Battery packs, battery modules, and automobiles including them

Abstract

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a battery pack, a battery module, and a vehicle including the same, which are capable of ensuring excellent safety when a thermal event occurs by improving heat transfer. A battery pack according to an aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of pouch-type battery cells each having an electrode lead, a bus bar frame assembly coupled to at least some of the electrode leads of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, and a cell cover provided to at least partially surround at least some of the pouch-type battery cells among the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, the cell cover having an end inserted into the bus bar frame assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, a battery module, and an automobile including the same, and more particularly, to a battery pack, a battery module, and an automobile including the same, which are excellent in safety against thermal events and the like.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0089570 filed on July 20, 2022 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0055756 filed on April 27, 2023, and all the contents disclosed in the specifications and drawings of the applications are incorporated into this application.

Background Art

[0003] As the development of technologies and the demand for various mobile devices, electric vehicles, energy storage systems (ESS), etc. have increased significantly, the interest and demand for secondary batteries as an energy source have been rapidly increasing. Conventionally, nickel-cadmium batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries have been often used as secondary batteries, but this year, lithium secondary batteries that have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, can be freely charged and discharged, have a very low self-discharge rate, and have a high energy density are often used.

[0004] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material, respectively. A lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with such a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material are arranged with a separator interposed therebetween, and an exterior material that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolytic solution, that is, a battery case.

[0005] Generally, lithium secondary batteries are classified into a can-type secondary battery in which an electrode assembly is built in a metal can and a pouch-type secondary battery in which an electrode assembly is built in a pouch of an aluminum laminate sheet according to the shape of the exterior material.

[0006] Recently, battery packs have been widely used in medium- and large-scale devices such as electric vehicles and ESSs (Energy Storage Systems) for propulsion and energy storage. Conventional battery packs include one or more battery modules and a control unit that controls the charging and discharging of the battery pack inside a pack case. Here, the battery module is configured to contain multiple battery cells inside a module case. In other words, in the case of a conventional battery pack, multiple battery cells (secondary batteries) are housed inside a module case to constitute each battery module, and one or more such battery modules are housed inside a pack case to constitute a battery pack.

[0007] In particular, pouch-type batteries have advantages in various aspects, such as being lightweight and having less dead space when stacked, but they have problems such as being vulnerable to external impacts and being somewhat difficult to assemble. For this reason, it is common practice to manufacture battery packs in a form in which multiple cells are first modularized and then housed inside a pack case.

[0008] However, conventional battery packs may have disadvantages in terms of energy density, ease of assembly, and cooling due to modularization and other factors. Specifically, in the process of modularizing multiple battery cells by housing them inside a module case, the volume of the battery pack may increase unnecessarily due to various components such as the module case or stacking frame, or the space occupied by the battery cells may decrease. There is a problem that the manufacturing process of the battery pack becomes complicated because the battery module is first constructed by modularizing multiple battery cells, and then the battery module is housed in the pack case. Since the module case is housed inside the pack case, and the battery cells are housed inside the module case, when heat from the battery cells housed inside the module case is dissipated to the outside of the pack case through the module case, the cooling efficiency decreases, and the cooling structure may also become more complex.

[0009] Recently, demand for battery packs used in electric vehicles and other applications has been increasing. Because these battery packs contain multiple battery cells, safety management needs to be even more stringent. If a thermal runaway, fire, or explosion occurs in some cells within one battery module, the resulting high-temperature gas, flame, or internal material can be ejected and propagated to adjacent battery modules, potentially causing secondary thermal runaway, secondary fire, or explosion. This can lead to a chain reaction of thermal runaway, fire, or explosion in cells within multiple battery modules. Therefore, there is a critical need for measures to suppress or delay the transfer of flames between battery modules during thermal events such as thermal runaway. However, conventional battery packs and modules are vulnerable to thermal events. In particular, if a thermal event occurs inside a battery module or battery pack, thermal runaway can occur, generating flames, and in severe cases, explosions.

[0010] In conventional battery packs and modules, direct contact between battery cells is avoided by interposing silicone insulation pads between them, thereby delaying heat transfer by conduction. However, this structure may be vulnerable to heat transfer by convection within the space.

[0011] Furthermore, each battery cell may have its electrode leads connected to a busbar frame assembly for purposes such as electrical connection or sensing. In this case, convection is likely to occur in the area where the electrode leads and busbar frame assembly are located, so if a thermal event occurs in a particular battery cell, a problem may arise in which heat is propagated by thermal convection on the electrode lead side. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a battery pack, battery module, and automobile including the same that are excellent in terms of energy density, ease of assembly, and / or cooling performance.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a battery pack, a battery module, and an automobile including the same that can ensure excellent safety in the event of a thermal event by improving heat transfer.

[0014] However, the technical 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]

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of pouch-type battery cells, each having an electrode lead; a busbar frame assembly coupled to at least a portion of the electrode leads of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells; and a cell cover provided to at least partially surround at least a portion of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, with its end inserted into the busbar frame assembly.

[0016] The cell cover may be configured to support the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in an upright position.

[0017] The battery pack further includes a pack case that houses the pouch-type battery cells in an internal space, and the cell cover may partially enclose the pouch-type battery cells such that at least one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cells is exposed toward the pack case.

[0018] The pouch-type battery cell may be configured to include a storage section in which an electrode assembly is housed and an edge section around the periphery of the storage section, with the cell cover being configured to surround both sides of the storage section and a portion of the edge section of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell.

[0019] Here, the cell cover may be provided so as to cover both sides and the upper edge or lower edge of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell housing.

[0020] Furthermore, the cell cover may include a first side cover portion that covers one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, a second side cover portion that covers the other side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, and an upper cover portion that connects the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion and covers the upper end of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell.

[0021] Furthermore, the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion may be configured to have different sizes.

[0022] Furthermore, the cell cover may include two or more cells, and adjacent cell covers may be arranged so that their first side cover portions or second side cover portions of the same size face each other.

[0023] Furthermore, either the first side cover portion or the second side cover portion may be inserted so as to penetrate the busbar frame assembly, while the remaining one of the first and second side cover portions may be inserted so as not to penetrate the busbar frame assembly.

[0024] Either the first side cover portion or the second side cover portion may be formed to extend beyond the other of the first and second side cover portions so as to protrude toward the side where the busbar frame assembly is located.

[0025] Further, the bus bar frame assembly is respectively positioned in front of and behind the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, and the cell cover can be inserted into the bus bar frame assembly at its front end and rear end respectively.

[0026] Also, two or more of the cell covers are included, and a thermal barrier can be interposed between adjacent cell covers.

[0027] Here, the thermal barrier can be inserted into the bus bar frame assembly at its end together with the cell cover.

[0028] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include an insulating pad that contacts the surface of the cell cover.

[0029] Also, the cell cover can be configured in a form in which one plate is bent.

[0030] Furthermore, the cell cover may include an insulating coating layer on its inner surface.

[0031] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention is housed in the internal space of the pack case, and may further include a control module configured to control the charging and discharging of the pouch-type battery cells.

[0032] Also, an automobile according to another aspect of the present invention may include the battery pack according to the present invention.

[0033] Furthermore, a battery module according to yet another aspect of the present invention is a battery module housed in the internal space of a pack case, comprising: a plurality of pouch-type battery cells, each having electrode leads; a busbar frame assembly coupled to at least a portion of the electrode leads of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells; a cell cover provided to at least partially surround at least a portion of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, with its end inserted into the busbar frame assembly; and a module case that houses the pouch-type battery cells in its internal space.

[0034] Here, the module case may be configured to be open in at least part, and the busbar frame assembly may be configured to be coupled to the open portion of the module case.

[0035] Furthermore, an automobile according to yet another aspect of the present invention may include a battery module according to the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] According to one aspect of the present invention, the CTP (Cell To Pack) concept is improved by removing module cases and the like, thereby enhancing cooling performance and energy density.

[0037] According to one aspect of the present invention, multiple pouch-type battery cells can be stably housed inside a pack case without the need for a stacking frame such as a plastic cartridge or a separate module case.

[0038] In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a configuration in which multiple pouch-type battery cells are stacked horizontally while being held upright in the vertical direction can be easily realized.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present invention, the energy density of the battery pack can be improved. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, since the battery cells are not modularized but directly housed in the pack case, it is possible to manufacture a battery pack that does not require module cases for battery modules. This reduces the space occupied by module cases, allowing more battery cells to be placed inside the pack case. As a result, the energy density of the battery pack is further improved. By assembling pouch-type battery cells directly into the pack case of the battery pack, the space utilization rate of the battery pack can be maximized, and the energy capacity can be significantly improved.

[0040] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, pouch-type battery cells having a flexible material case can be easily made into a rigid form, and a configuration in which they are directly laminated inside a pack case or module case can be more easily realized. Therefore, the assembly ease and mechanical stability of battery packs and battery modules are improved.

[0041] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, the cooling efficiency of the battery pack is further improved. In particular, in one embodiment of the present invention, since a portion of each pouch-type battery cell is directly exposed to the pack case, the heat from each pouch-type battery cell can be effectively discharged from the pack case to the outside.

[0042] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to effectively respond to thermal events when thermal runaway occurs in a specific battery cell. In particular, in the case of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a specific battery cell, the propagation of thermal runaway can be effectively suppressed or delayed.

[0043] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper frame of the pack case is protected, and a sealed structure is applied to each cell and each bank, thereby preventing the propagation of heat / flames between cells.

[0044] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, internal short circuits and structural collapse can be prevented even when thermal events occur.

[0045] According to the present invention, a battery pack and battery module are provided that offer enhanced safety against thermal runaway, fire, explosion, etc., i.e., enhanced thermal safety. In a battery module containing multiple battery cells, and a battery pack containing multiple battery modules, when some battery cells or battery modules overheat, the propagation of heat to surrounding battery cells or battery modules can be reliably blocked.

[0046] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, the safety of the battery pack is improved. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, gases and other substances discharged from each battery cell are smoothly discharged to the outside. Moreover, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the direction of discharge of gases and flames discharged from the battery cells can be controlled. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway to adjacent battery cells can be effectively prevented.

[0047] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further illustrate the technical idea of ​​the invention. Therefore, the invention should not be construed as being limited solely to what is shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0048] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows the pouch-type battery cells contained in the battery pack shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of the battery pack's configuration. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view of part A in Figure 3, showing the combined configuration of some components of Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the configuration. [Figure 6] Figure 1 schematically shows a battery pack in which two pouch-type battery cells are enclosed by a single cell cover. [Figure 7] This is an enlarged view of section B in Figure 6. [Figure 8] This figure schematically shows the cross-sectional configuration of the front end when some of the components in Figure 3 are joined together. [Figure 9] This figure schematically shows the configuration of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0049] 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 are not to be interpreted in their usual or dictionary sense, but rather in accordance with the meaning and concept of the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventor himself may appropriately define the concept of terms in order to best describe the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely one of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entirety of the present invention's technical concept, and that there may be a variety of equivalents and modifications that can be substituted for them at the time of this application.

[0050] The size of each component or specific part of a component in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically for the sake of clarity and ease of explanation. Therefore, the size of each component may not fully reflect its actual size. Specific descriptions of known functions or configurations related to the present invention will be omitted if they are deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the invention.

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the pouch-type battery cells included in the battery pack shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a part of the battery pack shown in Figure 1.

[0052] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention includes a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100, a busbar frame assembly 150, and a cell cover 200. The battery pack 10 may further include a pack case 300 that houses the pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space.

[0053] Multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be included in the battery pack 10. A cell cover 200 may be configured to surround the pouch-type battery cells 100 within the internal space of the pack case 300. Such multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be stacked in at least one direction. For example, referring to Figure 1, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be stacked horizontally, for example, in the left-to-right direction (Y-axis direction in the drawing). Alternatively, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be arranged in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction in the drawing), as shown in Figure 1. For example, referring to Figure 1, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may be stacked such that 12 cells arranged in the left-to-right direction are paired in the front-to-back direction. The capacity and scale of the battery pack 10 can be expanded by increasing the number of stacked pouch-type battery cells 100.

[0054] The pack case 300 may comprise an upper frame 310 and a lower frame 320. In a more specific example, the lower frame 320 may be configured as a box shape with an open top, and may house multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space. The upper frame 310 may be configured as a lid that covers the open top of the lower frame 320. In this case, the upper frame 310 may be configured as a box shape with an open bottom. Furthermore, a cell cover 200 may be housed in the internal space of such a pack case 300 along with multiple pouch-type battery cells 100. The pack case 300 may be made of plastic or metal. In addition, the pack case 300 may employ various battery pack exterior materials known at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0055] Furthermore, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include a control module 400 housed in the internal space of the pack case 300. Such a control module 400 may include a BMS (Battery Management System). The control module 400 is provided in the internal space of the pack case 300 and may be configured to comprehensively control the charging and discharging operations and data transmission and reception operations of the pouch-type battery cells 100. The control module 400 may be provided in pack units rather than module units. More specifically, the control module 400 may be configured to control the charging and discharging state, power state, and performance state of the pouch-type battery cells 100 based on the pack voltage and pack current. The control module 400 estimates the state of the battery cells 100 in the battery pack 10 and manages the battery pack 10 using the estimated state information. For example, it estimates and manages state information of the battery pack 10 such as the SOC (State of Charge), SOH (State of Health), maximum input / output power capacity, and output voltage of the battery pack 10. Furthermore, this state information can be used to control the charging or discharging of the battery pack 10, and consequently, to estimate when the battery pack 10 needs to be replaced.

[0056] The battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include a Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU), as shown in Figure 1. The Battery Disconnect Unit 500 may be configured to control the electrical connections of the battery cells in order to manage the power capacity and function of the battery pack 10. For this purpose, the Battery Disconnect Unit 500 may include a power relay, a current sensor, a fuse, and the like. The Battery Disconnect Unit 500 may also be provided in pack units rather than module units, and various known disconnect units available at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed.

[0057] In addition, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include various battery pack components known at the time of filing of the present invention. For example, the battery pack 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an MSD (Manual Service Disconnector) that allows an operator to manually disconnect the service plug and shut off the power supply. It may also further include flexible busbars and cables for connecting multiple cell unit blocks to each other.

[0058] The pouch-type battery cell 100 is the basic unit for charging and discharging, and as shown in Figure 2, it may be manufactured by housing an electrode assembly and electrolyte inside a pouch outer material 102 made of a laminate film containing a soft metal, and then sealing the pouch outer material 102. In this case, the electrode assembly may be manufactured by interposing a separation membrane between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The pouch outer material 102 may be an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0059] Furthermore, the pouch-type battery cell 100 may be provided with electrode leads 104 on at least one side. More specifically, the electrode leads 104, which are electrically connected to the electrode assembly, may be exposed on the outside of the pouch outer casing material 102. In the pouch-type battery cell 100 of this embodiment, the electrode leads 104 include a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead as a pair. For example, the pouch-type battery cell 100 may be provided with electrode leads 104 in the front-rear direction, as shown in Figure 2. In the pouch outer casing material 102, the distance between the two ends from which the electrode leads 104 protrude may be defined as the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the pouch-type battery cell 100. Thus, the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead may be provided at both ends in the front-rear direction of the pouch-type battery cell 100, i.e., at the front and rear ends of the pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0060] The pouch-type battery cell 100 may have a storage section R in which the electrode assembly is housed, and edge sections E1 to E4 around the periphery of the storage section R. For example, the pouch-type battery cell 100 may have four edge sections, such as an upper edge section E1, a lower edge section E2, a front edge section E3, and a rear edge section E4. In a four-sided sealing method, all four edge sections E1 to E4 may be sealed sections, or in a three-sided sealing method, only the lower edge section E2 may be a folded portion of the pouch outer material and an unsealed portion. For example, the upper edge section E1 is a sealed portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100 and is a so-called DSF (Double Side Folding) portion that is folded twice, while the lower edge section E2 may be an unsealed portion. In constructing battery modules and battery packs using pouch-type battery cells, the battery module size can be minimized to reduce the space occupied by the pouch-type battery cells within the device and increase space utilization, or the capacity of the secondary battery can be increased by minimizing the area occupied by the sealing portion relative to a certain battery module size and using the resulting surplus to increase the size of the electrode assembly. In most cases, for the latter, the dimensions are controlled by folding the sealing portion located on the side of the pouch-type battery cell to form a folded portion. However, simply folding the sealing portion may cause it to open due to the springback cell swelling phenomenon of the folded portion, so the folded portion is taped to prevent this. Furthermore, when the sealing portion located in the direction from which the electrode lead 104 is pulled out is considered a cell terrace, in this embodiment, the cell terrace of the pouch-type battery cell 100 is formed on the front edge portion E3 and the rear edge portion E4.

[0061] Thus, each pouch-type battery cell 100 has two wide surfaces that serve as storage areas R, and the edges of these wide surfaces may contain sealing or folded portions of the pouch outer material. Therefore, considering the shape of the pouch-type battery cell 100, it is difficult to stack them in an upright position with the narrow surface (E1 or E2) facing downwards in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the drawing). However, according to the present invention, because a cell cover 200 is included, it is easy to stack multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in the left-right and / or front-back directions by supporting the upright position of the pouch-type battery cell 100, i.e., in an upright position.

[0062] On the other hand, Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 3, showing the state in which some of the components of Figure 3 are combined.

[0063] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the busbar frame assembly 150 may be configured to connect to at least some of the electrode leads 104 of a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100. The busbar frame assembly 150 may be provided on the side where the electrode leads 104 are formed. As described with reference to Figure 2, since the electrode leads 104 are drawn out from the pouch-type battery cell 100 in both directions, the busbar frame assembly 150 may be connected to both sides of the pouch-type battery cell 100 in the longitudinal direction.

[0064] For example, a busbar frame assembly 150 may comprise a busbar electrode 160 made of an electrically conductive material and a busbar frame 170 made of an electrically insulating material for supporting such busbar electrode 160. The busbar frame 170 may be configured to prevent short circuits of the busbar electrode 160. For this purpose, the busbar frame 170 may be made of an insulating polymer synthetic resin. The busbar frame 170 is formed with lead lead holes 175 so that electrode leads 104 can be passed through and welded to the busbar electrode 160.

[0065] The busbar frame assembly 150 can electrically connect the electrode leads 104 to each other, thereby electrically connecting multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in series and / or parallel. The busbar frame assembly 150 can also be connected to a control module 400 and configured to transmit sensing information such as voltage.

[0066] The battery pack 10 may also further include an insulating cover 190. The insulating cover 190 may be configured to prevent short circuits of the electrode leads 104 or the busbar electrodes 160. For this purpose, the insulating cover 190 may be made of an insulating polymer synthetic resin. Furthermore, since the electrode leads 104 are provided on both sides in the pouch-type battery cell 100, the insulating cover 190 may also be included on both sides where the electrode leads 104 are provided. Of course, it is also possible to have the busbar frame assembly 150 perform this function without including a separate insulating cover 190.

[0067] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the configuration in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration in the battery pack shown in Figure 1 in which two pouch-type battery cells are enclosed by one cell cover, and Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part B in Figure 6.

[0068] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the cell cover 200 may be provided so as to at least partially surround some of the pouch-type battery cells 100 among the multiple pouch-type battery cells 100. Furthermore, multiple cell covers 200 may be included in a single battery pack 10.

[0069] The cell cover 200 can be configured to group and unitize multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 contained in the battery pack 10. In this case, one cell cover 200 can be said to constitute one cell unit. And one cell unit may contain one or more pouch-type battery cells 100.

[0070] For example, the cell cover 200 may be configured to at least partially enclose two pouch-type battery cells 100. Each group of cells enclosed by the cell cover 200 may be represented not only as a cell unit but also as a cell bank. The pouch-type battery cells 100 within a cell unit or cell bank may include series and / or parallel electrical connection configurations such as busbar electrodes 160.

[0071] The cell cover 200 can be at least partially bonded to the outer surface of the pouch-type battery cell 100. For example, the inner surface of the cell cover 200 can be bonded to the housing R of the pouch-type battery cell 100. The bonding material may be thermally conductive. Such bonding can firmly bond the cell cover 200 to the pouch-type battery cell 100 and help dissipate the heat generated in the pouch-type battery cell 100 to the outside of the pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0072] The cell cover 200 may be configured to support multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 in an upright position. In the battery pack 10 according to the present invention, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround one or more pouch-type battery cells 100 and support the surrounded pouch-type battery cells 100 in an upright position, i.e., standing position. In particular, the cell cover 200 may be configured so that multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 are stacked horizontally in an upright position in the vertical direction. For example, as shown in the embodiments in Figures 1 to 7, multiple cell covers 200 may be stacked horizontally on each other, and each cell cover 200 may be configured to surround one or more pouch-type battery cells 100. In this case, the cell cover 200 makes it possible to stably maintain a configuration in which multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 are stacked horizontally in an upright position.

[0073] In particular, the cell cover 200 may be configured to stand upright within the internal space of the pack case 300. That is, the cell cover 200 may be configured to maintain an upright position without the assistance of other components provided in the battery pack 10, such as the pack case 300 or the pouch-type battery cells 100.

[0074] The cell cover 200 may be configured to partially enclose the pouch-type battery cell 100 such that at least one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell 100 is exposed to the outside. That is, the cell cover 200 may be configured to enclose only a portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100, rather than completely enclosing it. In particular, the cell cover 200 may be configured so that at least one side of the pouch-type battery cell 100 is exposed toward the pack case 300. In this respect, the cell cover 200 may be referred to by terms such as cell sleeve.

[0075] For example, referring to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 7, the cell cover 200 is configured to surround two pouch-type battery cells 100, but the lower part of the surrounded pouch-type battery cells 100, that is, the battery cells 100 housed in the internal space, does not need to be surrounded by the cell cover 200. Therefore, the lower part of the battery cells 100 can be exposed to the pack case 300 and face the pack case 300 directly. In particular, referring to Figure 1, the lower part of the battery cells 100 can be exposed toward the bottom surface of the lower frame 320.

[0076] A battery cell in which all four edge portions E1 to E4 are sealed may be called a four-sided sealed cell, and a battery cell in which three edge portions E1, E3, and E4 are sealed may be called a three-sided sealed cell. In such a configuration, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround both sides of the storage portion R of the pouch-type battery cell 100 of the four-sided sealed cell or three-sided sealed cell, and a portion of the edge portions E1 to E4. For example, the cell cover 200 may be configured in a "U-shape", "U-shape", or "n-shape" that surrounds three sides of the pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0077] For example, if one cell cover 200 is configured to surround one pouch-type battery cell 100, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround both surfaces of the housing R of the same pouch-type battery cell 100 (for example, the left and right surfaces of the same housing R), and a portion of the edge of the battery cell 100 from the outside. In another example, if one cell cover 200 is configured to surround multiple pouch-type battery cells 100, for example, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 arranged in the left-right direction, it may be configured to surround the outer surface of the housing R of the outermost pouch-type battery cell 100 and one side edge of the entire pouch-type battery cell 100. As a more specific example, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, one cell cover 200 may be configured to surround two pouch-type battery cells 100 stacked in the left-right direction. In this case, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround the left surface of the left pouch-type battery cell 100, the upper edge portion E1 of the two pouch-type battery cells 100, and the right surface of the right pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0078] According to this embodiment, a configuration can be easily realized in which one or more pouch-type battery cells 100 are supported and protected as a single cell cover 200. Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the cell cover 200 makes it possible to easily and safely handle one or more pouch-type battery cells 100. In addition, according to the embodiment, one cell cover 200 can face the surfaces of two storage compartments R with respect to the pouch-type battery cells 100 housed inside. Therefore, cooling performance between the storage compartments R and the cell cover 200 can be further improved. In particular, in this case, surface cooling is realized by the wide surface of the storage compartments R, thereby improving cooling efficiency.

[0079] In particular, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround the edges of the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside that do not have electrode leads 104. For example, as described with reference to Figure 2, the pouch-type battery cell 100 may have two electrode leads 104, namely a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead. In this case, the two electrode leads 104 may be located at the front edge portion E3 and the rear edge portion E4, respectively. In this case, the cell cover 200 may be configured to surround one of the remaining two edge portions E1 and E2, excluding the front edge portion E3 and the rear edge portion E4. In this way, the cell cover 200 may have a structure that covers both sides and the top end of the pouch-type battery cell 100, while leaving the front end, rear end and bottom end of the pouch-type battery cell 100 open.

[0080] In particular, according to the above embodiment, the lower edge portion E2 is located adjacent to the open end of the cell cover 200, faces the pack case 300 without being surrounded by the cell cover 200, and can directly face and contact the pack case 300. Therefore, the heat from the pouch-type battery cell 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200 can be quickly and smoothly discharged to the lower pack case 300. Thus, the cooling performance of the battery pack 10 can be more effectively ensured.

[0081] In particular, such a configuration can be implemented more effectively when cooling is mainly performed at the bottom of the pack case 300. For example, in the case of a battery pack installed in an electric vehicle, since it is installed at the bottom of the vehicle body, cooling can be mainly performed at the bottom of the pack case 300. In this case, as in the above embodiment, when the lower edge E2 of each pouch-type battery cell 100 is in contact with the pack case 300, heat is rapidly transferred from each battery cell 100 to the pack case 300, and cooling performance can be further improved.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when high-temperature gas or flames are discharged from the pouch-type battery cell 100 in situations such as thermal runaway, the movement of the discharged gas or flames toward the upper side can be effectively prevented. In particular, when an occupant is positioned above the battery pack 10, such as in an electric vehicle, according to the above embodiment, the movement of gas or flames toward the occupant can be suppressed or delayed.

[0083] Furthermore, by having the cell cover 200 surround three sides of the pouch-type battery cell 100, a configuration can be easily realized in which the busbar electrodes 160 and electrode leads 104 are positioned on the sides not surrounded by each cell cover 200.

[0084] Furthermore, according to this embodiment of the present invention, the direction of discharge of high-temperature gases or flames can be guided toward the exposed side of the cell cover 200 (the portion where the electrode leads 104 are formed). For example, according to the above embodiment, since the front and rear of the cell cover 200 where the electrode leads 104 are located are open, gases or flames can be discharged toward these open directions. In particular, when the cell cover 200 is configured to be open toward the front and rear as described above, side directional venting can be easily implemented along the longitudinal direction of the pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0085] Pouch-type battery cells 100 have advantages such as being lightweight, having a low risk of electrolyte leakage, and being flexible in shape, allowing for the realization of secondary batteries of the same capacity in a smaller volume and mass. However, they also have the risk of explosion if they overheat, making safety a crucial issue. Overheating of pouch-type battery cells 100 can occur for various reasons, one of which is when an overcurrent exceeding the limit flows through the pouch-type battery cell 100. When an overcurrent flows, the pouch-type battery cell 100 generates heat due to Joule heating, causing the internal temperature of the battery cell 100 to rise rapidly. This rapid rise in temperature can induce a decomposition reaction of the electrolyte, generating gas. The resulting increase in pressure inside the pouch outer material can cause a swelling phenomenon, which can lead to serious problems such as the secondary battery exploding. In addition to such overcurrents, gas may be generated inside the pouch-type battery cell 100 due to exposure to high temperatures, external impacts, etc., and it is necessary to effectively discharge the gas to ensure the safety of the secondary battery. Discharging gas generated inside a secondary battery to the outside is called venting. The cell cover 200 included in the battery pack 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured to allow vent gas to be discharged, thereby ensuring the safety of the secondary battery.

[0086] If the pouch-type battery cell 100 is a three-sided sealed battery cell, the upper edge portion E1, which acts as the sealing portion of the pouch-type battery cell 100, may be relatively more vulnerable to the discharge of high-temperature gases and flames than the lower edge portion E2, which is the unsealed portion. However, according to the above embodiment, the upper edge portion E1, which acts as the sealing portion, is positioned to face the cell cover 200, which may be even more advantageous for directional venting.

[0087] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, gases and other substances discharged from each pouch-type battery cell 100 can be smoothly discharged to the outside. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the direction of discharge of gases and flames discharged from the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be controlled. Therefore, the propagation of thermal runaway to adjacent pouch-type battery cells 100 can be effectively prevented.

[0088] In the present invention, the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200 can be directly attached to the pack case 300. Furthermore, the lower ends of the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200 can be attached to the upper surface of the bottom of the pack case 300. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the cell cover 200 can be directly attached to the bottom surface of the lower frame 320. In this case, a part of the cell cover 200, for example, the lower end of the cell cover 200 indicated as "C1" in Figures 6 and 7, can be attached in direct contact with the bottom surface of the lower frame 320. When the lower end of the cell cover 200 is attached in this manner, it can be configured so that the attached state is stably maintained. In this case, if the cell cover 200 is made of a metal material with excellent rigidity, such as steel, in particular stainless steel (SUS), the self-standing state can be maintained more stably. Therefore, in this case, the upright state of the pouch-type battery cell 100 is more reliably supported.

[0089] According to this aspect of the present invention, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 can be directly attached and housed inside a pack case 300 without the need for a module case. In particular, in the case of pouch-type battery cells 100, the outer material is made from a flexible material, making them vulnerable to external impacts and having low hardness. Therefore, it is difficult to house only the pouch-type battery cells 100 inside the pack case 300 without housing them in a module case. However, in the present invention, multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 are connected to the cell cover 200 with at least a portion of them enclosed by the cell cover 200, so they can be housed directly inside the pack case 300, and their stacked state is stably maintained.

[0090] Furthermore, in the present invention, a CTP-type battery pack using pouch-type battery cells 100 can be more efficiently realized. That is, in the present invention, instead of housing the pouch-type battery cells 100 inside a separate module case and housing such a module case inside the pack case 300, the battery pack 10 can be provided so that the pouch-type battery cells 100 are directly housed inside the pack case 300. In this case, at least one side of the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be exposed to the outside of the cell cover 200 and positioned to directly face the pack case 300.

[0091] Therefore, according to this aspect of the present invention, the battery pack 10 does not need to be further equipped with a module case, a stacking frame, fastening members such as bolts for maintaining the stacked state of the cells, etc. As a result, the space occupied by other components such as the module case and stacking frame, and the space required to ensure tolerances therefor, can be eliminated. Consequently, the battery cells can occupy even more space by the amount of space that has been eliminated, so the energy density of the battery pack 10 can be further improved.

[0092] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the present invention, since module cases, stacking frames, bolts, etc., are not provided, the volume and weight of the battery pack can be reduced, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0093] According to the present invention, the ease of assembly of battery packs can be improved. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is not necessary to perform steps such as storing pouch-type battery cells in a module case to form a battery module, or storing one or more of these battery modules in a pack case. As a result, the manufacturing process is simplified and the manufacturing time is reduced.

[0094] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the present invention, handling of the pouch-type battery cells 100 becomes easier. For example, when storing multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 inside a pack case, the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be gripped by a jig or the like. In this case, the jig can grip the cell cover 200 surrounding the pouch-type battery cells 100 without directly gripping the pouch-type battery cells 100. Therefore, damage or breakage of the pouch-type battery cells 100 by the jig can be prevented.

[0095] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the present invention, the cell cover 200 is attached to the pouch-type battery cell 100, and the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be effectively protected without the need for a module case.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this embodiment of the present invention, the cooling performance of the battery pack 10 can be more effectively ensured. In particular, according to the above embodiment, the pouch-type battery cells 100 and the pack case 300 can directly face each other and come into contact through the open end of the cell cover 200. That is, one side of the pouch-type battery cell 100, which is positioned adjacent to the open end of the cell cover 200, can directly face or come into contact with the pack case 300. As a result, the heat released from each pouch-type battery cell 100 is directly transferred to the pack case 30, improving the cooling performance. Also, in this case, it is not necessary to provide a separate cooling structure between the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the pack case 300, thus achieving efficient cooling performance. Furthermore, in this case, it is not necessary to provide a space between the pouch-type battery cells 100 for a coolant such as air to flow in.

[0097] Furthermore, in this case, having at least one side of the cell cover 200 open can be advantageous in reducing the weight of the battery pack 10. For example, if the cell cover 200 is made of a material such as steel, forming the lower end of the cell cover 200 to be open can reduce the weight of the cell cover 200 by the amount of the lower plate. Moreover, as shown in Figure 1, the battery pack 10 may contain many cell covers 200, and if all of the cell covers 200 are formed to be open without a lower plate, the weight of the battery pack 10 can be significantly reduced.

[0098] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to more easily provide a long cell configuration in which the length in a specific direction is extended.

[0099] For example, in the case of conventional prismatic cells, if the length in a particular direction is made longer, the process of inserting the electrode assembly into the prismatic case may not be easy. In particular, problems such as damage to the electrode assembly during the insertion process may occur. However, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to easily increase the length in one direction for the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200 during the molding of the pouch exterior material, the manufacturing of the electrode assembly, and the manufacturing of the cell cover 200. Furthermore, the process of inserting a long cell manufactured in this unidirectionally longer form from the open side (e.g., the lower end) of the cell cover 200 can be easily performed. Therefore, according to this aspect of the present invention, when manufacturing a battery pack 10 using long cells, excellent assembly efficiency, processability, productivity, etc. can be ensured.

[0100] Multiple cell covers 200 may be included in the battery pack 10. When multiple cell covers 200 are included, they can be bonded and fixed to each other in close contact. For example, two cell covers 200 can be bonded and fixed to each other by interposing an adhesive member at the portions where they face each other. Such an adhesive configuration can make the connection between multiple cell covers 200 more robust. For example, multiple cell covers 200 can be arranged side by side, and adjacent cell covers 200 can be bonded and fixed to each other. The adhesive member may be insulating. Such an adhesive member can achieve insulation between cell covers 200 made of metal material.

[0101] In other examples, multiple cell covers 200 can be spaced apart from each other. For example, multiple cell covers 200 can be arranged side by side, with a separation space between adjacent cell covers 200. For example, multiple cell covers 200 can be arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction, with separation also in the Y-axis direction between the cell covers 200. The separation space can block direct heat transfer between the cell covers 200. In addition, other components necessary for the configuration of the battery pack 10 can be inserted using the separation space.

[0102] In particular, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include a thermal barrier 250, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. The thermal barrier 250 is composed of a pad of insulating material and may be interposed between adjacent cell covers 200. Preferably, the thermal barrier 250 is composed of a compressible material and may be interposed between adjacent cell covers 200. Alternatively, the thermal barrier 250 may be interposed between pouch-type battery cells 100 within a single cell cover 200. For example, the thermal barrier 250 may include an elastic material such as a sponge.

[0103] The thermal barrier 250 may be interposed in the form of an insulating pad or a flame suppression pad between at least some of the cell covers 200. Such insulating pads or flame suppression pads can prevent heat or flames generated in one cell cover 200 from being transferred to other cell covers 200 and affecting other pouch-type battery cells 100. The flame suppression pad may be made of a heat-resistant resin such as polyvinyl chloride, a material such as silicone or ceramic, or a composite of a heat-resistant resin and a ceramic or glass filler. The thermal barrier 250 may be formed from an insulating coated metal plate or the like. However, these are just examples, and any flame-retardant material will suffice. It is desirable that the material be made of a material that does not decompose, melt, or ignite up to at least the temperature at which the pouch-type battery cells 100 experience thermal runaway (e.g., 150°C to 200°C).

[0104] Preferably, the thermal barrier 250 may be configured to be in close contact with the cell cover 200 between adjacent cell covers 200. This may configure the thermal barrier 250 to suppress the swelling phenomenon that occurs in the pouch-type battery cell 100. The size of the surface of such a thermal barrier 250 facing the cell cover 200 may correspond to the size of the side surface of the cell cover 200. This can delay the spread of flames caused by thermal runaway in the pouch-type battery cell 100 and suppress the swelling phenomenon that occurs in the pouch-type battery cell 100, thereby further ensuring the structural stability of the battery pack 10.

[0105] The cell cover 200 can be made of a variety of materials to ensure rigidity. In particular, the cell cover 200 can be made of a metal material. In the case of such a metal material, the stacked state of the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be maintained more stably and the pouch-type battery cells 100 can be protected more safely from external impacts. Specifically, the cell cover 200 can be made of steel and even stainless steel (SUS). For example, the cell cover 200 can be made entirely of stainless steel.

[0106] Thus, when the cell cover 200 is made of steel, its excellent mechanical strength and rigidity allow it to more stably support the stacked state of the pouch-type battery cells 100. In this case, damage or breakage of the pouch-type battery cells 100 from external impacts, such as needle-like objects, can be more effectively prevented. Furthermore, in this case, handling of the pouch-type battery cells 100 becomes easier.

[0107] Furthermore, as in the above embodiment, when the cell cover 200 is made of steel, its high melting point ensures that the overall structure remains stable when flames are generated from the pouch-type battery cell 100. In particular, since steel has a higher melting point than aluminum, it is not melted by the flames ejected from the pouch-type battery cell 100, and its shape is stably maintained. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent or delay flame propagation between pouch-type battery cells 100, and to control venting.

[0108] On the other hand, in the battery pack 10 according to the present invention, a Thermal Interface Material (TIM) may be interposed to improve the heat transfer performance between different components. For example, TIM may be filled between the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200, between the cell cover 200 and the pack case 300, and / or between the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the pack case 300. In this case, the cooling performance of the battery pack 10 can be further improved. The purpose of TIM is to reduce the contact thermal resistance between components. In battery packs where cooling is important, it is necessary to improve the thermal performance of the overall system by using a material that can minimize contact thermal resistance in this way. TIMs are diverse, including thermally conductive grease, heat dissipation sheets, heat dissipation pads, thermally conductive adhesives, and PCMs (phase change materials). As a specific example, the TIM may be any one of thermally conductive silicone-based adhesives, thermally conductive silicone pads, and thermally conductive acrylic adhesives. Thermal silicone adhesives and thermal acrylic adhesives are commercially available as one-component or two-component types and can be applied between different components by coating or injection. Thermal silicone pads, which include a base film similar to double-sided tape and release paper on the top and bottom, can be applied between different components by bonding after removing the release paper. Thermal silicone adhesives, thermal silicone pads, and thermal acrylic adhesives have higher thermal conductivity than ordinary adhesives, which can further increase the amount and rate of heat transfer between different components. Therefore, according to such embodiments of the present invention, the heat dissipation performance of the pouch-type battery cell 100 can be further improved, and the cooling performance of the battery pack 10 can be further improved.

[0109] Furthermore, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention may further include insulating pads 260, as shown in Figures 3 to 5. The insulating pads 260 are made of an electrically insulating material and may be in contact with the surface of at least one cell cover 200. For example, the insulating pads 260 may be located at both ends in the stacking direction of a cell assembly comprising a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100 and a plurality of cell covers 200 stacked in the left-right direction, as shown in Figure 5. In particular, the insulating pads 260 may be configured to be inserted into a busbar frame assembly 150 together with the cell covers 200. The insulating pads 260 may be made of a material such as glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0110] The cell cover 200 may further include an insulating member (not shown). The insulating member is made of an electrically insulating material and may be provided on the inner surface of the cell cover 200 that houses the pouch-type battery cell 100. In particular, the insulating member may have an adhesive layer on at least one side and be bonded to the inner surface of the cell cover 200. In addition, the insulating member may be bonded not only to the inner surface of the cell cover 200 by having adhesive layers on both sides, but also to the pouch-type battery cell 100. Furthermore, the insulating member may be made of a heat-resistant material. For example, the insulating member may be in the form of a heat-resistant tape in which an adhesive is applied to the surface of a heat-resistant ceramic sheet. The insulating member may be a film made of PI (polyimide) material. Furthermore, the insulating member may be located on both the inner and outer surfaces of the cell cover 200, i.e., on both sides.

[0111] On the other hand, the cell cover 200 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 5 to 7. The cell cover 200 is provided to cover both sides and the upper edge E1 of the storage portion R of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell 100. The cell cover 200 may include a first side cover portion 210 that covers one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell 100, a second side cover portion 220 that covers the other side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell 100, and an upper cover portion 230 that connects the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 and covers the upper end of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0112] For example, the first side cover portion 210 can cover the outer surface of the storage portion R of the pouch-type battery cell 100 located at the left end of the pouch-type battery cell 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200. The second side cover portion 220 can cover the outer surface of the storage portion R of the pouch-type battery cell 100 located at the right end of the pouch-type battery cell 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200.

[0113] The upper cover portion 230 may be configured to surround the upper part of the upper edge portion E1 of the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside. The upper cover portion 230 may be configured in a planar shape. In this case, the upper cover portion 230 may have a horizontally linear cross-section, and may surround the upper edge portion E1 of the pouch-type battery cell 100 from the outside in a linear shape.

[0114] A configuration that allows changing the number of pouch-type battery cells 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200 can be easily realized. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the number of unit cells housed by the cell cover 200 can be easily changed by changing the width of the cell cover 200 (the width along the Y-axis direction of the upper cover portion 230). Therefore, in this case, it becomes easy to change the capacity and output of a single cell cover 200.

[0115] The first side cover portion 210 may be configured to extend downward from one end of the upper cover portion 230. For example, the first side cover portion 210 may be configured to extend long downward from the left end of the upper cover portion 230. The first side cover portion 210 may be configured to surround the wide surface of the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside. Furthermore, the first side cover portion 210 may be formed in a planar shape. In this case, the first side cover portion 210 may be configured in a curved shape from the upper cover portion 230.

[0116] The second side cover portion 220 may be positioned horizontally apart from the first side cover portion 210. The second side cover portion 220 may be configured to extend downward from the other end of the upper cover portion 230. For example, the second side cover portion 220 may be configured to extend long downward from the right end of the upper cover portion 230. The second side cover portion 220 may be configured to surround the wide surface of the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside. Furthermore, the second side cover portion 220 may also be configured in a planar form, similar to the first side cover portion 210. In this case, the second side cover portion 220 may also be configured in a curved form from the upper cover portion 230.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the internal space can be limited by the first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230. The cell cover 200 can then accommodate one or more pouch-type battery cells 100 in this limited internal space.

[0118] In this case, the cross-sectional configuration of the cell cover 200, as viewed from the front, can be said to be roughly similar to the letter "n". Therefore, in this case, the cell cover 200 can be referred to as "n-fin". Furthermore, each cell bank can be covered by the cell cover 200.

[0119] On the other hand, while the drawings attached to this specification mainly show a configuration in which the cell cover 200 is formed in an "n" shape, the cell cover 200 can also be formed in a "U" shape. In this case, the cell cover 200 can be provided so as to cover both sides and the lower edge E2 of the housing R of the pouch-type battery cell 100.

[0120] Preferably, the cell cover 200 can be constructed as a single unit. In this case, the cell cover 200 can be constructed by bending a metal plate with a plate structure. That is, the cell cover 200 may be constructed by bending a single plate. The cell cover 200 can be constructed to surround one or more pouch-type battery cells 100 by bending both ends of a single plate material in the same direction. In particular, if a single cell cover 200 is provided with a first side cover portion 210, a second side cover portion 220, and an upper cover portion 230, the first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230 may consist of a single plate. In this case, it can be said that the cell cover 200 is manufactured as an integrated unit of multiple components. Here, each component can be distinguished by a bent portion. In particular, two bent portions may be formed in a single plate. Then, based on these two bent portions, the first side cover portion 210, the second side cover portion 220, and the upper cover portion 230 can be divided. In particular, in a single plate, the central portion forms the upper cover portion 230, and the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 can be formed by bending or folding both sides downward at approximately 90° around the upper cover portion 230. Thus, the configuration for forming bent portions in a single plate to form the cell cover 200 can be realized by various methods such as pressing or roll forming.

[0121] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the manufacturing of the cell cover 200 becomes easier. Furthermore, the simplified structure of the cell cover 200 is made of a metal material that has higher rigidity than the case of the pouch-type battery cell 100, such as the pouch outer material, and can protect the pouch-type battery cell 100 surrounded by the cell cover 200 from external shocks and vibrations. In this case, the thermal conductivity of the cell cover 200 can be further improved, and the cooling performance can be further enhanced.

[0122] The cell cover 200 may include an insulating coating layer on its inner surface. The insulating coating layer may be a coating, application, or attachment of one of the insulating materials selected from silicone resin, polyamide, and rubber. With this configuration of the insulating coating layer of the cell cover 200 according to this embodiment, the insulating coating effect can be maximized with a minimum amount of coating. Furthermore, the application of the insulating coating layer to the inner surface of the cell cover 200 enhances the insulation between the pouch-type battery cell 100 and the cell cover 200.

[0123] The first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be configured to be the same size. Alternatively, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be configured to have different sizes.

[0124] For example, if the cell cover 200 includes multiple cell covers, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be the same size in some of the cell covers 200. In other cell covers 200, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be of different sizes.

[0125] For example, the cell cover 200 may include a first side cover portion 210 located on the left side and a second side cover portion 220 located on the right side, relative to the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside. In this case, the first side cover portion 210 may be formed smaller than the second side cover portion 220. In particular, the second side cover portion 220 may be formed to extend beyond the first side cover portion 110 toward the side where the busbar frame assembly 150 is located. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the length L2 of the second side cover portion 220 in the front-rear direction may be longer than the length L1 of the first side cover portion 210 in the front-rear direction.

[0126] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the vertical length S1 of the first side cover portion 210 and the vertical length S2 of the second side cover portion 220 may be the same or different. When the vertical length S1 of the first side cover portion 210 and the vertical length S2 of the second side cover portion 220 are the same, the self-supporting configuration of the cell cover 200 can be achieved more easily.

[0127] If the vertical length S1 of the first side cover portion 210 and the vertical length S2 of the second side cover portion 220 are different, the longer side cover portion can be inserted into the pack case 300 to firmly secure the cell cover 200. The pack case 300 may be provided with fastening grooves to fit and secure the longer side cover portion. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the bonding force between the cell cover 200 and the pack case 300 can be improved. Therefore, even if vent gas or the like is generated from the pouch-type battery cell 100, its shape or positional deformation can be minimized, and the overall structure of the battery pack 10 can be maintained as is. Even in situations such as vibration or shock applied to the battery pack 10, or when the pouch-type battery cell 100 swells, the stacked state of the cell cover 200 and the pouch-type battery cell 100 housed inside it can be stably maintained. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, movement of the cell cover 200 in the vertical and horizontal directions can be effectively prevented. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, the assembly position of the cell cover 200 is guided by the interlocking configuration of the cell cover 200 and the pack case 300. Therefore, in this case, the ease of assembly of the battery pack 10 is further improved.

[0128] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4, two or more cell covers 200 may be included inside the battery pack 10. In this case, adjacent cell covers 200 may be arranged so that side cover portions of the same size face each other. For example, adjacent cell covers 200 may be configured so that the smaller first side cover portions 210 face each other, or the larger second side cover portions 220 face each other.

[0129] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the front end with some of the components from Figure 3 joined together.

[0130] Referring to Figures 4, 6-8, the cell cover 200 may be configured such that its end C2 is inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150, particularly the busbar frame 170. As the busbar frame assembly 150 is located in front of and behind the multiple pouch-type battery cells 100, as shown in Figure 3, the cell cover 200 can be inserted, with its front and rear ends respectively, into the busbar frame assembly 150 located in the front-rear direction.

[0131] For example, as shown in the portion labeled "AA" in Figure 8, the end C2 of the cell cover 200 can be inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150. Here, the insertion of the cell cover 200 may be performed with or without penetrating the busbar frame assembly 150. For this purpose, the busbar frame assembly 150, and in particular the busbar frame 170, may have an insertion portion H in the form of a groove or hole into which the end C2 of the cell cover 200 is inserted. The cell cover 200 inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150 more reliably prevents vent gas and / or flames emitted from either pouch-type battery cell 100 from traveling to the other cell cover 200.

[0132] The busbar frame 170 has lead exit holes 175 formed therein so that electrode leads 104 can be passed through and welded to the busbar electrode 160. The insertion portion H may be formed at a position spaced apart from the lead exit holes 175. Multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 may form groups of two, as shown in the figure, and the electrode leads 104 provided on a pair of pouch-type battery cells 100 belonging to the same group may be drawn out to the outside through the same lead exit hole 175. Furthermore, a pair of electrode leads 104 drawn out to the outside through the lead exit hole 175 can be attached to the same busbar electrode 160 by welding or other means. Of course, the number and polarity of electrode leads 104 drawn out from a single lead exit hole 175 may differ from these examples depending on the series and parallel connection relationships of the pouch-type battery cells 100.

[0133] The busbar frame 170 is formed below the lead extraction holes 175 and may include a plurality of lead guides 180 that guide the electrode leads 104 so that they extend from below the lead extraction holes 175 toward the lead extraction holes 175. Preferably, the insertion portion H is formed in the lead guide 180. The lead guide 180 has a substantially triangular, quadrilateral, or trapezoidal cross-section perpendicular to the Z-axis, and the insertion portion H may be formed at the vertex of the triangle or the upper surface of the quadrilateral or trapezoid. In particular, since the lead guide 180 can be formed to be thicker than other parts of the busbar frame 170 or to have a wall structure, when the insertion portion H is formed in the lead guide 180, the depth D of the insertion portion H can be made sufficiently deep, allowing the cell cover 200 to be inserted and stably maintained.

[0134] In this embodiment, the cell cover 200 can be inserted into or pass through the busbar frame assembly 150 after enclosing one or more pouch-type battery cells 100 or cell banks. This creates independent spaces between cell banks, preventing direct transfer of vent gases and flames to the cell terrace spaces located at the front edge E3 and rear edge E4.

[0135] Therefore, in this case, the propagation of thermal runaway among the pouch-type battery cells 100 inside the battery pack 10 can be effectively suppressed or delayed. In particular, according to the above embodiment, the propagation of thermal runaway due to thermal convection in the cell terrace space can be effectively prevented.

[0136] Furthermore, if thermal runaway occurs in a specific pouch-type battery cell 100 within a single cell bank, the thermal event can be effectively addressed. The cell cover 200 effectively suppresses or delays heat propagation between cell banks.

[0137] On the other hand, in the independent spaces between each cell bank, the vent gas can be directed in a specific direction. For example, the vent gas can be discharged downwards from each independent space to the cell cover 200. Alternatively, an outlet can be formed in a specific part of the cell cover 200, through which the vent gas can be discharged to the outside from each independent space. This prevents the discharge of vent gas toward the upper frame 310, protecting the upper frame 310, and by applying a sealed structure to each cell and bank, it is possible to prevent the propagation of heat / flames between cells.

[0138] The thermal barrier 250 can be inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150 at its end (see D1 in Figure 5) together with the cell cover 200. In particular, the thermal barrier 250 can be inserted into the same insertion section H as the cell cover 200, as shown by "BB" in Figure 8. In this case, the thermal barrier 250 can have improved coupling with the cell cover 200. Specifically, the cell cover 200 can be integrated with the thermal barrier 250 and inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150 to form a sealed space between the cell banks. Since the thermal barrier 250 can be made of a compressible material, inserting the thermal barrier 250 in a compressed state by making the width of the insertion section H tighter can further ensure the isolation between the cell banks.

[0139] In conventional battery packs and modules, direct contact between battery cells is avoided by interposing silicone insulation pads between them, thus delaying heat transfer by conduction. However, this structure may be vulnerable to heat transfer due to convection within the space. Furthermore, convection is likely to occur in the area where the electrode leads and busbar frame assembly are located, and if a thermal event occurs in a particular battery cell, heat transfer problems due to thermal convection on the electrode lead side may occur.

[0140] According to the present invention, each battery bank can be sealed by inserting the cell cover 200 into the busbar frame assembly 150. Since heat propagation by convection is blocked by the cell cover 200, the battery pack 10 including such a cell cover 200 and busbar frame assembly 150 has enhanced safety against thermal runaway, fire, explosion, etc., i.e., thermal safety.

[0141] As described above, adjacent cell covers 200 can be configured such that the smaller first side cover portions 210 face each other, or the larger second side cover portions 220 face each other. In this case, the two facing first side cover portions 210 can be inserted into the same insertion portion H of the busbar frame assembly 150 as shown in "CC" of Figure 8. The two facing second side cover portions 220 can be inserted into the same insertion portion H of the busbar frame assembly 150 as shown in "DD" of Figure 8.

[0142] Furthermore, either the first side cover portion 210 or the second side cover portion 220 may be inserted so as to pass through the busbar frame assembly 150, while the other of the first side cover portion 210 or the second side cover portion 220 may be inserted so as not to pass through the busbar frame assembly 150.

[0143] For example, as shown in Figure 8, in each cell cover 200, the second side cover portion 220 can be inserted into the insertion portion H of the busbar frame assembly 150 in a manner that penetrates the busbar frame assembly 150, as indicated by "DD" in Figure 8. In this case, the insertion portion H into which the second side cover portion 220 is inserted is a hole. Alternatively, in each cell cover 200, the first side cover portion 210 can be inserted into the insertion portion H of the busbar frame assembly 150 without penetrating the busbar frame assembly 150, as indicated by "CC" in Figure 8. In this case, the insertion portion H into which the first side cover portion 210 is inserted is a groove.

[0144] Furthermore, depending on the shape of the busbar frame assembly 150 and the connection relationship between the electrode leads 104, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 may be the same size in some cell covers 200 within the battery pack 10. In the example shown in Figure 8, eight cell banks are included. The electrode leads 104 of the two pouch-type battery cells 100 in the first cell bank located on the far left are welded to a single busbar electrode 160a. The electrode leads 104 of the pouch-type battery cells 100 in the second and third cell banks next to it are welded to the same busbar electrode 160b. In the cell covers 200 of the first and third cell banks, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 are of different sizes. In the cell cover 200 of the second cell bank, the first side cover portion 210 and the second side cover portion 220 are of the same size.

[0145] On the other hand, a battery pack may house one or more battery modules. In this case, the configurations described in some of the embodiments above, such as the pouch-type battery cell, busbar frame assembly, and cell cover configuration, may be applied to the battery module.

[0146] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Referring to Figure 9, the battery module 20 may be one or more battery modules housed in the internal space of the pack case 300 as shown in Figure 1. The battery module 20 may include multiple pouch-type battery cells 100 as described above.

[0148] The busbar frame assembly 150 is coupled to at least some of the electrode leads 104 of the multiple pouch-type battery cells 100. The battery module 20 also includes cell covers 200 provided to at least partially surround at least some of the multiple pouch-type battery cells 100, with their ends C2 inserted into the busbar frame assembly 150.

[0149] The battery module 20 may include a module case that houses a plurality of pouch-type battery cells 100 in its internal space. The module case may be configured to be open in at least a portion. The busbar frame assembly 150 may be configured to connect to the open portion of such module case. If an insulating cover 190 is further included, such insulating cover 190 may also be configured to connect to the open portion of the module case.

[0150] For example, the module case may include a main frame MC1. The main frame MC1 may be configured such that the top, bottom, left, and right sides are closed, and the front and rear are open, with the internal space at the center. In this case, the top, bottom, left, and right sides may each be made in the form of plates, and these four plates may be manufactured as an integrated tubular shape. A main frame MC1 in this configuration may be called a mono frame. In this case, the busbar frame assembly 150 may be connected to the front and rear open portions of the main frame MC1.

[0151] In other examples, the module case may comprise a U-frame and an upper plate. The left and right plates may be integrated with a base plate to form the U-frame. The upper plate is coupled to the top of the U-frame, and the busbar frame assembly 150 may be coupled to the open portions at the front and rear ends of the U-frame, respectively.

[0152] Furthermore, the same or similar descriptions of the components of the battery pack 10 according to the present invention are applicable to each component of the battery module 20 according to the present invention, so a detailed explanation related to this is omitted.

[0153] A battery pack 10 or battery module 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention is applicable to a variety of devices. Typical examples of such devices include means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, but the present invention is not limited to these. The battery pack 10 is suitable for use as a battery pack for electric vehicles. It can also be used as an energy source for an ESS. An ESS refers to a standalone system that stores several hundred kWh or more of electricity. ESSs are at the heart of the renewable energy industry. Since renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power do not easily produce electricity at the desired time, it is important to store them and make them available for use when needed. The battery pack 10 of the present invention may have an energy density and capacity suitable for use as an energy source for such an ESS.

[0154] Figure 10 shows an automobile V according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] As shown in Figure 10, an automobile V according to one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery pack 10 according to any one embodiment of the various embodiments described above.

[0156] Here, the automobile V may include, for example, a predetermined automobile that uses electricity as a power source, such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. In addition to the battery pack 10 according to the present invention, the automobile V may further include various other components included in the automobile, such as the vehicle body and motor.

[0157] The battery pack 10 may be installed in a predetermined location within the vehicle V. The battery pack 10 may be used as an electrical energy source to drive the vehicle V by providing driving force to the motor of the electric vehicle. In this case, the battery pack 10 has a high nominal voltage of 100V or more.

[0158] The battery pack 10 can be charged or discharged by an inverter driven by a motor and / or an internal combustion engine. The battery pack 10 can be charged by a regenerative charging device coupled with the brake. The battery pack 10 can be electrically connected to the motor of the vehicle V via an inverter.

[0159] Thus, the battery pack 10 installed in the automobile V can provide the electrical energy necessary for many of the operations of the automobile V. Furthermore, since the battery pack 10 has the various effects described above, the automobile V that includes it also possesses those effects.

[0160] To give a specific example, the battery pack 10 can have a high energy density because it includes a cell cover 200, thus eliminating the need for a module case. Energy density refers to the amount of energy stored per unit weight. When the energy density of a battery pack increases, more energy is stored in the battery pack for the same weight. Therefore, in the case of a car V that includes such a battery pack 10, it is possible to further increase the driving range on a single charge, accelerate faster, carry more cargo, and increase the interior space, among other diverse uses. Furthermore, when the energy density of a battery pack increases, it becomes lighter for the same amount of energy. When the battery pack 10 becomes lighter, the car V that includes it becomes lighter, which has many advantages, such as improved acceleration, increased energy efficiency, and improved durability.

[0161] To give another specific example, the battery pack 10 can have high safety. Since automobiles are directly linked to human life, safety is of paramount importance. Pouch-type battery cells 100 always have a fire risk due to the physical properties of lithium. However, the battery pack 10 according to the present invention, by including a cell cover 200, can prevent thermal events that occur in the pouch-type battery cells 100 from transferring to other parts. Therefore, the automobile V including the battery pack 10 is guaranteed to be fire-resistant.

[0162] The present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will clearly understand that a variety of modified embodiments can be realized within the technical scope of the present invention. Therefore, the above embodiments should be considered from an explanatory rather than restrictive viewpoint. That is, the true technical idea of ​​the present invention is shown in the claims, and all differences within the equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

[0163] In this specification, terms indicating direction such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used, but these terms are for the sake of convenience of explanation only, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the direction can change depending on the position of the object in question, the position of the observer, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0164] 10 Battery Packs 20 Battery Modules 100 pouch-type battery cells 150 Busbar Frame Assembly 160 busbar electrodes 170 Busbar Frame 180 Lead Guide 190 Insulating cover 200 Cell Cover 210 First side cover section 220 Second side cover section 230 Upper cover section 250 Thermal Barrier 260 Insulating Pads 300 pack case 310 Upper Frame 320 lower frame 400 control modules H Insertion part V Automobile

Claims

1. Multiple pouch-type battery cells, each equipped with electrode leads, A busbar frame assembly coupled to at least some of the electrode leads of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, The cell cover is provided so as to at least partially surround at least some of the pouch-type battery cells among the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, and its end is inserted into the busbar frame assembly, The cell cover comprises a first side cover portion that covers one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, A second side cover portion covers the other side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, It includes an upper cover portion that connects the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion and covers the upper end of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, The busbar frame assembly includes insertion grooves and insertion holes into which the ends of the cell cover are inserted. The first side cover portion and the second side cover portion are configured to have different sizes. A battery pack characterized in that either the first side cover portion or the second side cover portion is inserted into the insertion hole so as to penetrate the busbar frame assembly, and the remaining one of the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion is inserted into the insertion groove so as not to penetrate the busbar frame assembly.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover is configured to support the plurality of pouch-type battery cells in an upright position.

3. The battery pack further includes a pack case that houses the pouch-type battery cells in its internal space, The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover partially surrounds the pouch-type battery cell such that at least one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell is exposed toward the pack case.

4. The pouch-type battery cell has a storage section in which an electrode assembly is housed and an edge section around the periphery of the storage section. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover is configured to surround both sides and a portion of the edge of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell storage area.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that the cell cover is provided so as to cover both sides and the upper edge or lower edge of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell storage section.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the cell cover comprises two or more cell covers, and adjacent cell covers are arranged such that the first side cover portions or the second side cover portions of the same size face each other.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that one of the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion extends so as to protrude further toward the side where the busbar frame assembly is located than the other of the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the busbar frame assembly is located in front of and behind the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, and the cell cover has its front and rear ends inserted into the busbar frame assembly, respectively.

9. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover includes two or more cell covers, and a thermal barrier is interposed between adjacent cell covers.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, characterized in that the end of the thermal barrier is inserted into the busbar frame assembly together with the cell cover.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising an insulating pad in contact with the surface of the cell cover.

12. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover is formed in the form of a single plate that has been folded.

13. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the cell cover includes an insulating coating layer on its inner surface.

14. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A battery module that is housed in the internal space of a pack case, Multiple pouch-type battery cells, each equipped with electrode leads, A busbar frame assembly coupled to at least some of the electrode leads of the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, A cell cover is provided so as to at least partially surround at least some of the pouch-type battery cells among the plurality of pouch-type battery cells, and its end is inserted into the busbar frame assembly, The module includes a module case that houses the pouch-type battery cells in its internal space, The cell cover comprises a first side cover portion that covers one side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, A second side cover portion covers the other side of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, It includes an upper cover portion that connects the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion and covers the upper end of the enclosed pouch-type battery cell, The busbar frame assembly includes insertion grooves and insertion holes into which the ends of the cell cover are inserted. The first side cover portion and the second side cover portion are configured to have different sizes. A battery module characterized in that either the first side cover portion or the second side cover portion is inserted into the insertion hole so as to penetrate the busbar frame assembly, and the remaining one of the first side cover portion and the second side cover portion is inserted into the insertion groove so as not to penetrate the busbar frame assembly.

16. The battery module according to claim 15, characterized in that the module case is configured to be open in at least a portion thereof, and the busbar frame assembly is configured to be coupled to the open portion of the module case.

17. An automobile comprising the battery module according to claim 15 or 16.

Images