Battery cell assembly and battery pack containing it

Abstract

The technical idea of ​​the present invention provides a battery assembly including a first cell block, a first cover coupled to a first side of the first cell block, and a second cover coupled to a second side of the first cell block opposite the first side, wherein the first cover includes a first extension extending from one side of the first cover, the first extension including a first plate spaced apart from the one side of the first cover in a first direction, and the first extension further including a second plate between the first plate and the one side of the first cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell assembly and a battery pack including the battery cell assembly.

Background Art

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. Secondary batteries are widely used as an energy source for various wireless devices such as handsets, notebook computers, and wireless vacuum cleaners. In recent years, due to the improvement of energy density and economies of scale, the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has decreased epochally, and as the cruising range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) increases to a level equivalent to that of fuel vehicles, the main application of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0003] When secondary batteries are used for mobility, the requirements for the safety of secondary batteries are increasing. If an accident such as a fire occurs in a secondary battery used for mobility, it may endanger the life of the driver. Therefore, research on technologies to improve the safety of secondary batteries is essential.

[0004] The background description provided herein is for generally presenting the context of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise expressly stated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims of the present application and are not recognized as prior art or a proposal of prior art by being included in this section.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the technical idea of the present invention is to provide a battery cell assembly and a battery pack with improved safety.

[0006] Such objectives, other objectives, and advantages of this disclosure can be understood from the following detailed description and will be more fully apparent from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. It will also be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the means and combinations described in the appended claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one example, a battery assembly may include a first cell block, a first cover coupled to a first side of the first cell block, and a second cover coupled to a second side of the first cell block opposite to the first side. The first cover may include a first extension extending from one side of the first cover. The first extension may include a first plate spaced in a first direction away from one side of the first cover. The first extension may further include a second plate between the first plate and one side of the first cover.

[0008] In other respects, the battery assemblies described herein may include one or more of the following features: The first plate is characterized by having a rectangular shape. The first and second plates may extend in a second direction across a first direction. The battery assembly may further include a third plate between the first plate and one face of the first cover. The first edge of the second plate may extend in a first direction between the first plate and the first cover. The second and third plates may be spaced apart from each other. The first cover, first plate, second plate, and third plate may form a single integrated structure. The first, second and third plates may be arranged to form an insulating space between the first plate and one face of the first cover and between the second plate and the third plate. The insulating space may extend in a second direction from the first edge of the second plate to the second edge of the second plate. The second cover may include a second extension extending in a third direction from the second side of the first cell block. The battery cell assembly may further include a third cover coupled to a third side of the first cell block. The third cover may include cooling channels. The battery assembly may further include a second cell block, a third cover coupled to a first side of the second cell block, a third cover coupled to the first side of the second cell block facing the first side of the second cell block, and a fourth cover coupled to a second side of the second cell block opposite to the first side of the second cell block. The third cover may include a second extension extending from one surface of the third cover. The second extension of the third cover may include a plurality of connecting flanges spaced apart from each other and connected to the first extension of the first cover. The third cover and the plurality of connecting flanges may form a single integrated structure. The battery assembly may further include a third cell block, a fifth cover coupled to a first side of the third cell block, and a third extension extending from one surface of the fifth cover. The third extension may be configured to be fastened to a housing. The fourth cover may include a fourth extension, which may be configured to be coupled to the housing.The battery pack may further include a third cell block, a fifth cover coupled to a first side of the third cell block, and a third extension extending from one side of the fifth cover. The third extension may be coupled to a second cover and a housing.

[0009] In other examples, a battery pack may include a housing that contains a battery assembly. The battery assembly may include a first cell block, a first cover coupled to a first side of the first cell block, and a second cover coupled to a second side of the first cell block opposite to the first side. The first cover may include a first extension extending from one side of the first cover. The battery assembly may also include a third cover coupled to the housing and covering the battery assembly. The first side of the battery assembly may be coupled to the third cover, and the second side of the battery assembly may be separated from one side of the housing.

[0010] In other aspects, the battery packs described herein may include one or more of the following features: A first cell block may include a plurality of battery cells arranged in the direction between a first cover and a second cover. A housing may include a support structure on one side of the housing. A first extension may be fastened to the support structure by a fastening member. The battery assembly may further include a second cell block, a fourth cover coupled to a first side of the second cell block such that the first side of the second cell block faces the first cell block, and a fifth cover coupled to a second side of the second cell block opposite to the first side of the second cell block. The fourth cover may include a second extension extending from one side of the fourth cover. The battery assembly may also further include a fourth cover coupled to a third side of the first cell block. The third cover may include cooling channels. The fourth cover may be located between the third cover and the third side of the first cell block.

[0011] In another example, to solve the above-mentioned problems, the technical idea of ​​the present invention provides a battery cell assembly comprising a cell block containing a plurality of battery cells, a first side frame provided on a first side surface of the cell block, and a second side frame provided on a second side surface of the cell block opposite to the first side surface of the cell block, wherein the first side frame comprises a fixed frame coupled to the first side surface of the cell block, a barrier plate connected to the fixed frame and spaced in a first direction away from the first side surface of the cell block so as to form an insulating space, and a connecting plate extending between the barrier plate and the fixed frame.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the barrier plate is characterized by having the form of a flat plate.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the barrier plate and the connecting plate are each extended in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting plate includes a lower connecting plate extending in the first direction from the lower end of the barrier plate to the fixed frame, and an upper connecting plate extending in the first direction from the upper end of the barrier plate to the fixed frame, wherein the lower connecting plate and the upper connecting plate are separated with the thermal insulation space in between.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed frame, the barrier plate, the lower connecting plate, and the upper connecting plate are characterized by forming a single body.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, when viewed from a cross-section, the thermal insulation space is defined by being enclosed by the barrier plate, the lower connecting plate, and the upper connecting plate, and the thermal insulation space is characterized by being continuously extended in the second direction intersecting the first direction from one end to the other of the barrier plate.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the second side frame is characterized by including a plurality of connecting flanges that project from the second side of the cell block in the first direction and intersect the first direction, and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the battery cell assembly further includes a cooling plate having cooling channels, which is attached to the upper surface of the cell block so as to cover the upper surface of the cell block.

[0019] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the technical concept of the present invention includes a pack housing and a plurality of battery cell assemblies mounted on the pack housing and arranged in a first direction, wherein the plurality of battery cell assemblies include a first battery cell assembly and a second battery cell assembly adjacent to each other in the first direction, and the first battery cell assembly includes a first cell block containing a plurality of first battery cells, a first side frame coupled to one side of the first cell block, and a second side frame containing a plurality of first connecting flanges coupled to the other side of the first cell block opposite to the one side of the first cell block, spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and each fastened to the pack housing. The present invention provides a battery pack comprising: a second battery cell assembly comprising a second cell block comprising a plurality of second battery cells; a third side frame coupled to one side of the second cell block facing the first cell block; and a fourth side frame coupled to the other side of the second cell block opposite to the one side of the second cell block, wherein the third side frame comprises a fixed frame coupled to the one side of the second cell block; a barrier plate connected to the fixed frame and spaced in the first direction away from the one side of the second cell block so as to form an insulating space; and a connecting plate extending between the barrier plate and the fixed frame and fastened to the plurality of first connecting flanges and the pack housing.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting plate includes a lower connecting plate extending in the first direction from the lower end of the barrier plate to the fixed frame, and an upper connecting plate extending in the first direction from the upper end of the barrier plate to the fixed frame, wherein the thermal insulation space is defined by being surrounded by the barrier plate, the lower connecting plate, and the upper connecting plate.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed frame, the barrier plate, the lower connecting plate, and the upper connecting plate are characterized by being integrally formed.

[0022] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cell assemblies further include a third battery cell assembly located on one side of the second battery cell assembly, the fourth side frame includes a plurality of second connecting flanges spaced apart from each other in a second direction and each fastened to the pack housing, and the third battery cell assembly is characterized by including a third cell block containing a plurality of third battery cells, and a fifth side frame coupled to one side of the third cell block facing the second cell block, spaced apart from each other in a second direction and each fastened to the pack housing.

[0023] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of battery cell assemblies further include a third battery cell assembly located on one side of the second battery cell assembly, the fourth side frame includes a plurality of second connecting flanges spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction and each fastened to the pack housing, the third battery cell assembly includes a third cell block containing a plurality of third battery cells, and a fifth side frame coupled to one side surface of the third cell block facing the second cell block, the one side of the third cell block being provided with an insulating space defined by being surrounded by the fifth side frame, the fifth side frame being coupled to the plurality of second connecting flanges and the pack housing.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the pack housing includes a lower housing that houses the plurality of battery cell assemblies, and a top plate coupled on the lower housing so as to cover the plurality of battery cell assemblies, and the plurality of battery cell assemblies are characterized by being supported by hanging on the top plate.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of battery cell assemblies each include a cell block in which pouch-type battery cells are stacked.

Advantages of the Invention

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since the plurality of battery cell assemblies in the battery pack are coupled to the pack housing in a side-mounting manner, damage due to swelling of the battery cells can be reduced, and the structural safety of the plurality of battery cell assemblies can be improved.

[0027] Furthermore, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since a heat insulation space formed by a side frame is provided between the plurality of battery cell assemblies adjacent to each other, heat transfer between the adjacent battery cell assemblies can be suppressed, and sequential ignition can be prevented. Thereby, the safety of the battery pack can be improved.

[0028] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the following description. That is, unintended effects associated with implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further illustrate the technical concept of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited solely to the matters depicted in such drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0030] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a plan view showing a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] A perspective view showing a side frame provided in a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a plan view showing a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a plan view showing a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram showing an electric vehicle equipped with the battery pack of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Before that, however, terms and words used herein and in the claims should not be interpreted to be limited to their usual or dictionary meanings, but rather to mean and define terms in a manner consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, based on the principle that inventors may appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe their invention.

[0032] Therefore, the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the drawings represent only one of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical concept of the present invention; there may be a variety of equivalents and modifications that can substitute for them at the time of filing.

[0033] Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known configuration or function would likely obscure the gist of the invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0034] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to an ordinary person, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically for the sake of clarity. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes and proportions.

[0035] The subject matter of this specification is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which constitute part thereof and illustrate exemplary embodiments. Embodiments or representations described “exemplary” herein should not be construed as, for example, preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or representations, but rather are intended to reflect or indicate that such embodiments are “exemplary” embodiments. The subject matter can be embodied in a variety of forms, and therefore, the subject matter disclosed or claimed herein should be construed as not being limited to any exemplary embodiments described herein, and exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples. Similarly, the claims or the subject matter contained herein are intended to be reasonably broad.

[0036] Throughout the specification and claims, terms may imply or contain contextual nuances beyond their explicitly stated meanings. Similarly, the phrase "in one embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does the phrase "in another embodiment" as used herein necessarily refer to another embodiment. For example, the claimed subject matter is intended to include combinations of embodiments that are illustrated in whole or in part.

[0037] The terms used herein, even when used in conjunction with the detailed description of specific embodiments of this disclosure, can be interpreted in the broadest sense. In fact, certain terms may be emphasized below, but terms to be interpreted in a limited manner are explicitly and specifically defined in this detailed description section. All of the general descriptions above and the detailed descriptions below are illustrative and descriptive only and do not limit the features as claimed.

[0038] In this disclosure, the term “based on” means “based on at least partially.” Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as “first,” “second,” etc., may be used to distinguish one element from others among a variety of elements, but there is no intention to restrict the elements by such terms. The singular “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural demonstratives unless otherwise explicitly stated in the context. The term “exemplary” is used to mean “example” and not “ideal.” The term “or” is used in an inclusive sense and means one, some, or all of the items listed. “Includes,” “constitutes,” or other modified terms are used to include non-exclusive inclusions in which a process, method, or product constituting an element list does not necessarily include only that element, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or inherent in that process, method, item, or apparatus. Relative terms such as “substantially” and “generally” are used to indicate possible variation within ±5% of the expressed or understood value.

[0039] Furthermore, throughout this specification, when one part is referred to as being “linked” or “joined” with another part, this is not limited to cases where they are “directly linked” or “directly joined,” but also includes cases where one or more elements are placed between them and they are “indirectly linked” or “indirectly joined.”

[0040] Figures 1 to 3 are drawings showing a battery pack 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, where Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 10, Figure 2 is a plan view of the battery pack 10, and Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a side frame provided to the battery pack 10.

[0041] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the battery pack 10 may include a pack housing 900 and a plurality of battery cell assemblies mounted in the pack housing 900 (for example, a first battery cell assembly 100 and a second battery cell assembly 200). A battery cell assembly can be referred to as a battery assembly.

[0042] The multiple battery cell assemblies described above may be arranged in a first direction (X direction) within the pack housing 900. In Figure 1, as an example, the multiple battery cell assemblies are illustrated as including two battery cell assemblies (i.e., a first battery cell assembly 100 and a second battery cell assembly 200). However, the battery pack 10 may also include one battery cell assembly or three or more battery cell assemblies arranged in a first direction (X direction).

[0043] Each battery cell assembly includes a cell block (for example, the first cell block 110 of the first battery cell assembly 100 or the second cell block 210 of the second battery cell assembly 200), and the cell block may include a plurality of battery cells BC. In exemplary embodiments, the battery cell assembly may be a battery module having a module case surrounding the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the cell block, or it may be a device having a configuration in which part or all of the module case has been removed.

[0044] Each battery cell BC is the basic unit of a lithium-ion battery, or secondary battery.

[0045] An individual battery cell BC may include an electrode assembly, electrolyte, and a case or housing. The electrode assembly housed in the case may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator membrane interposed between the positive and negative electrodes. Depending on the form of assembly, the electrode assembly may be either a jelly roll type or a stack type. A jelly roll type electrode assembly may include a wound structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator membrane interposed between them. A stack type electrode assembly may include multiple positive electrodes, multiple negative electrodes, and multiple positive electrode separator membranes interposed between them, stacked sequentially.

[0046] Multiple battery cells BC can be connected in series and / or in parallel. For example, multiple battery cells BC can be connected in series with each other. For example, multiple battery cells BC can be connected in parallel with each other. For example, multiple battery cells BC connected in parallel with each other can form a group, and a group of multiple battery cells BC can be connected in series. The above multiple battery cells BC can be grouped to obtain the required electrical capacity.

[0047] Individual battery cells BC may be pouch-type battery cells, cylindrical battery cells, or prismatic battery cells, but are not limited to these. The electrode assembly of a pouch-type battery cell may be housed in a pouch case containing an aluminum laminate sheet. The electrode assembly of a cylindrical battery cell may be housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of a prismatic battery cell may be housed in a prismatic metal can.

[0048] In exemplary embodiments, each individual battery cell BC may correspond to a pouch-type battery cell, and multiple battery cells BC may be stacked in a first direction (X direction) within a single battery cell assembly. In exemplary embodiments, in each individual battery cell assembly, multiple battery cells BC each correspond to a pouch-type battery cell whose length along the first direction (X direction) is shorter than its length along the second direction (Y direction), and multiple battery cells BC may be stacked in the first direction (X direction).

[0049] In exemplary embodiments, an individual battery cell assembly may include a single cell block. However, it may also include a plurality of subcell blocks arranged in a second direction (Y direction), and each of these subcell blocks may include a plurality of battery cells BC stacked in a first direction (X direction). For example, an individual battery cell assembly may include two subcell blocks arranged in a second direction (Y direction).

[0050] Referring to Figure 2, when viewed from above, individual cell blocks can have a rectangular shape (for example, the first cell block 110 of the first battery cell assembly 100 or the second cell block 210 of the second battery cell assembly 200). In this case, individual cell blocks 110 or 210 can have a first side and a second side opposite each other in the first direction (X direction), a front and a rear side opposite each other in the second direction (Y direction), and a top and a bottom side opposite each other in the third direction (Z direction). For example, in individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200, the first side of a cell block may be the left side, and the second side of a cell block may be the right side.

[0051] Referring further to Figure 2, in exemplary embodiments, busbar frames BFA may be coupled to the front and rear surfaces of the cell blocks in individual battery cell assemblies (for example, the first cell block 110 of the first battery cell assembly 100 or the second cell block 210 of the second battery cell assembly 200). Each busbar frame BFA may be equipped with busbars to electrically connect multiple battery cells BC to each other. These busbars may be interbusbars that are connected to individual battery cells BC and electrically connect multiple battery cells BC to each other, or they may be terminal busbars that electrically connect the battery cell assemblies 100, 200 to external electrical devices. However, the arrangement of the busbar frames BFA in individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200 is not limited thereto, and the arrangement of the busbar frames BFA in individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200 can be determined by the type of battery cells BC, the arrangement of electrode leads connected to the battery cells BC, etc. For example, in individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200, the busbar frame BFA on which the busbars are mounted may be located on the top or bottom surface of the cell block 110, 210. Although not shown in the drawings, individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200 may further include end plates to cover the busbar frame BFA coupled to the front and rear surfaces of the cell block.

[0052] Referring again to Figure 1, in exemplary embodiments, a cooling plate CP may be provided on the upper surface of the cell block in individual battery cell assemblies 100, 200. For example, the cooling plate CP may be attached to the upper surface of the cell block via a thermal interface material (TIM) layer. The cooling plate CP is also called a cover. The cooling plate CP may have a cooling channel CH configured for the flow of a cooling fluid. The cooling fluid supplied from outside the battery cell assembly can flow into the cooling channel CH through its inlet, flow along the cooling channel CH, and then flow out to the outside through the outlet of the cooling channel CH. Cooling of the battery cell assemblies 100, 200 can occur while the cooling fluid is flowing along the cooling channel CH.

[0053] Referring further to Figure 1, multiple battery cell assemblies 100, 200 may have a side mounting structure in which each is fastened to a support block 920 of the pack housing 900 via a side frame provided on its side. The support block 920 may be called a support structure. The side frame may be connected or coupled to one side of the corresponding battery cell assembly. The side mounting structure of the first battery cell assembly 100 and the side mounting structure of the second battery cell assembly 200 will be described in more detail below.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the first battery cell assembly 100 may include a first cell block 110, a first side frame 120 coupled to a first side of the first cell block 110 and the pack housing 900, and a second side frame 130 coupled to a second side of the first cell block 110 and the pack housing 900.

[0055] Referring to Figure 2, the first side frame 120 may include a first fixed frame 121 fixed to the first side of the first cell block 110 and a plurality of first connecting flanges 125 connected to the first fixed frame 121. The first side frame 120 may be called a cover. The plurality of first connecting flanges 125 may each extend laterally (for example, in the opposite direction to the X direction) from the first side of the first cell block 110. The plurality of first connecting flanges 125 may be called extensions extending from one side of the first side frame 120. The plurality of first connecting flanges 125 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction (Y direction) and may be at approximately the same height as in the third direction (Z direction). The plurality of first connecting flanges 125 may each be fastened to a corresponding support block 920 among a plurality of support blocks 920 provided to the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT, as shown in Figure 1. The first side frame 120 may have a single integrated structure.

[0056] Referring further to Figure 2, the second side frame 130 may include a second fixed frame 131 fixed to the second side of the first cell block 110, and a plurality of second connecting flanges 135 connected to the second fixed frame 131. The second side frame 130 may be called a cover. Each of the plurality of second connecting flanges 135 may extend laterally (e.g., in a first direction (X direction)) from the second side of the first cell block 110. The plurality of second connecting flanges 135 may be called extensions extending from one side of the second side frame 130. The plurality of second connecting flanges 135 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y direction) and may be at substantially the same height in a third direction (Z direction). Each of the plurality of second connecting flanges 135 may be fastened to a corresponding support block 920 among a plurality of support blocks 920 provided to the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT, as shown in Figure 1. The second side frame 130 may have a single integrated structure.

[0057] In this specification, a side frame having multiple connecting flanges may be referred to as a first type side frame, and a battery cell assembly having a first type side frame may be referred to as a first type battery cell assembly. In this case, the first battery cell assembly 100 corresponds to a first type battery cell assembly, and the first side frame 120 and the second side frame 130 may each correspond to a first type side frame.

[0058] Referring further to Figure 2, in an exemplary embodiment, the second battery cell assembly 200 may include a second cell block 210, a third side frame 220 coupled to a first side of the second cell block 210 and the pack housing 900, and a fourth side frame 230 coupled to a second side of the second cell block 210 and the pack housing 900.

[0059] The third side frame 220 may include a third fixed frame 221 fixed to the first side of the second cell block 210 and an insulating partition wall 223 connected to the third fixed frame 221. The third side frame 220 may be called a cover. The insulating partition wall 223 may be fastened to the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT, as shown in Figure 1, and may form an insulating space 225 between the first cell block 110 and the second cell block 210. The insulating partition wall 223 may be called an extension extending from one side of the third side frame 220. The third side frame 220 may have a single integrated structure.

[0060] Referring to Figure 3, the thermal insulation partition 223 may include a barrier plate 2231 and connecting plates 2233, 2235 extending between the barrier plate 2231 and the third fixed frame 221, allowing the barrier plate 2231 to be connected to the third fixed frame 221. The barrier plate 2231 may have the shape of a flat plate substantially perpendicular to the first direction (X direction). The connecting plates 2233, 2235 may include a lower connecting plate 2233 extending from the lower end (or lower end edge) of the barrier plate 2231 to the third fixed frame 221, and an upper connecting plate 2235 extending from the upper end (or upper end edge) of the barrier plate 2231 to the third fixed frame 221. As shown in Figure 3, the barrier plate 2231 may be continuously extended in a second direction (Y direction) perpendicular to the first direction (X direction), the lower connecting plate 2233 may be continuously extended in the second direction (Y direction) along the lower edge of the barrier plate 2231, and the upper connecting plate 2235 may be continuously extended in the second direction (Y direction) along the upper edge of the barrier plate 2231. The third fixing frame 221, barrier plate 2231, lower connecting plate 2233, and upper connecting plate 2235 may form a single unit or be formed as a single integrated structure and may contain, but are not limited to, the same material. The thermal insulation space 225 may be defined as being enclosed by the third fixing frame 221, barrier plate 2231, lower connecting plate 2233, and upper connecting plate 2235. The thermal insulation space 225 may be extended in the second direction (Y direction). For example, the thermal insulation space 225 can be extended continuously or discontinuously in a second direction (Y direction) from one end to the other of the barrier plate 2231. As shown in Figure 1, the third side frame 220 can be fastened to one of the support blocks 920 provided in the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT. In an exemplary embodiment, the bolts BT configured to fasten the thermal insulation partition 223 of the third side frame 220 to the support block 920 can be configured to fasten the second connecting flange 135 of the second side frame 130 to the support block 920. In this example, the thermal insulation partition 223 of the third side frame 220 can be fastened to the second connecting flange 135 of the second side frame 130.Alternatively, in exemplary embodiments, the thermal insulation partition 223 of the third side frame 220 and the second connecting flange 135 of the second side frame 130 may be fastened to the support block 920 by various suitable fastening members.

[0061] Referring to Figure 2, the fourth side frame 230 may include a fourth fixed frame 231 fixed to the second side of the second cell block 210 and a plurality of fourth connecting flanges 235 connected to the fourth fixed frame 231. The fourth side frame 230 may be called a cover. Each of the plurality of fourth connecting flanges 235 may extend laterally (e.g., in a first direction (X direction)) from the first side of the second cell block 210. The plurality of fourth connecting flanges 235 may be called extensions extending from one side of the fourth side frame 230. The plurality of second connecting flanges 235 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y direction) and at substantially the same height in a third direction (Z direction). The fourth side frame 230 may have a single integrated structure. As shown in Figure 1, each of the plurality of fourth connecting flanges 235 may be fastened to a corresponding support block 920 among a plurality of support blocks 920 provided in the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT. The fourth side frame 230 can be adapted to the first type of side frame.

[0062] In this disclosure, a side frame having a partition structure including an insulating partition configured to form an insulating space between cell blocks of adjacent battery cell assemblies may be referred to as a second type side frame, and a battery cell assembly including a second type side frame may be referred to as a second type battery cell assembly. In this case, the second battery cell assembly 200 may correspond to a second type battery cell assembly, and the third side frame 220 may correspond to a second type side frame.

[0063] According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, each battery assembly can be mounted in the pack housing 900 by a side mounting method. In the side mounting method, side frames fastened to the pack housing 900 may be provided on both sides of each battery assembly along the stacking direction of the battery cells BC. Since the plurality of battery cell assemblies are fastened to the pack housing 900 in the battery pack 10 by the side mounting method, damage due to expansion of the battery cells BC can be reduced, and the structural safety of the plurality of battery cell assemblies can be improved.

[0064] Furthermore, according to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the thermal insulation space 225 formed by the second side frame is provided between the plurality of adjacent battery cell assemblies, thereby suppressing heat transfer between adjacent battery cell assemblies and preventing chain ignition. This improves the safety of the battery pack 10.

[0065] Figure 4 is a plan view showing a battery pack 10A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the battery pack 10A shown in Figure 4 will be described with emphasis on additional features not shown in the battery pack 10 described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

[0066] Referring to Figure 4, the battery pack 10A includes a plurality of battery cell assemblies mounted in a pack housing (see 900 in Figure 1), and the plurality of battery cell assemblies may include a first battery cell assembly 100, a second battery cell assembly 200, a third battery cell assembly 300, and a fourth battery cell assembly 400, which are sequentially arranged along a first direction (X direction).

[0067] In the 10A battery pack, the first battery cell assembly 100 and the third battery cell assembly 300 can be classified as a first-type battery cell assembly, while the second battery cell assembly 200 and the fourth battery cell assembly 400 can be classified as a second-type battery cell assembly.

[0068] The third battery cell assembly 300 may include a third cell block 310, a fifth side frame 320 coupled to the first side of the third cell block 310 and the pack housing 900, and a sixth side frame 330 coupled to the second side of the third cell block 310 and the pack housing 900.

[0069] The fifth side frame 320 and the sixth side frame 330 may be of the first type of side frame. More specifically, the fifth side frame 320 may include a fifth fixed frame 321 fixed to the first side of the third cell block 310, and a plurality of fifth connecting flanges 325 connected to the fifth fixed frame 321. Each of the plurality of fifth connecting flanges 325 may be fastened to a support block 920 of a plurality of support blocks (see 920 in Figure 1) that may be provided in the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts (see BT in Figure 1). The plurality of fifth connecting flanges 325 may be located at substantially the same level in the third direction (Z direction), and the plurality of sixth connecting flanges 335 may be located at substantially the same level in the third direction (Z direction). The fifth connecting flanges 325 and the sixth connecting flanges 335 may be arranged alternately between the second cell block 210 and the third cell block 310. The sixth side frame 330 may include a sixth fixed frame 331 fixed to the second side of the third cell block 310, and a plurality of sixth connecting flanges 335 connected to the sixth fixed frame 331. Each of the plurality of sixth connecting flanges 335 may be fastened to a corresponding support block 920 among a plurality of support blocks 920 (see 920 in Figure 1) provided in the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT (see BT in Figure 1).

[0070] The fourth battery cell assembly 400 may include a fourth cell block 410, a seventh side frame 420 coupled to the first side of the fourth cell block 410 and the pack housing 900, and an eighth side frame 430 coupled to the second side of the fourth cell block 410 and the pack housing 900.

[0071] The seventh side frame 420 may correspond to the second side frame, and the eighth side frame 430 may correspond to the first side frame. For example, the seventh side frame 420 may include a seventh fixed frame 421 fixed to the first side of the fourth cell block 410, and an insulating partition wall 423 defining the insulating space between the third cell block 310 and the fourth cell block 410. In an exemplary embodiment, bolts BT configured to fasten the seventh side frame 420 to the support block 920 may be configured to fasten the sixth connecting flange 335 of the sixth side frame 330 to the support block 920. In this case, the insulating partition wall 423 of the seventh side frame 420 may be fastened to the sixth connecting flange 335 of the sixth side frame 330. The eighth side frame 430 may include an eighth fixed frame 431 fixed to the second side of the fourth cell block 410, and a plurality of eighth connecting flanges 435 connected to the eighth fixed frame 431. Each of the multiple eighth connecting flanges 435 can be fastened to a corresponding support block 920 among the multiple support blocks 920 (see 920 in Figure 1) provided in the pack housing 900 via fastening members such as bolts BT (see BT in Figure 1).

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the seventh side frame 420 provides an insulating space between the third cell block 310 and the fourth cell block 410, thereby suppressing thermal transfer between adjacent battery cell assemblies and preventing chain ignition. This improves the safety of the battery pack 10A.

[0073] Figure 5 is a plan view showing a battery pack 10B according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the battery pack 10B shown in Figure 5 will be described with emphasis on additional features not shown in the battery pack 10A described with reference to Figure 4.

[0074] Referring to Figure 5, in the battery pack 10B, the multiple battery cell assemblies may include a first battery cell assembly 100, a second battery cell assembly 200, a third battery cell assembly 300A, and a fourth battery cell assembly 400, which are sequentially arranged along a first direction (X direction). In this case, the first battery cell assembly 100 may correspond to a first type battery cell assembly, and the second to fourth battery cell assemblies 200, 300A, and 400 may correspond to second type battery cell assemblies.

[0075] Specifically, in the third-A battery cell assembly 300A, the fifth-A side frame 320A may correspond to the second side frame, and the sixth side frame 330 may correspond to the first side frame. The fifth-A side frame 320A may include a sixth fixing frame 321 fixed to the first side of the third cell block 310, and an insulating partition wall 323 defining an insulating space between the second cell block 210 and the third cell block 310. In an exemplary embodiment, bolts BT configured to fix the third side frame 320A to the support block 920 may be configured to fix the fourth connecting flange 235 of the fourth side frame 230 to the support block 920 (see 920 and BT in Figure 1). In this case, the insulating partition wall 323 of the fifth-A side frame 320A may be fastened to the fourth connecting flange 235 of the fourth side frame 230.

[0076] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack 10C according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the battery pack 10C shown in Figure 6 will be described with emphasis on additional features not shown in the battery pack 10 described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

[0077] Referring to Figure 6, in the battery pack 10C, the pack housing 900 may include a lower housing 910 having a housing space for accommodating a plurality of battery cell assemblies (e.g., a first battery cell assembly 100 and a second battery cell assembly 200), and a top plate 950 coupled to the lower housing 910 so as to cover the lower housing 910 containing the plurality of battery cell assemblies. The housing space of the lower housing 910 may be defined by a bottom wall and side walls (e.g., four walls) located above the edge of the bottom wall.

[0078] In one embodiment, the lower housing 910 may include one or more exhaust holes and / or exhaust devices in one or more of the walls of the lower housing 910. The exhaust holes and / or exhaust devices are not shown in the drawings for clarity of the drawings and description. The top plate 950 may be a pack lid that covers the plurality of battery cell assemblies. The lower housing 910 may be referred to as the housing. The top plate 950 may be referred to as the cover. When the battery pack 10C is installed in the vehicle, the passenger cabin may be located above the top plate 950, and the ground on which the vehicle travels may be located below the lower housing 910.

[0079] In exemplary embodiments, multiple battery cell assemblies may be suspended and supported from a top plate 950. Each individual battery cell assembly may be coupled to the underside of the top plate 950. A free volume FV may be provided between the underside of each individual battery cell assembly and the bottom wall of the lower housing 910. The free volume FV may be defined as the space formed by the separation of the bottom wall of the lower housing 910 and the individual battery cell assemblies. For example, the first side of each battery cell assembly may be coupled to the top plate 950, and the second side of each battery cell assembly may be separated from the bottom wall of the lower housing 910.

[0080] The present invention is an upright support structure in which individual battery cell assemblies are suspended and supported on a top plate 950. A free volume FV is also provided between the bottom of the battery pack 10C (i.e., the bottom wall of the lower housing 910) and the individual battery cell assemblies. Gases and flames generated in thermal runaway conditions can be moved through the free volume FV. In other words, the free volume FV serves as a venting passage through which hot gases and flames can be moved. The hot gases and flames moving through the free volume FV can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack 10C through one or more exhaust holes and / or exhaust devices as described in the above disclosure.

[0081] Furthermore, even when foreign objects are scattered under the vehicle and a strong impact occurs during driving on hard ground such as unpaved roads, the free volume FV can absorb that impact. Therefore, damage to multiple battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) due to such impacts can be prevented. The free volume FV has an empty space between each of the multiple battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the lower housing 910, and when the lower housing 910 deforms towards the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) due to an impact applied to the underside of the vehicle, the free volume FV can be used as a space to allow the deformation of the lower housing 910 to a certain extent. It is not necessary to install other structures in the free volume FV. Alternatively, structures that partially support the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be installed within the free volume FV. When installing a structure within the free volume FV, a space sufficient to allow deformation of the lower housing 910 must be provided between the battery cell assembly (e.g., 100, 200) and the lower housing 910, as shown in Figure 6.

[0082] The height of the free volume FV and the distance between the bottom wall of the lower housing 910 and the battery cell assembly (e.g., 100, 200) can be set sufficiently to absorb external shocks. The height of the free volume FV can be determined by considering the dimensions and rigidity of the vehicle frame, the dimensions and rigidity of the lower housing 910, the dimensions of the battery pack 10C, and the amount and rate of gas generation and exhaust during thermal runaway. For example, if the thickness or rigidity of the vehicle frame or the bottom wall of the lower housing 910 is relatively large, at least one of the size and height of the free volume FV can be relatively reduced. Also, if the thickness or rigidity of the vehicle frame or the bottom wall of the lower housing 910 is relatively small, the deformation of the bottom wall of the lower housing 910 is likely, so at least one of the size and height of the free volume FV can be relatively increased to protect the battery cell assembly (e.g., 100, 200). Furthermore, if the size of the battery pack 10C is relatively large according to the specifications of the battery pack 10C, a relatively large free volume FV can be ensured. If the size of the battery pack 10C is relatively small, the available height of the free volume FV may be relatively low, and it may be necessary to increase the thickness and rigidity of the bottom wall of the lower housing 910. Also, if the height of the free volume FV is too low, the gas exhaust passage will be small, and the internal pressure of the battery pack 10C may rise rapidly during thermal runaway. Therefore, the size and height of the free volume FV can be determined by considering the amount of gas generated and the exhaust rate.

[0083] The maximum height of the free volume FV can be determined by the degree of damage to the battery cells BC contained in the battery cell assembly (e.g., 100, 200). For example, if the acceptable damage limit for the battery cells BC is 1 mm, the free volume FV can be determined so that the battery cells BC do not deform by more than 1 mm when the lower housing 910 deforms and presses against the lower surface of the battery cells BC. In this case, the amount of deformation of the lower housing 910 may vary depending on the thickness and rigidity of the lower housing 910. Therefore, the size and height of the free volume FV can be determined by considering both the acceptable damage limit for the battery cells BC and the thickness and rigidity of the lower housing 910.

[0084] The upper surfaces of individual battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be tightly coupled to the lower surface of the top plate 950. If there is a space between the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950, during thermal runaway, hot gases may be introduced into the space between one battery cell assembly (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950, potentially propagating heat and flames to other adjacent battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200). Heat and flames may also be transferred to the top plate 950, potentially affecting the passenger compartment above the top plate 950. Therefore, by tightly coupling the upper surfaces of individual battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) to the lower surface of the top plate 950, gases and flames generated inside the battery pack 10C can be directed to the free volume FV.

[0085] For example, individual battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be tightly bonded to the underside of the top plate 950 by a TIM layer interposed between the individual battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950. The TIM layer can prevent the formation of an air layer between the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950. The TIM layer may be configured to transfer heat between the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950. Thus, heat from the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be dissipated to the top plate 950 side via the TIM layer.

[0086] By providing the top plate 950 with an appropriate cooling device, heat from the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be transferred to the cooling device via the TIM layer. The cooling device may include, for example, cooling channels 951 provided in the top plate 950 through which a cooling fluid flows. Since the TIM layer is placed between the upper surface of the individual battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) and the top plate 950, and the top plate 950 is provided with cooling channels 951, the heat from the battery cell assemblies (e.g., 100, 200) can be efficiently cooled.

[0087] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an electric vehicle 1000 equipped with the battery pack 1100 of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 7 shows, for the sake of simplicity, only the vehicle body frame 1200, which forms the lower frame of the vehicle, the battery pack 1100 connected to the vehicle body frame 1200, and the tires. The battery pack 1100 can be any one of the battery packs 10, 10A, 10B, and 10C described with reference to Figures 1 to 6, for example.

[0089] Typically, in the case of a battery pack, the battery cell assembly is installed at the bottom of the battery pack housing. However, in this embodiment, the battery cell assembly 1110 of the battery pack 1100 has a structure in which it is suspended and supported by the top plate 1120 of the housing. That is, there is no space between the battery cell assembly 1110 and the top plate 1120, which prevents gas generated in the battery cell assembly 1110 from being transmitted to the cabin room above the vehicle. The gas is guided to a free volume FV (see Figure 6) provided on the underside of the housing of the battery cell assembly 1110 and the battery pack 1100. The gas can flow through the free volume FV and be discharged to the underside of the vehicle through a gas exhaust section installed in the battery pack 1100. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since a free volume FV is provided between the battery cell assembly 1110 and the housing within the battery pack 1100, damage to the battery cell assembly 1110 can be prevented even if the housing deforms.

[0090] According to embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack 1100 and the electric vehicle 1000 equipped therewith can enhance passenger safety. Furthermore, the battery cell assembly 1110, which is a core component, can be protected, improving the durability of the battery pack 1100 and the electric vehicle 1000.

[0091] The present invention has been described in more detail above through the drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described herein are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical concept of the present invention. Therefore, there may be various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted for them at the time of filing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 10: Battery Pack 100, 200: Battery cell assembly 110, 210: Cell Block 120, 130, 210, 230: Side frame 900: Pack Housing 910: Lower housing 920: Support Block BC: Battery cell CP: Cooling Plate

Claims

1. A first cell block, a first cover attached to the first side of the first cell block, and a second cover attached to the second side of the first cell block opposite to the first side, A second cell block, a third cover coupled to the first side surface of the second cell block facing the first side surface of the first cell block, and a fourth cover coupled to the second side surface of the second cell block opposite to the first side surface of the second cell block, A housing that houses the first cell block, the first cover, the second cover, the second cell block, the third cover, and the fourth cover inside, A battery assembly comprising, The first cover includes a first extension extending from one surface of the first cover, The first extension includes a first plate that is separated in a first direction from one surface of the first cover. The first extension includes a second plate and a third plate between the first plate and one surface of the first cover. The first plate, the second plate, and the third plate form an insulating space between the first plate and one surface of the first cover, and between the second plate and the third plate. The third cover includes a plurality of connecting flanges extending from one surface of the third cover, A battery assembly in which the first extension of the first cover and the connecting flange of the third cover are connected and coupled to the housing.

2. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first plate has a rectangular shape.

3. The battery assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the third plate extend in a second direction that crosses the first direction.

4. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first cover, the first plate, the second plate, and the third plate form a single integrated structure.

5. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the thermal insulation space extends in a second direction from the first edge of the second plate and the third plate to the second edge of the second plate and the third plate.

6. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second cover includes a second extension extending in a third direction from the second side surface of the first cell block.

7. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the third cover and the plurality of connecting flanges form a single integrated structure.

8. Third cell block and It includes a fifth cover coupled to the first side surface of the third cell block, and a third extension extending from one side of the fifth cover, The third extension is configured to be fastened to the housing, The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the fourth cover includes a fourth extension, the fourth extension being configured to be coupled to the housing.

9. Third cell block and It includes a fifth cover coupled to the first side surface of the third cell block, and a third extension extending from one side of the fifth cover, The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the third extension is coupled to the second cover and the housing.

10. The battery pack includes a housing that contains the battery assembly. The first cell block and, A first cover is attached to the first side surface of the first cell block, A second cover is coupled to the second side of the first cell block opposite to the first side, Includes, The first cover includes a first extension extending from one surface of the first cover, The battery pack includes a third cover that is coupled to the housing and covers the battery assembly. A battery pack in which the first side of the battery assembly is coupled to a third cover, and the second side of the battery assembly is separated from the bottom surface of the housing.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein the first cell block includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in the direction between the first cover and the second cover.

12. The battery pack according to claim 10, wherein the housing includes a support structure on the bottom surface of the housing.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein the first extension is fastened to the support structure by a fastening member.

14. The second cell block and, A fourth cover coupled to the first side surface of the second cell block, wherein the first side surface of the second cell block faces the first cell block, A fifth cover is coupled to the second side of the second cell block opposite to the first side of the second cell block, The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein the fourth cover includes a second extension extending from one surface of the fourth cover.

15. The battery pack according to claim 10, further comprising a fourth cover coupled to a third side of the first cell block, wherein the third cover includes cooling channels.

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, wherein the fourth cover is located between the third cover and the third side surface of the first cell block.

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