Battery module and battery pack containing the same

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, a module frame housing the battery cell stack, a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant flows into or out of the module frame, and a venting valve arranged in the refrigerant line, wherein gas generated inside the battery module can be discharged through the refrigerant line and the venting valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2024 - 0032004 filed on March 6, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the literature of the Korean patent application are included as part of this specification.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the same, and more specifically, to a battery module and a battery pack including the same, which improve cooling efficiency, enhance cooling performance, and prevent venting gas released due to a thermal runaway phenomenon occurring in the battery module from propagating to an adjacent battery module.

Background Art

[0003] With the development of technology and the increasing demand for mobile devices, the demand for secondary batteries as an energy source has been rapidly increasing. Accordingly, extensive research has been conducted on secondary batteries that can meet various requirements.

[0004] Secondary batteries are attracting much attention not only as an energy source for mobile devices such as mobile phones, digital cameras, and notebook computers, but also as an energy source for power devices such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles.

[0005] In recent years, there has been an increasing need for battery packs with a medium - to - large module structure that aggregates battery modules in which a large number of secondary batteries are connected in series / parallel, starting from the utilization of secondary batteries as an energy storage source and the necessity of a large - capacity secondary battery structure.

[0006] On the other hand, when configuring a battery pack by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series / parallel, it is common to configure a battery module consisting of at least one battery cell and add other components to at least one battery module to configure a battery pack.

[0007] The battery cells that make up such medium- and large-sized battery modules are composed of rechargeable secondary batteries, and such high-power, high-capacity secondary batteries generate a large amount of heat during the charging and discharging process. In this case, the heat from many battery cells is added together in a confined space, which can cause the temperature to rise rapidly and drastically. In other words, while high output can be obtained in battery modules with many battery cells stacked on top of each other, and in battery packs equipped with such battery modules, it is not easy to remove the heat generated by the battery cells during charging and discharging. If the heat from the battery cells is not properly dissipated, the battery cells will deteriorate quickly, shortening their lifespan and increasing the risk of explosion or fire.

[0008] Furthermore, battery modules included in vehicle battery packs are often exposed to direct sunlight and subjected to high-temperature conditions such as summer or desert regions. Also, because numerous battery modules are densely arranged to increase the vehicle's driving range, flames or heat generated in one battery module can easily spread to neighboring modules, ultimately leading to the battery pack itself catching fire or exploding.

[0009] Furthermore, because battery packs have a structure that combines numerous battery modules, they are heavy, and it may be unsuitable to install a large number of batteries in means of transportation such as automobiles, thus requiring an improvement in energy density.

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a conventional battery pack. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack shown in Figure 1.

[0011] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a conventional battery pack 10 includes a lower pack frame 11 on which multiple battery modules 1 are mounted, an upper pack frame 12 positioned above the battery modules 1, and an internal beam 13 that demarcates the area within the battery pack 10 where the battery modules 1 are mounted.

[0012] Thus, when battery modules 1 are installed inside a battery pack 10, the internal beams 13 that partition the battery modules 1 reduce the energy density of the battery pack 10. Therefore, in order to meet the efficiency requirements of a device, a larger number of battery packs 10 must be installed. In addition, the weight of the battery pack 10 limits the number of battery packs 10 that can be installed in a device. Consequently, in order to reduce the weight of the battery pack 10 while simultaneously increasing its energy density, it was necessary to install a larger number of battery modules 1 inside the battery pack 10.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a conventional battery pack 10 has a configuration in which multiple battery modules 1 are housed. Therefore, if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in any one of the multiple battery modules 1, a structure or method is needed to prevent the venting gas generated in the battery module 1 where the thermal runaway phenomenon occurred from spreading to the other battery modules 1, thereby preventing the thermal runaway phenomenon from spreading to the other battery modules 1.

[0014] Furthermore, since conventional battery modules 1 and battery packs 10 do not directly cool the battery cell stack provided in the battery module 1, a more effective method is needed to improve cooling efficiency. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery module and a battery pack including the same that can prevent venting gas released due to thermal runaway phenomena occurring in the battery module from propagating to adjacent battery modules by improving cooling efficiency and thus enhancing cooling performance.

[0016] However, the problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to those described above, and can be broadly extended within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, a module frame housing the battery cell stack, a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant flows into or out of the module frame, and a venting valve arranged in the refrigerant line, wherein gas generated inside the battery module can be discharged through the refrigerant line and the venting valve.

[0018] The venting valve can discharge gas from the refrigerant line when the pressure in the refrigerant line reaches a predetermined pressure.

[0019] The venting valve may include a valve inlet into which the gas of the refrigerant line flows, a main body that forms an internal space through which the gas flowing into the valve inlet flows, and a shut-off member that is housed in the internal space and movable to either close the valve inlet or to move away from the internal space to form a first flow path through which the gas flows.

[0020] The shut-off member further includes an elastic member that pressurizes the shut-off member in a direction that closes the valve inlet, and the shut-off member can form the first flow path by moving in a direction away from the internal space in response to the pressure of the refrigerant line reaching the predetermined pressure.

[0021] The venting valve further includes a cap portion that guides the direction of gas discharge and a valve outlet through which the gas is discharged, and the cap portion may include a second flow path through which the gas flowing in from the main body is bent.

[0022] The cap portion includes a plate-shaped portion that is separated from the main body portion and faces the first flow path, and the space between the main body portion and the plate-shaped portion can be opened to communicate with the outside.

[0023] The cap portion may further include a skirt portion extending from the periphery of the plate-like portion toward the main body portion.

[0024] The battery module may further include an inflow port connected to the refrigerant line and through which the refrigerant flows into the interior of the module frame, an outflow port connected to the refrigerant line and through which the refrigerant flows out from the interior of the module frame, and a filter unit disposed at least at one of a portion between the inflow port and the venting valve and a portion between the outflow port and the venting valve in the refrigerant line.

[0025] The filter unit may include a filter inlet through which the refrigerant flows in and a filter member that filters the refrigerant flowing in through the filter inlet.

[0026] The filter inlet may include a diffuser portion whose cross-sectional area increases toward the filter member.

[0027] The filter unit may further include an elastic member connected to the filter member. The filter member is movable between a first position where the refrigerant is filtered and a second position where the refrigerant is bypassed. The filter member is maintained at the first position by the elastic member, and the filter member may move from the first position to the second position in response to the pressure applied to the filter member reaching a predetermined filter pressure.

[0028] The predetermined filter pressure may be a pressure such that the force applied to the filter member exceeds the restoring force of the elastic member.

[0029] The filter unit may further include a position sensor that detects the movement of the filter member from the first position to the second position.

[0030] The refrigerant may include an insulating refrigerant or a non-combustible refrigerant.

[0031] A battery pack comprising a plurality of battery modules according to the above-described embodiment, wherein the refrigerant line may include a first refrigerant line connected to the inlet port of each of the plurality of battery modules, and a second refrigerant line connected to the outlet port of each of the plurality of battery modules.

[0032] The venting valves can be positioned between the inlet ports of each of the plurality of battery modules and between the outlet ports of each of the plurality of battery modules.

[0033] The venting valves may be further positioned between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the inlet port of the battery module located closest to the uppermost part, and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line and the outlet port of the battery module located closest to the lowermost part.

[0034] The battery pack may further include filter units positioned between the inlet port of each of the plurality of battery modules and the venting valve located on the flow direction side of the first refrigerant line from the inlet port, and between the outlet port of each of the plurality of battery modules and the venting valve located on the flow direction side of the second refrigerant line from the outlet port.

[0035] The filter unit may be further positioned between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the venting valve located closest to the uppermost part.

[0036] The battery pack further includes a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in at least one of the first refrigerant line and the second refrigerant line, the pressure sensor being located at least one of the following locations: between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the filter unit most adjacent to the uppermost part, and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line and the filter unit most adjacent to the lowermost part.

[0037] The battery pack may further include a processor that outputs an alarm signal when the pressure measured by the pressure sensor deviates from a predetermined reference pressure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] A battery module and a battery pack containing the same according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase the cooling efficiency of direct cooling of the battery cells with a refrigerant, thereby increasing the energy density.

[0039] Furthermore, since it is possible to prevent venting gas released due to thermal runaway occurring within the battery module from propagating to adjacent battery modules, the stability of the battery module and the battery pack containing it can be maintained even if specific events such as thermal runaway occur.

[0040] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a conventional battery pack. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing a battery module relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module shown. [Figure 5] This is a plan view showing one of the battery cells included in the battery cell stack shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 3 is a diagram of the battery module shown in the yz plane, viewed along the -x axis. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the inflow port viewed along the -x axis in a yz-plane view. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a venting valve. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing another example of the venting valve. [Figure 10] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a filter unit. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a modified version of the filter unit. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack. [Figure 14] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the placement of the venting valve and filter unit in the battery pack. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. The present invention can be realized in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0043] To clearly explain the present invention, descriptive parts that are unnecessary have been omitted, and the same or similar reference numerals are used throughout the specification for identical or similar components.

[0044] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrary for the sake of explanation, and therefore the present invention is not necessarily limited to those shown. In the drawings, the thicknesses are shown enlarged to clearly represent various layers and regions. Also, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are shown exaggerated for the sake of explanation.

[0045] Furthermore, when we say that a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is "on top" of another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly above" the other part, but also the case where the other part is in between. Conversely, when we say that one part is "directly above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Also, being "on top" of a reference part means being located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean being located "up" in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0046] Furthermore, terms indicating direction such as front, back, left, right, up, and down were used, but these terms are merely for explanatory convenience and can change depending on the position of the object being observed, the observer's position, and so on.

[0047] Furthermore, when a specification as a whole states that a certain part "includes" a certain component, this means, unless otherwise stated, that it may include other components rather than excluding them.

[0048] Furthermore, throughout the specification, "on a plane" means when the subject is viewed from above, and "on a cross-section" means when the subject is viewed from the side of a cross-section obtained by cutting the subject perpendicularly.

[0049] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0050] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a plan view showing one of the battery cells included in the battery cell stack shown in Figure 4.

[0051] Referring to Figures 3 to 5, a battery module 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 120 formed by stacking a plurality of battery cells 110, a module frame 200 that houses the battery cell stack 120, an inlet port 510 through which refrigerant flows into the module frame 200, an outlet port 516 through which refrigerant flows out from the module frame 200, a first refrigerant line 501 connected to the inlet port 510, a second refrigerant line 502 connected to the outlet port 516, and venting valves 520 and a filter unit 530 arranged in the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line 502, respectively.

[0052] First, the battery cell 110 may be a pouch-type battery in which an electrode assembly having electrode leads 111 protruding in one direction or both directions is housed in a pouch case 114. However, this is just one example, and a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention may be a prismatic battery. For the sake of convenience, the following explanation will be based on the battery cell 110, which is a pouch-type battery.

[0053] The battery cell 110 may be in the shape of a rectangular sheet. The battery cell 110 can be formed by housing an electrode assembly in a laminated sheet pouch case 114 containing a resin layer and a metal layer, and then bonding the outer periphery of the pouch case 114. As an example, the battery cell 110 may have a structure in which two electrode leads 111 face each other and protrude from one end and the other end of the cell body 113, respectively. In another embodiment, the battery cell 110 may have a structure in which all electrode leads 111 protrude in one direction. One of the electrode leads 111 is the positive electrode lead and the other is the negative electrode lead.

[0054] The battery cell 110 can be manufactured by sealing the periphery of the pouch case 114 with an electrode assembly (not shown) housed inside the pouch case 114. As another example, the battery cell 110 can be manufactured with one side of the pouch case 114 folded over to house the electrode assembly, while the remaining side is sealed.

[0055] The laminated sheet pouch case 114 may include an inner resin layer for sealing, a metal layer to prevent penetration of materials, and an outermost outer resin layer. With respect to the electrode assembly inside the pouch case 114, the inner resin layer may be positioned on the inside, the outer resin layer on the outside, and the metal layer may be positioned between the inner and outer resin layers.

[0056] The outer resin layer may have excellent tensile strength and decay resistance relative to its thickness and possess electrical insulation properties to protect the electrode assembly from the outside. Such an outer resin layer may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin or nylon resin. A metal layer may prevent air, moisture, etc. from entering the pouch-type secondary battery. Such a metal layer may include aluminum (Al). The inner resin layer may be heat-sealed by heat and / or pressure applied with the electrode assembly assembled. Such an inner resin layer may include casted polypropylene (CPP) or polypropylene (PP).

[0057] The pouch case 114 is divided into two parts, and a recessed storage section can be formed in at least one of the two parts on which an electrode assembly can be placed. The inner resin layers of the two parts of the pouch case 114 are joined together along the outer circumference of this storage section, thereby sealing the pouch case 114 and manufacturing a battery cell 110, which is a pouch-type battery.

[0058] A battery cell 110 can be composed of multiple cells, and multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked so as to be electrically connected to each other to form a battery cell stack 120. In particular, as shown in Figure 4, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked along one direction parallel to the y-axis while standing upright with one side of each cell body 113 facing each other. This allows the electrode leads 111 to protrude perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. That is, in a battery cell 110, one electrode lead 111 can protrude in the x-axis direction, and the other electrode lead 111 can protrude in the -x-axis direction. If the electrode leads 111 protrude in only one direction, the electrode leads 111 will protrude in either the x-axis direction or the -x-axis direction.

[0059] The module frame 200 may be for protecting the battery cell stack 120 and the electrical components connected thereto from external physical shocks. The battery cell stack 120 and the electrical components connected thereto can be housed in the internal space of the module frame 200.

[0060] The structure of the module frame 200 can be diverse. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the module frame 200 may be a monoframe structure. Here, the monoframe may be in the form of a metal plate in which the upper and lower surfaces (in the z-axis direction and the -z-axis direction) and both sides (in the y-axis direction and the -y-axis direction) are integrated. The monoframe can be manufactured by extrusion molding.

[0061] However, the structure of the module frame 200 is not limited to this, and in other embodiments, the module frame 200 may have a structure in which a U-shaped frame and an upper plate are joined. In this case, the U-shaped frame may have a bottom surface and two sides extending upward from both corners of the bottom surface, and the upper plate may be in the form of a plate. At this time, each frame or plate constituting the U-shaped frame may be manufactured by press molding. Furthermore, the structure of the module frame 200 may be provided as an L-shaped frame structure in addition to a monoframe or a U-shaped frame, and may be provided in a variety of structures not described in the examples above.

[0062] The module frame 200 may be open on both sides. More specifically, the module frame 200 may be provided in an open configuration along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110. In this case, the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 do not need to be obscured by the module frame 200. The front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 can be obscured by the busbar assembly 300 and end plates 400, etc., thereby protecting the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 from external physical shocks, etc.

[0063] The battery module 100 may include busbar assemblies 300 positioned on both sides of the battery cell stack 120. Specifically, the busbar assemblies 300 can be positioned in both directions from which the electrode leads 111 of the battery cells 110 contained in the battery cell stack 120 protrude. The busbar assemblies 300 can electrically connect the battery cells 110 constituting the battery cell stack 120 in series or parallel. Each busbar assembly 300 may include a busbar frame 310, busbars 320, and terminal busbars.

[0064] The busbar frame 310 may be positioned on one side of the battery cell stack 120, covering that side and guiding the connection between the battery cell stack 120 and external equipment. The busbar frame 310 can be positioned on the front (x-axis direction) and rear (-x-axis direction) of the battery cell stack 120.

[0065] A busbar 320 can be mounted on the busbar frame 310. Specifically, the inner surface of the busbar frame 310 is connected to the front (x-axis direction) and rear (-x-axis direction) of the battery cell stack 120, and the outer surface of the busbar frame 310 is connected to the busbar 320.

[0066] The busbar frame 310 may include an electrically insulating material. The busbar frame 310 can restrict contact between the busbar 320 and other parts of the battery cell 110, except for the parts that are joined to the electrode leads (not shown), thereby preventing electrical short circuits.

[0067] The busbar 320 is mounted on one side of the busbar frame 310 and may be used to electrically connect the battery cell stack 120 or the battery cells 110 to an external equipment circuit. The busbar 320 is positioned on the busbar frame 310, and such a busbar assembly 300 is covered by the end plate 400 shown in Figure 4, so that it can be protected from external impacts and so that the deterioration of battery durability due to external moisture can be minimized.

[0068] The busbar 320 can be electrically connected to the battery cell stack 120 through the electrode leads of the battery cells 110. Specifically, the electrode leads 111 of the battery cells 110 can pass through slits formed in the busbar frame 310, then bend and connect to the busbar 320. The busbar 320 allows the battery cells 110 constituting the battery cell stack 120 to be connected in series or in parallel. There are no particular restrictions on the connection method between the electrode leads 111 and the busbar 320; for example, welding can be used.

[0069] On the other hand, although not shown in Figures 3 and 4, the battery module 100 may include terminal busbars. The terminal busbars may include a first terminal busbar and a second terminal busbar, and the first terminal busbar and the second terminal busbar may have different polarities.

[0070] The terminal busbars are electrically connected to the busbars 320 or electrode leads and are used to electrically connect one battery module 100 to other battery modules 100. At least a portion of the first and second terminal busbars may be exposed outside the end plate 400 to connect one battery module 100 to other external battery modules 100, and the end plate 400 may be provided with terminal busbar openings (not shown) for this purpose. The terminal busbars can be connected to other battery modules 100 or BDUs (Battery Disconnect Units) through the portions exposed at the terminal busbar openings, forming HV (High Voltage) connections.

[0071] The end plates 400 can be positioned on both open sides (x-axis and -x-axis) of the module frame 200 and can be formed to cover the battery cell stack 120.

[0072] Such an end plate 400 can physically protect the battery cell stack 120 and other electrical components from external impacts.

[0073] The end plate 400 may have a refrigerant opening 410 formed therein for the inflow or outflow of refrigerant. The refrigerant opening 410 is an opening provided in the end plate 400, and is a hole that penetrates the end plate 400. This allows refrigerant to flow from the outside to the inside of the module frame 200 or out of the inside of the module frame 200 through the refrigerant opening 410, even when the end plate 510 is installed. The refrigerant opening 410 may be covered by an inflow port 510 or an outflow port 516, described later, and connected to a first refrigerant line 501 or a second refrigerant line 502, respectively.

[0074] The refrigerant opening 410 may be a hole that extends vertically (in the z-axis direction and the -z-axis direction). The upper end of the refrigerant opening 410 may be located above the center, with reference to the height of the battery cell stack 120. The lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 may be located below the center, with reference to the height of the battery cell stack 120. Specifically, the length from the center of the refrigerant opening 410 to the upper end of the refrigerant opening 410 may be greater than or equal to the length from the upper corner of the end plate 400 to the upper end of the refrigerant opening 410. Also, the length from the center of the refrigerant opening 410 to the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 may be greater than or equal to the length from the lower corner of the end plate 400 to the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410. More specifically, the length from the upper end to the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 may be between 0.5 and 0.9 times the length from the upper corner to the lower corner of the end plate 400. The refrigerant can transfer heat generated from the battery cell stack 120, busbar assembly 300, and other electrical components housed inside the module frame 200, while in direct contact with them.

[0075] The refrigerant may be a fluid. The refrigerant needs to be electrically insulated because it comes into direct contact with the battery cell stack 120, the busbar assembly 300, and other electrical components within the battery module 100. Therefore, the refrigerant may be an insulating refrigerant. As an example, the refrigerant may be an insulating oil. However, the type of refrigerant is not limited by the above. For example, the refrigerant may be a non-flammable refrigerant because it must not ignite even when exposed to a high-temperature environment within the battery module 100.

[0076] In other words, in this embodiment, the refrigerant can directly cool the battery cell stack 120, busbar assembly 300, and other electrical components that generate heat within the battery module 100 by directly contacting them and transferring heat. Therefore, compared to conventional battery modules that indirectly cool the battery module using a heat sink or the like, the battery module 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention can improve cooling efficiency through direct cooling, thereby extending the battery life.

[0077] On the other hand, although not shown in Figure 4, the battery module 100 may further include a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly may be positioned on both open sides of the module frame 200 and formed to cover the battery cell stack 120. In other words, the sealing assembly is positioned between the end plate 400 and the battery cell stack 120, and can isolate both open sides of the module frame 200 from the external environment. Specifically, the sealing assembly can serve to seal the module frame 200 to prevent refrigerant from leaking out when refrigerant is injected into the interior of the module frame 200.

[0078] Figure 6 is a view of the battery module shown in Figure 3, along the -x axis in a yz-plane view. Figure 7 is a view of the inlet port, along the -x axis in a yz-plane view.

[0079] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the battery module 100 includes an inlet port 510 and an outlet port 516 for circulating a refrigerant inside the module frame 200, and refrigerant lines 500 connected to the inlet port 510 and the outlet port 516, respectively. The refrigerant moves from a refrigerant storage area 2100 (described later) through a heat exchanger 2200 and the refrigerant lines 500, then flows into the module frame 200 through the inlet port 510, flows out to the outside of the module frame 200 through the outlet port 516, and is then recovered back into the refrigerant storage area 2100 via the refrigerant lines 500. On the other hand, since the outlet port 516 has the same shape and structure as the inlet port 510, the illustration of the outlet port 516 is omitted in Figures 6 and 7, and the following description of the contents that are the same as or corresponding to those of the inlet port 510 is omitted.

[0080] The refrigerant line 500 includes a first refrigerant line 501 connected to the inlet port 510 and a second refrigerant line 502 connected to the outlet port 516. The refrigerant line 500 may be a rigid, pipe-shaped member that allows the refrigerant to flow through it.

[0081] The inlet port 510 may have a shape corresponding to the refrigerant opening 410 in order to cover the refrigerant opening 410. As mentioned above, since the refrigerant opening 410 is a hole that extends in the vertical direction, the inlet port 510 may also have a shape that extends in the vertical direction. The inlet port 510 may also include a cover member 511 for covering the refrigerant opening 410 of the end plate 400. The cover member 511 may be formed with a downward inclination on the surface facing the refrigerant opening 410. This allows the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet port 510 to decrease as it moves from the top to the bottom (-z axis direction).

[0082] Summarizing the vertically extending shape and position of the refrigerant openings 410 described above, the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the inlet port 510 can have its lower end positioned below the center, relative to the height of the battery cell stack 120. In other words, the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the inlet port 510 can be positioned near the lower corner of the end plate 400. Similarly, the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the outlet port 516 can have its upper end positioned higher than the center, relative to the height of the battery cell stack 120. In other words, the upper end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the outlet port 516 can be positioned near the upper corner of the end plate 400.

[0083] If the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the inlet port 510 is located above the center of the battery cell stack 120, the refrigerant will flow into the battery module 100 from a higher position, potentially causing bubbles to form inside the refrigerant. Such bubbles can hinder the cooling effect.

[0084] Furthermore, if the upper end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the outlet port 516 is located below the center of the battery cell stack 120, the refrigerant that flows into the battery module 100 will fill up to the height of the outlet port 516 and escape to the outside. As a result, the inside of the battery module 100 may not be filled with a sufficient amount of refrigerant, which could lead to a decrease in cooling performance.

[0085] Preferably, the lower end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the inlet port 510 is located below the center with respect to the height of the battery cell stack 120, and the upper end of the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the outlet port 516 is located above the center with respect to the height of the battery cell stack 120.

[0086] Furthermore, since the refrigerant opening 410 connected to the inlet port 510 extends vertically, the refrigerant flowing into the module frame 200 through the inlet port 510 can come into overall contact with the battery cell stack 120. Similarly, the refrigerant, in overall contact with the battery cell stack 120, can flow out of the module frame 200 through the outlet port 516. Therefore, the refrigerant can flow without any stagnant areas within the module frame 200, thereby improving cooling performance.

[0087] Furthermore, the refrigerant flowing in from the first refrigerant line 501 can flow along the inclined cover member 511 between the first refrigerant line 501 and the refrigerant opening 410. Therefore, the flow direction of the refrigerant does not change abruptly and it can flow into the inside of the battery module 100, thus reducing the possibility of bubbles forming inside the refrigerant.

[0088] Furthermore, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet port 510 increases from the first refrigerant line 501 toward the refrigerant opening 410, the flow velocity of the refrigerant flowing in from the first refrigerant line 501 decreases inside the inlet port 510. Therefore, since the flow velocity of the refrigerant is reduced before it flows into the module frame 200 and comes into contact with the battery cell stack 120, abrupt changes in flow velocity inside the module frame 200 can be reduced. This reduces the possibility of bubbles forming inside the refrigerant due to abrupt changes in flow velocity, and increases the time the refrigerant is in contact with the battery cell stack 120, thereby improving cooling performance. Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the venting valve shown in Figure 6. Figure 8(a) shows the state of the venting valve 520a before gas is vented, and Figure 8(b) shows the state of the venting valve 520a during gas venting.

[0089] First, in the embodiment of the present invention, the battery module 100 has excellent sealing properties to prevent refrigerant leakage, as refrigerant flows into the module frame 200 to cool the battery module 100. In other words, when venting gas is generated inside the battery module 100 at a temperature and pressure above a certain level, the venting gas can be released to the outside of the module frame 200 through a refrigerant opening 410 formed to allow refrigerant to flow into and out of the battery module 100. As a result, the venting gas generated inside the battery module 100 can diffuse towards adjacent battery modules 100 through the refrigerant line 500. According to the embodiment of the present invention, since the venting valve 520 is connected to the refrigerant line 500, the gas generated inside the battery module 100 can be vented through the venting valve 520 via the refrigerant line 500. Therefore, the venting gas that diffuses along the refrigerant line 500 to the adjacent battery module 100 can be discharged from the refrigerant line 500, thereby reducing the pressure in the refrigerant line 500 and preventing the venting gas from diffusing through the refrigerant line 500.

[0090] Referring to Figures 6 and 8, the venting valve 520 can be connected to the refrigerant line 500. More specifically, the venting valve 520 can be connected to the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line 502, respectively. The venting valve 520 can vent the gas from the refrigerant line 500 in response to the pressure in the refrigerant line 500 reaching a predetermined pressure due to the gas generated inside the module. In other words, the venting valve 520 can vent the gas from the refrigerant line 500 that has reached a predetermined pressure among the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line 502 in response to the pressure of at least one of the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line 502 reaching a predetermined pressure.

[0091] Referring to Figure 8(a), the venting valve 520a may include a valve inlet 521 through which gas from the refrigerant line 500 flows, a main body 522 that forms an internal space 523 through which the gas flowing into the valve inlet 521 flows, a shut-off member 525 that is movable to close the valve inlet 521, a valve spring 527 that pressurizes the shut-off member 525, a cap 524a that guides the direction of gas discharge, and a valve outlet 529 through which the gas is discharged.

[0092] The shut-off member 525 is movable so as to be housed in the internal space 523 to close the valve inlet 521, or so as to be separated from the internal space 523 to form a first flow path through which gas flows. In other words, the shut-off member 525 is movable in the direction in which the valve shaft 526 extends from the cap portion 524a toward the valve inlet 521. For example, the valve shaft 526 is telescopic and extendable, and the shut-off member 525 is fixed to the end of the valve shaft 526, thereby being movable in the direction in which the valve shaft 526 extends. For another example, the valve shaft 526 extends through the shut-off member 525, and the shut-off member 525 is inserted into the valve shaft 526, thereby being movable in the direction in which the valve shaft 526 extends. On the other hand, the structure or method by which the shut-off member 525 moves in the direction in which the valve shaft 526 extends is not limited by the above description and can be modified or changed in various ways.

[0093] The valve spring 527 can be positioned on the valve shaft 526 such that it pressurizes the shut-off member 525 in a direction that closes the valve inlet 521. This allows the shut-off member 525 to prevent the refrigerant in the refrigerant line 500 from flowing out through the venting valve 520 under normal circumstances. If the venting gas is diffusing through the refrigerant line 500, the pressure in the refrigerant line 500 will reach a predetermined pressure that is higher than the pressure at which the refrigerant normally circulates. This high-pressure environment in the refrigerant line 500 can cause the shut-off member 525 to overcome the pressurizing force of the valve spring 527 and move away from the internal space 523, thereby forming the first flow path. Therefore, the elastic modulus of the valve spring 527 can be determined considering the pressure in the refrigerant line 500 when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module 100. However, the elastic modulus of the valve spring 527 can be varied depending on the specifications of the battery module 100 and the battery pack 1000 containing it.

[0094] The gas flowing into the valve inlet 521 moves to the cap portion 524a along a first flow path that is inclined outward inside the main body portion 522. High-temperature and / or high-pressure gas can decrease in temperature and / or pressure as it passes through the inclined first flow path. On the other hand, in the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the first flow path is formed in an inclined shape, but is not limited to the illustrated form. For example, the shape of the first flow path can be varied or changed in various ways depending on the cross-sectional shape of the internal space 523 in which the main body portion 522 is formed.

[0095] The cap portion 524a of the venting valve 520a shown in Figure 8(a) may include a second flow path 528 formed so as to bend the path of gas flowing in from the first flow path 523 of the main body portion 522. This makes it possible to determine the direction of gas discharge from the venting valve 520a. For example, the gas discharged from the venting valve 520a can be bent in the second flow path 528 so as to travel in the direction in which the module frame 200 of the battery module 100 extends (x-axis or -x-axis direction). Therefore, the impact of the gas discharged from the venting valve 520a on adjacent battery modules 100 can be minimized.

[0096] Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram showing another example of the venting valve shown in Figure 8. Figure 9(a) shows the state of venting valve 520b during gas venting, and Figure 9(b) shows the state of venting valve 520c during gas venting.

[0097] Referring to Figure 9(a), the cap portion 524b of the venting valve 520b may include a plate-like portion 5241 that is separated from the main body portion 522 and faces the internal space 523. On the other hand, in the following, descriptions that are the same as or corresponding to those of the venting valve 520a described with reference to Figure 8(a) will be omitted.

[0098] The separation space 5242 between the main body portion 522 and the plate-shaped portion 5241 can be opened to communicate with the outside. The gas that has passed through the first flow path formed between the main body portion 522 and the shut-off member 525 can expand in the separation space 5242 of the cap portion 524b, and as the temperature and / or pressure of the gas decreases, it can be discharged to the outside of the battery module 100.

[0099] Referring to Figure 9(b), the cap portion 524c of the venting valve 520c may further include a skirt portion 5243 extending from the periphery of the plate-shaped portion 5241 toward the main body portion 522. On the other hand, descriptions of the venting valves 520a and 520b described below with reference to Figures 8(a) and (b) will be omitted as they are the same as or correspond to them.

[0100] The gas discharged to the outside through the separation space 5242 between the main body 522 and the plate-shaped part 5241 by the skirt portion 5243 of the cap portion 524c is bent downwards and discharged through the venting valve 520c. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the gas discharged from the venting valve 520c from directly contacting the upper pack frame 1200 of the battery pack 1000, thereby preventing damage to the upper pack frame 1200 by high temperature and / or high pressure gas.

[0101] Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the filter unit shown in Figure 6.

[0102] Referring to Figures 6 and 10, the filter unit 530 can be connected to the refrigerant line 500. Specifically, the filter unit 530 can be positioned in the refrigerant line 500 between the inlet port 510 and the venting valve 520, and between the outlet port 516 and the venting valve 520. More specifically, the filter unit 530 can be positioned in the first refrigerant line 501 between the inlet port 510 and the venting valve 520, and in the second refrigerant line 502 between the outlet port 516 and the venting valve 520.

[0103] The filter unit 530 may include a filter inlet 531 into which the refrigerant flows, a filter body 533, a filter member 534 positioned within the filter body 533 to filter the refrigerant flowing in from the filter inlet 531, and a filter outlet 536 through which the refrigerant filtered by the filter member 534 flows out. In this case, the filter member 534 may be a porous metal filter.

[0104] The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant line 500 can pass through the filter member 534, but other foreign matter can be filtered out by the filter member 534. In particular, high-temperature particles and / or flames moving through the refrigerant line 500 can be filtered out by the filter member 534.

[0105] The venting gas released due to thermal runaway occurring within the battery module 100 may contain high-temperature particles, such as active material particles and electrolyte, in the form of sparks. Flames may also be discharged along with the venting gas. Such venting gas can propagate to adjacent battery modules 100 through the refrigerant line 500. The filter unit 530 is connected to the refrigerant line 500 and can filter out the aforementioned high-temperature particles and / or flames. Furthermore, as described above, the filter unit 530 can be placed in the first refrigerant line 501 between the inlet port 510 and the venting valve 520. Alternatively, the filter unit 530 can be placed in the second refrigerant line 502 between the outlet port 516 and the venting valve 520. In other words, the gas generated within the battery module 100 can be filtered through the filter unit 530 before flowing into the venting valve 520. Thus, the cooling and / or flame filtering of the high-temperature refrigerant moving in the refrigerant line 500 can be performed, thereby improving the operational reliability of the venting valve 520. Also, since the gas discharged through the venting valve 520 has passed through the filter unit 530, it can be discharged with internal foreign matter removed and / or at a reduced temperature. Therefore, even if the gas that has passed through the filter unit 530 is discharged through the venting valve 520, the impact on adjacent battery modules 100 can be reduced.

[0106] The filter inlet 531 may include a diffusion section 532 whose cross-sectional area increases as it approaches the filter member 534. Gas flowing into the filter inlet 531 can have its temperature and pressure reduced as it passes through the diffusion section 532, where the cross-sectional area increases. Therefore, the gas flowing into the filter unit 530 can first have its temperature and pressure reduced by the diffusion section 532, and then high-temperature particles and / or flames can be filtered out by the filter member 534.

[0107] The connecting member 506 is a member that connects the refrigerant line 500 and the filter unit 530. In other words, the connecting member 506 connects the filter inlet 531 of the filter unit 530, which is located on the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line, to the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line, respectively. The connecting member 506 is connected to the refrigerant line 500 and the filter unit 530 by screw connections, thereby connecting the refrigerant line 500 and the filter unit 530 to each other. Connection between the filter unit 530 and the refrigerant line 500 can be achieved more easily through the connecting member 506. On the other hand, the method by which the connecting member 506 fixes the refrigerant line 500 and the filter unit 530 is not limited by the above description and can be modified and changed in various ways.

[0108] Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a modified version of the filter unit shown in Figure 10.

[0109] Referring to Figure 11, the filter unit 530 may further include an elastic member 535 connected to the filter member 534. In this case, the filter member 534 is movable between a first position in which the refrigerant is filtered and a second position in which the refrigerant is bypassed. In the example shown in Figure 11, the filter member 534 is shown in the first position.

[0110] The filter member 534 is maintained in the first position by the elastic member 535. When the refrigerant flows into the filter unit 530 and passes through the filter member 534, the filter member 534 is subjected to pressure (force) in the direction of the refrigerant flow. As a result, the filter member 534 is subjected to a force (pressure) that tries to move it to the second position where the refrigerant is bypassed. If a pressure (force) exceeding a certain level is applied to the filter member 534, the filter member 534 may be damaged. To prevent this, the filter member 534 can move from the first position to the second position in response to the pressure applied to the filter member 534 reaching a predetermined filter pressure. At this time, the predetermined filter pressure may be a pressure such that the force applied to the filter member 534 exceeds the restoring force of the elastic member 535.

[0111] The pressure applied to the filter member 534 may reach a predetermined filter pressure if the pressure inside the filter unit 530 increases due to venting gas released by a thermal runaway phenomenon occurring in the battery module 100. However, the above is merely an example, and there can be various ways in which the pressure applied to the filter member 534 reaches a predetermined filter pressure. For example, foreign matter in the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant line 500 accumulates on the filter member 534, causing the pressure applied to the filter member 534 to increase, and if a certain level or more of foreign matter accumulates on the filter member 534, the pressure applied to the filter member 534 will reach a predetermined filter pressure.

[0112] In the cases described above, when the pressure applied to the filter member 534 reaches a predetermined filter pressure, the filter member 534 moves from the first position to the second position, and the refrigerant that has flowed into the filter unit 530 can bypass the filter member 534 and flow out of the filter unit 530 through the filter outlet 536 without being filtered by the filter member 534.

[0113] On the other hand, although not shown in Figure 11, the battery module 100 may further include a position sensor for detecting the movement of the filter member 534. The position sensor can detect when the filter member 534 moves from the first position to the second position. For example, the position sensor may include a Hall sensor (Hall IC) that utilizes the Hall effect, which generates a signal by detecting a change in a magnetic field. When the position sensor senses that the filter member 534 has moved from the first position to the second position, it can generate an electrical signal. The electrical signal generated by the position sensor can be used to monitor whether or not a pressure greater than a predetermined filter pressure is applied to the filter member 534.

[0114] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack shown in Figure 12.

[0115] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the battery pack 1000 includes a lower pack frame 1100 to which multiple battery modules 100 are mounted, and an upper pack frame 1200 located above the battery modules 100. Here, the lower pack frame 1100 and the upper pack frame 1200 can be joined to each other by methods such as welding, thereby sealing the inside of the battery pack 1000. Furthermore, the multiple battery modules 100 can be mounted together with various control and protection systems such as a BMS (Battery Management System) and a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit) to form the battery pack 1000.

[0116] The lower pack frame 1100 includes the side pack frame 1150 and at least two internal beams 1110 formed on the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100. Here, the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100 and at least two internal beams 1110, and the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100 and the side pack frame 1150 can be joined to each other by methods such as welding.

[0117] Multiple battery modules 100 can be mounted in areas partitioned from each other by the side pack frame 1150 and at least two internal beams 1110. In other words, multiple battery modules 100 can be arranged in the area between the side pack frame 1150 and the internal beams 1110, and in the area located between adjacent internal beams 1110. More specifically, in the battery pack 1000, battery modules 100 can be arranged between a pair of adjacent internal beams 1110 and the side pack frame 1150.

[0118] As a result, multiple battery modules 100 are surrounded by at least two internal beams 1110 and side pack frames 1150, and each battery module 100 can be protected from external impacts.

[0119] The side pack frame 1150 is positioned around the periphery of the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100 and can extend upward (in the z-axis direction) from the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100. More specifically, it can extend upward from each periphery of the bottom surface of the lower pack frame 1100. Here, the upper end of the side pack frame 1150 can be in contact with the upper pack frame 1200. At this time, the upper end of the side pack frame 1150 and the upper pack frame 1200 can be joined to each other by welding or other methods to seal the inside of the battery pack 1000.

[0120] Multiple internal beams 1110 can be separated from each other. Here, the distance between adjacent internal beams 1110 can be the same as or greater than the size of the battery module 100.

[0121] Furthermore, the ends of the internal beam 1110 can contact the inner surface 1151 of the side pack frame 1150. More specifically, both ends of the internal beam 1110 can each contact the inner surface 1151 of the side frame 1150.

[0122] When multiple battery modules 100 are mounted on the lower pack frame 1100, each of the multiple battery modules 100 can be connected to a refrigerant line 500. Specifically, a first refrigerant line 501 is connected to the inlet port 510 of each of the multiple battery modules 100, and a second refrigerant line 502 is connected to the outlet port 516 of each of the multiple battery modules 100.

[0123] In this case, the refrigerant line 500 connecting the multiple battery modules 100 can extend through the top of the internal beam 1110. As another example, the refrigerant line 500 connecting the multiple battery modules 100 can also extend through the internal beam 1110. However, the connection structure of the refrigerant line 500 connecting the multiple battery modules 100 is not limited by the above description and can be varied and modified in many ways depending on the arrangement of the multiple battery modules 100 and various components such as the BMS (Battery Management System) and BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit) located inside the battery pack 1000.

[0124] Figure 14 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the placement of the venting valve and filter unit in the battery pack.

[0125] Referring to Figure 14, the battery pack 1000 can be connected to an external device 2000, which includes a refrigerant storage unit 2100 and a heat exchanger 2200, etc. Although Figure 14 shows only the components for refrigerant circulation for ease of explanation, a variety of components may be included depending on the device to which the battery pack 1000 is installed.

[0126] The refrigerant stored in the refrigerant storage unit 2100 passes through the heat exchanger 2200 and then circulates along the refrigerant line 500 of the battery pack 1000. Specifically, the refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger 2200 flows through the first refrigerant line 501 into the respective inlet ports 510 of the multiple battery modules 100. After the refrigerant has flowed into the multiple battery modules 100 cools the battery modules 100, it flows out through the respective outlet ports 516 of the multiple battery modules 100 into the second refrigerant line 502. The refrigerant that has flowed out in the second refrigerant line 502 flows back into the refrigerant storage unit 2100.

[0127] As shown in Figure 14, the venting valve 520 can be positioned between the inlet ports 510 of each of the multiple battery modules 100 and between the outlet ports 516 of each of the multiple battery modules 100. Therefore, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in any one of the multiple battery modules 100, the venting valve 520 positioned between the multiple battery modules 100 can prevent the venting gas from propagating to adjacent battery modules 100.

[0128] A venting valve 520 can be further positioned between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501 and the inlet port 510 of the battery module 100 located closest to the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501. Furthermore, a venting valve 520 can also be further positioned between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line 502 and the outlet port 516 of the battery module 100 located closest to the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line 502. Therefore, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module 100 closest to the external device 2000 among the multiple battery modules 100, the venting valves 520 positioned between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501 and the battery module 100 located closest to the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501, and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line 502 and the battery module 100 located closest to the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line 502, can prevent the venting gas from propagating to the external device 2000.

[0129] A filter unit 530 can be placed between each of the inlet ports 510 of the multiple battery modules 100 and a venting valve 520 located on the flow direction side of the first refrigerant line 501 from the inlet port 510. Furthermore, a filter unit 530 can be placed between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501 and the venting valve 520 located closest to the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501. Additionally, a filter unit 530 can be placed between each of the multiple battery modules 100 and a venting valve 520 located on the flow direction side of the second refrigerant line 502 from the outlet port 516. Therefore, the refrigerant circulating inside the battery pack 1000 can be filtered by the filter unit 530 before it flows into the venting valve 520.

[0130] The battery pack 1000 may include a pressure sensor 540 that measures the pressure of at least one of the first refrigerant line 501 and the second refrigerant line 502. More specifically, the pressure sensor 540 may be located at least one of the following locations: between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501 and the filter unit 530 located closest to the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line 501, and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line 502 and the filter unit 530 located closest to the lowest part of the second refrigerant line 502.

[0131] The pressure sensor 540 measures the pressure in the refrigerant line 500, allowing monitoring of whether the refrigerant is circulating smoothly along the refrigerant line 500. For example, when the filter element 534 of the filter unit 530 becomes clogged with foreign matter, the pressure in the refrigerant line 500 measured by the pressure sensor 540 increases. Therefore, the pressure sensor 540 can monitor whether there is an abnormality in the circulation of the refrigerant line 500 of the battery pack 1000.

[0132] Furthermore, in the case of the filter unit 530 described with reference to Figure 11, a position sensor that senses the position of the filter member 534 makes it possible to identify the filter unit 530 in which a pressure exceeding a predetermined filter pressure is applied to the filter member 534. Therefore, it is easy to identify the filter unit 530 in which an abnormality has occurred among the multiple filter units 530 included in the battery pack 1000. This makes it easy to perform maintenance related to refrigerant circulation in the battery pack 1000.

[0133] Furthermore, the battery module 100 and the battery pack 1000 containing the same according to the embodiment of the present invention can be applied to a variety of external devices 2000. In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles are shown as examples of such devices, but are not limited thereto. In other words, the present invention is applicable to a variety of devices that can use the battery module and the battery pack containing the same, for example, means of transport such as electric bicycles and / or energy storage devices (ESS), which also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0134] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art that utilize the basic concepts of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 100: Battery Module 110: Battery cell 120: Battery cell stack 200: Module Frame 300: Busbar Assembly 310: Busbar Frame 320: Bus bar 400: End plate 410: Refrigerant opening 500: Refrigerant line 506: Connecting member 510: Inflow port 511: Cover component 516: Leakage Port 520: Venting valve 530: Filter Unit 540: Pressure sensor 1000: Battery pack 1100: Lower pack frame 1110: Internal beam 1150: Side pack frame 1200: Upper pack frame 2000: External devices 2100: Refrigerant storage 2200: Heat exchanger

Claims

1. It is a battery module, A battery cell stack in which multiple battery cells are stacked, A module frame that houses the aforementioned battery cell stack, A refrigerant line through which a liquid refrigerant flows into or out of the space in the module frame that houses the battery cell stack, The venting valve is located in the refrigerant line, A battery module in which gas generated inside the battery module is discharged through the venting valve via the refrigerant line.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the venting valve discharges gas from the refrigerant line in response to the pressure in the refrigerant line reaching a predetermined pressure.

3. The aforementioned venting valve is A valve inlet into which the gas from the aforementioned refrigerant line flows, The main body portion forms an internal space through which the gas flowing into the valve inlet flows, The battery module according to claim 2, comprising: a shut-off member housed in the internal space and movable to close the valve inlet or to move away from the internal space to form a first flow path through which the gas flows.

4. The shut-off member further includes an elastic member that pressurizes the shut-off member in a direction that closes the valve inlet, The battery module according to claim 3, wherein the blocking member moves in a direction away from the internal space in response to the pressure of the refrigerant line reaching the predetermined pressure, thereby forming the first flow path.

5. The aforementioned venting valve is A cap portion that guides the direction of gas discharge, The present invention further includes a valve outlet from which the aforementioned gas is discharged, The battery module according to claim 4, wherein the cap portion includes a second flow path through which the gas flowing in from the main body portion is bent.

6. The cap portion includes a plate-shaped portion that is separated from the main body portion and positioned opposite the first flow path, The battery module according to claim 5, wherein the space between the main body and the plate-shaped portion is open to communicate with the outside.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the cap portion further includes a skirt portion extending from the periphery of the plate-shaped portion toward the main body portion.

8. An inlet port connected to the refrigerant line, through which the liquid refrigerant flows into the space, An outlet port connected to the refrigerant line, through which the liquid refrigerant flows out of the space, The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a filter unit disposed in at least one of the following locations in the refrigerant line: between the inlet port and the venting valve, and between the outlet port and the venting valve.

9. The aforementioned filter unit is The filter inlet into which the liquid refrigerant flows, The battery module according to claim 8, further comprising a filter member for filtering the liquid refrigerant that flows in from the filter inlet.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein the filter inlet includes a diffusion section whose cross-sectional area increases as it approaches the filter member.

11. The filter unit further includes an elastic member connected to the filter member, The filter member is movable between a first position in which the liquid refrigerant is filtered and a second position in which the liquid refrigerant is bypassed. The filter member is maintained in the first position by the elastic member, The battery module according to claim 9, wherein the filter member moves from the first position to the second position in response to the pressure applied to the filter member reaching a predetermined filter pressure.

12. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined filter pressure is a pressure such that the force applied to the filter member exceeds the restoring force of the elastic member.

13. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein the filter unit further includes a position sensor that detects when the filter member moves from the first position to the second position.

14. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the liquid refrigerant includes an insulating refrigerant or a non-flammable refrigerant.

15. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the liquid refrigerant is in contact with at least the battery cell stack.

16. A battery pack comprising a plurality of battery modules according to any one of claims 1 to 15, The aforementioned refrigerant line is A first refrigerant line connected to the inflow port of each of the multiple battery modules, A battery pack including a second refrigerant line connected to the outlet port of each of the multiple battery modules.

17. The battery pack according to claim 16, wherein the venting valves are arranged between the inlet ports of each of the plurality of battery modules and between the outlet ports of each of the plurality of battery modules.

18. The battery pack according to claim 17, wherein the venting valves are further disposed between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the inlet port of the battery module located closest to the uppermost part, and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line and the outlet port of the battery module located closest to the downstream part.

19. The battery pack according to claim 18, further comprising filter units disposed between each of the plurality of battery modules' inlet ports and the venting valve located on the flow direction side of the first refrigerant line from the inlet ports, and between each of the plurality of battery modules' outlet ports and the venting valve located on the flow direction side of the second refrigerant line from the outlet ports.

20. The battery pack according to claim 19, wherein the filter unit is further disposed between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the venting valve most adjacent to the uppermost part.

21. The system further includes a pressure sensor that measures the pressure of at least one of the first refrigerant line and the second refrigerant line, The battery pack according to claim 20, wherein the pressure sensor is located at least one of the following locations: between the uppermost part of the first refrigerant line and the filter unit located most adjacent to the uppermost part; and between the lowermost part of the second refrigerant line and the filter unit located most adjacent to the lowermost part.

22. The battery pack according to claim 21, further comprising a processor that outputs an alarm signal when the pressure measured by the pressure sensor deviates from a predetermined reference pressure.

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