Battery pack and Vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: at least one battery assembly having a plurality of battery cells; a pack case accommodating the battery assembly; and a first cooling member having a protrusion having an inner surface that protrudes toward the battery assembly, wherein a cooling medium flows inside the first cooling member.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack capable of effective venting and cooling of a battery assembly 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 rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When 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.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first construct a battery assembly containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery assembly to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Alternatively, recently, battery packs in the form of a "Cell-to-Pack," in which multiple battery cells are directly housed in a pack housing without modularization, are also being manufactured.

[0005] However, when multiple battery assemblies are contained within a battery pack in this manner, they may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the assemblies. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery assembly, this runaway can propagate to other battery assemblies. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery assemblies is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific battery assembly can trigger a chain reaction across multiple assemblies, potentially causing serious problems such as explosions or fires.

[0006] To this end, a conventional battery pack includes a venting means for smoothly discharging high-temperature venting gas, etc., emitted from a battery cell or battery assembly, and a cooling means for cooling the battery cell or battery assembly.

[0007] However, for example, when a cooling means is provided on the upper side of a battery assembly, the cooling efficiency of the battery assembly may be reduced due to the bending portion caused by the folding part of the battery cell. In addition, there were difficulties in applying heat transfer materials, such as resin, between the folding parts of the battery cell. The problem to be solved

[0008] Therefore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack capable of improving the cooling performance of a battery cell or battery assembly when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in the 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, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: at least one battery assembly having a plurality of battery cells; a pack case accommodating the battery assembly; and a first cooling member having a protrusion configured such that an inner surface protrudes toward the battery assembly, wherein a cooling medium flows inside the first cooling member.

[0011] The battery cell above has a folding portion configured to be folded on one side, and the protrusion may be configured to press the folding portion.

[0012] The battery assembly comprises an assembly housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and have at least one side open, and the first cooling member may be configured to cover the open side of the assembly housing.

[0013] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a heat transfer member configured to transfer heat between the battery cell and the first cooling member.

[0014] The above battery assembly is provided in multiple numbers, and the first cooling member may be provided individually for each of the multiple battery assemblies.

[0015] The battery assembly may have a venting hole configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell to be discharged to the outside.

[0016] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second cooling member having a venting portion configured to communicate with the venting hole and a cooling portion configured to cool the other side of the assembly housing.

[0017] The above venting section and the above cooling section may be provided together in a single layer.

[0018] The above venting section and the above cooling section may be alternately arranged in the area of ​​the second cooling member corresponding to the battery assembly.

[0019] The above venting hole may include a first venting hole positioned approximately in the center of the battery assembly and a second venting hole positioned further outward than the first venting hole in the battery assembly.

[0020] The above venting section may include a first venting section configured to communicate with the first venting hole, a second venting section configured to communicate with the second venting hole, and a third venting section configured to communicate with the first venting section and the second venting section.

[0021] The above cooling unit may be positioned between the first venting unit and the second venting unit.

[0022] The above pack case may have a base frame provided on the outer side of the second cooling member, and a side frame extending upward from the corner of the base frame and having a side channel formed therein that communicates with the venting part in the internal space.

[0023] The above pack case may be equipped with a venting device configured to communicate with the outside of the venting section.

[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, a protruding shape is applied to a cooling member provided on the folding side of a battery cell, so that the distance between the folding part and the cooling medium can be reduced. Accordingly, efficient cooling performance of the battery pack can be secured.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, it may be easier to apply a heat transfer material, such as resin, to the folding portion of the battery cell. By doing so, the cooling performance of the battery pack may be further improved.

[0027] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a protruding shape is applied to a cooling member provided on the folding side of a battery cell, so that directional venting of the battery cell can be induced as the protruding part presses against the folding part. Accordingly, the movement of a fluid, such as venting gas, toward an adjacent battery cell and / or battery assembly can be minimized. As a result, the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cell and / or battery assembly is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0028] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, venting gas generated in the battery assembly can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery pack, thereby ensuring safe venting performance of the battery pack.

[0029] And, according to another aspect of the present invention, the flow of a cooling medium or venting gas to another place can be effectively blocked.

[0030] In addition, according to another 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.

[0031] 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

[0032] 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 battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 3. FIG. 6 is an upper perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a lower perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of venting gas when a thermal event occurs in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view showing a disassembled portion of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 12 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a bottom view showing the flow of venting gas in the venting portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a bottom view showing the flow of a cooling medium in the cooling portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is an internal perspective view showing the flow of venting gas in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 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

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0039] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section along I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery assembly (100), a pack case (200), and a first cooling member (300).

[0041] A plurality of battery cells (110) may be included. A plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked in at least one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be arranged side by side in the front-back direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). A plurality of battery cells (110) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0042] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of such battery cell (110), and various battery cells (110) 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 (110).

[0043] Meanwhile, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be grouped into one or more battery assemblies (100). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery assemblies (100), and the plurality of battery cells (110) included in the battery pack (1) may be divided and included in the plurality of battery assemblies (100). At this time, the multiple battery cells (110) included within the battery assembly (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0044] The above pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery assemblies (100). The pack case (200) may be provided in a box shape including a plurality of frames.

[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 (110) housed inside.

[0046] Multiple battery assemblies (100) may be arranged in various structures or arrangements within the pack case (200). For example, some of the multiple battery assemblies (100) may be arranged in rows in the X-axis direction, and each may have a predetermined width in the X-axis direction. Also, other parts of the multiple battery assemblies (100) may be arranged in rows in the Y-axis direction, and each may have a predetermined width in the Y-axis direction. However, the structure or arrangement of the multiple battery assemblies (100) is not limited thereto.

[0047] The first cooling member (300) may be configured to cool the battery assembly (100). The first cooling member (300) may be configured to have a cooling medium flowing inside it. The cooling medium may be supplied from outside the battery pack (1) and discharged to the outside, or may circulate inside the battery pack (1).

[0048] The first cooling member (300) may be provided on one side of the battery assembly (100). The first cooling member (300) may be provided at a location adjacent to the battery assembly (100) or provided to be in contact with the battery assembly (100). The first cooling member (300) may be positioned on the first direction (D1) side of the battery assembly (100). The first direction (D1) may be, for example, the upward (+Z-axis) direction.

[0049] More specifically, the first cooling member (300) may be provided with a cooling channel (C). The cooling channel (C) may be configured to be filled with a cooling medium inside. The cooling channel (C) may refer to a passage configured to allow a cooling medium, such as cooling water, to flow.

[0050] A cooling channel (C) may be formed in the internal space of the first cooling member (300). For example, a hollow may be formed inside the first cooling member (300) so that a cooling medium can flow into the hollow. Alternatively, the cooling channel (C) may be configured in the form of a pipe in the internal space of the first cooling member (300).

[0051] The cooling channel (C) can be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). The cooling channel (C) can be configured so that the flow path of the cooling medium passes through a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0052] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a cooling channel (C) is provided so that a cooling medium can flow even without a separate space being formed inside the first cooling member (300), thereby improving the energy density of the battery pack (1).

[0053] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cooling medium inside the cooling channel (C) can be configured to directly exchange heat with the battery assembly (100).

[0054] In particular, referring to FIG. 3, the first cooling member (300) may be provided with a protrusion (310). The protrusion (310) may be configured so that the inner surface of the first cooling member (300) protrudes toward the battery assembly (100). The protrusion (310) may be configured to face the battery assembly (100).

[0055] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a protrusion (310) is applied to the first cooling member (300), so that the distance between the battery cell (110) and the cooling medium can be reduced. Accordingly, efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0056] Additionally, the protrusion (310) may be configured to be interposed between adjacent battery assemblies (100). The protrusion (P) may be interposed in the space between at least two battery cells (110). The protrusion (P) may be configured to block fluid movement between at least two battery cells (110).

[0057] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the space between battery assemblies (100) can be partitioned, so that venting gas or flames, etc., can be suppressed from moving toward other battery assemblies (100). Accordingly, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack (1) can be suppressed or prevented.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 3.

[0060] Meanwhile, the battery cell (110) may comprise an electrode assembly and a cell case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (110) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case (111) of such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a pouch form in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers.

[0061] For example, a battery cell (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a roughly rectangular plate-shaped cell having a long side along the X-axis of FIG. 4, a short side along the Z-axis, and a thickness smaller than the X-axis or Z-axis "sleeve" length in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 4. At this time, an electrode lead (112) may be formed on the short side (Y-axis direction of FIG. 4) of the battery cell (110).

[0062] The cell case (111) of the battery cell (110) can accommodate an electrode assembly in the storage portion (111a), and the rim around the storage portion (111a) can be heat-fused to form a sealing portion (111b). The sealing portion (111b) can be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell (110). For example, in each battery cell (110), the sealing portion (111b) may face the front-rear direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 4) and the downward direction (-Z-axis direction) of the battery cell (110), and the storage portion (111a) may face the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0063] Additionally, the battery cell (110) may be provided with a folding portion (111c). The folding portion (111c) may be configured to be folded on one side of the battery cell (110). The folding portion (111c) may be provided on one side of the sealing portion (111b) where the electrode lead (112) is not protruding.

[0064] Multiple battery cells (110) can be arranged in parallel in the Y-axis direction while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). Accordingly, by stacking multiple battery cells (110) face-to-face, it can be an efficient structure for increasing energy density. In addition, arranging the battery cells (110) in this way makes it easy to control the venting direction to one side.

[0065] In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 2, FIG. 5, etc., the battery cell (110) may be provided in an upright state with the folding portion (111c) facing upward. In this case, the side of the battery cell (110) equipped with the folding portion (111c) may face directly with the first cooling member (300).

[0066] At this time, the protrusion (P) may be configured to contact the battery cell (110). In particular, the protrusion (P) may be configured to press the folding portion (111c) of the battery cell (110). The protrusion (310) may be configured to prevent the folding portion (111c) from unfolding and opening.

[0067] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling medium within the first cooling member (300) can directly cool the battery cell (110), efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0068] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the protrusion (310) presses the folding part (111c), venting toward the folding part (111c) can be suppressed. Accordingly, directional venting of the battery cell (110) can be induced. As a result, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (110) is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0069] Furthermore, the protrusion (P) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the space between the battery cells (110). For example, referring to FIG. 5, when the battery cell (110) of the present invention is provided as a pouch-type battery cell, two battery cells (110) may be configured to face each other. That is, the folding portions (111c) of the two battery cells (110) may also be configured to face each other.

[0070] At this time, the protrusion (310) may be interposed between adjacent folding parts (111c). Furthermore, the protrusion (310) may be configured to protrude in a V-shape to correspond to the shape of the facing folding part (111c). The protrusion (310) may be configured to press two folding parts (111c) simultaneously.

[0071] Additionally, the protrusions (P) may be provided in multiple numbers along one direction. The said one direction may be defined as the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, i.e., the left-right direction (a direction parallel to the X-axis). Additionally, the protrusions (P) may be configured to extend along the length direction (front-back direction) of the battery cells (110). The protrusions (P) may be provided to correspond to the length in the front-back direction of the battery cells (110). Accordingly, the protrusions (310) and the battery cells (110) may be configured to make surface contact along the length direction of the battery cells (110).

[0072] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when the first cooling member (300) is coupled to the battery assembly (100), the protrusion (310) and the battery cell (110) can naturally come into close contact with each other. Accordingly, since the gap between the protrusion (310) and the battery cell (110) is minimized, the cooling efficiency of the battery cell (110) can be further improved.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the battery assembly (100) may include an assembly housing (120). The assembly housing (120) may be configured to have an empty space formed inside to accommodate a battery cell (110) in the internal space. That is, the assembly housing (120) may group a plurality of battery cells (110) into multiple battery assemblies (100) and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery assembly (100).

[0076] The assembly housing (120) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cell (110).

[0077] Additionally, the battery assembly (100) may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0078] In particular, the assembly housing (120) may be configured so that at least one side is open. For example, the assembly housing (120) may be configured so that the top surface is open. In this case, the first cooling member (300) may be configured to cover the open side of the assembly housing (120). That is, the first cooling member (300) may be configured to cover the open top surface of the assembly housing (120).

[0079] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling medium of the first cooling member (300) can directly cool the battery cell (110) provided inside the assembly housing (120), efficient cooling performance of the battery assembly (100) to the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, since a first cooling member (300) is provided as a separate member from the pack case (200), repair or replacement of the first cooling member (300) can be easy, thereby improving assembly.

[0081] The assembly housing (120) may be provided with a base plate (121), a side plate (122), and an end plate (123). The base plate (121) may be provided on one side of the battery cell (110). The base plate (121) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the battery cell (110). The base plate (121) may be configured to allow the battery cell (110) to be seated.

[0082] The side plate (122) can cover both sides of a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the side plate (122) can cover both sides in the Y-axis direction of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0083] The end plate (123) can cover both sides of a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the end plate (123) can cover both sides of the plurality of battery cells (110) in the X-axis direction. The end plate (123) can be coupled to the side plate (122).

[0084] The side plate (122) and the end plate (123) can be combined and configured to cover the sides of a plurality of battery cells (110). Accordingly, the side plate (122) and the end plate (123) can be configured to cover four sides of the plurality of battery cells (110), excluding the top and bottom sides, out of the six sides. At this time, the side plate (122) and the end plate (123) can be configured in a rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0085] In addition, the assembly housing (120) can be formed in various other shapes.

[0087] Furthermore, referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a heat transfer member (500). The heat transfer member (500) may be provided between a battery cell (110) and a first cooling member (300). The heat transfer member (500) may be configured to transfer heat between the battery cell (110) and the first cooling member (300).

[0088] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the heat transfer member (500) enables efficient heat transfer between the battery cell (110) and the first cooling member (300), thereby allowing heat generated in the battery cell (110) to be properly discharged to the outside through the first cooling member (300). Accordingly, the cooling performance of the battery assembly (100) can be stably secured.

[0089] The heat transfer member (500) may be provided with a material capable of transferring heat. In particular, the heat transfer member (500) may be made of a resin material, and in this case, the heat transfer member (500) may be referred to as a thermal resin. The heat transfer member (500) may include at least one material among various materials, such as urethane, silicone, and epoxy. The heat transfer member (500) may be expressed by other terms such as TIM (Thermal Interface Material) or potting resin, and as the material of the heat transfer member (500) of the battery pack (1) according to the present invention, various heat transfer members or TIMs known at the time of filing the present invention may be used.

[0090] A heat transfer member (500) may be interposed between the entire battery cell (110) provided in the battery assembly (100) and the first cooling member (300). That is, the heat transfer member (500) may be configured to be in direct contact with all battery cells (110) included in the battery assembly (100).

[0091] According to this embodiment of the present invention, heat dissipation through the heat transfer member (500) can be achieved for all battery cells (110) included in the battery assembly (100). Accordingly, the overall cooling performance of the battery assembly (100) can be further improved.

[0092] Additionally, the heat transfer member (500) may be configured to secure the battery cell (110) to the first cooling member (300). To this end, the heat transfer member (500) may be provided with an adhesive component.

[0093] Furthermore, the heat transfer member (500) is applied to the folding portion (111c) side of the battery cell (110), and the protrusion (310) may be configured to press the heat transfer member (500) so that it is interposed between the folding portion (111c). Accordingly, the heat transfer member (500) can be filled in the space between the first cooling member (300) and the battery cell (110).

[0094] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, it is easier to apply a heat transfer material (500), such as resin, to the folding portion (111c) of the battery cell (110). Additionally, the contact area between the first cooling material (300) and the battery cell (110) can be maximized. As a result, heat transfer between the battery cell (110) and the first cooling material (300) can be achieved more quickly and reliably, thereby further improving the cooling performance of the battery pack (1).

[0096] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 6, etc., a plurality of battery assemblies (100) may be provided, and a first cooling member (300) may be provided individually for each of the plurality of battery assemblies (100). That is, a first cooling member (300) may be provided for each battery assembly (100). The cross-sectional area of ​​the first cooling member (300) may be configured to correspond approximately to the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery assembly (100).

[0097] At this time, the first cooling member (300) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (110) together with the assembly housing (120). The first cooling member (300) may be configured to cover the upper surface among the six sides of the plurality of battery cells (110). Accordingly, the first cooling member (300) and the assembly housing (120) may be configured in a cuboid shape to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0098] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling channel (C) can be provided at the level of the battery assembly (100), the first cooling member (300) can independently cool a plurality of battery cells (110) as a separate configuration from the pack case (200).

[0099] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, since a separate cooling plate configuration on the upper side of the battery assembly (100) is unnecessary, the height of the battery pack (1) can be minimized. Accordingly, the energy efficiency of the battery pack (1) can be maximized.

[0101] FIG. 8 is a lower perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 8, the battery assembly (100) may have a venting hole (H). The venting hole (H) may be provided in the assembly housing (120). For example, the venting hole (H) may be provided in the base plate (121).

[0103] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (110) in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell (110) can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (100), thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells (110).

[0104] Additionally, the first plate (121), base plate (121), side plate (122), and end plate (123) can be combined to form a sealed structure. Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110) and venting gas is discharged, the venting gas can be guided to be discharged only through the base plate (121) in which the venting hole (H) is formed. According to the above embodiment, venting of the battery assembly (100) or battery pack (1) can be centered on the lower direction rather than the upper or horizontal direction.

[0105] The venting holes (H) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple venting holes (H) may be provided at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction. The base plate (121) may be provided with multiple venting holes (H) corresponding to each of the multiple battery assemblies (100).

[0106] The venting hole (H) may have a first venting hole (H1) and a second venting hole (H2), particularly as illustrated in FIG. 8. The first venting hole (H1) may be positioned approximately in the center of the battery assembly (100). For example, the first venting hole (H1) may be positioned in the center of the bottom portion on the -Z direction side of the battery assembly (100).

[0107] The first venting hole (H1) may be provided in multiple numbers. Each of the multiple first venting holes (H1) may be provided to correspond individually to at least one of the multiple battery cells (110) provided in the battery assembly (100).

[0108] The second venting hole (H2) may be positioned further outward than the first venting hole (H1) in the battery assembly (100). For example, the second venting hole (H2) may be positioned at the bottom of the battery assembly (100) in the -Z direction, and at each of the longitudinal ends of the battery assembly (100).

[0109] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when the venting hole (H) is provided with a first venting hole (H1) and a second venting hole (H2), the venting hole (H) can be distributed and arranged at various locations of the battery assembly (100), so that the venting gas can be discharged more smoothly when a thermal event occurs.

[0111] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of venting gas when a thermal event occurs in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 9, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fireproof sheet (600). The fireproof sheet (600) may include a heat-resistant material. Here, the heat-resistant material refers to a material having high heat resistance and / or fire resistance, and various materials such as mica may be applied.

[0113] The fireproof sheet (600) may be provided on the inner side of the base plate (121). The fireproof sheet (600) may be placed between the battery cell (110) and the base plate (121). The fireproof sheet (600) may be provided on the outer side of the heat transfer member (500). That is, the fireproof sheet (600) may be interposed between the heat transfer member (500) and the base plate (121).

[0114] Furthermore, the refractory sheet (600) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H). The refractory sheet (600) may be configured in the form of a sheet. The refractory sheet (600) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the inside. Such a refractory sheet (600) may be configured to break or melt due to the pressure or heat of the venting gas. For example, the refractory sheet (600) may be configured in the form of a break line or a pre-break line so that it can be easily ruptured by the venting gas in the venting hole (H), and the break line or pre-break line may be formed by notching or the like.

[0115] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, if the battery pack (1) further includes a fireproof sheet (600), the backflow of venting gas can be effectively prevented. Specifically, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (110) and venting gas is discharged, the fireproof sheet (600) may rupture only in the part corresponding to the battery cell (110), and the remaining parts may not rupture. Therefore, the backflow of venting gas discharged from the battery cell (110) back into another battery cell (110) can be effectively prevented.

[0116] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when venting gas discharged from a specific battery cell (110) penetrates the fireproof sheet (600) and passes through the venting hole (H), this venting gas may not be recirculated back into the venting hole (H) provided on the other battery cell (110) side by the fireproof sheet (600).

[0117] Meanwhile, the fireproof sheet (600) may be individually provided only in the part corresponding to the venting hole (H) so as to cover only the venting hole (H).

[0119] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view showing a disassembled portion of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 10, etc., the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210) and a plurality of side frames (220).

[0121] The base frame (210) can be configured to allow the battery assembly (100) to be seated. 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 battery assembly (100) can be stably seated.

[0122] A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided extending upward from each corner of the base frame (210). A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to surround a plurality of battery assemblies (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may each be provided as a left wall located at the +X direction side end of the base frame (210), a front wall located at the +Y direction side end, a right wall located at the -X direction side end, and a rear wall located at the -Y direction side end to form the sides of the pack case (200).

[0123] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (230). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition the internal space of the pack case (200). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition a plurality of battery assemblies (100). The cross beam (230) may be configured to extend along the left-right direction and / or the front-back direction of the pack case (200).

[0124] The cross beam (230) may be provided in multiple numbers. The cross beam (230) may be provided to connect side frames (220) facing each other among a plurality of side frames (220).

[0125] Meanwhile, the pack case (200) may further include a cover frame (240). The cover frame (240) may be configured to cover the upper portion of a plurality of battery assemblies (100). 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 the side frame (220). Alternatively, the cover frame (240) may be provided integrated with the side frame (220).

[0126] Meanwhile, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second cooling member (400). The second cooling member (400) may be configured to cool the battery assembly (100). The second cooling member (400) may be configured to have a cooling medium flowing inside it.

[0127] A second cooling member (400) may be provided on the other side of the battery assembly (100). The second cooling member (400) may be provided at a location adjacent to the battery assembly (100) or provided to be in contact with the battery assembly (100). The second cooling member (400) may be positioned on the second direction (D2) side of the battery assembly (100). The second direction (D2) may be opposite to the first direction (D1). The second direction (D2) may be, for example, a downward (-Z-axis) direction.

[0128] The second cooling member (400) may be provided inside the pack case (200). The second cooling member (400) may be configured to cover a plurality of battery assemblies (100). The second cooling member (400) may be configured to cool a plurality of battery assemblies (100) simultaneously.

[0129] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cooling medium inside the second cooling member (400) can be configured to directly exchange heat with the battery cell (110) inside the battery assembly (100). Accordingly, the cooling medium directly cools the battery cell (110) from both sides, thereby ensuring efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1).

[0130] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (110) or the battery assembly (100) can be cooled from both sides, thereby minimizing the accumulation of thermal energy in the battery assembly (100). In particular, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured by minimizing the heat generated by the battery assembly (100) due to the charge / discharge cycle in the normal state of the battery pack (1). Additionally, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the temperature variation within the battery cell (110) can be minimized by uniformly cooling the battery cell (110) from both sides.

[0131] Meanwhile, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the second cooling member (400) may be closed in a second direction (D2), such as a downward direction (-Z-axis direction). For example, the second cooling member (400) may be configured to accommodate the battery assembly (100).

[0132] Additionally, the base frame (210) may be positioned on the outside of the second cooling member (400). For example, the base frame (210) may be positioned on the second direction (D2) side of the second cooling member (400) and may face the bottom of the second cooling member (400). The base frame (210) may be positioned in close contact with the second cooling member (400).

[0133] The base frame (210) can cover the portion open toward the second direction (D2) of the second cooling member (400). The second cooling member (400) and the base frame (210) can be bolted together.

[0135] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] The second cooling member (400) may be provided with a venting section (410) and a cooling section (420), particularly as illustrated in FIG. 11. The venting section (410) may be configured to allow the venting gas discharged from the battery assembly (100) to flow. That is, a flow path through which the venting gas flows may be provided in the venting section (410). After being discharged from the battery assembly (100), the venting gas may flow through the venting section (410) and be discharged outside the battery pack (1). For example, the venting section (410) may be configured to communicate with a venting hole (H).

[0137] The venting section (410) may be configured to pass through a plurality of battery assemblies (100). For example, a plurality of battery assemblies (100) may be stacked and arranged inside a pack case (200), and the venting section (410) may be configured such that at least a portion of it extends along the stacking direction of the battery assemblies so as to pass through one side of the plurality of battery assemblies (100).

[0138] That is, in a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a second cooling member (400) is provided on the lower side of the battery assembly (100) so that directional venting to the lower side of the battery pack (1) through the venting part (410) can be induced.

[0139] In the case of a vehicle equipped with a battery pack (1), a passenger, such as a driver, is generally positioned above the battery cells (110). If a thermal event occurs and venting gas is discharged above the battery cells (110), it can pose a significant risk to the safety of the passenger. Therefore, as in the present invention, when a second cooling member (400) is positioned below the battery assembly (100), the venting gas is guided only in the downward direction, so the heat transfer phenomenon can be minimized.

[0140] The cooling unit (420) may be configured to cool the battery assembly (100). The cooling unit (420) may be provided on the opposite side of the first cooling member (300). Accordingly, the cooling unit (420) may be configured to cool the other side of the assembly housing (120).

[0141] The cooling section (420) may cool the venting gas. A cooling medium may flow in the cooling section (420). That is, a flow path through which the cooling medium flows may be provided in the cooling section (420). The cooling medium may be supplied from outside the battery pack (1) and discharged to the outside, or may circulate inside the battery pack (1).

[0142] The battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a second cooling member (400) having both a venting part (410) and a cooling part (420), so that effective venting and cooling are possible.

[0143] In addition, since the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be placed together on the same side in the battery pack (1), the space occupied by the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be reduced, and thus the energy density of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0144] In addition, since the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be provided as a single component, an improvement in productivity, such as an overall cost reduction of the battery pack (1), can be expected.

[0145] In addition, since both the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) are arranged together on the same side, the venting gas flowing in the venting section (410) can be effectively cooled by the adjacent cooling section (420) during the flow process, so that the flow energy of the venting gas can be rapidly reduced and the heat transfer phenomenon can be effectively prevented.

[0146] The venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be manufactured as a single unit. That is, in the second cooling member (400), the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be manufactured as a single part. For example, the second cooling member (400) can be manufactured by press-forming a plate-shaped metal member.

[0147] In this way, when the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) are manufactured as a single unit, the productivity of the second cooling member (400) can be further improved. Additionally, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be provided in a close and robust manner with each other.

[0149] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 12 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of FIG. 1.

[0150] Referring further to FIG. 12 in conjunction with FIG. 11, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) of the second cooling member (400) may be provided together in a single layer. The venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) may be arranged in a single layer on the second direction (D2) side of the battery assembly (100). That is, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) may be provided at substantially the same height relative to each other. For example, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) may be provided at substantially the same position relative to the Z-axis. Additionally, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) may be arranged together on any plane. For example, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) may not be stacked together in the Z-axis direction, but may be arranged together on an XY plane, which is a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis.

[0151] As described above, when the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) are provided together in a single layer, the space occupied by the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be minimized, thereby maximizing the energy density of the battery pack (1). In addition, further cost reduction of the battery pack (1) can be expected. Furthermore, the cooling of the venting gas flowing in the venting section (410) can be achieved more effectively.

[0152] The venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) of the second cooling member (400) can be arranged alternately. Specifically, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be arranged alternately in the area of ​​the second cooling member (400) corresponding to the battery assembly (100). That is, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be alternately corresponding to one battery assembly (100).

[0153] In particular, it will be explained with reference to Part B shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12. Part B of FIG. 11 represents an area of ​​a second cooling member (400) corresponding to one of the battery assemblies (100).

[0154] In part B of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) are shown to be arranged alternately along the Y-axis direction. For example, the cooling section (420) may be arranged between any two venting sections (410) that are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. Also, the venting section (410) may be arranged between any two cooling sections (420) that are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0155] As described above, when the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) are arranged alternately, venting can be performed at various locations of the battery assembly (100), and the battery assembly (100) can be cooled more evenly. Accordingly, venting gas can be discharged more effectively from the battery assembly (100), and the cooling performance of the cooling section (420) can be improved. In addition, there is an advantage that both venting and cooling can be effectively performed on the second direction (D2) side of a single battery assembly (100).

[0157] The second cooling member (400) may further include a partition (430), particularly as shown in FIG. 11.

[0158] The partition section (430) may be configured to partition the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420). In particular, the partition section (430) may be configured to physically block the internal flow path of the venting section (410) and the internal flow path of the cooling section (420) so that they are sealed and do not communicate with each other.

[0159] The partition section (430) may be provided in the form of a partition. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, it may be configured to physically partition the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) in the form of a partition extending along the X-axis or Y-axis direction.

[0160] In this way, when the second cooling member (400) further comprises a partition (430), the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be formed more clearly separated. Furthermore, the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be effectively blocked, thereby effectively preventing the cooling medium from flowing into the venting section (410) or the venting gas from flowing into the cooling section (420). Additionally, since the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be provided simultaneously through the partition (430), cost reduction and productivity improvement of the second cooling member (400) can be expected.

[0161] The partition section (430) may protrude toward the second direction (D2). Accordingly, the partition section (430) may have a thickness toward the first direction (D1) or the second direction (D2), or in the Z-axis direction. The height of the venting gas flow path in the venting section (410) and the height of the cooling medium flow path in the cooling section (420) may be increased in proportion to the degree of protrusion of the partition section (430).

[0162] As the partition wall (430) protrudes toward the second direction (D2), the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be formed more effectively in the second cooling member (400). Furthermore, by changing only the degree of protrusion of the partition wall (430), the size of the flow paths of the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be changed, thereby reducing the difficulty of designing the second cooling member (400).

[0163] Meanwhile, the second cooling member (400) may be provided with a cooling medium inlet / outlet (450) through which a cooling medium can enter or exit. The cooling medium inlet / outlet (450) may be provided in multiple numbers. One of the multiple cooling medium inlet / outlet (450) may be configured as an inlet through which the cooling medium enters the cooling section (420), and the other may be configured as an outlet through which the cooling medium exits the cooling section (420).

[0165] FIG. 13 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 13, a second cooling member (400) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail. Referring to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the venting part (410) may have a first venting part (411), a second venting part (412), and a third venting part (413).

[0167] The first venting section (411) can be connected to the first venting hole (H1). That is, venting gas discharged from the first venting hole (H1) of the battery assembly (100) can flow through the first venting section (411).

[0168] The second cooling member (400) may be provided with a first communication hole (441). The first communication hole (441) may be a hole that communicates the first venting hole (H1) and the first venting section (411). The first communication hole (441) may be provided in correspondence with the first venting hole (H1). The first venting holes (H1) of any one base plate (121) may be communicated to one first venting section (411), or the first venting holes (H1) of each of a plurality of base plates (121) may be communicated to one first venting section (411).

[0169] The second venting section (412) can be connected to the second venting hole (H2). That is, the venting gas discharged from the second venting hole (H2) of the battery assembly (100) can flow through the second venting section (412).

[0170] The second cooling member (400) may be provided with a second communication hole (442). The second communication hole (442) may be a hole that communicates the second venting hole (H2) and the second venting section (412). The second communication hole (442) may be provided in correspondence with the second venting hole (H2). The second venting holes (H2) of any one base plate (121) may be communicated to one second venting section (412), or the second venting holes (H2) of each of a plurality of base plates (121) may be communicated to one second venting section (412).

[0171] The third venting section (413) can be connected to the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412). The third venting section (413) can connect the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412). That is, in the third venting section (413), the venting gas flowing from the first venting section (411) and the venting gas flowing from the second venting section (412) can be combined with each other.

[0172] Furthermore, the second cooling member (400) may be provided with a discharge hole (443). The discharge hole (443) may be in communication with the third venting section (413). The discharge hole (443) may be in communication with the outside of the battery pack (1). That is, the venting gas flowing in the third venting section (413) may be discharged to the outside through the discharge hole (443). The discharge hole (443) may be configured to be in communication with the third venting section (413), the side channel (221) described later, and the venting device (700). The discharge hole (443) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0173] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when the venting section (410) is equipped with a first venting section (411), a second venting section (412), and a third venting section (413), venting gas can be discharged at various locations of the battery assembly (100), thereby enabling more effective venting. Additionally, the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1).

[0174] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 13, the venting section (410) can be partitioned or grouped for each battery assembly (100) by the third venting section (413). Venting gas generated in any battery assembly (100) can be directly introduced into the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412) and then moved to the third venting section (413). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas may be minimized from moving toward the battery cells (110) provided in other battery assemblies (100). Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation within the battery pack (1) is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0175] The cooling section (420) may be positioned between the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412). Specifically, at least a portion of the cooling section (420) may be positioned between the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412). For example, referring to the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13, the cooling section (420) may be positioned in the spaced-apart space between the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412), which are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction or the X-axis direction.

[0176] In this case, the first venting section (411), the cooling section (420), the second venting section (412), the cooling section (420), and the first venting section (411) can be arranged sequentially, so that the venting and cooling of the battery assembly (100) can be performed more uniformly, and the venting section (410) and the cooling section (420) can be arranged more efficiently.

[0177] In addition, since both the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412) can be positioned adjacent to the cooling section (420), the venting gas flowing in each of the first venting section (411) and the second venting section (412) can be effectively cooled.

[0179] FIG. 14 is a bottom view showing the flow of venting gas in the venting portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0180] FIG. 15 is a bottom view showing the flow of a cooling medium in the cooling portion of a second cooling member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0181] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, in the battery pack (1) of the present invention, the venting gas travel path (see bold arrow in FIG. 14) and the cooling medium travel path (see dotted arrow in FIG. 15) can be separated.

[0182] Specifically, the venting portion (410) may be in communication with the venting hole (H). The venting portion (410) may be provided at a position corresponding to the venting hole (H). The venting portion (410) may be in communication with the venting hole (H) of each of the plurality of battery assemblies (100).

[0183] The cooling section (420) may not be in communication with the venting hole (H). The cooling section (420) may be provided at a location that does not correspond to the venting hole (H). However, the cooling section (420) may be provided at a location adjacent to the battery assembly (100) or provided to be in contact with the battery assembly (100). The cooling section (420) may be configured to pass through a plurality of battery assemblies (100). At least a portion of the cooling section (420) may be extended to pass through a plurality of battery assemblies (100).

[0184] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting and cooling of the battery assembly (100) are applied on the same side of the battery pack (1) (e.g., the second direction (D2) side), but the venting path and the cooling area can be separated. As a result, both the venting performance and the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0186] FIG. 16 is an internal perspective view showing the flow of venting gas in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 16, a side channel (221) may be formed in the side frame (220). The side channel (221) may be formed in the internal space of the side frame (220). The side channel (221) may be provided as a hollow structure formed in the side frame (220). The side channel (221) may be configured to communicate with the venting section (410). In particular, the side channel (221) may be configured to communicate with the discharge hole (443). Accordingly, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 20, venting gas, etc. flowing through the venting section (410) can be discharged into the side channel (221) through the discharge hole (443).

[0188] This venting gas can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200). Specifically, the side channel (221) can be configured to communicate with the outside of the pack case (200).

[0189] The pack case (200) may include a venting device (250). The venting device (250) may be configured to discharge gas generated in the battery cell (110) to the outside of the pack case (200). The venting device (250) may be configured to open by the pressure of the venting gas and discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200) when the internal pressure rises due to the generation of venting gas inside the pack case (200).

[0190] The venting device (250) may be configured to open and close according to the internal pressure inside the pack case (200). Alternatively, the venting device (250) may be configured in the form of a hole. Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of such venting device (250), and various venting devices (250) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed to constitute the battery pack (1) of the present invention.

[0191] Specifically, the venting device (250) may be provided on the side of the pack case (200), that is, on the side frame (220). Multiple venting devices (250) may be provided. The venting device (250) may be provided on at least one of the multiple side frames (220). The venting device (250) may be formed separately on each of two or more side frames (220), or two or more may be formed on a single side frame (220).

[0192] Meanwhile, the number or location of the venting device (250) described based on embodiments such as FIG. 2 and FIG. 16 is merely an example, and it is obvious that it can be changed to various other numbers or locations.

[0193] The venting device (250) may be configured to communicate with the outside of the pack case (200) and the venting section (410). The venting device (250) may be provided to communicate with a side channel (221) formed in the side frame (220). Thus, the venting gas of the side channel (221) may be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device (250).

[0194] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery assembly (100), venting gas, etc. is discharged through the venting hole (H) of the base plate (121) to the venting section (410) of the second cooling member (400), moves to the side channel (221), and then can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device (250). That is, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas, etc. generated in the battery assembly (100) can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1), thereby ensuring safe venting performance of the battery pack (1).

[0196] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 17, 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) may include a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0199] 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

[0200] 3 : Cars 1 : Battery pack 100 : Battery assembly 110: Battery cell 111 : Cell case 111a : Storage compartment 111b : Sealing part 111c : Folding part 112: Electrode Lead 120 : Assembly housing 121 : Base Plate 122 : Side plate 123 : End plate H: Venting hole 200 : Pack case 210 : Base Frame 220 : Side frame 221 : Side channel 230 : Cross Beam 240 : Cover Frame 250 : Venting device 300: First cooling member C: Cooling channel 310 : Protrusion 400 : Second cooling member 410 : Venting section 411: 1st Venting Section 412: 2nd Venting Section 413: 3rd Venting Section 420 : Cooling section 430 : Bulkhead 441: 1st chimney hole 442 : Second chimney hole 443 : Exhaust hole 450 : Cooling medium inlet / outlet 500 : Heat transfer element

Claims

Claim 1 A battery pack characterized by comprising: at least one battery assembly having a plurality of battery cells; a pack case accommodating the battery assembly; and a first cooling member having a protrusion configured such that an inner surface protrudes toward the battery assembly, wherein a cooling medium flows inside. Claim 2 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell is configured to be folded on one side and the protrusion is configured to press the folding part. Claim 3 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery assembly comprises an assembly housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and have at least one side open, and the first cooling member is configured to cover the open side of the assembly housing. Claim 4 A battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a heat transfer member configured to transfer heat between the battery cell and the first cooling member. Claim 5 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery assembly is provided in plurality and the first cooling member is provided individually for each of the plurality of battery assemblies. Claim 6 A battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery assembly is configured to have a venting hole configured to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell to the outside. Claim 7 A battery pack according to claim 6, further comprising a second cooling member having a venting portion configured to communicate with the venting hole and a cooling portion configured to cool the other side of the assembly housing. Claim 8 A battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that the venting portion and the cooling portion are provided together in a single layer. Claim 9 A battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that the venting portion and the cooling portion are alternately arranged in the area of ​​the second cooling member corresponding to the battery assembly. Claim 10 A battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that the venting hole comprises a first venting hole positioned approximately in the center of the battery assembly and a second venting hole positioned further outward than the first venting hole in the battery assembly. Claim 11 A battery pack according to claim 10, characterized in that the venting part comprises a first venting part configured to communicate with the first venting hole, a second venting part configured to communicate with the second venting hole, and a third venting part configured to communicate with the first venting part and the second venting part. Claim 12 A battery pack according to claim 11, characterized in that the cooling portion is disposed between the first venting portion and the second venting portion. Claim 13 A battery pack according to claim 7, wherein the pack case comprises a base frame provided on the outer side of the second cooling member and a side frame extending upward from the corner of the base frame and having a side channel formed therein configured to communicate with the venting part in the internal space. Claim 14 A battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that the pack case comprises a venting device configured to communicate with the outside of the venting portion. Claim 15 An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 14.

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