300 can be configured to rupture due to the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the cover member 300 can be configured to melt at least partially due to the heat of the flame. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured so that when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 100, only the portion facing the vent portion 110 through which the venting gas is vented is opened. This prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H) even when the cover member 300 is opened, by not opening all of the venting holes (H) but only a portion of them.

[0075] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the airtightness of the cover member 300 covering the venting hole (H) can be improved. In particular, in the case of direct water cooling in which the cooling medium 400 is interposed between the battery cells 100, the opening of the cover member 300 reliably prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H) which is also open.

[0076] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a part of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0077] The cover member 300 can be located inside the frame 200. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the venting holes (H) from the inside. In particular, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 7, the cover member 300 can be configured to be fixed to the frame 200, for example, the bottom frame 210. The cover member 300 can be configured to cover the venting holes (H) located inside the bottom frame 210. The cover member 300 can be located between the battery cell 100 and the frame 200, and more specifically, between the battery cell 100 and the bottom frame 210.

[0078] The cover member 300 can be configured to cover at least some of the multiple venting holes (H). That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover at least some of the multiple venting holes (H) at once, rather than covering each of the multiple venting holes (H) individually.

[0079] Furthermore, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover all of the venting holes (H), as shown in the embodiment in Figure 7. In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the cover member 300 can be configured to correspond to the area of ​​the bottom frame 210. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting holes (H) can be more effectively sealed by the cover member 300. Therefore, in the case of direct water cooling in which the cooling medium 400 is interposed between the battery cells 100, the opening of the cover member 300 reliably prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting holes (H) that are also open. In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the process during the manufacture of the battery assembly 10 is simplified, so costs and time are saved and productivity can be improved.

[0080] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0081] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a structure that can further improve the sealing between the cover member 300 and the frame 200.

[0082] For example, as in one embodiment, the cover member 300 may include a bent portion 310, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 8. The bent portion 310 can be configured such that the end portion of the cover member 300 bends and extends away from the venting hole (H). The bent portion 310 can be configured to be in close contact with the side of the frame 200, i.e., the side frame 220.

[0083] In another embodiment, the frame 200 may include an insertion groove 221. The insertion groove 221 can be configured such that at least a portion of the frame 200 is recessed, into which the end portion of the cover member 300 is inserted. It is preferable that the insertion groove 221 is formed in the side frame 220.

[0084] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the airtightness between the cover member 300 and the frame 200 can be further ensured, thereby preventing the cooling medium 400 from passing through the space between the end portion of the cover member 300 and the frame 200 towards the venting hole (H). Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the fixing force of the cover member 300 to the frame 200 can be improved. Therefore, even if the battery assembly 10 is subjected to impact, the cover member 300 can be prevented from moving or rupturing.

[0085] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is a drawing illustrating how the cover member opens in the battery assembly of Figure 10 when a thermal event occurs.

[0086] Referring to Figures 1, 3, 10, and 11, a battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes, as described above, a plurality of battery cells 100, a frame 200, and a cover member 300. The cover member 300 covers the venting holes (H) of the frame 200. The cover member 300 is configured to close the venting holes (H), and can also be partially opened by venting gases discharged from the battery cells 100.

[0087] In this embodiment, the cover member 300 can be located outside the frame 200. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured to cover the venting holes (H) from the outside. The cover member 300 can be configured to cover the venting holes (H) from the outside of the bottom frame 210. A part of the frame 200 can be located between the cover member 300 and the battery cell 100, and more specifically, the bottom frame 210 can be located between the cover member 300 and the battery cell 100. The cover member 300 can be located below the bottom frame 210.

[0088] The vent portion 110 (see Figure 3) of the battery cell 100 can face the vent hole (H) formed in the frame 200. In this case, the width of the vent hole (H) can be made narrower than the width of the battery cell 100 so that the battery cell 100 is not pinched by the vent hole (H).

[0089] There are no special restrictions on how the cover member 300 is attached to the frame 200. For example, the cover member 300 can be attached to the frame 200 by methods such as adhesive application or ultrasonic fusion.

[0090] The cover member 300 can normally prevent venting gas and other substances from being discharged to the outside of the frame 200. Therefore, under normal conditions of the battery cell 100, the cover member 300 can reliably maintain coverage of the venting hole (H). Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 can normally close the venting hole (H) from the outside, preventing foreign matter from flowing into the inside of the frame 200 from the outside.

[0091] Furthermore, referring to Figure 11, the cover member 300 can be configured to be opened by the venting gas. That is, the cover member 300 can normally remain attached to the frame 200 to cover the venting holes (H), and be configured to be opened under specific circumstances. Specifically, the cover member 300 can be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100. For example, the cover member 300 can be released from its attachment to the frame 200, partially rupture due to the pressure of the venting gas, or melt and be opened due to the heat of the venting gas.

[0092] When an abnormal condition occurs in battery cell 100, the cover member 300 opens, and as shown by the thick arrow in Figure 11, the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame 200 through the venting hole (H) and a portion of the ruptured or melted cover member 300. Therefore, when an abnormal condition occurs in battery cell 100, the pressure inside the battery assembly 10 is prevented from rising, and further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented. Thus, according to the aforementioned aspects of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly 10 can be guaranteed.

[0093] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the other battery cells 100, other than the specific battery cell 100 where the event occurred, are kept closed by the cover member 300. This suppresses or prevents the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly 10 from affecting the adjacent other battery cells 100. Therefore, further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented more effectively.

[0094] On the other hand, the cover member 300 can be configured to rupture due to the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the cover member 300 can be configured to melt at least partially due to the heat of the flame. That is, the cover member 300 can be configured so that when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 100, only the portion facing the vent section 110 through which the venting gas is vented is opened. This prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H) even when the cover member 300 is opened, as only a portion of the venting hole (H) is opened, rather than the entire hole.

[0095] Except for the fact that the cover member 300 is located on the outside of the frame 2000, the material and shape of the cover member 300 can be identical or similar to the cover member 300 described earlier in Figures 4 and 5. A detailed explanation of the cover member 300 and the frame 200 will be omitted as it will overlap with what has been explained earlier.

[0096] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 12 may be a drawing showing the I-I' section of Figure 1. Also, Figure 13 is a perspective view of a holder applied to a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, a battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a holder 500. The holder 500 may be configured to accommodate at least partially the battery cells 100. For example, the top frame 230 may be configured to accommodate the upper part of the battery cells 100, and the holder 500 may be configured to accommodate the lower part of the battery cells 100.

[0098] The holder 500 can be located inside the cover member 300. Alternatively, the holder 500 can be located inside the frame 200. For example, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 12, when a venting hole (H) is provided at the bottom, the holder 500 can be located on top of the cover member 300. In this case, the holder 500 can be configured to be fixed to the cover member 300. That is, the holder 500 can be fixed to the flat upper surface of the cover member 300.

[0099] Specifically, the holder 500 may include a housing section 510 and a spacer 520. The housing section 510 can be configured to house at least partially the battery cell 100. Multiple housing sections 510 may be provided, and multiple battery cells 100 may be housed in each of the multiple housing sections 510. The battery cell 100 can be inserted into the housing section 510 in an upright position, and movement in the up, down, left, and right directions can be prevented. On the other hand, in one embodiment, if the battery cell 100 is provided as a cylindrical cell, the multiple housing sections 510 can be cylindrical.

[0100] The battery cell 100 can be configured such that at least a portion of it is inserted into the housing 510, while the side with the vent portion 110 is in contact with the cover member 300. In other words, the holder 500 and the battery cell 100 can be configured to be in contact with the cover member 300 simultaneously.

[0101] The spacer 520 can be provided between adjacent storage compartments 510 among a plurality of storage compartments 510. The spacer 520 can be provided in a form that protrudes upward from the holder 500 body. The spacer 520 can be configured to maintain the spacing between battery cells 100. The spacer 520 can also be configured to guide the battery cells 100 into the storage compartments 510 during assembly.

[0102] Figure 14 is a top view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 14 may be a view of the II-II' section in Figure 1.

[0103] Referring to Figures 12 and 14, the battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive 600.

[0104] The battery assembly 10 can be made into a single unit by filling the spaces between multiple battery cells 100 with adhesive 600. That is, the adhesive 600 can fill the spaces formed between the multiple battery cells 100. The adhesive 600 can be configured to fill the spaces between the battery cells 100 and fix the battery cells 100 together.

[0105] The adhesive 600 can be configured to cover at least partially multiple battery cells 100. Referring to Figure 12, the adhesive 600 can cover the upper and lower sides of the battery cells 100 in the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery assembly 10, forming the structure of the battery assembly 10 together with the frame 200. In particular, the adhesive 600 can be configured to maintain the spacing between the battery cells 100 when the holder 500 is not provided. Thus, the structural rigidity of the battery assembly 10 can be increased.

[0106] The adhesive 600 can be provided on at least one side of the frame 200. Referring to Figure 12, the adhesive 600 can be provided inside the bottom frame 210 and cover one side of the battery cell 100. Alternatively, the adhesive 600 can be provided outside the top frame 230 and cover the other side of the battery cell 100. If a holder 500 is provided, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 14, the adhesive 600 can be interposed between the holders 500, i.e., between the spacers 520.

[0107] Such adhesive 600 can be configured to prevent the penetration of moisture, foreign matter, etc. In particular, the adhesive 600 can be provided on both sides of the cooling channel through which the cooling medium 400 is interposed, preventing the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside of the battery assembly 10. The adhesive 600 can prevent the cooling medium 400 from leaking through housing holes in the top frame 230 or venting holes (H) in the bottom frame 210, etc.

[0108] Furthermore, the adhesive 600 can increase the thermal dissipation efficiency of the multiple battery cells 100, thereby further enhancing the cooling performance of the battery cells 100. The adhesive 600 can be made of any material that can improve the fixing and thermal dissipation efficiency of the battery cells 100. Therefore, it is possible to prevent chain ignition in the event of a thermal event due to a malfunction of the battery cells 100.

[0109] Furthermore, the adhesive 600 can serve as an insulator, preventing current from flowing to adjacent battery cells 100 when damage occurs in at least one specific battery cell 100 among the multiple battery cells 100 due to an abnormal condition.

[0110] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 15 may be an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 12.

[0111] A predetermined gap is formed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 520, and with the battery cell 100 connected to the holder 500, adhesive 600 can be applied between the battery cells 100. This allows the adhesive 600 to be interposed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 520.

[0112] When venting gas is discharged from the battery cell 100 and the cover member 300 and venting hole (H) are opened, the cooling medium 400 can leak to the outside through the opened venting hole (H). Furthermore, the cooling medium 400 can move in the space between the spacer 520 and the battery cell 100 and leak to the outside through the housing 510. However, with this embodiment, the adhesive 600 interposed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 520 prevents the cooling medium 400 from moving in the space between the spacer 520 and the battery cell 100 and leaking to the outside of the space in which the battery cell 100 is housed through the housing 510.

[0113] On the other hand, the spacer 520 may include a portion that becomes thinner as it moves in one direction. That is, it may have a portion where the distance between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 520 widens as it moves in one direction. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 15, the spacer 520 may include a portion that becomes thinner as it moves upwards. In such a case, the lower part of the spacer 520 is in near-contact with the battery cell 100, and the spacer 520 can be configured so that the distance from the battery cell 100 increases as it moves towards the top.

[0114] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive 600 can be guided to fit into the space between the spacer 520 and the battery cell 100. This allows for a more reliable sealing of the space between the spacer 520 and the battery cell 100, and more effectively prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside.

[0115] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The adhesive 600 can be interposed between the battery cell 100 and the frame 200. In particular, if a holder 500 is provided, the adhesive 600 can be interposed between the holder 500 and the frame 200. Such adhesive 600 is at greater risk of leaking between the battery cell 100 and the frame 200. Therefore, to prevent the adhesive 600 from leaking to the outside, the frame 200 may include a filling groove 222. The filling groove 222 can be configured to be filled with adhesive 600.

[0117] Referring to Figure 16, the filling groove 222 can be provided in particular on the side frame 220. For example, the filling groove 222 can be provided on the side frame 220 in a position facing the battery cell 100. The filling groove 222 can be configured such that at least a portion of the inner surface of the side frame 220 is recessed inward.

[0118] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the adhesive 600 is filled between the battery cell 100 and the side frame 220, it can be guided into the filling groove 222 and positioned to fill the space between the battery cell 100 and the side frame 220. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting holes (H).

[0119] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] A battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a structure that can improve the fixing force between the holder 500 and the frame 200. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 17, the holder 500 and the frame 200 may include a male-female coupling structure. Specifically, the frame 200 may include a coupling projection 223 configured to protrude inward in at least a portion thereof, and the holder 500 may include a coupling groove 530 into which the coupling projection 223 is inserted. The coupling projection 223 and the coupling groove 530 may be configured to correspond to each other.

[0121] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the fixing force between the holder 500 and the frame 200 is improved, thereby improving the sealing force or tightness between the holder 500 and the frame 200. Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the space between the holder 500 and the frame 200 can be minimized, thereby preventing the cooling medium 400 from leaking into the space between the holder 500 and the frame 200.

[0122] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which an external case according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of another part of the battery assembly to which an external case according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0123] On the other hand, referring to Figures 18 and 19, a battery assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an external case 700. The external case 700 may be provided on the outside of the frame 200. A venting channel (S) can be formed between such an external case 700 and the frame 200, configured for the flow of venting gas. The venting channel (S) may be configured to communicate with a venting hole (H). The structure of the venting channel (S) may include a partition channel structure to prevent the venting gas from moving in the open space outside the frame 200. The detailed structure of the venting channel (S) will be described later.

[0124] Therefore, multiple battery cells 100 can be housed inside the outer case 700 while being supported by the frame 200. As in the embodiment shown in Figures 18 and 19, if the vent portion 110 of the battery cell 100 included in the battery assembly 10 is formed on the lower side of the battery cell 100, the high-temperature gas discharged downward through the vent portion 110 can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly 10 through the venting channel (S) between the bottom frame 210 and the outer case 700.

[0125] The venting channel (S) in this embodiment can be provided below the venting hole (H). The venting gas discharged from the vent section 110 of the battery cell 100 can pass through the venting hole (H) and move into the venting channel (S). The venting gas that has moved into the venting channel (S) can be discharged to the outside.

[0126] Thus, in the battery assembly 10 according to the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell 100 and high-temperature gas or flame is generated, the venting gas can be guided to the outside in a specific direction, not in all directions, through the venting channel (S), and in the process of discharging such venting gas to the outside, other battery cells 100 can be prevented from suffering thermal damage as much as possible.

[0127] The outer case 700 may further include ribs 710 configured to divide the venting passage (S) into multiple sections. The ribs 710 are anchored to the outer case 700 and can prevent the movement of venting gas in a direction across the ribs 710.

[0128] Multiple ribs 710 can be provided and arranged to be spaced apart from each other along one direction. This allows multiple spaced-apart ribs 710 to define at least one venting channel (S) through which the venting gas flows. Figure 3 shows an example where the ribs 710 are spaced apart along the left-right direction.

[0129] On the other hand, referring to Figure 19, the outer case 700 may include a discharge section 720. The discharge section 720 can be configured to discharge venting gas to the outside. The discharge section 720 can be configured to communicate with a venting passage (S). This allows venting gas discharged into the venting passage (S) through the venting hole (H) to proceed through the venting passage (S) to the discharge section 720, and such venting gas can be discharged to the outside of the outer case 700 through the discharge section 720.

[0130] Furthermore, the discharge section 720 can be provided symmetrically on both sides of the outer case 700. By providing the discharge section 720 on both sides of the outer case 700, in the event of an abnormal situation with the battery cell 100, high-temperature gas and flames can be discharged in both directions from the outer case 700, making it easy to discharge venting gas and other substances to the outside of the outer case 700. In Figure 19, the discharge section 720 is provided at the rear of the outer case 700, but it may be provided elsewhere.

[0131] The rib 710 can be configured to guide the venting gas to the exhaust section 720. That is, the rib 710 can be provided so as to extend toward the exhaust section 720. With such a rib 710 structure, the venting gas can only move toward the exhaust section 720, thus guiding the high-temperature venting gas and flame toward the exhaust section 720, and preventing the gas from moving to other adjacent battery cells 100 and causing a chain reaction explosion even if a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100. In addition, the rib 710 acts as a kind of barrier, preventing the gas discharged from the battery cells 100 contained in the battery assembly 10 from spreading in all directions. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the venting gas is quickly guided from the outside of the battery assembly 10 toward the exhaust section 720, and the possibility of it spreading in all directions from the outside of the battery assembly 10 is reduced, thus preventing further chain ignition.

[0132] Furthermore, when gas is ejected from a battery cell 100, electrode plate pieces and active material pieces inside the battery cell 100 may be heated to a high temperature and discharged to the outside. Such high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks. The battery assembly 10 according to the present invention prevents high-temperature particles from easily escaping to the outside of the outer case 700 even if they are discharged from the battery cell 100. By allowing them to cool sufficiently as they are guided to the discharge section 720 side through the venting channel (S), which is the space between the bottom frame 210 and the outer case 700, the battery assembly 10 can prevent them from acting as an ignition source outside the battery assembly 10.

[0133] Furthermore, according to the present invention, a venting gas movement path utilizing the bottom frame 230 and the discharge section 720 is formed at the bottom of the battery assembly 10, allowing the venting gas to be discharged in a single targeted direction, for example, in the direction in which the discharge section 720 is formed.

[0134] According to the above-described embodiment, in situations such as thermal runaway, when high-temperature gases or flames are discharged from the battery cell 100, the discharged gases or flames may not be directed upwards. In particular, when an occupant is positioned above the battery assembly 10, as in an electric vehicle, the above-described embodiment can suppress or delay the gases or flames from being directed towards the occupant. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by performing directional venting downwards and to the sides of the battery assembly 10, the safety of users positioned above, such as occupants, can be enhanced.

[0135] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 is a drawing illustrating how the cover member opens in the battery assembly of Figure 20 when a thermal event occurs.

[0136] Referring to Figures 1, 3, 20, and 21, a battery assembly 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells 100, a frame 200, and a cover member 800, as described above. The cover member 800 covers the venting holes (H) of the frame 200. The cover member 800 can be configured to close the venting holes (H) and to be partially opened by venting gases discharged from the battery cells 100.

[0137] In this case, the cover member 800 according to this embodiment may include a housing portion 810 that at least partially houses the battery cell 100. That is, the cover member 800 according to this embodiment may include a housing portion 810 that houses the battery cell 100 while covering the venting holes (H) of the frame 200. The cover member 800 according to this embodiment may be in a form in which the cover member 300 and the holder 500 of Figure 15 described earlier are integrated as a single component.

[0138] Multiple housing sections 810 can be provided, and multiple battery cells 100 can be housed in each of the multiple housing sections 810. The battery cells 100 are inserted into the housing section 810 in an upright position, and movement in the up, down, left, and right directions can be prevented. On the other hand, in one embodiment, if the battery cells 100 are cylindrical cells, the multiple housing sections 810 can be cylindrical.

[0139] Furthermore, the cover member 800 may include a bottom part 830 that faces the vent portion 110 of the battery cell 100.

[0140] As soon as at least a portion of the battery cell 100 is inserted into the housing 810, the portion of the battery cell 100 equipped with the vent portion 110 can come into contact with the bottom part 830. In other words, as soon as the battery cell 100 is inserted into the housing 810, the vent portion 110 can face the bottom part 830.

[0141] The bottom part 830 can cover the venting holes (H) from the inside of the frame 200. The bottom part 830 can be located between the battery cell 100 and the frame 200. Specifically, the bottom part 830 can be located between the battery cell 100 and the bottom frame 210. The bottom part 830 can be located on top of the bottom frame 210.

[0142] The cover member 800 can normally prevent venting gas and other substances from being discharged to the outside of the frame 200. Therefore, under normal conditions of the battery cell 100, the cover member 800 can stably maintain coverage of the venting hole (H). Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 800 can normally close the venting hole (H) from the inside, preventing foreign matter from flowing into the inside of the frame 200 from the outside.

[0143] Furthermore, referring to Figure 21, the cover member 800 can be configured to be opened by venting gas. In the case of a battery cell 100 housed in the housing portion 810 of the cover member 800, the venting holes (H) are normally kept covered by the bottom part 830 and can be opened under specific circumstances. Specifically, the cover member 800, and in particular the bottom part 830, can be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell 100. For example, the bottom part 830 may be partially ruptured by the pressure of the venting gas or melted and opened by the heat of the venting gas.

[0144] When an abnormal condition occurs in battery cell 100, the cover member 800, particularly the bottom part 830, is opened, and as shown by the thick arrow in Figure 21, the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame 200 through the venting hole (H) and a portion of the ruptured or melted cover member 800. Therefore, when an abnormal condition occurs in battery cell 100, the pressure inside the battery assembly 10 is prevented from rising, and further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented. Thus, according to the aforementioned aspects of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly 10 can be guaranteed.

[0145] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the other battery cells 100, other than the specific battery cell 100 where the event occurred, are kept closed by the cover member 800. This suppresses or prevents the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly 10 from affecting the adjacent other battery cells 100. Therefore, further chain ignition of other battery cells 100 can be prevented more effectively.

[0146] On the other hand, the bottom part 830 of the cover member 800 can be configured to rupture under the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the bottom part 830 of the cover member 800 can be configured to melt at least partially under the heat of a flame. In other words, the cover member 800 can be configured so that, in the event of an abnormal condition in the battery cell 100, only the portion facing the vent portion 110 through which the venting gas is vented is opened. This prevents the cooling medium 400 from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H) even when the cover member 800 is opened, as only a portion of the venting hole (H) is opened, rather than the entire hole.

[0147] As long as the bottom part 830 can be fractured or melted by the venting gas, there are no special restrictions on the shape or material of the cover member 800, including the bottom part 830. For example, the bottom part 830 of the cover member 800 can be made sufficiently thin in order to induce it to fracture or melt by the venting gas.

[0148] As another example, a notch can be formed in the bottom part 830 to induce fracture. The notch indicates a portion of the bottom part 830 that has been removed by a predetermined thickness. Two regions of the bottom part 830 can be separated by the notch. Since the notch is a weaker area, when the notch fractures, a portion of the bottom part 830 facing the vent section 110 is opened, thereby allowing the venting gas to be released.

[0149] As another example, the bottom part 830 may have boundary portions with differences in thickness to induce fracture. The relatively thinner portion of the bottom part 830 faces the vent portion 110, and this portion can be fractured or melted by the venting gas discharged from the vent portion 110.

[0150] As another example, the bottom part 830 can have multiple holes or the like formed to induce rupture. The multiple holes can be arranged along a specific line, and the two regions of the bottom part 830 can be separated by the line formed by the multiple holes or the like. Since the line formed by the multiple holes or the like is a weak point, the portion of the bottom part 830 corresponding to the line will rupture, opening up a part of the bottom part 830 facing the vent section 110, thereby allowing the venting gas to be discharged.

[0151] As described above, the cover member 800 in this embodiment can be configured such that the cover member 300 and the holder 500 in Figure 15 are integrated into a single component. That is, the cover member 800 can house and secure the battery cell 100 while closing the venting holes (H) of the battery cell 100.

[0152] On the other hand, the cover member 800 may include spacers 820 provided between adjacent housing sections 810 among a plurality of housing sections 810, configured to maintain the spacing between battery cells 100. The spacers 820 can be configured to guide the battery cells 100 into the housing section 810 during assembly of the battery cells 100.

[0153] Furthermore, the adhesive 600 can be interposed between the spacers 820. Such adhesive 600 can be configured to prevent the penetration of moisture, foreign matter, etc. In particular, the adhesive 600 can be provided on both sides of the cooling channel through which the cooling medium is interposed, preventing the cooling medium from leaking to the outside of the battery assembly 10. The adhesive 600 can also prevent the cooling medium from leaking through venting holes (H) of the bottom frame 210, etc.

[0154] A predetermined gap is formed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 820, and with the battery cell 100 housed in the housing 810, adhesive 600 can be applied between the battery cells 100. This allows the adhesive 600 to be interposed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 820.

[0155] When venting gas is discharged from the battery cell 100 and the bottom part 830 of the cover member 800 and the venting hole (H) are opened, the cooling medium may leak to the outside through the opened venting hole (H). Furthermore, the cooling medium may move into the space between the spacer 820 and the battery cell 100 and leak to the outside through the housing 810. However, with this embodiment, since the adhesive 600 is interposed between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 820, it is possible to prevent the cooling medium from moving into the space between the spacer 820 and the battery cell 100 and leaking to the outside of the space in which the battery cell 100 is housed through the housing 810.

[0156] On the other hand, the spacer 820 may include a portion that becomes thinner towards one direction. That is, it may have a portion where the distance between the battery cell 100 and the spacer 820 increases towards one direction. For example, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 20, the spacer 820 may include a portion that becomes thinner towards the top. In such a case, the lower part of the spacer 820 is in near contact with the battery cell 100, and the distance from the battery cell 100 increases towards the top of the spacer 820. With such an embodiment, the adhesive 600 can be guided to fit into the space between the spacer 820 and the battery cell 100. This makes it possible to more reliably seal the space between the spacer 820 and the battery cell 100 and more effectively prevent the cooling medium from leaking to the outside.

[0157] Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] Referring to Figure 22, the battery pack 1 according to the present invention may include one or more of the battery assemblies 10 according to the present invention described above. Furthermore, the battery pack 1 according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery assemblies 10 according to the present invention. For example, the battery pack 1 according to the present invention may further include battery pack components known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS (Battery Management System), busbars, relays, and current sensors.

[0159] Furthermore, the battery pack 1 according to the present invention may further include a pack case 2 as shown in Figure 22. Such a pack case 2 can provide space for housing the battery assemblies 10 according to the present invention. In particular, if the battery pack 1 includes a large number of battery assemblies 10, the pack case 2 can partition the space for housing the large number of battery assemblies 10 separately through a crossbeam 3 or the like.

[0160] Such a pack case 2 may be the external case 700 shown in Figures 18 and 19. This allows the pack case 2 to be equipped with a discharge section 720. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas discharged through the venting holes (H) of the battery assembly 10 can be discharged to the outside of the pack case 2 through the discharge section 720, thereby preventing thermal runaway propagation of the battery pack 1 unit.

[0161] Figure 23 is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 24 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0162] Referring to Figures 23 and 24, the battery pack 1 according to the present invention does not include a separate pack case 2, but includes the battery assembly 10 according to the present invention, and the assembly cover 11 of the battery assembly 10 and the outer case 700 can be configured to function as the pack case 2. In this case, the outer case 700 may contain battery pack components such as a BMS, busbars, and relays. Such a form of battery pack 1 is sometimes called cell-to-pack (CTP) because the battery cells 100 are directly housed in the pack case 2. Recently, development of such CTP-type battery packs has become active, and the present invention can also be applied to such CTP-type battery packs. In particular, a cover member 300 is provided inside the frame 200 to ensure the safety and reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0163] Such a pack case 2 can be the external case 700 shown in Figures 18 and 19. The pack case 2 is equipped with the aforementioned discharge section 720, which allows venting gas discharged from multiple battery cells 100 to be discharged to the outside of the pack case 2 through the discharge section 720, thereby preventing thermal runaway propagation in one battery pack unit.

[0164] Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view of an automobile containing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] Referring to Figure 25, an automobile (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The automobile (V) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The automobile (V) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The automobile (V) can be operated by being powered by the battery pack 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Although the present invention has been described above, even if limited by embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and of course, various modifications and variations are possible within the equivalent scope of the technical concept of the present invention and the claims described below by persons with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0167] V Automobile 1 Battery Pack 2-pack case 3 Crossbeam 4. Venting Devices 10 Battery Assembly 11 Assembly Cover 100 battery cells 110 Vent section 200 frames 210 Bottom Frame 220 Side Frame 221 Insertion groove 222 Filling groove 223 Combination protrusion 230 Top Frame H Venting Hall 300, 800 cover components 310 Bend section 400 Cooling medium 500 holder 510 Storage Unit 520 Spacer 530 Connection groove 600 Adhesive 700 External Case 710 Rib 720 Discharge section S venting channel

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells equipped with vents configured to discharge venting gas; A frame configured such that the plurality of battery cells are fixed in place, and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vent portion; and Includes a cover member that covers the venting hole and is configured to be opened by the venting gas, The battery assembly is characterized in that the battery cell is in direct contact with the cover member.

2. The battery assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a cooling medium configured to be filled between the battery cells.

3. The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover member is located inside the frame.

4. The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover member is configured to cover at least a portion of the plurality of venting holes.

5. The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover member includes a bent portion configured such that its end portion is bent and extends away from the venting hole.

6. The aforementioned frame is The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes an insertion groove configured to be recessed in at least a portion thereof, into which the end portion of the cover member is inserted.

7. The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover member is located on the outside of the frame.

8. The battery assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a holder located inside the cover member and configured to at least partially house the battery cells.

9. The aforementioned holder is Multiple housings configured such that each battery cell is at least partially housed, The battery assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that it includes a spacer provided between adjacent housings among the plurality of housings, configured to maintain the spacing between the battery cells.

10. The battery assembly according to claim 9, further comprising an adhesive configured to fill the spaces between the battery cells and to secure the battery cells to one another.

11. The aforementioned adhesive is The battery assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that it is interposed between the battery cell and the spacer.

12. The battery assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the spacer includes a portion whose thickness decreases as it goes in one direction.

13. The adhesive is interposed between the battery cell and the frame. The battery assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that the frame includes a filling groove configured to be filled with the adhesive.

14. The frame includes connecting protrusions configured such that at least a portion of them protrudes inward. The battery assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the holder includes a coupling groove configured such that the coupling projection is inserted.

15. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cover member includes a housing portion that at least partially houses the battery cells.

16. The battery assembly according to claim 15, wherein the cover member includes a bottom part facing the vent portion.

17. The battery assembly according to claim 15, wherein the cover member includes a spacer provided between adjacent housings among a plurality of housings, configured to maintain the spacing between the battery cells.

18. A venting channel is provided below the aforementioned venting hole. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the venting gas discharged from the vent portion of the battery cell passes through the venting hole and moves into the venting channel.

19. Further including an external case provided outside the frame, The battery assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that a venting channel is formed between the frame and the outer case so as to communicate with the venting hole.

20. The aforementioned external case is The battery assembly according to claim 19, further comprising ribs configured to divide the venting channel into a plurality of sections.

21. The external case includes a discharge section that communicates with the venting passage and is configured to discharge the venting gas to the outside. The battery assembly according to claim 20, characterized in that the ribs are configured to guide the venting gas to the discharge section.

22. A battery pack comprising the battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. An automobile comprising the battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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