Battery pack and Vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a pack case having a receiving space configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and a venting space configured to allow fluid to flow in communication with the receiving space; and a venting member having a plurality of venting channels formed therein, configured to be partitioned from one another.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery assembly or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery assembly or battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery assembly or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] Meanwhile, since battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, performance may degrade if used in environments higher than the optimal temperature; furthermore, if thermal control is not maintained at the appropriate temperature, there is a constant risk of unexpected ignition or explosion. Therefore, if a thermal event such as thermal runaway occurs within the battery pack, it is extremely dangerous because high-temperature gases or flames ejected from the internal battery cells can transfer to adjacent battery assemblies, potentially leading to a chain reaction of explosions.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells and / or battery assemblies by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery assemblies when thermal runaway occurs in a battery assembly.

[0006] In addition, there is a need to develop a structure that can rapidly expel high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery assembly to the outside of the battery pack in the event of thermal runaway in the battery assembly, thereby resolving heat accumulation inside the battery pack. The problem to be solved

[0007] Accordingly, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack capable of preventing or suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery assemblies by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery cells and / or battery assemblies when thermal runaway occurs in a battery assembly.

[0008] In addition, another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0009] However, the problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. means of solving the problem

[0010] To solve the above problem, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a pack case having a receiving space configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and a venting space configured to communicate with the receiving space and allow fluid to flow; and a venting member having a plurality of venting channels formed therein, which are provided inside the venting space and configured to be partitioned from one another.

[0011] The above pack case may be configured such that the venting space is formed between the inner plate and the outer plate, and the height of the venting member corresponds to the height of the venting space.

[0012] The above-mentioned venting member may be constructed by folding a single plate multiple times.

[0013] The above venting channels may be provided with a first venting channel and a second venting channel that are alternately arranged and open toward opposite sides.

[0014] The above-mentioned venting member may be in a bent form and may include a horizontal portion configured to extend flatly along the horizontal direction and a vertical portion configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cell.

[0015] The above horizontal section may have a first horizontal section configured to face the inner plate of the pack case, and a second horizontal section arranged staggered with the first horizontal section and configured to face the outer plate of the pack case.

[0016] At least one inlet hole may be formed in the inner plate of the above-mentioned pack case to communicate the receiving space and the venting space with each other.

[0017] The above venting member may have a through hole configured to communicate the inlet hole and the venting channel.

[0018] The above venting member may have a collection hole configured to collect sparks generated in the battery cell and flowing into the venting space.

[0019] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an assembly housing configured to group the plurality of battery cells provided in the receiving space and having a venting hole formed on one side.

[0020] The above assembly housings are provided in multiple numbers, and the venting member may be provided to correspond individually to each assembly housing.

[0021] The above venting member can be coupled to the inner plate of the pack case.

[0022] The inner plate of the above-mentioned pack case is provided with a coupling groove configured to be recessed inward, and the venting member may be configured to be inserted into the coupling groove.

[0023] The above venting member may be configured to be inserted into the inner surface of the coupling groove.

[0024] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, fluids such as venting gas or flames are rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack, thereby minimizing the movement of such fluids toward adjacent battery cells and / or battery assemblies. As a result, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells and / or battery assemblies is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0026] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs inside a specific battery module, the heat can be rapidly cooled by increasing the movement path of a fluid such as a venting gas or flame.

[0027] In addition, in the case of the present invention, by blocking substances such as sparks or electrode discharges that can be ignition factors from coming into contact with oxygen outside the battery pack, it is possible to prevent a fire from occurring outside the battery pack.

[0028] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, the energy efficiency of the battery pack can be maximized by increasing the space utilization of the venting space within the base frame.

[0029] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway phenomena in a device equipped with a battery pack, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0030] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0031] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an overall perspective view of a battery assembly included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a top view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0033] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0034] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0035] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in the present invention, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0036] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0038] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100), a pack case (200), and a venting member (300).

[0040] First, referring primarily to FIG. 1, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. And, these plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case to function as an electrode terminal. At this time, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0041] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case of such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in the form of a pouch in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers.

[0042] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of such battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed to constitute the battery pack (1) of the present invention. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is used as shown in the drawing, but it is understood that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries may also be applied as battery cells (100).

[0043] Multiple battery cells (100) can be arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0044] The above pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be formed with a plurality of receiving spaces (S1) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells in a divided manner. The receiving space (S1) is an empty space and may be provided in a shape capable of accommodating a certain number of divided battery cells (100) inside.

[0045] The pack case (200) may be made of a material capable of ensuring mechanical strength, such as steel or SUS metal or plastic, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cell (100) housed inside.

[0046] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a venting space (S2). The venting space (S2) may refer to a passage through which a fluid, such as venting gas or flame, flows. Here, the fluid may include not only venting gas or flame but also sparks, electrode discharges, carbonized materials, etc.

[0047] This venting space (S2) can be configured to be in communication with the receiving space (S1). Accordingly, the fluid in the receiving space (S1) can flow into the venting space (S2) and flow inside the venting space (S2).

[0048] The venting space (S2) may be formed inside the pack case (200). Here, the inside of the pack case (200) may mean a specific space separately provided inside the pack case (200), or, as shown in FIG. 3, a hollow space formed in a plurality of beams or plates forming the pack case (200).

[0049] The above venting member (300) may be provided inside the venting space (S2). The venting member (300) may be configured in a shape that induces the direction of fluid flow to move in one direction when fluid flows in the venting space (S2). Additionally, the venting member (300) may be configured to prevent movement along the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (100).

[0050] The venting member (300) may be made of a material having fire resistance and / or heat resistance. For example, the venting member (300) may be made of a metal material such as SUS. Thus, the venting member (300) may not be deformed or damaged by the heat of the fluid, such as high-temperature venting gas or flames.

[0051] In particular, the venting member (300) may have a plurality of venting channels (C). The venting channels (C) can induce the fluid flow direction to move in one direction. The venting channels (C) may be configured in a form that extends long in one direction. Additionally, a plurality of venting channels (C) may be provided along one direction. For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of venting channels (C) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100).

[0052] At least some of the plurality of venting channels (C) may be configured to communicate with the receiving space (S1). The plurality of venting channels (C) may be configured to be partitioned from one another. The plurality of venting channels (C) may be configured so that fluid does not move between them. That is, the venting space (S2) may be partitioned along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100) by the venting member (300).

[0053] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the movement of a fluid, such as venting gas or flame, along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100) in the venting space (S2) can be suppressed. Additionally, the movement of a fluid, such as venting gas or flame, within the venting channel (C) can be guided in one direction.

[0054] Therefore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the movement of a fluid, such as venting gas, toward an adjacent battery cell (100) can be minimized. As a result, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100) is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0056] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210) and a plurality of side frames (220).

[0057] The base frame (210) can be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The base frame (210) can form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and can be provided in the shape of a square plate. Additionally, the base frame (210) can be provided with a flat upper surface so that the module case (120) can be stably seated. That is, the receiving space (S1) can be formed on the upper part of the base frame (210).

[0058] The plurality of side frames (220) may be provided by extending upward from each corner of the base frame (210). The plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to surround a plurality of battery cells (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may each be provided as a front wall located at the -Y direction side end of the base frame (210), a left wall located at the +X direction side end, a rear wall located at the +Y direction side end, and a right wall located at the -X direction side end, thereby forming the side of the pack case (200).

[0059] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (230). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition a plurality of receiving spaces (S1). A plurality of cross beams (230) may be provided. The cross beam (230) may be provided to connect side frames (220) facing each other among a plurality of side frames (220).

[0060] The pack case (200) may include a cover frame (240). The cover frame (240) may be configured to cover the upper portion of a plurality of battery assemblies (10). The cover frame (240) may be provided to form the upper surface of the pack case (200). The cover frame (240) may be coupled to a side frame (220). Alternatively, the cover frame (240) may be provided integrated with the side frame (220).

[0061] Referring to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the venting space (S2) can be formed in the base frame (210). That is, the venting space (S2) can be formed at the bottom of the battery cells (100). Accordingly, the receiving space (S1) and the venting space (S2) can be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0062] More specifically, the base frame (210) of the pack case (200) may be provided with an inner plate (201) and an outer plate (202). A venting space (S2) may be formed between the inner plate (201) and the outer plate (202). The venting space (S2) may be configured to extend in a horizontal direction. The receiving space (S1) and the venting space (S2) may be arranged parallel to each other in a vertical direction with respect to the inner plate (201) of the base frame (210).

[0063] At this time, the venting member (300) may be provided on the inner surface of the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200). The venting member (300) may be configured to be seated on the inner surface of the outer plate (202) of the base frame (210) inside the venting space (S2).

[0064] The height of the venting member (300) can be configured to correspond to the height of the venting space (S2). That is, the height of the venting member (300) can be configured to correspond to the gap between the inner plate (201) and the outer plate (202). Thus, the venting member (300) can be configured so that fluid moving in the stacking direction of the battery cell (100) throughout the venting space (S2) is suppressed.

[0065] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the influence of heat from adjacent battery cells (100) can be minimized to prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway of the battery pack (1).

[0067] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Hereinafter, a venting member (300) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5.

[0069] The venting member (300) may be formed by bending a single plate multiple times. The venting member (300) may be formed by bending a single plate multiple times in opposite directions. The venting member (300) may be formed by bending a single plate 180 degrees. Accordingly, the venting member (300) may be formed in a zigzag shape. Furthermore, multiple venting channels (C) may be formed by bending the venting member (300) multiple times.

[0070] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the venting member (300) is bent multiple times to form a zigzag shape, multiple venting channels (C) can be simply formed. Accordingly, productivity can be improved during the manufacturing of the battery pack (1).

[0071] More specifically, the venting member (300) may be configured by being bent multiple times to form a first venting channel (C1) and a second venting channel (C2). In other words, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) may be formed as the venting member (300) is bent multiple times. The first venting channel (C1) may be configured to communicate with some of the multiple battery cells (100). The second venting channel (C2) may be configured to communicate with other of the multiple battery cells (100).

[0072] The first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) may be arranged alternately. For example, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) may be arranged alternately along the stacking direction of a plurality of battery cells (100). The second venting channel (C2) may be configured to space out the plurality of first venting channels (C1). The second venting channel (C2) may be provided between adjacent first venting channels (C1).

[0073] Additionally, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) may be configured to open toward opposite sides. For example, the first venting channel (C1) may be configured to open toward the battery cell (100) side, and the second venting channel (C2) may be configured to open toward the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200).

[0074] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) can be more clearly partitioned or separated. Accordingly, even if a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the transfer of heat to another battery cell (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed by moving fluids such as gas or flame to another venting channel (C).

[0076] More specifically, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the venting member (300) may have a bent shape and may have a horizontal section (310) and a vertical section (320). That is, the horizontal section (310) and the vertical section (320) may be defined by the venting member (300) being bent multiple times.

[0077] The horizontal portion (310) may be configured to extend flatly along the horizontal direction. For example, the horizontal portion (310) may be configured to extend flatly along the length direction of the battery cell (100). The horizontal portion (310) may be configured in the form of a flat plate.

[0078] The vertical section (320) may be configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cell (100). The vertical section (320) may be in a form that extends upward or downward from the horizontal section (310). The angle between the vertical section (320) and the horizontal section (310) may be approximately 90 degrees.

[0079] A venting channel (C) can be formed by one horizontal section (310) and two vertical sections (320). The vertical sections (320) can be provided between adjacent venting channels (C). The vertical sections (320) can be provided on both the left and right sides of the venting channel (C). For example, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) can be alternately arranged with the vertical sections (320) in between. The vertical sections (320) can be configured to partition multiple venting channels (C).

[0080] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting channel (C) is configured to be at least partially surrounded by the vertical portion (320) and the horizontal portion (310), so that the venting space (S2) can be partitioned.

[0081] The horizontal portion (310) may be provided with a first horizontal portion (311) and a second horizontal portion (312). The first horizontal portion (311) may be configured to face the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200). In particular, the first horizontal portion (311) may be configured to make surface contact with the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200). Accordingly, the venting member (300) may be configured to be supported by the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0082] The second horizontal section (312) may be arranged staggered with respect to the first horizontal section (311). The second horizontal section (312) may be configured to face the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200). The second horizontal section (312) may be configured to rest on the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200). The first horizontal section (311) and the second horizontal section (312) may be arranged in a zigzag pattern in the vertical direction.

[0083] At this time, the first venting channel (C1) may be formed by a first horizontal section (311), two vertical sections (320), and an outer plate (202). Additionally, the second venting channel (C2) may be formed by an inner plate (201), a second horizontal section (312), and two vertical sections (320). Accordingly, the first venting channel (C1) and the second venting channel (C2) may be arranged alternately and provided in a form that opens toward opposite sides.

[0085] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the pack case (200) may be provided with an inlet hole (I). The inlet hole (I) may be provided between the receiving space (S1) and the venting space (S2). The inlet hole (I) may be configured to connect the receiving space (S1) and the venting space (S2) to each other. Thus, a fluid, such as venting gas discharged from the battery cell (100), may flow from the receiving space (S1) into the venting space (S2). At least one inlet hole (I) may be provided.

[0087] Such an inlet hole (I) may be provided in the base frame (210). The inlet hole (I) may be formed in the inner plate (201) of the base frame (210). Accordingly, the receiving space (S1) may be connected to the venting space (S2) formed in the base frame (210) through the inlet hole (I).

[0088] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a fluid such as venting gas or flame generated in a battery cell (100) provided in a receiving space (S1) can be introduced vertically into a venting space (S2) through an inlet hole (I). This fluid may be prevented from moving in a horizontal direction, particularly along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100), by a venting member (300) provided inside the venting space (S2).

[0089] Accordingly, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting member (300) suppresses the flow direction of fluid flowing in from the top to the bottom, and sparks or particles can be collected at the bottom by gravity. Therefore, heat propagation within the battery pack (1) can be suppressed.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the venting member (300) may be provided with a through hole (H1). The through hole (H1) may be configured to connect the inlet hole (I) and the venting channel (C). In particular, the through hole (H1) may be configured to connect the inlet hole (I) and the first venting channel (C1). Multiple through holes (H1) may be provided. Multiple through holes (H1) may be arranged along the extension direction of the venting channel (C).

[0091] Multiple through holes (H1) may be provided at positions corresponding to some inflow holes (I). That is, multiple through holes (H1) may be provided at the bottom of some inflow holes (I). The through holes (H1) may be provided at positions, sizes, etc., corresponding to the inflow holes (I).

[0092] For example, the through hole (H1) may be provided in the first horizontal portion (311). The through hole (H1) may be provided in the upper portion of the first venting channel (C1). Accordingly, the through hole (H1) may be configured to face directly the inlet hole (I). Thus, a fluid, such as venting gas discharged from the battery cell (100), can be directly introduced from the receiving space (S1) into the venting channel (C).

[0093] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a fluid such as venting gas or flame generated in a battery cell (100) provided in a receiving space (S1) can be introduced vertically into a venting channel (C) through an inlet hole (I) and a through hole (H1). This fluid may be prevented from moving to another venting channel (C) by a venting member (300).

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the venting member (300) may be provided with a collection hole (H2). The collection hole (H2) may be configured to communicate with the inlet hole (I). Multiple collection holes (H2) may be provided. Multiple collection holes (H2) may be arranged along the extension direction of the venting channel (C).

[0095] Multiple collection holes (H2) may be provided at positions corresponding to some inlet holes (I). That is, multiple collection holes (H2) may be provided below some inlet holes (I). Multiple collection holes (H2) may be provided at positions corresponding to inlet holes (I) that do not correspond to through holes (H1). The collection holes (H2) may be configured to face directly the inlet holes (I). Thus, fluids such as venting gas discharged from the battery cell (100) can be directly introduced from the receiving space (S1) into the venting channel (C).

[0096] In particular, the collection hole (H2) can be configured to collect sparks generated in the battery cell (100) and flowing into the venting space (S2). More specifically, the collection hole (H2) can be provided in the second horizontal section (312). Additionally, the collection hole (H2) can be provided in the lower part of the second venting channel (C2). Accordingly, referring to section A of FIG. 8, when the venting member (300) is seated on the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200), the lower part of the collection hole (H2) can be covered by the outer plate (202) of the pack case (200) to form a trap space. The trap space can be configured to contain fluid. Particles such as sparks or active material can be collected in the trap space.

[0097] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as a trap space is formed in the collection hole (H2), particles such as sparks or active material can be collected in the trap space when thermal runaway of the battery cell (100) occurs. By doing so, it is possible to prevent a fire from occurring outside the battery pack (1) by blocking substances such as sparks or electrode discharges, which can be ignition factors, from coming into contact with oxygen outside the battery pack (1).

[0098] Meanwhile, when thermal runaway in the battery cell (100) ends, the venting gas can mainly travel along the interface of the horizontal section (310) or the vertical section (320) in the venting channel (C) and along the length direction of the venting channel (C).

[0099] At this time, although not shown in the drawing, the pack case (200) may be equipped with a venting device configured to discharge such venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200). The venting device may be provided in a base frame (210) equipped with a venting space (S2). Alternatively, the venting device may be provided in a side frame (220). The venting device may be provided at the end of the extension direction of the venting channel (C). Accordingly, the venting gas inside the venting space (S2) is rapidly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device, thereby preventing the internal pressure of the pack case (200) from rising.

[0101] FIG. 9 is an overall perspective view of a battery assembly included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 10, a plurality of battery cells (100) can be modularized into one or more battery assemblies (10). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery assemblies (10), and a plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) can be divided and included in the plurality of battery assemblies (10). At this time, the multiple battery cells (100) included inside the battery assembly (10) can be electrically connected to each other.

[0103] A plurality of battery assemblies (10) may be individually provided in each receiving space (S1) of the pack case (200). In particular, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include an assembly housing (11). The assembly housing (11) may be configured to have an empty space formed inside so as to accommodate at least some of a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space.

[0104] In particular, the assembly housing (11) may be configured to accommodate battery cells (100) provided in each receiving space (S1). That is, the assembly housing (11) is included in each receiving space (S1) to group multiple battery cells (100) into multiple battery assemblies (10), and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery assembly (10).

[0105] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the battery assembly (10) may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (100) housed inside.

[0106] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the battery assembly (10) may include a venting hole (V). The venting hole (V) may be configured to allow gas generated from a battery cell (100) housed inside the assembly housing (11) to be discharged to the outside of the assembly housing (11).

[0107] Specifically, the venting hole (V) may be provided in the assembly housing (11) to enable directional venting in a specific direction. In particular, the venting hole (V) may be provided on one side of the assembly housing (11) facing the inlet hole (I). The venting hole (V) may be configured to communicate with the inlet hole (I) of the pack case (200).

[0108] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, an inlet hole (I) may be provided in the base frame (210), and a venting hole (V) may be provided on the lower surface of the assembly housing (11) facing the base frame (210). The venting hole (V) may be configured to correspond to the size, location, shape, etc. of the inlet hole (I). Accordingly, a fluid such as venting gas may be guided to move directly toward the inlet hole (I).

[0109] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since a fluid such as venting gas discharged from a venting hole (V) facing an inlet hole (I) can move directly to a venting space (S2) formed in a pack case (200), the fluid such as venting gas can be discharged more quickly to the outside of the receiving space (S1).

[0111] FIG. 11 is a top view of a venting member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Meanwhile, at least one venting member (300) may be provided. One venting member (300) may be provided with a size corresponding to the venting space (S2). Alternatively, multiple venting members (300) may be provided for each battery cell (100). These multiple venting members (300) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the horizontal direction.

[0113] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, a plurality of battery assemblies (10) may be provided, and a venting member (300) may be provided individually for each of the plurality of battery assemblies (10). That is, a venting member (300) may be provided for each battery assembly (10). The cross-sectional area of ​​the venting member (300) may be configured to correspond approximately to the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery assembly (10).

[0114] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the venting member (300) can be provided at the level of the battery assembly (10), the venting member (300) can independently vent a plurality of battery cells (110). Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation between battery assemblies (10) can be more effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0116] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Meanwhile, the venting member (300) may be coupled to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200). More specifically, the venting member (300) may have a third horizontal portion (313) configured to be coupled to the pack case (200). The third horizontal portion (313) may be provided at both ends in the bending direction when the venting member (300) is formed by bending multiple times. The third horizontal portion (313) may be configured to face the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) and may be coupled to the inner surface of the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0118] The venting member (300) can be spot welded to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200). The portion of the venting member (300) excluding the through hole (H1) can be spot welded to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0119] Alternatively, the venting member (300) may be connected to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) by a fastening member such as a bolt. The fastening member may pass through the third horizontal portion (313) and the inner plate (201) to connect the venting member (300) and the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0120] As another example, referring to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the venting member (300) may be configured to be inserted into the inner plate of the pack case (200). More specifically, the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) may have a coupling groove (G). The coupling groove (G) may be provided in the base frame (210). The coupling groove (G) may be configured so that a part of the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) is recessed inward. The coupling groove (G) may be configured in the shape of a groove. In this case, the recessed depth of the coupling groove (G) may be configured to be smaller than the height of the venting member (300).

[0121] At this time, the venting member (300) may be configured to be inserted into the coupling groove (G). The size of the coupling groove (G) may be configured to correspond approximately to the venting member (300). The third horizontal part (313) may be configured to be in close contact with the coupling groove (G). The third horizontal part (313) may be configured to be fixed by hooking onto the inner surface of the coupling groove (G). That is, when assembling the venting member (300) to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200), the third horizontal part (313) may be pressed inward and then inserted into the coupling groove (G) by means of elastic force to be fixed.

[0122] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the venting member (300) is inserted into the coupling groove (G), the height of the venting space (S2) can be maximized compared to the case where the coupling groove (G) is not provided, in terms of the total height dimension of the same battery pack (1). By increasing the space utilization of the venting space (S2) within the base frame (210), the fluid flow path can be made smoother and heat can be cooled quickly. In addition, the energy efficiency of the battery pack (1) can be maximized.

[0123] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the bonding force or fixing force between the venting member (300) and the pack case (200) is secured, the separation of the venting member (300) from the pack case (200) by the pressure of the fluid can be suppressed.

[0125] FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Furthermore, various fastening structures may be applied to strengthen the bonding or fixing force between the venting member (300) and the pack case (200). For example, the venting member (300) may be connected to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) by a fastening member (400), such as a bolt. The fastening member (400) may pass through the third horizontal portion (313) and the inner plate (201) to fasten the venting member (300) to the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0127] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, welding is unnecessary when joining the venting member (300) to the pack case (200), so workability and assembly can be improved.

[0128] Alternatively, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fixing member (500). The fixing member (500) may be provided on the outer side of the third horizontal portion (313). The fixing member (500) may be provided between the vertical portion (320) and the inner surface of the coupling groove (G). The fixing member (500) may be fitted between the vertical portion (320) and the inner surface of the coupling groove (G). The fixing member (500) may be configured in the form of a rod. The thickness of the fixing member (500) may be configured to be approximately equal to the depth of the coupling groove (G).

[0129] At this time, the fastening member (400) can fasten the venting member (300) and the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) by penetrating the fixing member (500), the third horizontal part (313), and the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200) from the outside of the fixing member (500).

[0130] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the fixing member (500) is provided, structural stability can be improved when the fastening member (400) combines the venting member (300) and the inner plate (201) of the pack case (200).

[0132] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] Furthermore, various structures may be applied to the pack case (200) to strengthen the bonding or fixing force between the venting member (300) and the pack case (200). For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the venting member (300) may be configured to be inserted into the inner surface of the coupling groove (G). A fixing groove (B) may be formed on the inner surface of the coupling groove (G). The fixing groove (B) may be configured to allow the end of the third horizontal part (313) to be inserted. Accordingly, when the venting member (300) is inserted into the coupling groove (G), the end of the third horizontal part (313) may be configured to slide horizontally into the fixing groove (B).

[0134] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting member (300) is more strongly fixed to the pack case (200), thereby further preventing the venting member (300) from separating from the pack case (200). As a result, the directional venting induction function of the venting member (300) can be maintained.

[0135] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the connection position can be guided more simply when the frame cover (400) is connected to the module frame (300). In addition, the fixing structure between the venting member (300) and the pack case (200) can be simplified. As a result, workability or productivity in manufacturing the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0137] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 15, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Although the present invention has been described above by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Explanation of the symbols

[0141] 3 : Cars 1 : Battery pack 10: Battery Assembly 11 : Assembly housing V : Venting hole 100 : Battery cell 200 : Pack case S1: Accommodation space S2: Venting space 210 : Base Frame 220 : Side frame 230 : Cross Beam 240 : Cover Frame I : Inlet hole G: Connecting groove B: Fixed groove 300 : Venting absence C: Venting Channel H1: Through hole H2 : Collection hole 310 : Horizontal section 311: 1st horizontal section 312: 2nd horizontal section 313: 3rd horizontal section 320 : Vertical section 400 : Fastening member 500 : Fixed member

Claims

Claim 1 A battery pack characterized by comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a pack case having a receiving space configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and a venting space configured to allow fluid to flow in communication with the receiving space; and a venting member having a plurality of venting channels formed therein, configured to be partitioned from one another, provided inside the venting space. Claim 2 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the pack case has the venting space formed between the inner plate and the outer plate, and the height of the venting member is configured to correspond to the height of the venting space. Claim 3 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the venting member is formed by a single plate being bent multiple times. Claim 4 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the venting channels are alternately arranged and have a first venting channel and a second venting channel that are open toward opposite sides. Claim 5 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the venting member is in a bent shape and comprises a horizontal portion configured to extend flatly along the horizontal direction and a vertical portion configured to extend flatly along the height direction of the battery cell. Claim 6 A battery pack according to claim 5, characterized in that the horizontal portion comprises a first horizontal portion configured to face the inner plate of the pack case and a second horizontal portion arranged staggered with the first horizontal portion and configured to face the outer plate of the pack case. Claim 7 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one inlet hole is formed in the inner plate of the pack case so as to communicate the receiving space and the venting space with each other. Claim 8 A battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the venting member is configured to have a through hole that connects the inlet hole and the venting channel. Claim 9 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the venting member is configured to have a collection hole configured to collect a spark generated in the battery cell and flowing into the venting space. Claim 10 A battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising an assembly housing configured to group the plurality of battery cells provided in the receiving space and having a venting hole formed on one side. Claim 11 A battery pack according to claim 10, wherein the assembly housing is provided in multiple numbers, and the venting member is provided to correspond individually to each assembly housing. Claim 12 A battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the venting member is coupled to the inner plate of the pack case. Claim 13 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the inner plate of the pack case is provided with a coupling groove configured to be recessed inward, and the venting member is configured to be inserted into the coupling groove. Claim 14 A battery pack according to claim 13, characterized in that the venting member is configured to be inserted into the inner surface of the coupling groove. Claim 15 An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 14.

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